Where to Stay in New York City: Best Areas + Hotel Suggestions

New York City is one of the most incredible cities in the world. The huge metropolis is broken down into many different neighbourhoods and areas, with an endless amount of things to do and see in each one. 

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Given the sheer size of the city and the plethora of accommodation options, finding where to stay in New York City can be a real challenge. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the choices. 

This guide to the best places to stay in New York City will give you all the information you need to pick the right hotel and neighbourhood for your trip. Whether it’s a business trip or a city vacation, you’ll find a range of New York hotels here with all different budgets in mind. 

We always make an effort to stay at eco-friendly and ethical hotels when we travel, so you’ll find that the hotels listed here are some of the best environmentally responsible places to stay in New York, too. We hope this helps you decide where to stay when visiting New York!

Where To Stay In New York City

As one of the biggest cities in the United States and possibly the world, New York can be difficult to navigate. The city is divided into different boroughs, and it can be difficult to know the best areas to stay in NYC if you’ve never been before.

We’re going to break down the best areas to stay in New York City below and why you might want to pick that area as a base for your trip. This will help you decide where to stay in New York City before you start to consider specific hotels.

Best New York City Neighbourhoods

Midtown Manhattan

If you’re wondering where to stay in New York City for a first-time visit, then Midtown is the way to go. It’s the best area to stay in New York if you want to get around to all the attractions in a short time, with most things within walking distance.

Being in the central part of Manhattan south of Central Park, Midtown is the main shopping and theatre district and is home to some of the most iconic buildings in the city. You’ll have endless things to do no matter how long you stay, so it’s definitely the best neighbourhood to stay in New York.

While you’re in midtown, check out unique attractions like the High Line, an elevated park built on a historic train line. You’ll be able to stroll above street-level traffic along a wooden boardwalk flanked by trees, flowers, and benches. 

Midtown Manhattan also has plenty of accommodations to choose from. You can find a good range of NYC hotels here, from luxury hotels to budget hotels.

If you stay in Midtown, you’ll be within walking distance to all the tourist attractions of Downtown Manhattan, including:

  • Times Square
  • Fifth Avenue
  • Rockefeller Center
  • Empire State Building
  • Central Park
  • Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
  • Grand Central Station
  • Bryant Park 
  • Madison Square Garden
  • Flatiron District
Midtown Manhattan, where to stay in new york
Midtown Manhattan, New York
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Upper East Side

If you’re looking for some of the best luxury hotels in New York, then the Upper East Side is for you. It’s known as being one of the wealthier parts of the city, but it’s also a good choice if you want a quieter area.

The Upper East Side is bordered on one side by the East River and on the other by Central Park. The area is also home to the stretch of Fifth Avenue, referred to as the Museum Mile. This is where you’ll find some of the best galleries and museums in New York.

If you’re an avid shopper, you’ll find lots of boutique shops and fine dining options in the neighbourhood. And if you want to explore some other quieter areas of the city, you can always head to the Upper West Side, where you’ll find more museums and dining options.

The Upper East Side is not the best choice if you’re looking for a budget hotel; it’s perfect for those looking to splurge on their New York experience.

The best things to do in the Upper East Side include:

  • Central Park
  • Metropolitan Museum of Art
  • Jewish Museum
  • Guggenheim Museum
  • Neue Galerie, home to German and Austrian art
Where to stay in New York City
In a New York state of mind!

Soho

SoHo is a small district just south of Greenwich Village. It stands for South of Houston Street but is almost always referred to as simply Soho. 

SoHo is a hip and vibrant area with many art and design boutiques. While it has always been home to artists, it has recently become a more trendy shopping destination too. SoHo is a vintage shopper’s haven, filled with amazing shops like The Vintage Twin, located between Prince Street and Houston Street. It’s by far the best place to stay in New York for those interested in fashion, art and design.

The area is distinct, with cast-iron facades and cobblestone streets, which are packed with shops and restaurants. It’s an easy New York neighbourhood to explore on foot, with lots of tourist attractions just a short subway ride away. 

