New York hotels: Mid-range hotels

If you’re looking for a Gilded Age, old-money historic NYC experience, Lotte New York Palace on Madison Avenue is just the place. Lotte Palace was built during the Gilded Age, 1882 to be exact. The lobby, courtyard and the main hotel building comprise three wings of the Villard Houses, a row of mansions built in the 1880s by McKim, Mead & White (which are New York City-designated landmarks and listed on the National Register of Historic Places) for railroad tycoon Henry Villard. I entered the building through the main lobby, walking through its notorious courtyard, which is immediately recognizable from the over 25 movies and TV shows filmed there. Through the heaviest revolving door I’ve pushed in a while and stepped back in time, surrounded by the type of ostentatious grandeur that isn’t made anymore. The lobby features multiple staircases, two of which lead to the second-floor balcony and its giant pink marble fireplace. Marble statues of Greek goddesses adorn the gold leaf-plated banisters. It should feel almost gaudy, but instead, it feels exciting and luxurious. Heading down the stairs to check into the towers, I was given a room on the 45th floor. My ears took a second to pop when I got off the elevator, but the annoyance of that feeling quickly lifted when I caught a glimpse of the view out my window. I looked straight out over Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, right towards Rockefeller Center. It’s the type of view that even I, a lifetime New Yorker, was in awe of. The...

Times Square is one of the flashiest neighborhoods in New York. Some would argue it’s the epicenter of the city. It’s loud, chaotic, and busy all the time, but the draw to be based in Times Square is understandably enticing.  But The Knickerbocker Hotel proves that even the busiest parts of the city can offer not only some peace and quiet, but luxurious respite, too. It’s full of rich history (the dry martini was born here, guys), and has one of the most comfortable beds I’ve ever laid my head on in this city. All that with its soundproof rooms and minimalist decor, you’ll enjoy the convenience of the most chaotic parts of Manhattan while feeling light years away. Why stay at the Knickerbocker Hotel? Location and comfort are two important factors to consider when booking any hotel, and The Knickerbocker has nailed both. Because of its prime midtown location, you not only have easy access to New York’s top attractions, but also to just about every major subway line. Getting out to more local-populated hangouts like Jackson Heights, Queens (just jump on the 7 train) and Williamsburg, Brooklyn (jump on the M) are easy jaunts. Aside from its prime real estate, the Knickerbocker is a flavour of proper, old-school New York suave without feeling dated, and that’s thanks to the modern tech touches incorporated throughout. It even gives a little Hollywood glamour–my first thought on arrival was that Marilyn Monroe would have blended in perfectly here.  What are the rooms like at...

Walking out of your room at the Beekman to see its nine-story Victorian pyramidal atrium immediately places you back to the time of authors Edgar Allan Poe, Mark Twain and Ralph Waldo Emerson—who frequented the space when it was an annex for the New York Mercantile Library in the mid 1800s—and newspaper giant William Randolph Hearst, who once had an office in the building.  This architectural gem with eight tiered galleries served as the atrium to one of Manhattan’s very first skyscrapers—Temple Court—when it was built in 1881. Today, you can still see its original cast iron railings and balustrades, gorgeous millwork around its doorways and encaustic tiles featuring reds, browns and golds thanks to its successful restoration in 2016 by Gerner Kronick + Valcarcel Architects. Finally in 2024, the gorgeous atrium was made an interior NYC landmark. The atrium sure is the star of the show at the Beekman, but it’s not the only one. The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel as of 2022, offers a cozy but stylish stay with 287 rooms to book out (from studios to Queen, Deluxe and King suites with and without terraces as well as two turret penthouses), a 24-hour gym and an incredibly comfortable lobby that greets you with its own luxurious branded scent, Beekman 1802! Fresh Air. It boasts two highly-rated restaurants—Le Gratin by Chef Daniel Boulud and Temple Court by Tom Collichio—and the stunning Bar Room under the atrium. On the ninth floor, my studio suite faced an inner courtyard so the...

