Where to Stay in Manhattan: 6 Best Areas & Hotels

Planning a trip to Manhattan soon but not sure where to stay? You’re in the right place!

One of our favorite things about Manhattan is how different each neighborhood feels. You could stay near the bright lights of Times Square, spend your evenings hopping between restaurants in the Village, or wake up close to Central Park on the Upper West Side. It all depends on what kind of trip you have in mind!

So to help you narrow things down, we’ve rounded up the six best areas to stay in Manhattan, along with our favorite luxury, mid-range, and budget-friendly hotels in each. Ready? Let’s get to it!

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Manhattan

Manhattan might not be very large by land size, but each borough has its own distinct vibe. Whether you’re drawn to Midtown’s buzz, NoMad’s style, the Village and Chelsea’s artsy flair, Lower Manhattan’s energy, or Williamsburg’s cool factor, where you stay depends on your preferences. Luckily, the city’s well-connected subway system makes it easy to get around—if you’re up for the adventure!

• Midtown Manhattan – Best for first-time visitors – Ideal for travelers wanting to stay near the action, this vibrant area puts you close to Broadway, Times Square, and Penn Station. Delta Hotels by Marriott New York Times Square offers sleek comfort, great amenities, and easy access to everything Midtown has to offer.

• Flatiron and NoMad – Best for trendy dining & stylish stays – These trendy neighborhoods blend iconic architecture with great dining and shopping. Hampton Inn Madison Square Garden sits right on the edge, offering cozy rooms, daily breakfast, and easy transit access, making it a smart, pet-friendly choice for exploring Manhattan in comfort.

• The Village and Chelsea – Best for artsy vibes & local nightlife – For a mix of downtown cool and artistic flair, this area is hard to beat. Hyatt Place New York Chelsea offers modern comfort, skyline views, and a prime location near Penn Station and the High Line. It’s perfect for stylish stays without breaking the bank.

• SoHo – Best for an upscale stay – Base yourself here for cobblestone streets, designer shopping, world-class galleries, and some of downtown Manhattan’s most exciting restaurants. Arlo SoHo is our top pick for its rooftop bar and easy access to Canal Street subway station.

• Lower Manhattan (Financial District) – Best for history and iconic landmarks – Rich with history and culture, this area puts you close to Chinatown, the Financial District, and the Brooklyn Bridge. Walker Hotel Tribeca blends boutique charm with sleek design, offering a stylish, central stay with easy subway access and a rooftop bar with city views.

• Upper West Side – Best for families and calmer stays – This residential neighborhood sits beside Central Park, Riverside Park, the American Museum of Natural History, and Lincoln Center. Hotel Belleclaire Central Park is our top mid-range choice for its family room options and convenient location near the 79th Street subway station.

Where to Stay in Manhattan

Midtown Manhattan

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Pros

• Great location with easy access to transit
• Iconic sights like Times Square and the Empire State Building
• Excellent shopping and dining options

Cons

• Always crowded, especially near major landmarks
• High prices for hotels, food, and shops

Midtown Manhattan is the beating heart of New York City, home to iconic landmarks and buzzing with nonstop energy. This central neighborhood is perfect for first-time visitors, architecture buffs, and anyone eager to take in the quintessential NYC skyline. 

The Empire State Building towers above Fifth Avenue, Grand Central’s celestial ceiling draws eyes upward, and the dazzling lights of Times Square are just steps away. Art lovers can stroll to the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and Bryant Park offers a scenic spot to relax or enjoy a coffee from a nearby café.

Midtown is also ideal for shoppers, with flagship stores like Macy’s Herald Square and luxury boutiques along Fifth Avenue making it a fashion haven. Foodies will find everything from classic delis to fine dining, and business travelers benefit from its proximity to top hotels and transport hubs like Penn Station and the Port Authority. 

Residence Inn – $$$

Residence Inn by Marriott New York Manhattan/Central Park combines luxury, location, and sky-high views into one unforgettable stay. Perched above the city on Broadway and 54th, the rooms are sleek and modern, each with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Central Park, Times Square, or the Hudson River. We couldn’t stop staring out at the skyline! 

Each studio includes a well-equipped kitchenette, perfect for longer stays or heating up late-night snacks. The vibe is stylish but totally relaxed, and the breakfast is surprisingly delicious (and included!).

