The New York luxury hotel scene has exploded over the last few decades, with a myriad of new names, locations, and concepts popping up to cater to the ever-growing appeal of a vacation in the Big Apple.
Choosing the best place to stay in New York, therefore, can be extremely difficult with so many luxury hotel options, though of course there are much worse problems to be had!
I visited each hotel on this list (and quite a few more) to get the full rundown for you. Here are my top picks for a luxury hotel stay in Manhattan, all with high-thread-count sheets, fawning staff, and an atmosphere that will enhance and transform any stay in Gotham. Even if their prices seem as high as the skyscrapers they are housed in, you can often use Hotwire to find the incredibly low prices on 5-star hotels. The catch? They can only reveal the hotel name after you’ve booked…
Do you want old-world refinement, celeb-spotting at outrageous parties, or under-stated elegance in a discreet location? Sky-high pools, rooftop bars, or hidden Japanese spas?
Because darling, this is N-Y-C. Go big or go home, right?
Don’t worry. New York has it all and more. Your itinerary in the city that never sleeps may be many things, but boring isn’t one of them.
So why would your NYC accommodation be any different?
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This sustainable midtown hotel overlooks Central Park and is designed with nature and your comfort in mind. Think works by local artists, extensive use of native greenery, reclaimed materials, and the highest creature comforts. It is rather surreal to feel at one with nature in the middle of NYC, but that is exactly what One Hotel Central Park has achieved by incorporating greenery at every turn.
Living moss grows in hallway planter boxes, vines hang from the lobby, and a grand three-story green facade greets you every time you come or go from this unique property. To relax, just step into your room for a quiet reprieve from the city, surrounded by materials that bring the natural beauty and calming energy of Central Park inside – including incredible reclaimed barn wood ceilings.
There is also farm-to-fork dining, fun cocktail nights, innovative events, and a lobby farmstand where you can forage for seasonal ingredients. One of the coolest new hotel openings in New York we have seen in years…
The Ace New York is centrally located in Midtown Manhattan, accessible to anything you might want to do in the city. This historic turn-of-the-20th-century building has been converted into a space that’s ideal for business travelers, creatives, and everyone in between.
The rooms combine coziness and minimalism, and they naturally feature local artwork and design. Some rooms also feature guitars, turntables, refrigerators, and curated minibars. The lobby has a Stumptown Coffee outpost as well as a cozy lobby bar. For food, be sure to hit up The Breslin, which has won James Beard awards for its delectable seasonal menus. There’s also the John Dory Oyster Bar, which serves refreshing seafood in a bright and beautiful space.
Expect a very young, hip crowd and plenty of quirky-retro design features. We also loved their Palm Springs location, and can’t wait for them to open in Kyoto.
A new hotel concept from Equinox gyms centered on the idea that life, not fitness, has fuelled their cultural movement for the past 25 years. This design-forward and oh-so-chic flagship hotel is the physical manifestation of these ideals in hotel form. Equinox hotel seeks to redefine travel as the world knows it, to combine luxury and life maximization, and to create something truly unique.
The result is a magnificent modern high-rise hotel overlooking the Hudson River, with incredible floor-to-ceiling windows and smooth, tranquil rooms. All offer city or river view and are temples to regeneration, composed to envision and meet every need, leaving you primed to perform as never before.
There is a fashionable 24th-floor restaurant with an expansive terrace, sumptuous spa, outdoor seasonal pool, and, as you would expect, a mega 60,000 sq ft fitness center. Power up in the Equinox Club, get charged in a rhythm-fueled SoulCycle class and relax with a peaceful yoga class. One of the coolest new hotels in NYC and not a compromise in sight.
The latest addition to the up-and-coming Moxy hospitality brand with locations in North America, Europe, and Asia. It caters to the young, hip millennial generation, and it provides the convenience of a chain with the style of a boutique hotel.
It also stands out from the other luxury hotels in Manhatten because it’s comparatively affordable, enabling young people to see more of the world without breaking the bank.
