There are so many hotel options in New York City, and it can be hard to know where to start. But don’t worry, I’ve stayed at so many hotels, and this is the best place to stay in NYC!
I have updated this post because I have traveled many, many more times to New York City and got more of a better feel for what travelers would want and what is convenient but nice.
If you are looking for an affordable, fantastic location, a clean hotel, my original post still stands, and this hotel is still great.
However, $100 a night in New York City no longer exists unless you go very off-peak, like January and February. Trust me, I am sad too.
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in NYC
Choosing where to stay in New York City can shape your entire trip — not just your commute, but the rhythm of your days and the version of the city you experience. From leafy streets that feel residential and calm to buzzy neighborhoods where landmarks, dining, and nightlife are right outside your door, each area offers a distinctly different stay. Below are the best neighborhoods to consider when deciding where to book your hotel in New York City, whether you’re visiting for the first time, squeezing the city into a short trip, or returning with a more curated plan in mind.
- Midtown: Midtown is good for first timers and has access to the subway system. You can get anywhere from this area easily. Our favorite hotel is the Best Western and The Archer Hotel.
- The Upper West Side is a great option if you want to be close to all the action but still have a quiet place to come back to at the end of the day. This neighborhood has turn-of-the-century architecture, world-class museums, and even Central Park.
- Greenwich Village is another popular option for visitors to New York City. With its cobbled streets and quaint cafes, it feels like a small village in the middle of the city. This is also close to shopping and nightlife.
- Brooklyn, particularly DUMBO and Brooklyn Heights, is fantastic. This borough has a relaxed vibe and is home to lively parks, historic neighborhoods, and fantastic food.
- The West Village. This area is full of charming streets lined with brownstones and trendy cafes. It’s also conveniently located near some of the city’s most popular attractions, like the High Line and the Whitney Museum.
Best Places to Stay in NYC
This is my original post, in which I still recommend this brand’s hotel in NYC.
Best Western is a fantastic choice if you are headed to New York City.
If you want to save money on your accommodations but want a really nice place to stay, this is it.
You may have preconceived notions of the Best Western brand. They have majorly upped their game, which is nothing like it was before. I promise you. This particular hotel in New York City is an example of the exceptional value the brand offers.
See What Best Western Offers in The City
Best Place to Stay in New York City: Other Affordable Spots
Archer Hotel NYC
My new favorite, Archer Hotel New York sits like a stylish secret in the heart of Midtown Manhattan’s Garment District, just steps from Bryant Park, the Empire State Building, and the buzz of Fifth Avenue.
This 22-story boutique retreat wraps thoughtful design into every corner — from intimate, art-filled guest rooms with plush beds and city views to the Spyglass rooftop bar where handcrafted cocktails meet postcard-perfect skyline panoramas.
Warm hospitality and curated touches (think Illy coffee by morning and locally sourced treats by night) make this more than a place to stay — it’s a chic urban hideaway in the center of the city that never sleeps.
Hotel Giraffe by Library Hotel Collection
Another fav of ours is the, Hotel Giraffe by Library Hotel Collection. This NYC hotel is a refined boutique hideaway in Manhattan’s vibrant NoMad neighborhood, marrying timeless style with genuine New York warmth.
Set just steps from Madison Square Park and within easy strolls of Fifth Avenue, Union Square, and the Empire State Building, this elegant hotel feels like a secret base for exploring the city’s best.
Inside, spacious guestrooms and suites are thoughtfully designed with plush bedding, rich textiles, and nods to early 20th-century art, creating an ambiance that’s warm yet effortlessly stylish.
Complimentary refreshments, attentive service, and a relaxed rooftop garden terrace make returning here a joy after a day of wandering through NYC streets.
Whether you’re savoring a leisurely breakfast, retreating with a book in the lounge, or planning your next adventure from this perfectly placed base, Hotel Giraffe feels like a home in the heart of the city — refined, welcoming, and distinctly New York.
See my top picks for the best stays in New York City
Food Nearby These NYC Hotels:
- Keens Steakhouse. This steakhouse has been in the Herald Square Theatre District since 1887 and it is one of the best steakhouses in New York City. It’s a classic, old-school chophouse with premium cuts of meat and lobster an amazing pub menu, and signature cocktails.
- Angelina Bakery: A beautifully pink French bakery and tea room with authentic hot chocolates, airy Madeleines, eclairs, soups, and sandwiches to-go or tea service. Be sure to try their signature French pastry the Mont-Blanc.
- Trademark Bar+Kitchen For a fantastic burger or brunch head to this quaint speakeasy. The menu includes approachable American fare with classic cocktails and drinks. Our pick? The Mortadella Sandwich with a Cold Brew Old Fashioned.
Insider Travel Tip: I traveled solo to New York City, I wanted a picnic for my day in Central Park. Around the corner from this hotel, there is this fantastic place, The Picnic Basket, which will pack you a picnic.
NYC Travel Tip: The subway station is the way to go in New York City. Please do not rent a car. Uber and Taxis get pricey, very pricey. In this hotel location, you can get around everywhere by the subway. It is intimidating at first, but if you use Google Maps, it will guide you EXACTLY step-by-step on how to get to your destination. I always get the 7-day pass at the subway station for $33.
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