Where to Stay in New York City (Best Places & Areas, By a Local)

Ok, now scroll down for a deep dive into the pros (and cons) of each area of New York City:

25 Best Neighborhoods & Areas to Stay in New York City

New York City has five boroughs: Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, The Bronx, and Staten Island. 

I recommend staying in Manhattan if it’s your first or second time visiting to be near the main attractions. Queens and Downtown Brooklyn are my top picks for quality budget hotels and for veteran travelers seeking underrated spots. 

No matter where you decide to stay, New York’s neighborhoods all have a unique flair, charm, history, and independent culture. You could travel here 100 times and still find something new to see. Jersey City and Hoboken, New Jersey, are directly across Manhattan via The Hudson River if you need some more budget-friendly hotel options. 

Downtown Brooklyn has charming neighborhoods like Boerum Hill and Sunset Park, perfect for families seeking accommodation outside of Manhattan. Long Island City, Queens, sits to the East of Manhattan and can get you to Midtown in twenty minutes by subway. 

Keep reading to learn about my top 25 neighborhoods for staying in New York City:

Midtown Manhattan

👉 Best Area For First-Timers | ✨ Best Midtown Manhattan Hotels: Hotel Riu Plaza Manhattan Times Square • The Langham • CIVILIAN Hotel • Pod 51

Midtown Manhattan is considered the crown jewel of New York City. It’s a tourism hub where you’ll spend most of your time on your first or second visit. Midtown is home to Times Square, Rockefeller Center, Broadway, Radio City Music Hall, the Museum of Modern Art, and more of the city’s major attractions. 

My number one choice in this area is Hotel Riu Plaza Manhattan Times Square for its unbeatable location and comfortable rooms at a reasonable price. CIVILIAN Hotel is a lovely boutique hotel that’s a six-minute walk from Times Square. 

If you want an upgrade, The Langham on Fifth Avenue is one of Manhattan’s most luxurious 5-star hotels in Midtown. The rooms are large, and you won’t find better views of The Empire State Building than here. 

If you’re on a budget, you can’t do better than Pod 51. Although the rooms and amenities are basic, it’s a short walk to major Midtown attractions and it’s perfect for solo travelers. 

Midtown Manhattan is the city’s premier neighborhood and safe to walk around day and night. However, expect constant noise and congestion. You’ll have dining and entertainment options at every turn, but it’s more commercial than other parts of the city. 

The Times Square-42nd Street Station is the largest subway complex in the entire city. While busy at all hours, this station will take you anywhere you need to go throughout the five boroughs. Take advantage of the subway, and almost always choose it over a taxi during daytime hours! 

Pros of Staying in Midtown Manhattan:

• Close to major attractions like Broadway and The Empire State Building
• Very walkable
• Perfect for first-time visitors and family 
• Plenty of subway lines and taxis 
• Easy access to shopping 

Cons of Staying in Midtown Manhattan:

• Very crowded and noisy day & night 
• Dining can be overpriced & many chain restaurants
• Street vendors pushy near Times Square 

NoMad

👉 Best Area For Central Location | ✨ Best NoMad Hotels: The Evelyn NoMad • The Ned NoMad • Motto by Hilton New York City Chelsea • Broadway Plaza Hotel 

If it was my first visit to New York City, I would prefer to stay in NoMad over Midtown. NoMad is an acronym for “North of Madison Square Park,” and it’s centrally located south of Midtown and borders the Chelsea neighborhood to the west. The streets have a similar, buzzing energy to Midtown with more of an Old New York feel. 

Madison Square Park’s boundaries run from Fifth Avenue to Madison Avenue between 23rd and 26th streets, a beautiful, green backdrop in the city center. NoMad is the home base for my #1 hotel choice, The Broadway Plaza Hotel. This luxurious boutique hotel has it all: a great location, spacious rooms, affordable prices, subway access, and rave reviews. 

The area has other fantastic hotels for families, such as The Ned NoMad in the restored Johnston Building, serving delicious Italian food at the hotel’s flagship restaurant, Cecconi’s. 

