New York has a renowned passion for creativity, and I found that many of its places to stay were nothing short of spectacular. During my time living in this high-octane city, I discovered everything from quirky boutique hideaways to fun party hotels – here are my favorite unique spots…
1. Hotel on Rivington
I was honestly in awe of this 4‑star boutique tower! I found striking glass architecture and wraparound floor-to-ceiling windows which had jaw-dropping skyline views, and I loved how it perfectly combined edgy Lower East Side energy with modern luxury – to me, it felt urban, stylish, and effortlessly cool.
I stayed in a King Studio enjoyed its ultra-luxe Tempur‑Pedic king bed which came adorned with lush Frette Italian linens, hardwood floors, a flat-screen TV with on-demand viewing, and a spa-like bathroom complete with organic toiletries – I particularly loved the corner, all-glass shower where I gazed breathtaking Manhattan views!
I spent my time being stunned by the superb skyline views from their rooftop bar and Insta-worthy sky-lit atrium, sippig on a Matcha‑infused Green Kimono in the cocktail bar, gorging on Avocado & Tofu Breakfast Wraps from their complimentary daily grab-and-go breakfast, and dining on Truffle Edamame Dumplings daiginjo sake in their Kin Gin restaurant.
I found it perched in Manhattan’s vibrant Lower East Side and I really enjoyed being just steps from the Delancey/Essex subway and a short walk to SoHo, the East Village, and my personal favorite iconic spot Katz’s Deli.
- To book, check prices or dates for Hotel on Rivington
My personal highlights…
- Alternating between heavenly strawberry oak milk pancakes at the onsite cafe and comforting Noodle Kugels at Katz Deli each morning!
Address: 107 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002
2. YOTEL
I had fun staying in this tech-forward 4-star urban hotel! It stood out to me for its ultra-modern, space-saving “cabins,” and futuristic features such as the robotic luggage concierge (YOBOT)! It felt fun and fast-paced and I couldn’t help but admire how tech-savvy it was.
Inside, I found space-ship style, minimalist decor with glossy white surfaces, purple mood lighting, modular furnishings, and cool space-age accents.
I stayed in the cleverly designed Premium Queen Cabin where I got to play around with the adjustable SmartBed™, mood lighting, and flat-screen TV. I particularly loved the sleek glass-enclosed monsoon shower with high-end Urban Jungle toiletries and all the high-tech features (as I’m a bit of a geek)!
I also checked in via an automated check-in kiosk, helped myself to banana muffins at the Grab+Go unit self-service amenity machines on each floor, worked out on Peloton Bikes in their 24/7 gym, gazed at Manhattan views in their rooftop terrace and dined on Burrata with Roasted Beet Tartare in their the creative Green Fig restaurant.
It was located in Midtown Manhattan, so I was handily just a short walk from Times Square, Hudson Yards, and the Theater District.
- To book, check prices or availability for YOTEL
Address: 570 Tenth Avenue, W 42nd St At, New York, NY 10036
My favorite highlights…
- Sipping on a cucumber-citrus sippers and bottomless mimosas at the weekend Social Brunch on the rooftop terrace.
3. Moxy NYC Chelsea
I discovered and stayed at this stylish, budget-friendly 4-star boutique hotel in Manhattan’s Flower District, and found a striking industrial-chic design, a rooftop bar and an Insta-worthy lobby that doubled as a botanical oasis.
Outside, I stumbled across a slim 35‑storey concrete-and-glass tower which rose 420 ft above 28th Street and inside I saw that it had cleverly woven in its Flower District roots with pretty pressed flower art, floral wallpaper, copper-ceilinged rooftop bar, and cheeky neon signs – it felt youthful, energetic, and playful and not too intimidating either – bonus!
My space-efficient King Room showcased floor-to-ceiling windows, a smart TV with Netflix, an air purifier, a large walk-in rain shower, and chic minimalist decor. I couldn’t stop playing with the retro-style rotary phone which handily doubled as a cheeky wake-up call system!