Rates range from about $400 to $600 USD per night, which is a steal considering the prime location and incredible views. With the subway just steps away and Central Park around the corner, it’s the kind of place you’ll never want to leave.

If Residence Inn is booked, Riu Plaza Manhattan Times Square is a great alternative just a few blocks away, close to Times Square and the Broadway theater district. The hotel has modern rooms and a generous breakfast buffet that makes busy sightseeing days easier.

Another fun option nearby is Moxy NYC Times Square, located steps from Herald Square, Macy’s, and the Broadway theater district. This trendy hotel is known for its compact, cleverly designed rooms and the popular Magic Hour rooftop bar with skyline views and a lively atmosphere.

Delta Hotels by Marriott – $$

Just a short walk from Penn Station and Times Square, Delta Hotels by Marriott New York Times Square offers a stylish and convenient stay in the heart of Manhattan’s Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood. Spacious, thoughtfully designed rooms feature plush beds, large TVs, desks, and modern bathrooms. Guests rave about the hotel’s cleanliness, helpful staff, and daily perks like free coffee and pastries. 

The hotel also offers an on-site restaurant, a 24/7 fitness center, and private parking. At $300–$400 USD per night, depending on room type and dates, this mid-range hotel offers solid value for its central location. Whether you’re in town for work or sightseeing, it’s an easy, comfortable base for exploring the city that never sleeps.

Element Times Square West is also a great nearby option in Hell’s Kitchen, just a few blocks from Penn Station and Times Square. The hotel offers bright, studio-style rooms with kitchenettes and includes complimentary breakfast, a nice perk for longer stays or early sightseeing days.

A bit closer to the Theater District, DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South is a reliable Midtown choice within easy walking distance of Penn Station. Comfortable rooms, friendly service, and the brand’s famous warm chocolate chip cookie at check-in make it a welcoming place to return to after a busy day in the city.

Pod Times Square – $

For budget-conscious travelers, Pod Times Square is a smart, affordable pick right in the heart of Manhattan. Just steps from Times Square and a short walk to the Port Authority subway station, it offers unbeatable access to Broadway theaters, restaurants, and NYC landmarks. Rooms are compact but cleverly designed, with modern furnishings, comfortable beds, free WiFi, and sleek private bathrooms. 

Despite the low rates, starting around $140 USD per night, the hotel doesn’t skimp on essentials, including a trendy on-site restaurant, 24-hour reception, and pet-friendly options. Guests consistently praise its cleanliness, helpful staff, and value for the location. If you’re looking to experience Midtown Manhattan without blowing your travel budget, this is one of the best deals in town.

In Murray Hill, Pod 39 is a great budget-friendly backup, just a short walk from Grand Central Terminal. Like its sister property, the rooms are compact but cleverly designed, and the hotel is known for its lively rooftop bar and fun, social atmosphere.

Travelers looking for something even more affordable might check out Nap York Central Park Sleep Station, situated just a few blocks from Central Park and Columbus Circle. This capsule-style stay focuses on simple, minimalist sleeping pods with shared spaces, making it a practical pick for solo travelers who just need a clean, comfortable place to crash in Midtown.

Flatiron and NoMad

BEST FOR TRENDY DINING & STYLISH STAYS

Pros

• Home to the iconic Flatiron Building and Madison Square Park
• Tons of great restaurants, cafés, and rooftop bars
• Easy subway access to other parts of Manhattan

Cons

• Fewer major tourist landmarks in the immediate area
• Hotels and dining can be on the pricier side

Flatiron and NoMad are two of Manhattan’s most vibrant, stylish neighborhoods, blending old-New-York charm with modern city energy. Anchored by the iconic Flatiron Building, one of the city’s most photographed landmarks, this area is ideal for architecture buffs, food lovers, and design enthusiasts.

The Flatiron District draws crowds for its historic buildings and picturesque Madison Square Park, while NoMad (short for “North of Madison Square Park”) pulses with boutique hotels, rooftop bars, and a hip dining scene.