From right when you walk into a Moxy location, you’ll notice that it’s a bit different from your typical chain. The designs are impeccable, and they combine quirky art with sleek, modern furniture and lighting for an experience that feels luxurious without being stuffy. The bar is always open, and the atmosphere is very social – there’s even a free drink on check-in to get you in the right frame of mind.
The Moxy Chelsea is particularly ambitious with sweeping views from rooms on higher floors, industrial-chic vibes, a happening cafe, and an upscale Italian restaurant. Even if you don’t stay here, their trendy cocktail lounge on the 35th floor has panoramic views and is a must-visit.
One of the most affordable luxury hotels in Manhattan is the Archer Hotel – and one of my personal favorites.
A modern brick, glass, and steel construction, Archer Hotel has mastered the art of hospitality and prides itself on creating memorable experiences for all of its guests. From the designer cafe and restaurant, which flows out onto the mid-town street, to the wonderfully appointed rooms (many with uninterrupted views of the Empire State Building), Archer Hotel is redefining the boutique hotel concept in New York.
And it’s wild success has already lead to three more locations nation-wide!
The rooftop bar of the Archer Hotel is the undisputed star of the show, and any quarrels with the cozy rooms instantly melt away as you enjoy their fashionable bar with some of the best views in New York City (with no admission ticket needed). The Archer Hotel New York is a hotel you will fall in love with, create memories in, and want to come back to time and time again!
A brand new hotel located on the edge of Chinatown, 50 Bowery Hotel NYC offers innovative design elements that pay homage to its location’s history while providing a delightful alternative to more mainstream – read safe – It reminded us of the luxury-modernist boutique Dean Hotel in Providence … in all the right ways.
With dual rooftop bar/terraces, the hip Rice & Gold Asian fusion restaurant, multiple open-plan workspaces and a specially curated art gallery – you might never even see your room but rest assured the floor-to-ceiling windows with views up Manhattan Island combined with plush amenities and luxurious bedding will tempt you to spend the night in! Brilliantly executed, the 50 Bowery Hotel NYC sets a new standard for boutique hotels in Manhattan.
If you are wondering where to stay in New York City, this could be the perfect fit!
Setting the standard in boutique luxury hotels worldwide, the Baccarat Hotel just meters from MOMA is the famous French Crystal makers first foray into hospitality – and although only a few years old already is being labeled a raging success.
The theme is that of a modern French castle, and every detail in this 140 room hotel deserves to be savored. Champagne is served to guests on arrival -setting the tone – and the rooms are as fabulous as you would expect. A world-class spa, calming pool, dining options, and a hip bar complete the package and unquestionably make the Baccarat Hotel one of the best places to stay in New York!
I mean really – who needs Paris when Paris will just come to you…
A discreet midtown Manhattan hotel based around an innovative library concept. Each of the 60 rooms at the Library Hotel is assigned a unique Dewey decimal system theme based on their number.
Think rooms filled with rare books and art based on themes such as oceanography, 20th-century literature, or middle eastern art! There is also a superb library-themed bar with innovative drinks such as Tequila Mockingbird and both internal and external reading rooms taking advantage of phenomenal views down 41st street to the New York Public Library.
A one-of-a-kind hotel concept that is a must for any book lovers visiting New York City.
A five-star property known the world over. Easily one of the most luxurious hotels in NYC – the Mandarin Oriental New York provides sophisticated design, views over the entire city, and an unforgettable stay.
With 202 guest rooms and 46 suites located on floors 35 through 54 over New York’s Time Warner Center, the Mandarin Oriental New York is unique – and has the views to prove it. With a sky-lobby on the 34th floor, spaciously appointed rooms, a swimming pool with floor-to-ceiling views of the sparkling Skyline, and of course, world-class dining, the Mandarin Oriental New York promises an unforgettable stay in Gotham.
Having previously been familiar with the high standards of this luxury brand from stays in Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Doha, we can assure you their NYC location does not disappoint. Perfect for honeymooners, creatives, design lovers…or just about anyone who wants to appreciate NYC skyline views.
Located in a 12-story Beaux-Arts building in the Flatiron District, the NoMad hotel brings bohemian glamour and old-world European charm to NYC.