I also gazed at panoramic views (including the Empire State Building) from the glass-enclosed rooftop lounge, admired the impressive floral installations in the lobby bar, dined on Panzanella in the Italian trattoria by TAO Group, and even caught an onsite drag bingo night and a live DJ set!
I also really enjoyed being located in the buzzy Manhattan’s Flower District – I was within walking distance to the High Line, Penn Station, and even the Empire State Building, and just steps away from eclectic markets, art galleries, and trendy cafés.
- To book, check prices or availability for Moxy NYC Chelsea
Address: 105 W 28th St, New York, NY 10001
My highlights…
- Gorging on hot pink cotton candy pancakes washed down with a hibiscus-infused cocktail topped with edible florals, all while soaking up incredible views from The Fleur Room rooftop lounge!
4. Standard High Line
I had an awesome stay at this trendy, high-rise 4-star boutique hotel in NYC’s Meatpacking District. It stood out to me with its bold, elevated building that straddled the High Line, and lively social scene – this place was seriously made for partying!
I found sleek modern decor with a retro twist, there were mid-century furnishings, glossy white brick walls, lashings of floor-to-ceiling glass, and risqué art accents like glam mirrored ceilings. I was in awe of its edgy and fashionable vibe and also its equally fashionable guests!
My minimalist open-plan Standard Double Room was home to floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning river views, a funky platform bed, and my favorite feature – a fully exposed glass-walled shower right next to the window, privacy clearly wasn’t the priority, and I kind of loved it!
I also discovered a plunge pool, a sparkly disco ball and incredible French Martinis at the rooftop nightclub Le Bain, a tasty Charcoal‑Roasted Pumpkin dish at the chic Standard Grill restaurant, Downeast Apple Ciders at the scenic outdoor biergarten, and even a seasonal ice rink under the High Line (though it wasn’t open during my stay)!
The location was just so much fun too – it was right in the heart of the Meatpacking District, directly above the High Line and steps from the Whitney Museum, Hudson River Park, and some of NYC’s trendiest spots.
- To book, check prices or availability for Standard High Line
Address: 848 Washington St, New York, NY 10014
My personal highlights…
- Listening to the live chill vibe played by Marco Weibel & Spurge on a relaxed Sunday Sunset set at their popular rooftop nightclub Le Bain.
5. The Box Hotel
This stylish 4-star boutique property was actually one of the most endearing places I’ve stayed in the city! It was a hidden gem, set in a converted Brooklyn factory with loft-style suites adorned with lashings of original local artwork.
I was taken with its funky industrial-chic decor – there were exposed brick and beams mixed with vintage furnishings, and bold colors. The vibe felt creative, cozy, and all very Brooklyn!
I opted for a Loft Suite which gave off cool Brooklyn apartment vibes with its high ceilings, hardwood floors, a cozy living room complete with a sofa bed there was even a full kitchen, a comfy sofa bed, a 42″ flat-screen TV, air con, and my favorite highlights, a private sauna and super-cute vintage rotary phone.
I also feasted on tangy Pineapple Fried Rice and Spineless Cactus cocktails in their cozy onsite Brooklyn Lantern restaurant and bar, and then worked it off in the small onsite fitness center.
I thought its Greenpoint location only added to its already oodles of charm – it had a quiet, artsy neighborhood vibe with easy subway and ferry access to Manhattan, and trendy cafés, artsy hangouts, and pretty waterfront parks right on my doorstep!
- To book, check prices or availability for The Box Hotel
Address: 77 Box St, Brooklyn, NY 11222
My highlights…
- Being drive to the decadent Peter Pan Donut Shop in the cool Checker cab – we were told we could go up to a 1½ miles of the hotel!
6. Hotel Hugo
This stylish 4-star boutique tower in SoHo wowed me with its sleek industrial-meets-mid-century design and two Insta-worthy rooftop bars which offered incredible Hudson River views!