It makes for a nice base to explore some of the other areas of Lower Manhattan, such as Little Italy, Chinatown and the Financial District, which often get overlooked by first-time visitors to NYC. In fact, it might just be the best area of New York to stay in for those looking to get a real New York experience.

Within a short walk or subway ride, you can visit:

  • One World Trade Center
  • Meatpacking District 
  • Little Italy
  • Chinatown
  • East Village
  • Financial District & Wall Street
where to stay in new york city, SoHo
SoHo, New York

Greenwich & Chelsea 

If you’re wondering where to stay in New York City, that’s a little bit different, Chelsea and Greenwich are two adjoining neighbourhoods near the Hudson River. They both offer a different side of New York and are perfect for those who want to get away from the tourist areas.

This area is home to the Meatpacking District, on the banks of the Hudson River. This old area has emerged as one of the most vibrant nightlife hotspots in the city, with some of the best clubs and bars. It makes this area the best place to stay in NYC for those looking to party like a local.

Chelsea is at the heart of the art scene in New York. Old warehouses are now home to art galleries, many of which sit below the High Line, a pedestrian park on a former rail line.

Greenwich Village is a youthful neighbourhood with plenty of coffee shops and cafes. It’s considered the best neighbourhood in NYC for young people, especially among students from NYU, located around Washington Square.

You might not find some of Greenwich and Chelsea’s best NY City hotels, but you’ll still be only a short subway ride away from the major attractions. 

If you stay here, you’ll be close to the following sights:

  • The High Line
  • Empire State Building
  • New York University
  • Washington Square
  • Madison Square Park
  • Madison Square Garden
  • West Village
  • Chelsea Market
best part of new york to visit 
Washington Square Park in Greenwich Village, New York

Brooklyn

This renowned borough in New York is the most populous part of the city. The area is huge, covering three times the size of Manhattan and is linked to Lower Manhattan by the famous Brooklyn Bridge. It’s become a more tourist-oriented place in recent years and is definitely one of the best neighbourhoods in NYC to explore.

However, it’s still not as popular as other NYC neighbourhoods, so you can escape the madness of Times Square and find a bit more authentic culture in this part of the city. It’s one of the best places to stay in NYC for those who have already been and done the main sights in Manhattan, although they’re still not far away on the subway.

Brooklyn is particularly known as a hipster area, with some of the best bars, shops, cafes and art galleries in the whole city. The Dumbo neighbourhood close to Brooklyn Bridge Park is particularly popular amongst tourists, but you could also explore Williamsburg further north for its trendy streets just across the bridge from the Lower East Side.

There are many things to see and do in and around Brooklyn, including:

  • Brooklyn Bridge
  • Dumbo area
  • Street art in Bushwick
  • Prospect Park and Grand Army Plaza
  • Wall Street and the financial district just across the Brooklyn Bridge
  • Williamsburg area
Brooklyn Bridge, NYC
Brooklyn Bridge

Queens

Located on the other side of the East River, Queens is a great place to stay in New York for those on a budget. Being away from the main tourist areas in Manhattan helps with more affordable accommodation in NYC. But it doesn’t mean that you’ll be too far away either! Midtown is just 15 minutes on the subway, and Brooklyn is just to the south.

Queens is quite vast compared to the smaller boroughs, but this makes it pretty diverse. It’s known for its multicultural enclaves, with some great restaurants to try and markets to visit. This makes it one of the best places to stay in NY for those on a budget and looking to discover a different side of the city.

Some of the sights in Queens include:

  • Museum of Moving Image
  • Flushing Meadows Corona Park
  • Brooklyn to the South
Queens, New York
Queens, New York

Where To Stay In New York City: Best Hotels In Midtown Manhattan

Budget: Element New York Times Square West

If you’re wondering where to stay in Manhattan for a relatively affordable price, Element New York Times Square West is conveniently located in the heart of Midtown. It’s located just steps away from Times Square, Central Park, Grand Central Terminal and all the museums and theatres you may want to visit during your stay in New York City. 