Flatiron and NoMad are a great match for travelers who love a mix of sightseeing and laid-back sophistication. The area is incredibly walkable, making it easy to pop between attractions like Eataly’s flagship location and the original Shake Shack in the park. Plus, you’re within walking distance of Union Square, the Gramercy Theatre, and Koreatown.

The Evelyn NoMad – $$$

The Evelyn NoMad blends vintage charm with modern sophistication in the heart of Manhattan. We were instantly drawn to the Art Nouveau-inspired design—think stained-glass touches, cozy reading corners, and plush beds wrapped in luxe linens. The rooms may not be massive (this is NYC, after all), but they’re smartly laid out and impeccably styled.

Downstairs, the lobby feels like a stylish living room, and three on-site restaurants let you stay in if you’re in the mood. But with the Flatiron Building, Empire State, and Madison Square Park just minutes away, you’ll want to explore. Deluxe rooms typically range from around $400–1,000+ USD per night, including breakfast.

A little farther south in NoMad, Virgin Hotels New York City is a stylish pick within walking distance of the Flatiron Building and the Empire State Building. The hotel stands out for its sleek “Chambers” rooms, lively rooftop bar, and seasonal pool deck, making it one of the neighborhood’s most fun stays.

For another elegant stay near Madison Square Park, Hotel Giraffe by Library Hotel Collection is a lovely alternative. Many rooms have balconies, and the rooftop terrace is absolutely stunning! 

Hampton Inn Madison Square Garden – $$

Hampton Inn Madison Square Garden is a great mid-range pick located right on the edge of Flatiron and NoMad, two of Manhattan’s most vibrant neighborhoods. With Penn Station just a few minutes away on foot and the 1, 2, 3 subway lines close by, you’ll be perfectly positioned to explore the rest of the city.

The rooms are modern and comfortable, each featuring Hampton’s plush Cloud Nine beds—perfect after a walk on the High Line or a day of shopping on Fifth Avenue. Breakfast is included daily (hello, waffles!), and free coffee and tea are available around the clock.

We love the little outdoor patio for taking a breather, and the hotel’s pet-friendly policy means your four-legged travel buddy can come along too. Rates usually range from $400–$500 USD per night, depending on your room and cancellation terms.

A stylish alternative nearby is Executive Hotel Le Soleil New York, located just a few blocks from the Empire State Building and Herald Square. The boutique-style rooms feature elegant décor, plush beds, and separate living areas that make them feel surprisingly spacious for Manhattan.

Right around the corner from the Empire State Building, The Hotel at Fifth Avenue is another convenient pick in the Flatiron/NoMad area. The hotel offers modern, comfortable rooms and a straightforward stay with an unbeatable location for walking to Fifth Avenue shopping, Madison Square Park, and nearby subway lines.

Best Western Premier Empire State Hotel – $

Best Western Premier Empire State Hotel proves you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for affordability in New York City. Nestled in the heart of NoMad, this hotel is just a five-minute walk from the Empire State Building and a short stroll from the Flatiron Building and Herald Square. Despite its wallet-friendly rates, the hotel delivers in both style and service. 

Rooms are sleek and modern with comfy beds, air conditioning, and extras like a fridge, coffee maker, and daily housekeeping. We especially appreciate the quieter atmosphere compared to bigger Midtown properties. Prices typically range from about $150–$350 USD per night, depending on the season and room type, making this stay a sweet spot of comfort and value.

Another nearby option is Life Hotel New York, located just a few blocks from the Empire State Building in the heart of NoMad. Set inside a historic 19th-century building that once housed Life Magazine, the hotel blends vintage charm with stylish boutique rooms and a relaxed, artistic atmosphere.

Travelers who want similar convenience could also consider Broadway Plaza Hotel, situated just a short walk from Madison Square Park and the Flatiron Building. This boutique hotel offers spacious rooms by Manhattan standards, plus classic décor and comfortable amenities that make it a reliable base for exploring the neighborhood.

The Village and Chelsea

BEST FOR ARTSY VIBES & LOCAL NIGHTLIFE

Pros

• Bohemian vibe with local dining and nightlife
• Charming streets to explore
• More affordable than other desirable areas

Cons

• Can be noisy at night
• A bit further from major tourist attractions

The Village and Chelsea are two of Manhattan’s most character-rich neighborhoods, and when it comes to atmosphere, this is one of the best areas to stay in New York. We love this part of the city because it strikes the perfect balance—trendy yet laid-back, historic yet buzzing with new energy. It’s a great pick for travelers who want to explore the city beyond Times Square and get a taste of local life.