I thought the decor was exceptional – it mixed raw materials such as polished concrete, steel accents, and vertical garden planters with striking mid-century furnishings, and colorful contemporary art – creating a chic SoHo-meets-loft feel with a touch of boho thrown in for good measure!
Relaxing in my Superior King Room was easy with its floor-to-ceiling windows, oversized leather-accented platform bed adorned with luxe Frette linens, sleek glass-enclosed rainfall shower, and walnut furnishings. The bathroom added to the wow-factor with its Italian mosaic tiles and high-end Argan bath products.
I also spent time gazing at superb river views from the impressive twin rooftop bars and dining on Fig Toast dripping with truffle oil on a sidewalk patio table at the trendy Café Hugo.
Tucked away in Hudson Square between SoHo and the West Village, I loved how it felt hidden yet was just steps from downtown’s coolest boutiques, art galleries, buzzing restaurants, and the scenic Hudson River Greenway.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Hugo
Address: 525 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10013
My personal highlights…
- Curing a hangover with a super healthy Green Machine Smoothie and Multi Grain Avocado Toast from their onsite cafe.
7. Arlo SoHo
I was completely won over by this chic 4-star “micro-hotel” in Lower Manhattan’s Hudson Square/SoHo area for its clever space-saving rooms, and its social, design-savvy ethos.
I thought its sleek and modern interiors were impressive – it was stylish mash-up of walnut millwork, black metal and glass partitions, bold art, and cleverly built-in furniture. The vibe felt hip, youthful, and sociable, with co-working and communal spaces that were just perfect for mingling.
My King Room was a unique space with a space-efficient complete with a comfy extra-large bed, built-in storage, a mini-fridge, a rain shower, and light-giving floor-to-ceiling windows. I especially loved how the full glass garage-style window swung open to my own little private terrace – it was the perfect spot to sip my morning coffee and soak up those city views at the same time!
I spent my stay enjoying Frozen Passion Fruit Mojitos in the buzzing rooftop bar, getting lost in the words of James Baldwin in an ergonomic armchair in the cozy library, indulging in Mini Alfajores from the 24-hour artisan pantry Bodega, and exploring on the complimentary bikes too!
I loved how perfectly the hotel was tucked into Hudson Square – just an easy wander from SoHo, Tribeca, downtown’s trendiest shops and restaurants, and the breezy Hudson River Greenway. Staff also mentioned it had a cool sister hotel, Arlo NoMad, in Manhattan’s creative NoMad neighborhood.
- To book, check prices or availability for Arlo SoHo
Address: 231 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013
My personal highlights…
- Sipping on a rich bourbon ‘Spirited Fox’ cocktail whipped up by a talented in-house mixologist while listening to live Jazz at Foxtail, their glam speakeasy-style cocktail bar – I loved its playful, hidden-den vibe!
8. The Jane
I thought this historic, quirky budget boutique micro-hotel in Manhattan’s West Village was such a unique find! Set in a landmark 1908 building, it felt like an underrated gem thanks to its vintage ship cabin – style rooms, rich Titanic-era history, and Wes Anderson-esque decor!
The quirky interiors looked both nostalgic and whimsical, and I spent a lot of time just taking in the unique decor details, rich dark wood paneling was mixed in with plush velvet tufted couches, brass fixtures, and vintage Edison-bulb chandeliers. The vibe was a mix of old-world eccentricity, lashings of creative downtown energy and a splash of theatrical flair thrown in!
My guest room (a Captain’s Cabin with a private bathroom) featured vintage-inspired decor, a large queen bed, a rainfall shower, a flat-screen TV and charming nautical accents – I especially loved the porthole-style mirrors that made the whole space feel like an ocean liner suite!
I also downed New York Sours at the fun “Happy Hump Day” weekly gathering in their moody chandelier-lit ballroom bar and lounge, explored the local area on their complimentary vintage-style bikes, gazed at Hudson River views at The Jane Rooftop Bar Terrace and dined on a hearty – and locally famous – American brunch complete with mashed avocado toast at their Café Gitane.
