The Best New York City Hotels

In a city full of fabulous hotels, the Carlyle is one of the few that rises to the level of iconic. Since opening in 1931, it has hosted presidents, royalty, and celebrities. Michael Jackson and Princess Diana famously met in the hotel’s elevator. And between the luxurious accommodations (many of them recently renovated by lauded designer Alexandra Champalimaud), its discreet white-glove service, and incredible drinking and dining options, it’s no wonder so many illustrious guests choose it as their home away from home in New York City. 

When it comes to dining and drinking, you’re spoiled for choice. With its hand-painted murals by Ludwig Bemelmans (author of the Madeline children’s books), live music, and the best martini in the city—Bemelmans Bar is the quintessential New York hotel bar. We also love the new restaurant Dowling’s at the Carlyle, which serves classic American fare like lobster bisque and Caesar salads. And if you’re looking for something between lunch and dinner, book an afternoon tea at the Gallery.

Located right across from MoMA, this five-star hotel is a study in French opulence with around 15,000 pieces of Baccarat crystal. Parquet floors, massive chandeliers, cashmere throws, and red roses create a romantic, sophisticated atmosphere. The bar, with its red walls and checkerboard floors, is especially dramatic. Cocktails are served in Baccarat crystal glasses, naturally. Menus at the various dining outlets are curated by Gabriel Kreuther, the Alsatian chef whose namesake restaurant boasts two Michelin stars. The hotel is also home to the only dedicated spa in the U.S. by luxurious beauty brand La Mer.

British brand the Hoxton makes micro-hotels designed for people who spend more time out and about than in their room. If you don’t mind sleeping in quarters that are a tight squeeze, you’ll enjoy the tradeoff that comes from perks such as having easy access to a spacious lobby lounge that encourages co-working. The rooftop has just been transformed into Laser Wolf, one of the hottest restaurants in the city. It serves Israeli grill fare and mezze by acclaimed Philadelphia chef Michael Solomonov. The staff tries their best to accommodate hotel guests interested in dining here but recommend booking at least two weeks in advance.

Located on Fifth Avenue and 55th Street, the Peninsula gets high marks for outstanding amenities and excellent service and the staff welcome little ones. Guests who book the Family Escape package get daily American breakfast for two adults and two kids, a complimentary rollaway bed or crib, a welcome amenity, and tickets to either MoMA or Top of the Rock. And with Camp Peninsula, kids get a mini tent with a plush campfire and s’mores, their own kid-sized robe and slippers, and an invitation to participate in a scavenger hunt throughout the hotel.

For a taste of Gilded Age New York, the St. Regis is a sure bet. Founded in 1904 by John Jacob Astor IV, this grand dame proudly displays its pedigree with ceiling frescoes in the lobby, gilded pandeling, crystal chandeliers, damask fabrics, and striped wallpaper. Modern comforts include Smart TVs and a small television hidden in the bathroom mirror. Though the rooms lack coffee machines, the butler will bring a pot of French press coffee or tea in the mornings and is available for laundry service, ironing, and other requests. Don’t skip cocktails at the King Cole Bar, with its mural by Maxfield Parrish, which claims to be the birthplace of the Red Snapper (aka the Bloody Mary).

When the Wythe Hotel opened in 2012, it was the first boutique hotel in Williamsburg, a neighborhood known as a hip, artsy enclave. It has evolved considerably since then and still offers the same industrial-chic style and friendly service, but with a new ground-floor restaurant and rooftop bar that both have a strong local following. Bar Blondeau is a popular spot for creative cocktails and small bites with amazing views of the Manhattan skyline, while Le Crocodile serves French fare by the team behind neighboring Greenpoint’s acclaimed restaurant Chez Ma Tante.

Formerly the James, ModernHaus SoHo is a sleek hotel in the heart of Soho that offers easy access to lots of great restaurants, bars, designer shops, and multiple subway stations. The design is tasteful and modern with blue chip art by the likes of Alexander Calder and KAWS. The rooftop bar JIMMY draws a cool crowd for cocktails, by acclaimed bartender Johnny Swet, with fantastic views of downtown New York and the Freedom Tower. Veranda serves delicious globally-inspired cuisine like Hamachi Crudo and Piri-Piri chicken by Michelin-starred Portuguese chef George Mendes. The facilities fee grants you a welcome cocktail and 10% off drinks at Jumpin Jacks, where breakfast is served, as well as the use of bikes, 24/7 concierge services, and more. During the day, hotel guests can use the rooftop pool.

Airport hotels aren’t typically known as appealing options, but the TWA Hotel at JFK Airport is an exception. Housed in the 1962 TWA Flight Center designed by Eero Saarinen, it feels like time traveling to the Jet Age when air travel was glamorous. Public spaces, including the restaurants and bars, are in the Saarinen building, while rooms are located in two newly built towers flanking it. Even in the rooms, the design leans into ‘60s nostalgia, with rotary phones, mid-century modern furniture designed by Saarinen himself, and vintage TWA posters. The location isn’t ideal for exploring New York, but it makes sense to stay here for a night if you have to catch an early flight the next morning.