The Village (short for Greenwich Village) is known for its bohemian roots, leafy streets, and vibrant café culture. It’s a dream for artists, creatives, and anyone who loves discovering quirky boutiques, jazz clubs, and hole-in-the-wall eateries.

Just north, Chelsea offers an edgier art scene with world-class galleries, the famous High Line park, and Chelsea Market—a food lover’s haven. These neighborhoods are ideal for visitors who prioritize culture, nightlife, and food over being right next to the major landmarks.

Walker Hotel Greenwich Village – $$$

The Walker Hotel Greenwich Village is old-school Manhattan charm wrapped in luxury. With its Art Deco design, plush interiors, and cozy fireplaces, this boutique stay feels like stepping into a glamorous New York film set. We think it’s the ideal pick for a romantic getaway or a stylish city break.

The rooms are thoughtfully designed, with city views, marble bathrooms, and exceptionally comfy beds. The hotel also has an excellent on-site restaurant and a lively bar—perfect for winding down after a day in the Village.

Best of all, the location is unbeatable: just steps from 14th Street station, with Chelsea Market, Washington Square Park, and the High Line all within walking distance. Rates typically range from $400–$800 USD per night.

Just a short walk away, Moxy NYC Chelsea sits near the Flower District and within easy reach of Madison Square Park and the High Line. This trendy hotel is known for its floor-to-ceiling windows, sleek modern rooms, and lively rooftop bar with sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline.

Nearby, Motto by Hilton New York City Chelsea is another stylish option located between Chelsea and the Flatiron District. The hotel features compact but thoughtfully designed rooms, a vibrant social atmosphere, and a rooftop bar that’s perfect for taking in the city lights.

Hyatt Place New York Chelsea – $$

Hyatt Place New York Chelsea is a fantastic mid-range option that ticks all the boxes—modern, spacious, and seriously well-located. We love it for its crisp interiors, skyline views, and generous extras (hello, included breakfast!), making it perfect for couples, families, or anyone wanting style without splurging.

The rooms are bright and comfortable, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping views of Manhattan. You’ll also have access to a 24-hour fitness center, a rooftop terrace, and a 24-hour snack market. The location couldn’t be more convenient: Penn Station, Chelsea Market, and the High Line are just a short walk away. Prices usually range from $200–$500 USD per night, with breakfast included.

Just around the corner, Holiday Inn Express NYC Chelsea – NoMad Area by IHG is a reliable and budget-friendly choice in the heart of Chelsea. Guests appreciate the clean, comfortable rooms and complimentary breakfast, which helps you start the day before heading out to explore the High Line or nearby subway stations.

TownePlace Suites by Marriott New York Manhattan/Chelsea also sits within easy walking distance of Madison Square Park and the Flatiron Building. The hotel offers modern studio-style rooms with kitchenettes and impressive skyline views, making it a great pick for longer stays or travelers who want a little extra space.

Chelsea Inn – $

Chelsea Inn is a no-frills gem tucked inside a 19th-century brownstone, right on the edge of Greenwich Village and Chelsea. It’s a top pick for budget-conscious travelers who want to soak up the area’s creative energy and unbeatable location, without the hefty price tag.

The rooms are compact and cozy, with exposed brick walls and simple, functional furnishings. You can choose between private or shared bathrooms, which helps keep prices low. Best of all, you’re minutes from Union Square, the 14th Street subway, and within easy walking distance of the High Line, Chelsea Market, and the Village’s jazz clubs. Rates typically start at around $200 USD per night.

Leo House is another budget-friendly stay located in Chelsea near the High Line and Madison Square Park. This charming guesthouse offers simple, comfortable rooms and a peaceful atmosphere that feels refreshingly quiet compared to busier Midtown hotels.

Nearby, Interfaith Retreats offers a slightly different experience, located on West 22nd Street in Chelsea, within easy reach of the High Line and Madison Square Park. This unique stay focuses on simple, peaceful accommodations with minimalist rooms and a quiet atmosphere designed for rest and reflection.