Being in a great location was another huge bonus for me – it had a charming, tucked-away setting mere moments from the Hudson River, the High Line, and trendy Meatpacking District nightlife.
- To book, check prices or availability for The Jane Hotel
Address: 113 Jane St, New York, NY 10014
My highlights…
- The exceptionally unique decor – I found myself in the company of old-school bellhops, attentive maids dressed in black-and-white uniforms, carved moose heads, and stuffed monkeys adorned with fez hats!
9. The Ludlow Hotel
Staying at this chic Lower East Side 4-star boutique hotel was a seriously memorable experience thanks to its gritty-glam mix of industrial loft design and vintage Parisian flair!
The decor had me at hello – there were exposed brick walls, reclaimed wood, pretty Moroccan tiles, antique mirrors, and statement lighting which created a warm, eclectic atmosphere – it felt like a beat poet’s favorite hangout! It felt effortlessly hip – bohemian charm layered with just enough downtown grit to keep it interesting.
My standard guest room felt like a stylish downtown loft thanks to the towering industrial-chic windows, hardwood floors, luxurious double bed with high-end linens. I was also very taken with the marble mosaic bathroom which came complete with a deep marble bathtub adorned with glamorous brushed-gold taps.
My other favorite highlights included sipping on locally roasted LAMILL espressos in the vine-covered garden courtyard, gazing at Amira Gad curated art books in their cozy fireplace-lit lobby lounge and dining on layered trumpet mushrooms with red curry and corn sauce in their popular Dirty French restaurant.
Its Lower East Side location was also a hit with me – I had instant access to indie boutiques, music venues, hip bars, and some of NYC’s best late-night eats, all within a walkable, edgy neighborhood vibe!
- To book, check prices or availability for The Ludlow Hotel
Address: 180 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002
- Curling up in a vintage worn leather sofa by the fireplace with Sunbird by Jason Fulford hardback book in their cozy lobby lounge.
10. M Social Hotel Times Square
This contemporary 4-star gem in Midtown wasn’t just a place to sleep – it was a full-on experience! I personally thought it delivered serious impact – panoramic Times Square views from the rooftop and a buzzing, design-led social scene.
The decor was bold and modern, I saw colorful lighting, geometric wall art and industrial touches such as sleek metal desks, and streamlined yellow office chairs. The energy here was very contagious – young, social, a place where the city felt really alive.
My soundproofed Social City View King Room had an upscale king-size bed, retro-modern furnishings, a sleek rain shower bathroom, and floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning skyline views. At night, the Times Square lights turned the entire room into a glowing, immersive cityscape – which I enjoyed just gazing at!
I sipped on handcrafted cocktails in the trendy Beast & Butterflies rooftop bar with its wrap-around terrace and admired the interactive art wall in the lobby, played Pac-Man in their game arcade, and worked out on NordicTrack Ellipticals in their 24-hour fitness center.
It was also location goals – right on 7th Ave with all the Times Square sparkle, as well as Broadway and Central Park practically on my doorstep.
- To book, check prices or availability for M Social Hotel Times Square
Address: 226 West 52nd Street, New York, NY 10019
My favorite highlights…
- Sipping on a tangy Passionfruit Margarita made from Patrón Blanco, Chinola passionfruit, and Cointreau while gazing at the neon-lit Times Square from their rooftop bar!
11. Hotel Alameda, Highline
I ended up having a real soft spot for this stylish 61-room 4-star boutique hotel in Chelsea – it felt very unique for its statement-making guest rooms, boho-style social spaces and superb urban views!
The vibe felt effortlessly creative and relaxed, mixing industrial-chic cool with South American-inspired decor. I saw sleek poured‑concrete floors, cozy handcrafted rugs, bold folk‑art throws, and lashings of bright accent color.
My Deluxe Room came with a cloud-soft king bed perched on a sleek reclaimed wood platform as well as handcrafted furnishings, a walk-in rain shower, impressive floor-to-ceiling windows, and my favorite feature – scattered hand-woven floor rugs!