The 3-star hotel has comfortable hotel rooms, a rooftop patio, and a fitness centre. The sustainable touches include the use of recycled materials, recycling bins in the rooms, and complimentary bicycle rental. Rooms are equipped with free wifi, a microwave, a refrigerator, and spa inspired bathroom. Your room rate includes complimentary breakfast, and for an extra charge you’ll have access to the 24-hour gourmet pantry.

Elements New York
photo via mariott.com Elements New York

Mid-Range: CitizenM New York Times Square

Citizen M is a trendy hotel chain that focuses on sustainability with a great location near Midtown West. Running off renewable energy, the hotel features small touches like water bottle refill stations. With modern rooms featuring futuristic furniture and unique decor, a rooftop bar, and a 24/7 gym, it has all the basics covered for a mid-range hotel in New York City. Rooms feature roomy XL beds, superfast wifi, blackout blinds, and adjustable lighting.  

Major attractions are within a short walking distance – you can reach Broadway in one minute, Rockefeller Center in eight minutes, and Grand Central Station in 19 minutes. You also won’t be too far from Central Park and all the best attractions of New York. It’s one of the best places to stay in Manhattan for eco-conscious travellers.

Citizen M
photo via citizenm.com

Luxury: 1 Hotel Central Park

1 Hotel Central Park is our top choice for sustainable hotels in New York City. This beautiful urban hotel is inspired by nature inside and out, featuring natural elements in its interior design and environmentally-conscious details throughout. 

Rooms have views of Central Park, a reading nook and an all-glass en-suite bathroom with eco-friendly biodegradable toiletries. Recycled materials are used throughout the room, and the decor reflects the eco-conscious mindset of this great New York hotel. Special perks included with the rooms are cotton slipper socks, a laptop safe, a yoga mat, and a Nespresso machine.

The on-site restaurant, Jams, is a popular brunch spot focusing on farm-to-table cuisine. It’s a happening spot come 10-11am! Their NYC bagels are a must-try! 1 Hotel Central Park is part of the 1 Hotel chain of sustainable hotels and is certainly an iconic NYC hotel for eco-friendly travellers. 

You’ll be close to the Museum of Modern Art, Rockefeller Center, and lots more in Midtown. Not that you have to go far for entertainment – the hotel hosts fun events like tarot readings and workshops on flower arranging and succulent gardens. 

where to stay in new york city, 1 Hotel
Our City Lounge King Room at 1 Hotel Central Park
Best places to stay nyc
Overlooking the city from our window nook at 1 Hotel Central Park

Where To Stay In New York City: Best Hotels In Upper East Side

Budget: Courtyard By Marriott New York

While the Upper East Side is not known for its budget hotel prices, the Courtyard by Marriott New York is your best bet. Set in the Yorkville area not far from the banks of the East River, Courtyard by Marriott is surprisingly affordable, with prices starting at just $200 per night.

Some of the comfortable hotel rooms offer kitchenettes and river views in upgraded options. For business travellers, there are meeting rooms available, and tourists can enjoy close proximity to the nearby sights like Central Park, Museum Mile or the American Museum of Natural History over on the Upper West Side.

where to stay in new york city
photo via mariott.com

Mid-Range: Garden Suites Hotel By Affinia

The Garden Suites Hotel in the Upper East Side offers the perfect retreat from the busy Manhattan area. It’s located within walking distance of Central Park and not far from some of the main attractions of Midtown, including the Museum of Modern Art and the Rockefeller Center. 

The very spacious suites are equipped with kitchens and even living rooms, so you’ll feel right at home and be able to self-cater your trip. You can also enjoy the outdoor patio area, with plenty of greenery and fresh air. An added bonus is that this hotel is also pet-friendly.

affinia hotel
photo via affinia.com

Luxury: The Pierre, Taj Hotel

The Pierre, Taj Hotel is one of the best luxury hotels that also places sustainability at the core of its operations. The Pierre is located on the edge of Central Park, towards the lower end of the Upper East Side, conveniently located for sightseeing around Manhattan. You’ll be very close to museums, boutiques, and other attractions around Madison Avenue. 

