New York is a city with a passion for creativity. I spent some time living in this high-octane place. I discovered many fun and quirky places to stay. Some were quiet boutique hideaways, others were loud party hotels. All were very spectacular. I found some of my favorite and most unique spots during my visit. These hotels are not ordinary. They are filled with style, art, and charm. Each one tells a different story.
From my experience, I can say that New York offers more than just a bed. It offers an adventure. Whether you like bright lights or calm corners, you will find it here. Every hotel is part of the creativity and energy of the city. Some feel like a dream. Some are made for fun. Some are true hideaways. Each one is a new world to enjoy.
Hotel on Rivington
This place gave me one of the best experiences I’ve ever had in New York. The Hotel on Rivington is a 4 star boutique tower with striking glass architecture that stands out right in Manhattan’s Lower East Side. When I first saw the floor-to-ceiling windows, I knew the skyline views would be jaw-dropping – and I was right. The room looked effortlessly cool, mixing modern touches with true luxury, while keeping that raw, urban energy of downtown New York.
I stayed in their King Studio, and everything about it felt ultra-luxe. The king bed was a Tempur Pedic, adorned with lush Frette Italian linens. The soft light on the hardwood floors, the big flat-screen TV with on-demand viewing, and the peaceful spa-like bathroom made the whole room feel calm and special. The corner all-glass shower let me gaze out at the streets while enjoying the warm water. They also offered soft organic toiletries that added a fresh scent to the stay.
I spent time at the hotel’s rooftop bar, a hidden gem with a superb vibe. It felt like something out of a movie — very Insta-worthy, filled with sunlight coming through the sky-lit atrium. I sat there sipping a Matcha infused Green Kimono cocktail, feeling the breeze, and later gorging on their healthy Avocado & Tofu Breakfast Wraps. Each morning, I grabbed their complimentary daily grab-and-go breakfast – quick, light, and tasty.
For dinner, I stayed in and tried the Truffle Edamame Dumplings. I also had a glass of daiginjo sake at the hotel’s Japanese-style Kin Gin restaurant. That small place added warmth to the evening. The hotel felt perfectly combined — part stylish, part cozy, all in one place.
What really made this one of my personal favorites was the location. Right in the vibrant Lower East Side, just steps from the Delancey/Essex subway. I took a short walk to explore SoHo, meet friends in the East Village, and of course, stop by the iconic Katz’s Deli — a must-visit spot for anyone with real love for New York food.
To book, check prices or dates for Hotel on Rivington
Address: 107 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002
My personal highlights…
• Eating warm Noodle Kugels and heavenly strawberry oak milk pancakes at their onsite cafe
• Visiting Katz Deli for comforting classics just around the corner
YOTEL
I had a really fun time staying at YOTEL, a tech-forward 4-star urban hotel that truly stood out in the middle of Midtown Manhattan. From the moment I walked in, it felt different. Everything inside had a futuristic look — like a scene out of a sci-fi movie. The space-ship style decor with glossy white surfaces, purple mood lighting, and space-age accents made it feel cool and full of energy. The vibe was young, tech-savvy, and fast-moving — perfect for anyone who loves a bit of fun and innovation in their hotel experience.
I stayed in one of their cleverly designed Premium Queen Cabin rooms. The space was small but smart. I got to play around with the adjustable SmartBed™, relaxed watching the flat-screen TV, and enjoyed the sleek glass-enclosed monsoon shower with those amazing Urban Jungle toiletries. The modular furnishings gave it a neat and tidy feel. This place was perfect for a high-tech geek like me. I even admired the robot that carried my suitcase — the famous YOBOT, a robotic luggage concierge that made checking in feel like I was in the future.
The automated check-in kiosk was super fast. I didn’t need any help — just walked in and got my room key. I grabbed some banana muffins from the Grab+Go unit, and even checked out the self-service amenity machine near the lobby. I loved how it had everything I could need without waiting.
Their 24/7 gym had top-tier Peloton Bikes which helped me stay on track while traveling. I also spent time gazing at beautiful Manhattan views from their rooftop terrace. That spot turned out to be my chill zone. On weekends, they hosted a lively Social Brunch with bottomless mimosas, fresh air, and a relaxed crowd. I sat back sipping cucumber-citrus sippers, taking it all in.