I also spent some time sipping on Pimm’s Cup in the hip rooftop bar and intimate Mediterranean courtyard, and browsing hand-poured soy candles in their onsite boutique.
Its location was gold – Chelsea glam with the High Line on my doorstep and galleries, buzzy dining, and the Meatpacking District were all just a short walk away.
- To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Alameda Highline
Address: 518 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001
My highlights…
- Listening to the classic Cuban rhythms of the Buena Vista Social Club on vinyl in their awesome record room!
12. Made Hotel
Yep, I really did feel like I’d made it when I stayed at this design-forward 4-star boutique hotel in NoMad. It earned its spot for its bold blend of industrial-chic style and casual, eco-conscious charm.
Inside, I saw reclaimed wood and raw concrete dotted with handcrafted ceramics, and lashings of lush greenery with a vibe which was creative, and effortlessly cool.
My sleek minimalist Standard King Room featured a floating king-size platform bed layered with organic linens, as well as floor-to-ceiling windows, and a rain shower. I especially loved the hand-crafted artisanal touches – the stunning carved stone sink was a real standout!
I sipped on Nitro Cold Brew Coffee from their on-site Paper coffee shop, soaked up the tiki vibes and incredible skyline views in the rooftop bar Good Behavior and mixed with creative NoMad types in their buzzing communal lounge space.
The location was a huge bonus too – I was put right in the heart of NoMad, with easy access to the Flatiron District, Madison Square Park, and plenty of great dining and shopping spots.
- To book, check prices or availability for Made Hotel
Address: 44 W 29th St, New York, NY 10001
My highlights…
- Enjoying potent Ginger Pineapple Daiquiris and pineapple skewers in their rooftop tiki bar!
13. Dream Downtown
This chic 4-star spot in Chelsea/Meatpacking, with 314 design-forward rooms, was really a seriously dreamy stay! It stood out with its Insta-worthy porthole-covered façade and its dramatic glass-bottom pool which floated above the lobby!
I stumbled into a futuristic fantasy world with nautical vibes – there were porthole windows, mood lighting, silver Chester-style sofas in silver and curved ottomans. The vibe was energetic, and ultra-social – it was a place to party for sure!
My King Room with Pool View showcased a high-end king bed complete with Egyptian cotton linens, modern metallic accents, and a sleek bathroom with a rainfall shower. I was actually in awe of the large porthole window which offered a very surreal view of swimmers floating in the glass-bottom pool right above me!
I nibbled on truffle flatbread while gazing at Manhattan views in PHD, their chic rooftop lounge, relaxed on their man-made “beach” area and bright pink cabanas around their infamous glass-bottom pool, caught DJ Katz in their trendy Electric Room nightclub, browsed metallic tote bags in their boutique lobby shop, and dined on a nutrient dense Fresh Mango Salad in their Natura Café.
Right where Chelsea meets the Meatpacking District, I thought the location also nailed it – there were art walks, food adventures, and rooftop cocktails, all within a few blocks.
- To book, check prices or availability for Dream Downtown
Address: 355 W 16th St, New York, NY 10011
My personal highlights…
- Opting for a super – healthy Acai Bowl at their onsite Beach Club which came with acai, mango, chia pudding, banana, pomegranate seeds, and almonds.
14. Henn na Hotel
It was love at first beep – this fun, futuristic 4-star hotel run by robots completely charmed me! The robot staff – including dinosaur receptionists and AI concierges – paired with futuristic tech made it one of the most innovative hotel experiences I’d ever experienced!
I found minimalist and utilitarian decor which was filled with clean lines, neutral tones, jungle‑style foliage. The vibe was quirky, futuristic, but also to my surprise also very zen-like, once the novelty of the robot staff wore off!
My sleek minimalist Deluxe Double Room featured two comfy double beds and I spent a lot of my time playing around with the smart lighting, voice-activated room controls, tablet interface, and air purifier. I especially loved the LG Styler robotic wardrobe, which steamed my clothes automatically, and the cheeky animatronic robot assistant which resided by my bed!