Eight years since its opening, the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge continues to redefine hotel sustainability in “the city that never sleeps.” Upon walking in, my partner and I were greeted by an airy, plant-filled lobby with loads of guests and digital nomads working away, and a charismatic set of staff dressed in casual denim from head to toe—both signs that we were in fact, in New York, and steps away from the natural world that keeps us afloat. During our stay, we couldn’t help but notice the little details that reminded us what it means to live sustainably and in tune with our environment. Room keys and interiors made of reclaimed wood, an engraved rock inviting guests to recycle their used clothing, sand timers in the shower, a filtered water system separate from the sinks in every room, a farmstand beside the lobby elevators, even the bridge and park views all served as moments of mindfulness. From bottom to top, the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge has built in services, amenities, and a genuine sense of hospitality that makes you feel as though you never have to leave (or would want to leave). Starting at Level -1, the Bamford Wellness Spa offers a wide range of treatments, including a steam room and relaxation lounge. Zephie and Maria treated us to full-body massages in dimly-lit, modern rooms. The highlight of the experience was when the concierge at the front desk referred to us as “king” and “queen.”  In addition to the co-working space, the first floor also houses The...

It’s a clear marker of New York luxury—proximity to Central Park, that is. Real estate prices tend to grow exponentially the closer you get to that iconic, lush green space, with the park’s southernmost block being fittingly known as Billionaires’ Row. Nestled near that group of ultra-pricey pencil towers are several of the city’s most lavish hotels, from the Plaza to the Ritz Carlton to the Park Hyatt. But the Hyatt corp. has another property, the Thompson Central Park New York, right around the corner that, though a solid chunk of change cheaper than the Park Hyatt and its budget-unfriendly brethren, still packs in plenty of five-star polish.  Taking over the iconic former Le Parker Meridien space on West 56th Street, the Thompson Central Park underwent a major mid-pandemic facelift by architect Thomas Juul-Hansen and designers Stonehill Taylor and officially opened in November 2021. The result is mid-century modern sleekness—this is a Thompson property, after all—throughout both the public spaces and private guestrooms.  Soaring with 36-foot-high ceilings, the large-scale lobby features crushed-velvet sofas, contemporary artworks and colossal statement chandeliers, as well as two of the hotel’s stellar food-and-drink options: the jazzy all-day lounge Parker’s, which serves up live tunes, a solid Cosmo ($25) and New York-y plates like a Wagyu chopped cheese ($27) and a truffle-sauced “dirty water” dog ($23); and patty “speakeasy” Burger Joint, a Le Parker Meridien...

  Michelin is known for awarding restaurants with stars but it recently expanded its expertise by awarding hotels with Michelin Keys. The Bowery Hotel in East Village was recently awarded one Key, ranking it as a “Very Special Stay,” and the organization was right.  Walking through the double doors of The Bowery Hotel felt like I was walking into a different period. The decor was classy and masculine—with antique couches and chairs placed throughout the large space. I was greeted by the kind bellhops and checked into my room.  The lobby was quiet and comforting—it seemed like the perfect place to get some work done or relax before venturing out for the day. Guests were scattered throughout the space reading, working or talking amongst themselves. The lobby spans four rooms, including two rooms with plenty of spots to sit, a cozy bar with stools and an outdoor terrasse. Attached to the hotel is Gemma, an Italian Trattoria with seasonal dishes, an extensive wine list and a comfortable dining room. I took the dimly lit (and old but well-maintained) elevator up to the 12th floor and walked into my room, which had breathtaking views of Manhattan and Brooklyn (I had a perfect view of the newly renovated Domino Sugar factory!) I stayed in the Bowery King room which included a large desk with drawers for clothing, a table and two chairs, a loveseat sofa, a coffee table, a king-size bed with a nightstand on each side and a bathroom with a walk-in rainfall shower.  The room was...