Related Read: There’s so much to see in the Big Apple! Our guide to the best sightseeing tours in New York City will help you experience the highlights without the planning stress.

SoHo

BEST FOR AN UPSCALE STAY

Pros

• One of Manhattan’s most photogenic areas with its cobblestone streets and cast-iron buildings
• Designer stores, independent boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and cocktail bars are close together
• Tribeca, the West Village, Chinatown, Little Italy, and Lower Manhattan are easy to reach

Cons

• SoHo hotels are among the most expensive in Manhattan
• Daytime shopping crowds can make the main streets feel hectic
• Many properties add sizeable amenity or destination fees

If you love boutique shopping, long lunches, and cocktails close to your hotel, SoHo could be your perfect Manhattan base!

This is one of our favorite neighborhoods for wandering without a plan. The cast-iron buildings and cobblestone streets are gorgeous, and you’ll never run out of designer stores, independent boutiques, and galleries to explore. 

We especially recommend SoHo for couples and travelers who want a stylish downtown stay. There’s plenty to do nearby, and having so many restaurants and bars within walking distance makes evenings easy. You can also walk into neighboring areas like Tribeca and the West Village for a change of scenery, and Canal Street and Spring Street subway stations make it easy to explore the rest of Manhattan. 

Our main advice is to check your hotel’s address carefully, as some “SoHo” properties sit in neighboring areas. Hotel prices can also be high, and the main shopping streets get crowded during the day. 

For families after a bit more green space, the Upper West Side may be a better fit. That said, SoHo is still a fantastic choice if you’re happy to pay a little more for the location, don’t mind the crowds, and want to explore downtown on foot.

The Dominick Hotel – $$$

For our luxury pick near SoHo, we absolutely love The Dominick Hotel. This 46-story hotel has incredible views of the Manhattan skyline and Hudson River, plus a seasonal rooftop pool. 

There’s plenty to tempt you indoors, too, including a full-service spa, fitness center, and several places to eat and drink. Some suites even feature Fendi Casa furnishings, which is just so cool! 

Location-wise, the hotel sits in Hudson Square, on the edge of SoHo, so you’ll be well placed for shopping and dining downtown. Spring Street subway station is also just a few minutes’ walk away. 

Rooms here run about $300 to $700+ USD per night before taxes and fees, depending on your dates and room choice. It’s certainly a splurge, but well worth it for a stylish stay. 

Another luxury option we love in SoHo is The Manner, an adults-only hotel on Thompson Street. With a gorgeous rooftop terrace, daily breakfast and aperitivo, and a fantastic on-site restaurant, we think it’s perfect for a couples’ getaway!

Soho Grand Hotel is another stylish choice, especially if you enjoy livelier evenings. The bars and live music make it easy to enjoy a night out without leaving the hotel, while nearby Canal Street subway stations are handy for daytime exploring.

Arlo SoHo – $$

For our top mid-range pick near SoHo, it’s got to be Arlo SoHo. We especially love its rooftop bar, where you can unwind with a drink after a busy day exploring Manhattan.

There’s also Linden’s restaurant, a courtyard, and a lobby bar, so you’ll have plenty of places to hang out between outings. The 24-hour SoHo Bodega is also handy for picking up snacks. Rooms are compact at around 150 square feet (14 square meters), so we’d recommend Arlo to travelers who plan to spend most of their time out enjoying the city.

As for location, you’ll be on the Hudson Square edge of SoHo, within easy reach of Tribeca, the West Village, and Lower Manhattan. Canal Street subway station is also around 850 feet (260 meters) away for exploring beyond the downtown neighborhoods.

Rooms typically cost around $250 to $355+ USD per night, depending on your dates and room choice. There’s also an urban fee, so check the final total before booking.

Another mid-range option worth checking out is Four Points by Sheraton Manhattan SoHo Village. This hotel is close to Houston Street subway station and makes a practical alternative if you prefer a more traditional hotel stay.

For a hotel with a little more historic character, we also like Sohotel. Its Bowery location puts Little Italy, Chinatown, and plenty of downtown restaurants and nightlife within easy reach.

SoHo 54 – $

For our budget-friendly pick near SoHo, you can’t go wrong with SoHo 54. The rooms are compact, but you’ll still have some fantastic extras, including a 19th-floor rooftop terrace, a 24-hour fitness center, and a lobby bar. 