For food, I enjoyed the colorful and creative menu at their Green Fig restaurant. I tried the Roasted Beet Burritos, and I’m still thinking about them. Light, fresh, and full of flavor. Plus, the location was great. It was a short walk to Times Square, Hudson Yards, and the Theater District — so everything felt close.
To book, check prices or availability for YOTEL
Address: 570 Tenth Avenue, W 42nd St At, New York, NY 10036
My favorite highlights…
• Watching my suitcase being handled by YOBOT
• Sipping bottomless mimosas and munching banana muffins during weekend Social Brunch on the rooftop terrace
Moxy NYC Chelsea
I stayed at Moxy NYC Chelsea and it turned out to be one of the most stylish, budget-friendly 4-star boutique stays I’ve ever had in Manhattan’s Flower District. From the outside, I stumbled upon a striking 35 storey, concrete-and-glass tower that rose 420 ft above 28th Street — tall, slim, and bold. But inside, everything felt light and full of fun.
The vibe was industrial-chic, modern, and totally Instagram-worthy. The lobby looked like a botanical oasis. There was pressed flower art, floral wallpaper, and impressive floral installations hanging above the copper-ceilinged bar. I even spotted cheeky neon signs — they gave the whole place a playful, slightly intimidating energy, but in the best way. It didn’t feel like a typical hotel, and that was a bonus for me.
My chic, minimalist King Room was space-efficient and fresh. It had floor-to-ceiling windows, a smart TV with Netflix, and an air purifier that kept the space feeling clean. I loved the large, walk-in, rain shower — it was perfect after a long day walking the city. One of the cutest details? The retro-style rotary phone with a wake-up call system — a little vintage charm that made me smile. I often just stood by the window and gazed out at the panoramic views of the Empire State Building.
The best part? The glass-enclosed rooftop lounge. I went up to The Fleur Room, and I was blown away. I sat with a hibiscus-infused cocktail in one hand and forked up bites of hot pink cotton candy pancakes. Topped with edible florals, they looked like art. That rooftop was the real star — I loved soaking up those incredible views with good vibes all around me.
Later, I dined on Peach & Corn Panzanellas in their Italian trattoria — it’s run by the famous TAO Group, so everything was tasty. I even joined a wild drag bingo night and danced to a live DJ set. The crowd was mixed, happy, and alive.
Location-wise, this hotel is a dream. It’s located in a buzzy neighborhood and within walking distance to the High Line, Penn Station, art galleries, trendy cafés, and eclectic markets. Everything felt easy and nearby.
To book, check prices or availability for Moxy NYC Chelsea
Address: 105 W 28th St, New York, NY 10001
My favorite highlights…
• Gorging on hot pink cotton candy pancakes, washed down with a hibiscus-infused cocktail
• Dancing the night away after drag bingo night at the lobby bar
• Admired city lights and edible florals at The Fleur Room rooftop lounge
Standard High Line
My stay at the Standard High Line was truly awesome. This trendy, high-rise, 4-star, boutique hotel in NYC’s Meatpacking District felt like a party wrapped in elegance. The bold, elevated building literally straddled the High Line, giving it an iconic presence and a buzz that never stopped. It was one of those places where you don’t just stay — you party, you mingle, you watch, and you feel alive.
The vibe? Totally fashionable, slightly edgy, and very New York. Think sleek, modern decor mixed with a retro twist. I saw mid-century furnishings, glossy white brick walls, and floor-to-ceiling glass that showed off views you can’t find just anywhere. Inside my Standard Double Room, the energy was minimalist, open-plan, and cool. A funky platform bed, stunning river views, and yes — an exposed, glass-walled shower right by the window. Bold move, but somehow it worked.
There were risqué art accents, glam mirrored ceilings, and a fashionable vibe everywhere. Even the guests looked like they belonged in a fashion shoot. I didn’t just sleep here — I lived here for a few nights. And I loved every second of it.
I chilled with French Martinis at Le Bain, the rooftop nightclub that felt more like a sky party than a bar. The plunge pool under the disco ball was something else — people were dancing, dipping, and laughing like there was no tomorrow. Then, at Standard Grill, I sat down to a cozy dinner of Charcoal Roasted Pumpkin, sipping on tangy Downeast Apple Ciders. It was cozy, sharp, and just right. The scenic, outdoor biergarten also had the vibe of a secret hangout, perfect for a late fall afternoon.