Spacious with intimate views and faded tapestry bring each room to life, while the free-standing claw tubs provide a splash of glamour. Sadly it’s rooftop bar is no longer open to the public, but the dining scene downstairs more than makes up for it with the Elephant Room, the Library Bar, and the NoMad restaurant bringing in a bevy of hospitality awards. This is no small part due to it’s Michelin starred celebrity chef Daniel Humm. Guests also get priority reservations, which is a nice touch considering the often weeks-long waiting list!
Perfect for gourmet food lovers or couples looking for a romantic night away in Europe without the flights!
The flagship hotel of the brand, the Park Hyatt New York, goes above and beyond.
A new build which opened in 2014 inside the One57 super-tall skyscraper, the Park Hyatt New York delivers personalized luxury with timeless design. It’s 210 rooms, including 92 suites, provide guests with a soothing retreat from the chaos of Manhattan. If that’s not enough, there is the celebrated Serenity at Spa Nalai onsite or a full-length swimming pool with specially curated music from Carnegie Hall.
Signature art pieces and interior design quirks are skillfully displayed throughout. The service exceeds all expectations, and it’s dining farm-to-table concept has become one of the cities hot spots (no small feat in NYC!). Easily one of the most luxurious hotels in NYC, the Park Hyatt is the perfect option for a memorable stay in Midtown Manhattan.
A luxury hotel that should need no introduction – The St Regis New York hotel has been the go-to property for the fashionable and fabulous for over a century and is the flagship hotel of the worldwide St Regis luxury brand.
A Five-Diamond hotel in the heart of midtown Manhattan, the St Regis New York has expertly managed its design to pay homage to its glamorous history – it is home to the Bloody Mary after all – while still proving an elegant and contemporary stay. The original location which spawned a luxury hotel chain that extends around the globe from Macau to Mexico City, Washington DC to Osaka.
Recently renovated, there is a range of suite and room options – including some designed in conjunction with Dior and Bentley. All guests receive complimentary butler service and access to the St. Regis Bentley – not that you need it since you are just stepping away from Fifth Avenue shopping, world-renown restaurants, and all the attractions NYC has to offer.
The St Regis New York offers a taste of 1920’s American luxury and an iconic stay never to be forgotten.
Recently opened, The Beekman pays homage to its heritage as one of New York’s most lauded sites with dark colors, eclectic styles, and bespoke art and lighting fixtures throughout.
There is a lot to love here from its quiet location and old-world charm to its celebrity restaurant and exquisite cocktails – but undoubtedly, the two highlights are it’s enormous, lovingly restored atrium and twin turret pent-houses which invoke feels of a castle in the sky. An urban oasis lovingly crafted with plenty of small details to admire.
The Beekman truly deserves its reputation as one of the most luxurious hotels in New York’s Downtown.
A historic Manhattan hotel located just a stone’s throw from Times Square, the Chatwal offers meticulous design with a new perspective thanks to a collaboration with esteemed architect Thierry Despont.
The historic 1930s Empire Art Deco design has been re-invented, giving this hotel a truly unique, timeless feel with the use of bold colors such as saffron, sepia, and ruby throughout along with genuinely bespoke furniture. With only 76 rooms and suites, the Chatwal is able to offer refined, personalized service to each and every guest, leaving you feeling right at home.
A hotel like no other, the Chatwal Hotel is perfect for lovers of great design and art deco fans.
Bohemian and exclusive by design, the Gramercy Park Hotel pays tribute to its artist’s roots with a world-class rotating selection of art, an erratic color pallet, and totally bespoke furniture.
Located in a quiet neighborhood, the Gramercy Park Hotel New York offers a refined stay for any art lover complete with world-class ceilings, large suites, and performances by Lady Gaga’s jazz band twice a week. Many celebrities and creative types can be spotted here, but remember to play it cool!
Oh – and the trump card? Access to New York’s last private park – The Gramercy Park – which most New Yorkers will never get to visit!