Location-wise, Spring Street subway station is just a block away, and Bloomingdale’s is about a 6-minute walk. You’ll also be well placed to explore SoHo, Tribeca, and the West Village, with plenty of shopping and dining nearby.

As for pricing, rooms run about $110 to $150+ USD per night, depending on your dates, which is excellent value for the location. 

If you’re traveling with family or friends, JGSTAY – Soho is another affordable option worth a look. There’s a choice of room configurations to suit your group, and Canal Street subway station, Little Italy, and Chinatown are nearby, too!

Related Read: Want to see the best of NYC without the planning stress? Our 3-day New York City itinerary is a great place to start, but we also have a 2-day NYC itinerary for weekend trips and a 1-day NYC itinerary for quick visits!

Lower Manhattan (Financial District)

BEST FOR HISTORY & ICONIC LANDMARKS

Pros

• Rich in historical and cultural attractions
• Excellent subway access
• Great waterfront views and parks

Cons

• Can feel very business-oriented
• Quiet at night, with fewer nightlife options nearby

Lower Manhattan is where New York City began, and you can still feel that historic energy in every corner. This part of the city is perfect for first-time visitors who want to stay near iconic landmarks, business travelers, or anyone drawn to a blend of old-world charm and sleek modernity.

While it’s best known for Wall Street and the Financial District, the neighborhood also has a more intimate side, with cobblestone streets, waterfront parks, and cozy cafés tucked between towering skyscrapers. It’s also one of the city’s most walkable areas, making it easy to soak up the sights at your own pace.

Some of the city’s most important sights are here, including the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, One World Trade Center, Battery Park, and the Staten Island Ferry. The area is extremely well connected by subway, making it easy to explore the rest of the city from your downtown home base. Though the vibe is faster-paced during the day, it tends to quiet down in the evenings, offering a more relaxed alternative to Midtown.

The Frederick Hotel Tribeca – $$$

For our top luxury pick in Tribeca, we absolutely adore The Frederick Hotel Tribeca. 

This historic hotel has plenty of personality, with its Art Deco touches, distinctive decor, and cozy cocktail bar. It also offers a 24-hour fitness center and complimentary breakfast, and some booking packages include wine hours and neighborhood walking tours. 

The location is another big plus. City Hall Park is around 1,640 feet (500 meters) away, and Chambers Street subway station is practically on your doorstep. 

As for pricing, expect rates starting at $170 USD per night for basic rooms, with larger suites priced at $1,500+ USD before taxes and fees. 

Another great stay nearby is M Social Hotel New York Downtown, located just steps from the 9/11 Memorial and the One World Trade Center complex in the Financial District. The hotel features modern rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, tech-forward amenities, and a sleek rooftop lounge with impressive skyline views.

Another hotel we love in the Financial District is Artezen Hotel. There’s a rooftop bar for drinks after sightseeing, plus a gym, and Fulton Street subway station is only a short walk away for exploring the rest of Manhattan.

Walker Hotel Tribeca – $$

Walker Hotel Tribeca is a stylish mid-range hotel that brings modern design and boutique charm to one of Lower Manhattan’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Just steps from Chinatown and SoHo, it’s ideal for travelers who want a fashionable, comfortable base without splurging on high-end luxury.

The rooms are compact but beautifully appointed, with plush beds, oversized showers, and thoughtful touches like bathrobes and floor-to-ceiling windows in select rooms. The hotel also features a fitness center, rooftop bar, and an on-site café serving Blue Bottle coffee.

With the subway nearby and top sights like the 9/11 Memorial and the Brooklyn Bridge within walking distance, it’s easy to explore all corners of the city. Prices generally range from $300–$500 USD per night.

A stylish alternative nearby is The Cloud One New York–Downtown, by the Motel One Group, located near Trinity Church and just a short walk from the World Trade Center complex. This modern hotel stands out for its sleek design, comfortable rooms, and inviting rooftop bar where you can unwind with views over Lower Manhattan.