In the winter, there’s even a seasonal ice rink outside, adding charm to the already picture-perfect space. Its heart beats next to Hudson River Park, the Whitney Museum, and all of NYC’s trendiest spots. I walked everywhere. It was alive. I was alive.
To book, check prices or availability for Standard High Line
Address: 848 Washington St, New York, NY 10014
My personal highlights…
• Listening to live sets by Marco Weibel and Spurge during Sunday Sunset at the rooftop nightclub
• Floating in the plunge pool while disco lights reflected above
• Dining on Charcoal Roasted Pumpkin and sipping Downeast Apple Ciders at Standard Grill
The Box Hotel
If I could describe The Box Hotel in one word, it would be endearing. This stylish, 4-star, boutique property was one of those special places I’ve stayed in the city that just makes you smile. Tucked into a hidden gem of a neighborhood in Brooklyn, the hotel felt more like a secret retreat than a typical stay.
It used to be a converted factory, and that old-school soul is still alive. Inside, I saw loft-style suites, funky industrial-chic decor, exposed brick, beams, and vintage furnishings with bold colors. Every corner had original, local artwork that made it feel creative and very Brooklyn.
I opted for a Loft Suite, and wow, it gave total apartment vibes. I loved the high ceilings, warm hardwood floors, and a cozy living room with a sofa bed and full kitchen — it felt like home, just cooler. The 42″ flat-screen TV, air con, and even a private sauna made it extra relaxing. I giggled when I saw the vintage rotary phone — it took me back!
The food? A highlight. I feasted on spicy Pineapple Fried Rice and sipped Spineless Cactus cocktails at the cozy, onsite Brooklyn Lantern restaurant and bar. There’s also a small fitness center, but I mostly saved my energy for exploring.
The Greenpoint location had so much charm. It was a quiet, artsy neighborhood, close to the subway, ferry access, and just a short hop from Manhattan. There were trendy cafés, cool hangouts, and waterfront parks right at the doorstep. Honestly, it was perfect.
To book, check prices or availability for The Box Hotel
Address: 77 Box St, Brooklyn, NY 11222
My highlights…
• A quick drive in a classic Checker cab with a smiley chauffeur to the legendary Peter Pan Donut Shop – just 1½ miles away and totally worth it.
Hotel Hugo
Hotel Hugo felt like stepping into a perfect mix of SoHo charm and luxury city escape. This stylish, 4-star, boutique tower was exactly what I needed for a stay that felt modern and calm, yet full of personality.
The design was a beautiful industrial-meets-mid-century blend. I noticed raw materials like polished concrete, steel accents, and vertical garden planters that gave it that edgy touch, while mid-century furnishings and colorful contemporary art added warmth. It was an exceptional mix — chic, a bit boho, and very SoHo-meets-loft.
I stayed in the Superior King Room and didn’t want to leave. The floor-to-ceiling windows filled the space with light. The oversized, leather-accented, platform bed was layered with luxe Frette linens, and the walnut furnishings made everything feel rich and cozy. The bathroom was serious wow-factor — a sleek, glass-enclosed, rainfall shower, shiny Italian mosaic tiles, and high-end Argan bath products made it feel like a spa.
But the real love? The twin rooftop bars with Hudson River views. The views were impressive, especially at sunset. I found myself dining outside at a sidewalk patio table at the trendy Café Hugo, enjoying warm Fig Toast drizzled in truffle oil. The vibe was relaxed, local, and definitely Insta-worthy.
The hotel’s Hudson Square location was amazing. I could walk to SoHo, West Village, downtown boutiques, art galleries, buzzing restaurants, and even stroll along the scenic Hudson River Greenway. It felt hidden in the best way — like a quiet corner of the city only I had discovered.
To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Hugo
Address: 525 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10013
My personal highlights…
• Beating a hangover with a Green Machine Smoothie and Multi Grain Avocado Toast at the onsite cafe – pure magic after a long night on the rooftop.
Arlo SoHo
My stay at Arlo SoHo was one of those experiences I just didn’t want to end. This chic, 4-star, micro-hotel in Lower Manhattan had everything that made the city feel alive — smart design, vibrant energy, and cozy comfort.