Designed from the ground up for leisure travelers, the Greenwich Hotel presents refined luxury and an air of exclusivity as soon as you walk in the door.
Owned by Robert De Niro (and right next door to his offices in NYC), this is a popular haunt of film celebrities in town looking for discretion. Large well-appointed rooms offer glimpses of the Hudson River, and details such as Italian marble bathrooms and bespoke furniture complete the look.
The highlight of any stay would have to be the full Japanese spa and pool complex, complete with a traditional Japanese farmhouse assembled right inside. Seriously, it could be straight from Nikko or Nasu in Japan, all without leaving downtown NYC…
A perfect stay for those who like the finer things in life without all the extravagant excesses.
A historic red dormitory converted into a luxury hotel; the High Line Hotel offers chic accommodation in Chelsea.
Completed with original stain-glass windows and pine floors, this hotel brings together the past and present with a trendy lobby coffee shop by esteemed Intelligentsia coffee, a garden courtyard with a seasonal restaurant, and plenty of events space. The High Line Hotel’s 60 rooms exude sophistication with intimate views of the surrounding neighborhood (including the High Line itself) and hark back to a bygone era with decorative fireplaces, pinewood floors, and locally sourced furniture.
A uniquely historic setting, the High Line Hotel is perfect for a quiet, laid-back experience of New York City.
A posh turn of the century icon – The Knickerbocker Hotel keeps true to its glitzy past and produces oodles of glam and wow factor.
While the lobby is purposely small and slightly claustrophobic, the rooms are wide, spacious, and beautifully appointed with a completely bespoke fit-out. Its location on Times Square is envious, with most of its 350 rooms having prime views. The highlight, however, of any stay is the Knickerbocker Hotel St. Cloud rooftop bar- occupying the whole top floor.
With a cigar lounge, stellar views of Times Square, and a high-end nightclub, the KnickerBocker rooftop is the trendiest bar in all of mid-town and on New Year’s Eve has the best views of the Times Square Ball drop in New York.
Perfect for the young or young at heart, the KnickerBocker will not disappoint!
The tallest stand-alone hotel in NYC – and with 562 rooms, The London NYC brings a hint of British upper-class and London chic design to midtown Manhattan.
While the standard suites here represent some of the most affordable luxury rooms in the city, the higher floors and premium room categories offer the money-shot views of Central Park, decadent tubs, living areas, and more popular with extended stays.
The crown jewel – a two-story penthouse – is available for those who really want to go all out, and frequently appears in film and television as well as playing host to extravagant cocktail parties.
Tucked away on the leafy Upper East aside lies the Mark, an uber-stylish luxury hotel offering suites and multi-room apartments.
Attracting the international jet-set and those who want something a bit different, the Mark combines chic, timeless decor with whimsy, such as a hot-dog cart, florist, and petty-cabs. From the invigorating black-and-white marble lobby to the starry cocktail lounge, the Mark Hotel pays homage to its grand past and setting while striving to provide homely touches in its rooms.
Due to the unfortunate timing of the financial crash and hotel remodel, the Mark Hotel inherited many one, two and three-bedroom condominiums as well as a glorious penthouse suite – meaning the Mark is the perfect location for family or long-stay vacations!
Offering an intriguing mix of high-end luxury and pop culture excess, the SoHo Grand is NYC’s top stay for those looking for the best of both worlds.
Located in SoHo, one of the most sought after addresses on the island – the SoHo Grand delivers phenomenal views, inviting public spaces, the hip Peacock bar, and two super-inviting penthouses (with outdoor terraces and an outdoor shower!). A favorite of creative musicians and designers due to its location near the Red Bull Arena and fashion week events, be sure to play it cool when you inevitably run into someone famous.
One of the most luxurious hotels in NYC, a stay at the SoHo Grand Hotel, is perfect for just about anyone!
The coolest of the cool, the Standard High Line is New York City’s current ‘it’ destination.
With a very modern take on luxury hotel concept, the Standard High Line combines stunning views and an awe-inspiring location with contemporary design and a dining destination. All 320 rooms have floor-to-ceiling glass and an iconic view of New York, while the rooftop bar of the Standard High Line is truly one of the best places to view New York.