NoMad is one of the best areas to stay because of its proximity to major attractions. You can walk to the Empire State Building in five minutes, Madison Square Garden in 15 minutes, and The Chelsea High Line in 20 minutes. The 23rd and 28th Street stations can take you throughout Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. 

Pros of Staying in NoMad:

• Centrally located near Midtown
• Renowned historic & cultural scene 
• Great dining & shopping
• Well-connected subway
• Walkable 

Cons of Staying in NoMad:

• Hotels are more expensive 
• Lots of tourist traffic at popular spots 
• Food & groceries expensive 

Chelsea

👉 Best Area For Outdoor Attractions | ✨ Best Chelsea Hotels: Hotel Chelsea • The Maritime Hotel • Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New York Manhattan/Chelsea 

Chelsea is a trendy neighborhood located on the West side of Manhattan, bordering Hell’s Kitchen and Midtown South. The neighborhood is ideal for travelers seeking contemporary art galleries, fine dining, nightlife, and outdoor attractions such as the High Line and Little Island. 

The Hotel Chelsea would be my number one luxury recommendation for its rich history and Victorian-Gothic design that’s sure to catch your eye from the street. The hotel has two restaurants, a dining bar, spa services, and allergy-free rooms upon request. 

The Maritime Hotel is another highly-rated option featuring Nautical-themed rooms just a short walk from the High Line and The Rubin Museum of Art. 

Chelsea attracts artists, professionals, and visitors, with plenty to do in the neighborhood. Famous attractions include The Vessel and Edge at Hudson Yards, Little Island at Pier 55, and the 1.45-mile-long High Line for elevated street views and greenery.

If you’re a fan of the arts, West Chelsea has over 300 contemporary art galleries. The Meatpacking District is home to the Whitney Museum of American Art and has a diverse range of bars and restaurants along its cobblestone streets. 

Pros of Staying in Chelsea:

• Excellent walkability 
• Close to major attractions
• Very safe part of city 
• Trendy 
• High-end dining & shopping 

Cons of Staying in Chelsea:

• Tourist attractions get crowded 
• More expensive 
• Nighttime noise close to meatpacking District 

Hell’s Kitchen

👉 Best Area For Rich History | ✨ Best Hell’s Kitchen Hotels: The Pearl Hotel • The Belvedere Hotel • Romer Hell’s Kitchen 

Hell’s Kitchen, commonly referred to as Clinton or Midtown West, is a quieter part of Midtown. It has charming tree-lined streets and a fantastic dining scene, particularly on Ninth Avenue. Its central location is perfect for families, as it’s just a 10-minute walk from Broadway and the Theatre District. 

The Pearl Hotel is an excellent choice within walking distance of Times Square and Central Park South. The rooms are more affordable, given the location, and they offer 24-hour room service. 

Romer Hell’s Kitchen is another option, with a vintage atmosphere and a la carte breakfast. It’s within walking distance of major attractions like Carnegie Hall and Radio City Music Hall. 

The Belvedere Hotel is a family-friendly boutique hotel with a modern Art Deco style. You can’t beat the location either, with the 50th Street Subway Station just 800 feet away. Plus, it’s in proximity to Penn Station, the Museum of Modern Art, Bryant Park, and Rockefeller Center.

Staying in Hell’s Kitchen is ideal for travelers seeking less congestion than Midtown but crave closeness to the major attractions. The neighborhood borders Hudson River Park for scenic riverside walks along Pier 84. The Intrepid Museum is a must-see if you’re a fan of military and maritime history.  

For dining options, Ninth Avenue is home to restaurants such as Cheeseboat for Georgian cuisine, Elephant Ear for Thai, and Norma’s Hell’s Kitchen for highly rated Sicilian pizza. 

Pros of Staying in Hell’s Kitchen:

• Central Location
• Cheaper than some parts of Midtown 
• Diverse & Lively Atmosphere 
• Excellent transit access 
• Walkable 

Cons of Staying in Hell’s Kitchen:

• Can be noisy & crowded 
• Nightlife better for younger crowd 

Murray Hill

👉 Best Area For Old NYC Charm | ✨ Best Murray Hill Hotels: The Renwick • Pestana Park Avenue • Pod 39

Stay in Murray Hill if you want to stay in Midtown without the crowds and noise, Murray Hill is a great choice. It sits to the east and remains within walking distance of major landmarks. This is a great choice of stay for families, especially with young kids who might feel too overstimulated by central Midtown.