Right in the heart of Hudson Square, near SoHo, the hotel was small in size but big in personality. I was amazed by how clever and space-saving the rooms were. My King Room was space-efficient, with a comfy, extra-large bed, built-in storage, mini-fridge, and a sleek rain shower. The floor-to-ceiling windows brought in bright light, and the glass, garage-style window that opened to a private terrace became my favorite spot to sip morning coffee while enjoying peaceful city views.
The whole hotel had a social, design-savvy ethos. Inside, the vibe felt hip, youthful, and sociable. The sleek, modern interiors featured a stylish mash-up of walnut millwork, black metal, glass partitions, bold art, and built-in furniture that made every corner look cool and fresh. The co-working and communal spaces were perfect for mingling or just sitting back with a book.
Evenings were for rooftop moments. I found myself sipping Frozen Passion Fruit Mojitos at their buzzing, open-air rooftop bar. I curled up with James Baldwin in an ergonomic armchair in their cozy library and treated myself to sweet Mini Alfajores from the 24-hour artisan pantry, Bodega. The hotel even offered complimentary bikes, so I pedaled my way through downtown, explored Tribeca, and breezed along the Hudson River Greenway.
The staff were lovely and told me about their sister hotel, Arlo NoMad, in the creative NoMad neighborhood of Manhattan, which I now want to visit too.
To book, check prices or availability for Arlo SoHo
Address: 231 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013
My personal highlights…
• Sipping a rich bourbon Spirited Fox cocktail, freshly mixed by the in-house mixologist, while enjoying live Jazz in Foxtail, their glam, speakeasy-style cocktail bar that felt like a hidden-den vibe — classy, cool, unforgettable.
The Jane
Not gonna lie, my stay at The Jane was straight-up magical. This historic, quirky, budget, boutique, micro-hotel tucked in Manhattan’s charming West Village instantly won me over. Housed inside a landmark, 1908 building, the place felt like an underrated gem—full of heart, full of story. From the moment I stepped in, I was hit with Titanic-era vibes, thanks to its vintage, ship cabin–style rooms and that iconic Wes Anderson-esque decor.
The guest room? A dreamy Captain’s Cabin with a private bathroom, vintage-inspired touches, a soft queen bed, rainfall shower, and a flat-screen TV. I adored the tiny nautical accents, especially the porthole-style mirrors that made the whole space feel like an ocean liner suite. And that rich dark wood paneling mixed with plush velvet tufted couches, brass fixtures, and vintage Edison-bulb chandeliers—wow. The unique decor screamed nostalgic, whimsical, and a little old-world eccentricity with a bold splash of creative downtown energy and theatrical flair. Honestly, it had me obsessed.
Evenings were a vibe. I was sipping New York Sours during their quirky Happy Hump Day hangouts in the moody, chandelier-lit ballroom, bar, and lounge. One morning I took one of their complimentary, vintage-style bikes and cruised along the Hudson River views—not even kidding, I stopped at the Jane Rooftop Bar Terrace to just breathe and stare at the skyline. Breakfast? I gorged on a hearty, locally famous, American brunch at Café Gitane with mashed avocado toast so good it should be illegal.
The location itself was a hidden dream—charming, tucked-away, yet steps from the Hudson River, High Line, and all the trendy, late-night fun in the Meatpacking District nightlife.
To book, check prices or availability for The Jane Hotel
Address: 113 Jane St, New York, NY 10014
My personal highlights…
• The exceptionally unique decor—think old-school bellhops, attentive maids in crisp black-and-white uniforms, wild carved moose heads, and stuffed monkeys wearing tiny fez hats. I mean… how can you not love that?
The Ludlow Hotel
Staying at The Ludlow Hotel was honestly a memorable experience I won’t forget. This chic, 4-star, boutique hotel on Manhattan’s Lower East Side felt like the perfect mix of old soul and downtown cool. The moment I walked into the lobby, I knew I was somewhere special—it had that gritty-glam charm, like a hidden beat poet’s hangout but with modern flair. The decor was rich with texture: exposed brick walls, reclaimed wood, Moroccan tiles, antique mirrors, and statement lighting that gave off a soft, golden glow. Everything blended into a warm, eclectic atmosphere that just pulled me in.