Travelers who want to stay right by the waterfront should consider Club Quarters Hotel World Trade Center, situated across from the 9/11 Memorial and steps from Battery Park. The hotel offers comfortable, well-equipped rooms and a rooftop terrace with impressive views of One World Trade Center and New York Harbor.

Hotel Mulberry – $

Hotel Mulberry is a great budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on space, cleanliness, or location. Tucked into a quieter stretch of Chinatown and just a few blocks from Little Italy, this no-fuss hotel is ideal for travelers who want solid comfort in a central spot without breaking the bank.

Rooms are bright, surprisingly spacious, and well-soundproofed—some even have private balconies with city views. You’ll get essentials like a mini fridge, free WiFi, and cozy handmade furniture, plus perks like complimentary coffee and friendly, attentive service.

With subway access just minutes away, you’re well connected to the Financial District, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the rest of downtown. Rates typically start around $260 USD per night, offering fantastic value for the area.

Hotel Mimosa is another solid option nearby, located on a quiet street in Chinatown just a short walk from Little Italy and the Lower East Side. This small boutique hotel is known for its clean, modern rooms, comfortable beds, and thoughtful touches like complimentary tea and snacks in the lobby.

Those who prefer a larger hotel with more amenities should consider Hilton Garden Inn NYC Financial Center/Manhattan Downtown, situated near Battery Park and the Staten Island Ferry in the heart of the Financial District. The hotel offers modern rooms, an on-site restaurant, a fitness center, and easy access to subway lines that connect you to the rest of Manhattan.

Related Read: Manhattan is just the beginning! Discover even more incredible places to explore with our guide to the best day trips from Manhattan.

Upper West Side

BEST FOR FAMILIES AND CALMER STAYS

Pros

• Central Park, Riverside Park, the American Museum of Natural History, and Lincoln Center are close by
• Family-friendly restaurants and residential streets create a more relaxed neighborhood atmosphere
• The 1, 2, 3, B, and C subway lines provide useful north-south connections

Cons

• Lower Manhattan landmarks require a longer subway ride
• The neighborhood has less nightlife than Midtown, Chelsea, or the Village
• Hotels close to Columbus Circle can still be expensive and busy

If you love the excitement of Manhattan but want somewhere a little calmer, the Upper West Side could be the perfect fit!

This is our favorite area for families, with Central Park on one side and Riverside Park on the other. Between the two, you’ll find residential streets, classic apartment buildings, neighborhood restaurants, and plenty of places to grab breakfast before heading out.

One of the biggest highlights is the American Museum of Natural History, which is always a tempting addition to a family itinerary. Lincoln Center and the Beacon Theatre are also nearby for evening entertainment. 

Accommodation is another reason to consider the area. Several hotels offer practical extras such as kitchenettes, suites, connecting rooms, or laundry facilities. So if you’re staying for more than a few nights, having space to spread out or prepare a simple meal can be a real bonus!

The only thing to factor into your plans is the extra travel time to Lower Manhattan for sights like Wall Street and the Statue of Liberty. For us, though, the parks, family-friendly hotel options, and relaxed neighborhood feel make the Upper West Side well worth considering, especially if you’re traveling with kids! 

Mandarin Oriental, New York – $$$

If you’re celebrating a special occasion or feel like treating yourself, you should definitely check out Mandarin Oriental, New York. This luxury hotel sits at Columbus Circle, right where Midtown meets the Upper West Side, with Central Park directly across the street!

The views are a major highlight. Every room has floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Central Park, the Hudson River, or the Manhattan skyline, so it’s worth comparing the different room options before booking.

You’ll also have a 75-foot (23-meter) indoor pool, a luxurious spa, and a fitness center for downtime between outings. When you’re ready to explore, Columbus Circle subway station is about 500 feet (150 meters) away.

Price-wise, expect rates from around $400 to $2,500+ USD per night, depending on your dates, room type, and view. 

For a more low-key neighborhood stay, we also love The Wallace for its spacious rooms, neighborhood feel, and cocktail lounge with live piano. You’ll also be close to the 79th Street subway station for easy trips around Manhattan. 

Hotel Belleclaire Central Park – $$

For our top mid-range pick on the Upper West Side, we love Hotel Belleclaire Central Park, especially for families. This historic hotel offers family and connecting rooms, a 24-hour gym, and a restaurant and cocktail lounge, plus a French pastry shop for morning treats!