Innovation is in their DNA here with an outdoor beer garden, an ice skating rink in the winter, social awareness campaigns, a ridiculous array of events, just to name a few.
One of a kind, the Standard High Line caters to those who want a thoroughly unique experience – and a stay you will never forget!
The flagship North America hotel of this global brand which originated in Hong Kong, the Peninsula New York, offers high-end period rooms with modern amenities and old-world service.
Designed from the ground up with the luxury traveler in mind, the rooms and suites here are reminiscent of the grand New York apartments of yesteryear – though for the ultimate luxury you should opt for the newly unveiled Fifth Avenue Suite with spectacular views down its namesake street, full dining room, custom details and total control over your experience via an in-room tablet.
There is a whole host of amenities, including a fabulous full-salon, one of the best spas in NYC, a rooftop bar and terrace, a pool, a gourmet restaurant, and 24-hour concierge guaranteeing your stay in NYC will go without a hitch. The Peninsula New York is one of the best midtown Manhattan hotels and one in which you will not soon forget!
A hip hotel in the heart of SoHo providing loft-like rooms for discerning clients.
Popular with long-stay guests, creatives, and executives, the Mercer Hotel prides itself on providing exceptional service to every guest in its 75 rooms, offering a 24-hour concierge service that goes above-and-beyond. Its simple white room decor seeks to soothe and rejuvenate after a long day on the hard streets of New York, while its lounge-style lobby tempts guests with a social environment akin to your own home.
The Mercer Cafe and Restaurant onsite are extremely popular with guests and locals, SoHo. Offering subtle elegance and a true home away from home, the Mercer Hotel is a boutique hotel you will want to return to time and time again.
One of the oldest hotels in New York City – The Pierre on Fifth Avenue opposite Central Park offers grand luxury rooms within a landmark hotel.
Recently renovated with all of the expected amenities and services, you can still indulge your nostalgia here from operators of the mahogany-paneled elevators whisking you to your floor to the ornate painted walls and ceilings of the grand ballroom and rotunda.
With 140 rooms at 49 suites interspersed amongst private apartments, it is easy here to feel at home with the iconic Central Park views and luxurious Turkish marble bathrooms. There is also a Jaguar car with chauffeur for guests to use, a stylish Art Deco bar with afternoon tea and monthly Broadway cast brunches, and the esteemed Perrine restaurant.
The Pierre Hotel has set the bar for luxury in New York Hotel for almost 100 years and continues to uphold its reputation as one of the most luxurious hotels in NYC.
On a quiet street in the heart of the city, The Refinery Hotel offers stylish industrial-chic rooms in the former Garment District.
With 197 spacious rooms and suites, the Refinery hotel represents one of the best boutique hotels in Manhattan as it effortlessly pays homage to its past as a hat factory.
Expect 12-foot ceilings and historic hardwood floors, and just a touch of Prohibition-era mystery and intrigue. Don’t be fooled, however. Modern luxuries are not forgone, and delights such as Dean & DeLuca gourmet foods and premium Hudson Valley whiskey are stocked in the minibar. This is not to mention the award-winning Parker & Quinn restaurant and the ever-popular Refinery Rooftop bar.
For those who love to admire industrial design and creature comforts – The Refinery Hotel is for you!
Located on a quiet cobblestone side street in the creative SoHo district, the Crosby Street Hotel provides a breath of fresh air with its kitsch-chic design.
From the Botero sculpture outside to the dog-themed artwork throughout (a throwback to old SoHo where stray dogs ran wild!), everything you see here is going to excite and stimulate you. Each of the 86 rooms and suites embraces a slightly different design element, meaning no two stays are ever the same – and the onsite restaurant has an eclectic selection of art and decor sure to delight.
Filled with bright colors and natural light in a custom-built building opened in 2008, the Crosby Street Hotel provides luxury without pretense.
Because when you are this good, you just know it!
Established in the heart of upper midtown Manhattan on West 56th Street, The Whitby is just two blocks from Central Park and on the doorstep of some of New York’s preeminent restaurants, galleries, and museums, including MoMA.