Personally, my top hotel pick would be The Renwick if you want to capture the essence of Old New York City with its stunning outer brick exterior. The rooms run on the smaller side, but the hotel is stylish and sophisticated. 

Pestana Park Avenue is a boutique hotel that will give you top-tier luxury in a modern building. Both hotels are only a five-minute walk from Grand Central Terminal. Pod 39 is a budget-friendly stay with rave reviews.

This part of Midtown will be quieter with cleaner streets and stunning brownstones sure to catch your eye. The Morgan Library & Museum is the main attraction in this area; you’ll have to walk a bit further to see more of the famous ones.  

The neighborhood isn’t well known for nightlife, so keep that in mind if you plan on staying out late. Grand Central Terminal is the most accessible subway station in the area and can get you to any part of Manhattan and the other boroughs. 

Also, if you’re a fan of Indian food, stay in Murray Hill. It’s famously known as “Little India” or “Curry Hill” for its abundance of Indian restaurants from 26th to 29th Street on Lexington Avenue. 

Pros of Staying in Murray Hill:

• Close to Midtown and Grand Central 
• Quiet, residential feel 
• Safe
• Plenty of quality restaurants 
• Very walkable

Cons of Staying in Murray Hill:

• Not as many cultural attractions 
• Subway not as accessible as other neighborhoods
• Less nightlife options

Upper East Side

👉 Best Area For Museums & Quiet | ✨ Best Upper East Side Hotels: Lowell Hotel• Loews Regency New York• The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel

The Upper East Side is Manhattan’s most elite neighborhood from America’s Gilded Age, with historical museums, luxury shopping and retail, and globally renowned fine dining. The Upper East Side’s boundaries run from East 59th Street to East 96th Street, with multiple entries to Central Park. 

While finding a budget-friendly hotel will prove more difficult in the Upper East Side, you won’t find a shortage of luxury options. The Lowell Hotel is the best boutique hotel in New York City, with an unbeatable atmosphere and impeccable facilities. 

Loews Regency New York Hotel is another fantastic choice, just two blocks from Central Park. The Surrey A Corinthia Hotel is a newer luxury stay collecting rave reviews.  

If you don’t stay in the Upper East Side, it’s worth a visit, even if it’s your first time in New York City. The Museum Mile stretch of Fifth Avenue has The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Solomon R. Guggenheim, and The Museum of the City of New York, amongst others. 

Midtown and Lower Manhattan are slightly further away, but the Upper East Side is well-connected. The 4,5, and 6 trains run along Lexington Avenue and will take you to the Bronx, Manhattan, and Brooklyn. 

Pros of Staying in the Upper East Side:

• Safe & upscale neighborhood 
• Easy access to Central Park and The East River 
• Quiet and family friendly 
• Plenty of museums to choose from 

Cons of Staying in the Upper East Side:

• Hotels & restaurants more expensive 
• Less nightlife options

Upper West Side

👉 Best Area For Families | ✨ Best Upper West Side Hotels: The Wallace Hotel • The Plaza • The Lucerne Hotel • HI New York City Hostel

Consider the Upper West Side if your goal is slightly cheaper and family-oriented accommodations. You’ll find yourself close to Central Park and Riverside Park to see the Hudson River, surrounded by fantastic restaurants and cafes. This area is one of the safest in New York City as well. 

You might know The Plaza from Home Alone 2, cementing it as a New York City icon. Located on 5th Avenue, directly facing Central Park, this iconic building is luxury personified. 

Hotel Lucerne is my top hotel pick for families just a few blocks from the 79th street metro station and The Museum of Natural History. You can find affordable rooms if you book in advance. The area is safe, next to Central Park, and not far from Midtown by subway. 

If you’re traveling solo as a young person and on a budget, I highly recommend HI New York City Hostel. It’s top-rated as one of the best hostels in the Empire City, with clean rooms, game rooms, a movie lounge, a kitchen, and a large patio. This is a great place to meet other travelers in a centrally located, safe part of the city.