Location-wise, Central Park is about three blocks away (perfect for picnics!), and the American Museum of Natural History is about half a mile (0.8 kilometers) away. Plenty of restaurants and shops are nearby, and the 79th Street subway station is about 650 feet (200 meters) away for exploring the rest of Manhattan.

As for pricing, rooms can range from around $180 to $300+ USD per night, depending on your dates and room choice. 

Another family-friendly option is Hotel Beacon, near the Beacon Theatre. The kitchenettes, laundry facilities, and larger suites make it especially handy for longer stays. 

Hotel Lucerne is also worth checking out for a more traditional hotel stay. It has an on-site French-Mediterranean restaurant, and the 79th Street subway station is about one block away.

Riverside Tower Hotel – $

Last but not least, our budget-friendly pick on the Upper West Side is Riverside Tower Hotel. This hotel sits directly across from Riverside Park, and some rooms overlook the park or the Hudson River, a lovely bonus at this price point!

Rooms are compact, but family options are available. There’s also a fitness room and complimentary lobby coffee and tea before you head out. The American Museum of Natural History is about half a mile (0.8 kilometers) away, and the 79th Street subway station is about a three-block walk away.

Rates typically start from around $120+ USD per night, depending on your dates and room choice, which is excellent value for such a convenient Upper West Side location. 

Another affordable option is Night Hotel Broadway, which is farther north near West 94th Street. This hotel has everything you need for a comfortable city stay, with Times Square, the Broadway Theater District, and Rockefeller Center all less than 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) away. 

Related Read: Still deciding where to base yourself in NYC? Check out our guide on where to stay in New York City for even more great neighborhoods and hotel recommendations!

Top Activities to do in Manhattan

Now that you have found the best area to stay and booked your preferred hotel, you can start planning your trip! Here are a few of our favorite things to do in NYC, though the list could go on and on! I recommend booking these activities early, as they often sell out weeks (or months) in advance.

• Take a food tour – New York has a world-renowned food scene. The question is, how can you try as much of it as possible? We took this famous Chelsea Market Food Tour, a historic market that boasts the city’s best food. We loved trying different foods and discovering spots we wanted to return to! For more tasty options, check out our guide to the best New York City food tours!

• Visit the Empire State Building – As the city’s most iconic building, a visit is a must-do! It’s impressive from a distance, and the top offers some of the best views of NYC. Grab tickets to the main observation deck on the 86th floor to beat the crowds!

• Go on a helicopter tour – Seeing New York from above is an experience most people only dream about. While this is a costly excursion, we can wholeheartedly say it is WORTH IT! This 15-minute Helicopter tour over NYC offers incredible views of the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge—to name a few!

• Walk Central Park – Central Park is a quintessential New York stop and a giant outdoor haven right in the middle of the city. There’s a lot to see here, so I recommend a few hours to stroll along its historic paths or booking a tour of Central Park. If you’re keen to learn its history, take this walking tour, or for the full NYC rom-com experience, book a horse-and-carriage ride!

• Experience a dinner cruise – For an elegant way to see NYC, a dinner cruise is hard to beat! We took this Bateaux New York Premier Dinner Cruise and loved the delicious dinner, live jazz, and incredible views of the Statue of Liberty and city skyline. Want to know more? Check out our full Bateaux New York Premier Dinner Cruise review to see if it’s worth it!

Related Read: Looking for even more ways to fill your NYC itinerary? Check out our favorite things to do in New York City, or discover the best cheap things to do in NYC if you’re traveling on a budget!

Thanks for reading!

In Manhattan, you can spend the entire day exploring and still feel like you’ve barely scratched the surface! Between sightseeing, shopping, and eating your way through the city, having a comfortable hotel to come back to makes all the difference. Whether you want to be right in the middle of the action in Midtown, enjoy the trendy atmosphere of SoHo, or escape the crowds on the Upper West Side, we hope this guide has helped you find the perfect place to stay!

And if you’re already thinking about your next adventure, we’ve got plenty more USA travel guides to help you plan! From bustling cities to beautiful coastal getaways, we love sharing our favorite destinations, activities, and travel tips. And be sure to check out a few of our other blogs below for even more inspiration!

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