The Whitby Hotel is a triumph of contemporary art and composition offering 86 individually designed bedrooms and suites. Each boasts glamorous floor to ceiling windows and upgraded rooms include private terraces and unique views of the Manhattan skyline. While the Whitby Hotel is still new on the scene, it has already won awards for its unique design featuring spaces arranged in a colorful and carefree spirit.
Each room is different but styled in the contemporary English style with bathrooms featuring granite or marble, walk-in showers, and RikRak luxury bath products. Then there is The Whitby Bar and Restaurant, an Orangery, a book-lined Drawing Room, a private outdoor terrace, a 130 seat state-of-the-art cinema, and a fully equipped gym.
A regal manifestation of modern elegance, the seasonal afternoon tea is particularly noteworthy. Enjoy a glass of Champagne, while you luxuriate in a traditional selection of finger sandwiches, cakes, and scones. Think smoked salmon and lemon crème fraîche sandwiches, strawberry opéra cake, raspberry and lychee macarons, and Frangelico chocolate torte.
Simply divine – and one of the best new luxury hotels in Manhattan.
A newly opened hotel set amongst the bustling restaurants and shops of Lower Manhattan, the upscale Artezen Hotel is all about unwinding and indulging.
Check in to the comfort of Artezen’s carefully appointed guest rooms, work out in the state-of-the-art fitness center, or find inspiration in the local artwork that fills the walls of the hotel. Modern accommodation to suit modern travelers, the Artezen offers refined rooms with iPads, Italian linens, and Nespresso coffeemakers or suites with designer terraces.
The Artezen Hotel pays homage to the heritage of its Italian-American entrepreneur owners, drawing on their proud heritage of Sicilian masons and carpenters. The resulting passion, creativity, and a pioneering spirit are visible throughout the hotel from the use of rich materials and expert craftsmanship to the boutique apothecary bathroom amenities in every room. Sticking a sublime balance of affordable luxury in the heart of downtown Manhatten, what’s not to love?
W Hotels are a range of luxury accommodations, with locations in some of the most appealing and cosmopolitan cities in the world.
Run by the Marriott Group, this hotel chain stands out from other luxury hotels for its sleek, modern design and accessibility. Each W Hotel is representative of the city it is located in, and they are marketed towards a younger generation of avid travelers. There’s no snobbery here – the hotels are very welcoming for people of all ages, backgrounds, and orientations. Each has a very unique design with plenty of Instagrammable features that will fill your friends with envy.
The W Hotels are also entrenched in the music and fashion scenes in their respective cities, and host many events throughout the year. Staying at the W not only provides you with a luxurious place to relax, but it will also give you the opportunity to socialize with other exciting trendsetters in your destination. There are three dynamic W Hotels in New York City, but the Downtown location is the best option if you want to be right at the heart of the action, while still providing an authentic New York experience. You’re walking distance to some of the most exciting neighborhoods in the city, and just a train ride away from all five boroughs if you want to explore.
The highlight of this hotel is the beautiful terrace, which has stunning skyline views, a pool, and a bar with live DJ sets. This is the place to see and be seen on your visit. When you decide it’s time to relax, every room offers beautiful city views and modern design that will have you feeling right at home.
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Now you're all set and prepared to explore our big wide world, why not sort out everything else out all in one go? If necessary for your travel plans make sure you have brought proper travel insurance, protected your privacy by getting a secure VPN, compared all the top hotel booking sites to find just what you're after, reserved an unbeatable rental car price and - of course - booked the best flight deals!
Or maybe just forget it all and go for a last-minute cruise or effortless tour instead?
Many budget travelers (including me) indulge in worldwide airport lounge access, so we can experience luxury while still slumming it in economy. Naturally, we would never leave home without a more general travel guide since we couldn’t possibly cover everything here!
Just add an adventurous attitude and plenty of smiles - they go a long way - and that about covers it all! Now go out, find your own path and don't forget to share your best inspiration stories with me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram...I'd love to hear from you!