The Hotel participates in the EarthCheck program and has won the prestigious EarthCheck Gold Award. The elegant hotel rooms feature marble bathrooms and designer toiletries, making it the best place to stay in New York City for luxury not far from Central Park. The 132 suites feature full kitchens, a furnished outdoor space, and spacious living areas that are perfect for extended stays in the city.

taj hotels
photo via tajhotels.com

Where To Stay In New York City: Best Hotels In SoHo

Budget: CitizenM New York Bowery Hotel

With prices starting at $175 per night, CitizenM New York Bowery Hotel is one of the best hotels for your stay in New York City on a budget. It’s located towards the eastern edge of SoHo, close to Little Italy and Chinatown. Bowery subway station is just outside the door, so you can easily explore the area south of Houston Street. 

The simple but contemporary rooms are comfortable and have views across the city. The Bowery Hotel is part of the CitizenM hotel chain, which runs all its properties off renewable energy around the world.

citizen m
photo via citizenm.com

Mid-Range: Arlo SoHo

Arlo SoHo is an incredibly stunning option on the western side of Soho near the Hudson River. With prices starting at $220 per night, it is one of the best all-around places to stay in NY City. 

The rooms at Arlo Soho are beautiful and modern, with clean white walls and dark timber finishings. There are lots of different room options, including bunk beds, which make it a nice family hotel option. We love that they also have bicycle rentals for guests so you can get around the city with a low carbon footprint.

arlo hotels
photo via arlohotels.com

Luxury: The Crosby Street Hotel

The Crosby Street Hotel is a super trendy luxury hotel in the heart of SoHo, one of the best areas to stay in Manhattan. If you want to visit New York City’s incredible attractions and shopping streets, then this is one of our top recommendations. 

It’s a very romantic hotel with a mix of old-world charm and modern conveniences. It features a leafy green courtyard area for relaxing and fine dining on-site. It’s full of quirky sustainable additions, too, like a rooftop organic veggie garden where the Head Chef collects the freshest ingredients. 

firmdale hotels
photo via firmdalehotels.com

Where To Stay In New York City: Best Hotels In Greenwich Village & Chelsea

Budget: DoubleTree by Hilton Chelsea

DoubleTree by Hilton Chelsea is one of the cheaper sustainable hotels in the Chelsea neighbourhood. This hotel is just 400 metres from Madison Square Garden and super close to the 28th Street subway station. You’ll also be within a short walking distance from the Empire State Building, Flatiron Building, and Times Square.

The rooms feature awesome city views, specialty Sweet Dreams mattresses, and room service. There is an onsite restaurant, and you’ll be surrounded by lots of amazing Chelsea restaurants.

Mid-Range: Cambria Hotel – Chelsea

Cambria Hotel is perfectly located close to Chelsea and Greenwich Village and within walking distance from the Empire State Building and Madison Square Garden. 

It’s reasonably priced and offers spacious rooms, a rooftop bar, an on-site restaurant and a fitness centre. The hotel also implements a number of sustainability initiatives.

chelsea savoy
Photo via chelseasavoynyc.com

Mid-Range: Cambria Hotel – Chelsea

Cambria Hotel is perfectly located close to Chelsea and Greenwich Village and within walking distance from the Empire State Building and Madison Square Garden. 

It’s reasonably priced and offers spacious rooms, a rooftop bar, an on-site restaurant and a fitness centre. The hotel also implements a number of sustainability initiatives.

cambria chealsea hotels
Photo via cambrianycchelsea.com

Luxury: Walker Hotel Greenwich Village 

Walker Hotel in Greenwich Village is a stunning art deco hotel in Greenwich Village. It’s well located in close proximity to Greenwich, Chelsea, West Village and SoHo. 