My standard guest room felt like a dreamy stylish, downtown loft—I had these gorgeous, towering industrial-chic windows, hardwood floors, and a luxurious double bed topped with high-end linens that made me sleep like royalty. But the star of the show? The marble mosaic bathroom with a deep marble bathtub, glamorous vibes, and those brushed-gold taps that made me feel like I was in a Parisian film.
In the mornings, I grabbed locally roasted LAMILL espressos and sipped them slowly in their vine-covered, garden courtyard—so peaceful. I also lost myself flipping through Amira Gad curated art books in the cozy, fireplace-lit, lobby lounge (curled up on a vintage, worn leather sofa, not gonna lie, I almost fell asleep). Dinner was fire at the always popular, vibey Dirty French restaurant—I tried the layered trumpet mushrooms with corn sauce, and yes, it was just as good as it sounds.
What I loved most was the walkable, edgy neighborhood. The hotel’s location put me right in the middle of everything: cool indie boutiques, live music venues, hip bars, and some of NYC’s best late-night eats. This part of the city knows how to keep the energy alive, even after midnight.
To book, check prices or availability for The Ludlow Hotel
Address: 180 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002
My personal highlight…
• Chilling by the fireplace, reading the Sunbird Jason Fulford hardback book with a hot espresso in hand. Total peace.
M Social Hotel Times Square
Not gonna lie, M Social Hotel Times Square gave me that “wow, I’m in New York” feeling the second I stepped in. This contemporary, 4-star, city gem in Midtown wasn’t just a stay—it was a full-on experience. Everything felt alive, from the bold, modern decor with colorful lighting and geometric wall art, to the industrial touches like sleek metal desks and those pop-of-color streamlined yellow office chairs. The contagious energy? Totally unmatched. Young, upbeat, and honestly, the kind of place where the city alive vibe follows you right into the elevator.
I stayed in the soundproofed Social City View King Room, and wow—what a setup. An upscale king-size bed, retro-modern furnishings, and a sleek rain shower bathroom that felt more like a spa. The best part? Those floor-to-ceiling windows that opened up to stunning skyline views. At night, the glow of Times Square lit up the entire room, turning it into a glowing immersive cityscape. I just laid back and soaked it in. Unreal.
The hotel is built around social connection, and you’ll feel it in every corner. I sipped on handcrafted cocktails at the trendy Beast & Butterflies rooftop bar—the wrap-around terrace gave me panoramic shots of the Times Square views. Trust me, watching the chaos below while enjoying a tangy Passionfruit Margarita mixed with Patrón Blanco, Chinola passionfruit, and Cointreau? Total vibe.
Inside, there’s more fun—an interactive art wall in the lobby, Pac-Man in the nostalgic game’s room, and even NordicTrack Ellipticals in the 24/7 fitness center (yep, I worked out… once). This place seriously has it all.
Location? Absolute perfection. Right on 7th Ave, steps away from the Times Square sparkle, Broadway, and even Central Park. You don’t just visit New York here—you live it.
To book, check prices or availability for M Social Hotel Times Square
Address: 226 West 52nd Street, New York, NY 10019
My personal highlight…
• That first sip of a neon-side Passionfruit Margarita under the electric sky of Times Square—unreal.
Hotel Alameda, Highline
I didn’t expect to fall this hard for a hotel—but Hotel Alameda, Highline totally changed that. Tucked away in Chelsea, this stylish, 4-star, boutique hotel had such a calm energy that it felt like my own little bubble inside the city.
The first thing I noticed was how effortlessly creative the vibe was. The place blended boho-style charm with industrial-chic cool, and splashes of South American-inspired decor gave it real character. I was drawn to the sleek poured concrete floors, the cozy handcrafted rugs, and those vibrant bold folk art throws that made the lobby feel like an art gallery.
My Deluxe Room was something special. The cloud-soft king bed sat on a reclaimed wood platform, surrounded by handcrafted furnishings and hand-woven floor rugs that made the space feel warm and personal. The walk-in rain shower was perfect, and the impressive floor-to-ceiling windows gave me those superb urban views that just stopped me in my tracks.
I spent some slow afternoons on the intimate Mediterranean courtyard, sipping a chilled Pimm’s Cup, and browsing through hand-poured soy candles at the onsite boutique. The whole atmosphere was calm but never dull—it was alive in a quiet, soulful way.