I was also awe of how a robot delivered my luggage to the room, how the multilingual AI concierge service gave me awesome local restaurant tips, how I entered my room using handy facial recognition room entry, and how quickly I could make the house-made pan-fried gyozas disappear in their Japanese restaurant.
Location-wise, it also nailed it – I was just steps away from the buzz of Herald Square, the upscale shopping at Macy’s, and the dazzling lights of Times Square.
- To book, check prices or availability for Henn na Hotel
Address: 235 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001
My highlights…
- Chatting to my AI concierge – he offered me nearby restaurant suggestions and made great choices in the popular Korean BBQ Antoya and the upscale Zoi Mediterranean Cuisine!
15. Freehand Hotel
I was actually head over heels for this hipster-friendly 4-star boutique hotel in Manhattan’s Flatiron District. I liked it because it felt more like a cultural hub than a hotel, with local art and creative events that I thought gave it a truly unique edge!
Back in the 1920s, I found out from the staff that it was a go-to haunt for writers, musicians, and artists and today it still had the original ornate wood molding in the lobby and mezzanine as well as a few ceilings created by Bard College‑affiliated artists. Throw in leather armchairs, playful murals, and an artsy, social vibe – and it all came together to feel like a creative hideaway with serious downtown soul!
My good-sized Premium King Room showcased a luxury king-size bed, custom vintage-style furnishings, locally inspired artwork, a smart TV, soundproofing, and large windows that filled the space with light. I especially loved the hand-painted mural above the bed – it made me feel like I was staying inside an artist’s studio!
I spent a long weekend enjoying Flatiron Negronis in the trendy Broken Shaker rooftop bar, dining on Brik-style eggs in the all-day café, working next to other guests and locals in the co-working space Studio, feasting on Ceviche de Mango y Aguacate in their Cómodo restaurant and catching a live house DJ at their onsite Thursdays @ Bar Calico event.
It also turned out that the Flatiron District location was just perfect for me – I was within a short stroll of Madison Square Park, Union Square, and multiple subway lines for easy exploring of the rest of the city.
- To book, check prices or availability for Freehand Hotel
Address: 23 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10010
My highlights…
- Playing Ms. Pac-Man, vintage pinball, shuffleboard, and a sociable game of ping-ping with other guests in their mezzanine-level game room.
Love the look of these hotels, wonderful! The Jane looks fun!
Heyy Becky I was looking for nice trendy hotel in NY and came across ur post which is really helpful. Does any of these hotel’s have a small conference room ??? can you name them ?
Hey! Yes many of these hotels do, CitizenM would be the best bet!
I am definitely going to bookmark this page so I remember that location whenever I am planning to go back into the city!
Excellent website with good information. It’s really important for tourism
Thanks Alex glad to be of help!
The Jane sounds like quite the interesting place to stay. I feel like I need to go at least once now.
another really cool younger and modern looking hotel good for young people lounge and restaurant is Yotel in NYC just 2 blocks from Times square is another really cool hotel option in the area
Night Hotel looks fantastic!!!
IKR LOOKS AMAZING!
Thanks for sharing this post on New York hotels. I was searching for some and this post has really helped thank you!
I have been to and stayed in New York City in the past, but never at hotels like these. I am particularly captivated by the Night Hotel. I am a rather dark person myself, and the gothic and just…dark…qualities that this hotel contains just seems to scream at me to come and visit. I am definitely going to bookmark this page so I remember that location whenever I am planning to go back into the city!
Thanks for your comments!
Love the Jane Hotel!
Thanks for all your comments!
Jocelyne, Becky: NYC hotel prices are going to be high where ever you stay. I’ve never heard of the MAve but it looked cool. I just booked a stay for end of Jan for around $160/night.
Great list and thanks for the suggestion!
Hi Jocelyne, if you click into the hotel link in the text it will take you to a booking website where you can check the prices. Although thank you for your feedback we will add the prices guides in at the bottom to make this article more user-friendly. Becky
where are the prices isn’t that the most important element é é é