The hotel offers 113 luxury rooms decorated with sleek art and decor from local artists. It’s also home to Society Cafe, a market-to-table American restaurant and bar. Being close to so many attractions of Lower Manhattan, Walker Hotel is located in one of the most unique areas of New York City. If you’re wondering where to stay in NYC to explore some of the coolest parts of the city, this is the spot worth checking out!

walker hotels
photo via walkerhotels.com

Where To Stay In New York City: Best Hotels In Brooklyn

Budget: NU Hotel Brooklyn

Brooklyn is undoubtedly one of the best places to stay in New York City, and NU Hotel is the best budget option in the area. It’s close to plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops and is not far from the famous Brooklyn Bridge and Dumbo area.

The loft-style rooms are very hip and fit in well with the Brooklyn neighbourhood. Considering the beautiful decor filled with local art and bespoke furniture, the hotel prices are very modest. They even offer deals for extended stays, making it easier to hit everything on your New York City itinerary.

nu hotel
Photo via nuhotelbrooklyn.com

Mid-Range: Ace Hotel Brooklyn

Ace Hotel is a great mid-range option for NY City stay. It’s located close to one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in New York City, so you can explore the hip bars and restaurants of Brooklyn from your doorstep.

Ace Hotel features cozy rooms decorated in earthy tones that feel more like city cabins than hotel rooms. It also has a restaurant, bakery and bar. Ace Hotel donates up to 10% of bookings to organizations like Mojave Desert Land Trust, so you can be sure your money is helping the planet.

ace hotel
photo via acehotel.com

Luxury: 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is a chic eco-hotel and a sister property of the 1 Hotel Central Park that we mentioned earlier in the article. This hotel ticks all the boxes for a sustainably-minded stay with 100% wind-powered operations, reclaimed or recycled materials, and much more! 

The hotel features stunning hotel rooms, with incredible views over to the Manhattan skyline across the East River. You’ll find an on-site restaurant, spa, yoga studio, and fitness centre.

It’s one of the best New York City hotels for eco-friendly luxury travellers.

1 Hotel
photo via 1hotels.com

Where To Stay In New York City: Best Hotels In Queens

Budget: The Local NY

If you’re wondering where is the best place to stay in New York City on a budget, then Queens has plenty of choices. The Local NY is a budget 2-star hotel that gets good reviews and offers a convenient location close to Manhattan.

The hip hotel is housed in a converted industrial building and features super clean dormitories and private rooms, with all the best amenities you would expect from more expensive New York City hotels. It also has a bar, communal kitchen and rooftop terrace.

All rooms feature under-bed locker storage, free wifi, and reading lights. You’ll be close to lots of eateries, several parks, and the 23rd Street subway station.

The Local
photo via thelocalny.com

Mid-Range: Aloft Long Island City

Located just one block from a subway station, Aloft Long Island City is a great place to stay that’s a bit removed from the hustle and bustle. This hotel is famous for its rooftop patio, from which you can take in stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. This is a great place to unwind after a day of exploring the city, where you can enjoy a cocktail with the iconic Empire State Building in the background. 

The spacious rooms feature lots of natural light, a mini-bar, and soundproof windows to let you sleep through the morning rush hour. There is an onsite restaurant, plus you’ll be surrounded by lots of amazing eateries. 

Luxury: Boro Hotel

For those wondering where to stay in New York City to get the best bang for your buck, this hotel in Queens comes highly recommended. Boro Hotel is a beautiful 4-star hotel that is still surprisingly affordable compared to other New York City hotels.

The modern hotel has clean and minimal decor with huge glass windows for natural lighting. Boro Hotel has a rooftop bar, lobby library, fitness centre and meeting spaces for business travellers. 

Boro Hotel
photo via borohotel.com
Romantic Getaways in USA for Sustainable Travelers - New York
New York City skyline

With this guide, you won’t have to stress about where to stay in New York City. We’ve rounded up the best hotels that are also the most sustainable hotels in New York for a range of budgets. From cheaper hotels in Queens to luxury in the Upper East Side, you’ll find hotels in NY City to suit everyone.

READ NEXT: 6 Best Eco-Friendly Hotels In New York City

1 thought on “Where to Stay in New York City: Best Areas + Hotel Suggestions”

  1. Thanks for sharing this amazing list! I stayed at Marriott in nyc when I went there last year. I’m bookmarking this post so I can refer to it in the future.

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