Outside, everything was just steps away. From the High Line at the doorstep to the galleries, buzzy dining, and Meatpacking District, it was all just a short walk from my room.
And here’s something I’ll never forget—finding myself alone in the record room, flipping on classic Cuban rhythms from the Buena Vista Social Club on vinyl. That moment hit different. A little nostalgic. A little magical.
To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Alameda Highline
Address: 518 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001
My favorite moment…
• Letting the sound of old-school Cuban vinyl carry me away in the record room—pure soul.
Made Hotel
There’s something undeniably special about Made Hotel. Right in the heart of NoMad, this design-forward, 4-star, boutique hotel isn’t just a place to sleep — it’s a full-blown vibe. From the moment I walked in, I was hit with that bold blend of industrial-chic style and eco-conscious charm that makes the place feel both modern and grounded. Think reclaimed wood, raw concrete, handcrafted ceramics, and pockets of lush greenery peeking out from every corner.
I stayed in their Standard King Room, and it was the kind of space that makes you want to throw your phone across the room and just exist. The floating king-size platform bed, the organic linens, the soft morning glow streaming in through floor-to-ceiling windows — it all felt effortlessly calming. The bathroom? A total design dream. From the rain shower to the hand-crafted, carved stone sink, every detail gave off that cool, artisan-made energy.
But can we talk about mornings for a second? I’m a coffee lover through and through, and the Nitro Cold Brew Coffee from their Paper coffee shop was absolutely the real deal. Smooth, cold, and bold enough to kickstart your NYC adventures.
Evenings at Made Hotel are a different kind of magic. The rooftop bar, Good Behavior, is where you catch incredible skyline views while sipping potent Ginger Pineapple Daiquiris under glowing lights and laid-back tiki vibes. I had mine with a side of pineapple skewers, and let me tell you — I felt like I was on a tropical escape, not smack in the middle of Manhattan.
The hotel draws in creative NoMad types — designers, writers, travelers with stories — all vibing in the buzzing communal lounge space. And with the Flatiron District, Madison Square Park, and all the great dining and shopping spots just a few blocks away, I never had to walk far for something exciting.
- To book, check prices or availability for Made Hotel
My favorite highlights…
- Sipping a spiked daiquiri at Good Behavior while taking in the glowing skyline views — nothing short of dreamy.
- The artisan touches in my room — especially that carved stone sink — made me feel like I was staying inside an art gallery.
- And that Nitro Cold Brew Coffee? Let’s just say I ordered a second before I finished the first.
Dream Downtown
Staying at Dream Downtown was like stepping into a futuristic fantasy — it’s bold, it’s chic, and honestly, it’s made for people who love to soak in every bit of style and energy that New York has to offer. Nestled between Chelsea and the Meatpacking District, this 4-star gem with 314 rooms immediately wowed me with its design-forward vibe and Insta-worthy, porthole-covered façade.
I stayed in a King Room, Pool View, and trust me — it wasn’t just high-end, it was a whole dreamy stay. The king bed dressed in soft Egyptian cotton linens, the modern metallic accents, and the sleek bathroom with a rainfall shower made it feel lush. But what really blew me away? The large porthole window looking directly into the pool — watching swimmers float by was both surreal and oddly calming.
The glass-bottom pool that seems to float in the lobby is something else. Add in nautical vibes, mood lighting, and those silver Chester-style sofas with curved ottomans, and you’ve got yourself an aesthetic masterpiece. The vibe here is unapologetically ultra-social — perfect for people who love to party and vibe all night.
Evenings were best spent at PHD, their chic rooftop lounge, where I munched on truffle flatbread while sipping cocktails against glowing Manhattan views. Down by the man-made beach, I lounged in pink cabanas, soaking up that stylish city glow. And yes, DJ Katz spinning at the Electric Room nightclub made the night feel even more electric.
When I wasn’t dancing, I was shopping — the boutique lobby shop had these cool metallic tote bags, and I couldn’t resist. For lighter bites, I hit up Natura Café and devoured the nutrient dense Fresh Mango Salad. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Acai Bowl at the Beach Club — loaded with acai, mango, chia pudding, banana, pomegranate seeds, and almonds — it’s as vibrant as the hotel itself.
- To book, check prices or availability for Dream Downtown
My favorite highlights…
- That glass-bottom pool hovering over the floating lobby — surreal and unforgettable.