Some hotels are defined by their architecture, others by the type of scene they attract. Sofitel New York is a vision in limestone and glass, and has a lovely on-site restaurant, Gaby Brasserie Française. But the main thing that defines a stay here, and will probably convince you to return for a second or third time, is the excellent service. The experience manages to achieve a sense of luxury without a hint of snobbishness or pretension.  A sense of ease comes naturally here, and that’s helped along by the tasteful décor. The bold colors and polished marble in the Neo Art Deco lobby are eye-catching without being too loud or aggressive. The warm and inviting rooms are full of muted browns and tasteful grays, striking the perfect balance between comfort and sleek design. Many of the rooms offer stunning views of the city, and some include terraces. If you can swing it, it’s worth splurging on the suite themed for the Tony Awards. As the official hotel of the iconic theatrical awards show, the property has created a one-of-a-kind suite with multiple rooms, two bathrooms and the largest private hotel room terrace we’ve ever seen in midtown. There are also rooms themed for specific Broadway shows that are available to book, perfect for any theater lover coming to visit the nearby Great White Way. Room service is offered, but a night spent at Gaby Brasserie Française on the first floor makes for a lovely evening. After indulging in the decadent French cuisine—the Onion Soup...

The funky boutique hotel group’s New York City base is conveniently situated a 10-minute walk from Madison Square Garden, yet set away from the chaos of Penn Station. The renovated 20th century office building in Midtown Manhattan has a historic past that is manifested throughout the Ace’s retro-modern design.  The lobby is a cultural hub, with rows of long wood tables and plush leather couches overflowing with freelancers on their laptops during the day and travelers imbibing on housemade martinis during the evenings. The lobby is swathed in hand-picked art, as are the rooms, which are spacious and outfitted with vintage-inspired furnishings. The hotel’s dining options are inspiring and must tries, especially the April Bloomfield-helmed Breslin Bar and Dining Room. On site is also a popular hipster hangout, Stumptown coffee, which serves up artisanal concoctions and a trendy oyster bar with killer cocktails.  New York’s very own Opening Ceremony also has a post in the hotel, and carries unique designer garb at a high-end price tag.

When one visits New York the location of your hotel is absolutely key. You don’t want somewhere too far from the prime parts of the city, but also not too congested with foot traffic. The Archer Hotel New York, fits this bill. Close enough to Madison Square Garden and a major train stop, but positioned on a fairly non-congested block in Midtown. Recently renovated, the 22-floor Archer Hotel is quite the charmer. The tiled floor and warm surroundings welcome guests as they make their way up to their rooms. One thing to note the rooms are much smaller than you would think BUT a cozy small. The ceiling to floor windows give you uninhibited views of  Midtown (guests are able to book and Empire State Building view if they so choose). Rooms are equipped with the most comfortable mattresses that welcome you to completely sprawl out on (or cuddle with that special someone). Don’t feel like leaving the comfort of your room for a morning caffeine fix? Have no fear, all rooms have a Nespresso machine at your disposal. Some of the rooms have exposed brick and soft earthy features that add to the relaxing ambience of the hotel. Most of the neighborhood is littered with tourist-trap restaurants, so a fancy dinner with style is just what the doctor ordered. The newly opened Charlie Palmer steak house in the hotel lobby, is a breath of fresh air compared to traditional steak houses. The well light restaurant is surrounded in navy blue and cream finishings with modern artwork on the walls...

Every New Yorker fantasizes of a few things when it comes to the perfect apartment; rent controlled and perfect views. Ink48, a Kimpton Hotel, delivers on the perfect views to the T. Located on the edges of Hell’s Kitchen, right on the Hudson River waterfront, you will find views that are to die for. The thing to know about a Kimpton Hotel(s) chain, is that they coined the term “boutique hotel”. They believe personalization and getting to know each of their guests is the key to making a spectacular stay. Specifically at Ink48, the pride themselves on catering to the “bleisure” crowd (business + leisure). Rooms and conference spaces have recently be renovated that allow you to connect and socialize with ease. Guest rooms have been stylized with a New York runway apartment in mind, with large windows that allow you to take in Midtown Manhattan views from the comfort of your King size bed (which you will be melting into). Rooms are designed with a simplistic elegance. White washed walls and earthy tones with pops of color make the rooms stand out with sophistication. When you get the motivation to leave your room, head down to Ink48’s restaurant PRINT. This farm-to-table restaurant has delectable bites that will leave you wanting more. Start off the grilled quail (with fig truffle sauce and sauteed romaine), for your entree the red snapper is what dreams are made of. Served with a butternut squash puree, swiss chard, and toasted pumpkin seeds all bathed in a citrus sauce...