- The late-night beats at Electric Room nightclub — wild in the best way.
- Waking up to swimmers gliding past my porthole window — definitely a “wait, is this real?” kind of moment.
- The truffle flatbread and Manhattan views at PHD hit just right after a long day of art walks and food adventures.
Henn na Hotel
Walking into Henn na Hotel felt like stepping into a sci-fi movie — in the best way. The futuristic tech and robot staff instantly grabbed my attention. Instead of traditional receptionists, I was greeted by AI concierges and a super helpful animatronic robot assistant. Everything here screams innovative hotel experience — a place that’s quirky, zen-like, and totally unlike any other stay I’ve had in New York.
I stayed in a Deluxe Double Room with two double beds, and I couldn’t stop admiring the sleek, minimalist setup. The utilitarian decor with clean lines, neutral tones, and even a touch of jungle style foliage gave it a balanced, calm vibe. My room had smart lighting, a voice-activated room control, and a tablet interface to manage everything. The built-in LG Styler (aka robotic wardrobe) steamed my clothes while I chilled. It even had facial recognition for room entry — talk about next-level comfort.
Let’s not forget the food. I grabbed dinner at the hotel’s cozy Japanese restaurant, where the house-made pan-fried gyozas were packed with flavor. For more variety, the AI concierge gave me great restaurant suggestions — I ended up trying Korean BBQ Antoya and the upscale Zoi Mediterranean Cuisine, both just a short walk away near Herald Square. Also loved the easy access to upscale shopping like Macy’s and the sparkle of Times Square nearby.
- To book, check prices or availability for Henn na Hotel
My favorite highlights…
- Watching the luggage delivery robot roll up to my room on its own was wild — and yes, I took a video.
- Using the voice controls to dim the lights while relaxing after a long day of walking around Herald Square felt straight out of the future.
- Those pan-fried gyozas? Totally addictive — crispy on the outside, soft inside, and packed with flavor.
- Location was on point — just a few blocks from Times Square and all the upscale shopping my wallet could handle.
Freehand Hotel
Some hotels are just a place to crash — Freehand Hotel is a full-on cultural vibe. Tucked into the ever-creative Flatiron District, this hipster-friendly, 4-star boutique hotel blends 1920s vintage soul with a splash of modern, artsy rebellion. From the moment I walked into the ornate wood-paneled lobby, I felt like I was stepping into a secret club for writers, artists, and dreamers — and I loved every second of it.
The energy here is something else. Whether it was the Bard College–affiliated artists lounging on the leather armchairs, the hand-painted murals, or the buzz of the mezzanine-level game room (yes, I definitely lost a round of Ms. Pac-Man), the place practically hums with downtown soul and creative charm.
I stayed in a Premium King Room, and it was like sleeping in a cool artist’s studio — think custom vintage-style furnishings, locally inspired artwork, huge soundproofed windows pouring in natural light, and a striking hand-painted mural right over the bed. The luxury king-size bed was so comfy, I barely made it out for breakfast.
But oh, I’m glad I did. Breakfast meant Brik-style eggs and freshly brewed coffee at their all-day café, followed by some co-working time in the buzzing Studio space (yes, it’s laptop-friendly and totally Instagrammable).
Evenings were the real showstopper. I headed up to the Broken Shaker rooftop bar, where the Flatiron Negroni became my official go-to (bitter, bright, and just boozy enough to feel classy). One night, I grabbed dinner at Cómodo, their Latin-inspired restaurant, and I’m still dreaming about that Ceviche de Mango y Aguacate — spicy, zesty, and impossibly fresh.
On Thursday nights, Bar Calico turns up with a live house DJ, and let’s just say — the social scene here is real. Whether you’re into ping-pong, pinball, shuffleboard, or just sipping a cocktail with a view of Madison Square Park, Freehand Hotel is where creative souls and city explorers come to recharge and connect.
- To book, check prices or availability for Freehand Hotel
My favorite highlights…
- Playing shuffleboard and laughing with strangers-turned-friends in their retro game lounge.
- Watching the sun dip behind the skyline with a Flatiron Negroni in hand at Broken Shaker.
- Waking up in that light-filled room and feeling like I was staying inside a real-life artist’s retreat.