While further from the main Midtown attractions, The Upper West Side has The American Museum of Natural History for kids, The Beacon Theatre, and The Lincoln Center for Performing Arts. It’s certainly a great choice if you’re a fan of the arts. 

Pros of Staying in the Upper West Side:

• Many cultural landmarks 
• Excellent public transit with 1,2,3, B, & C subway lines
• Great food scene 
• Charming, residential feel 

Cons of Staying in the Upper West Side:

• Hotels more expensive than Midtown
• Limited very-late night scene 
• Not as centrally located

Financial District

👉 Best Area For Business Travel | ✨ Best FiDi Hotels: Conrad New York Downtown • The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel • Hyatt Centric Wall Street New York

The Financial District is where you’ll want to stay if you are traveling for business or looking for luxury accommodations. Famously known for the Charging Bull on Wall Street and infamously known for the 9/11 Memorial & Museum and One World Trade Center, plenty of popular attractions are in this Lower Manhattan neighborhood. 

Nicknamed “FiDi,” the Financial District is at the southernmost tip of Manhattan with waterfront views of New York Harbor from Battery Park. This is one of the best parks in Manhattan to catch the sunset, with The Statue of Liberty visible from a distance. 

My number one choice luxury hotel, The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel, is in the Financial District. This is the perfect hotel for couples and families alike. The interior and exterior are stunning, with award-winning meals served at the hotel’s restaurant, Temple Court. Even if you don’t stay here, grab a drink at the Bar Room at the Beekman. 

If you’re traveling to New York City for business, Conrad New York Downtown has the largest hotel event space for meetings and conferences in Lower Manhattan. While hotels in FiDi are generally more expensive, you can find some quality, budget-friendly options like Hyatt Centric Wall Street New York.  

Pros of Staying in the Financial District:

• Many subway lines (1/2/3, 4/5, A/C/E, J/Z, R/W)
• Scenic waterfront with Battery Park & Seaport District 
• Much quieter at night 
• Easy access to Brooklyn and rest of Manhattan 
• Accessible to Ellis Island & Statue of Liberty by ferry 

Cons of Staying in the Financial District:

• More business/ professional than touristy 
• Hotels are very expensive 

SoHo

👉 Best Area For Shopping | ✨ Best SoHo Hotels: The Dominick Hotel • Arlo SoHo • Soho Grand Hotel • Crosby Street Hotel

SoHo is the neighborhood you’re looking for if you’re traveling to NYC for lots of shopping and nightlife. You’ll have an array of places to go until the sun comes up, and the cobblestone streets, high-end art galleries, and retail stores are enticing to the eye. Young people and solo travelers will love SoHo.

This will be another neighborhood known for pricier hotels, but you can find some budget-friendly options with good reviews like Arlo SoHo. Crosby Street Hotel is a highly rated boutique hotel within walking distance of stores like Lululemon, Lacoste, and Artizia.

SoHo is home to some of the lesser-known museums like the Museum of Ice Cream and the Color Factory NYC. The streets are busy until late hours due to the lively bar scene, with Mother’s Ruin and Spring Lounge being two of the most popular spots. 

Pros of Staying in SoHo:

• Incredible for shopping & dining 
• Great walkability 
• Lively and trendy neighborhood 
• Beautiful architecture & charming streets 
• Vibrant nightlife scene 

Cons of Staying in SoHo:

• One of the most expensive neighborhoods
• Can be very crowded 

Gramercy

👉 Best Area For Luxury Accommodations | ✨ Best Gramercy Hotels: Freehand New York • Hotel Giraffe by Library Hotel Collection

Gramercy is one of Manhattan’s most elite neighborhoods, with remnants of New York City’s golden age still echoing along tree-lined streets and stunning brownstones. While pricey, the neighborhood is very walkable to major tourist attractions, with the streets being safe at all hours. 

If you’re seeking an exclusive stay, Hotel Giraffe lives in a beautiful, red-brick building that features a terrace offering 360-degree views of the city skyline. Freehand New York is an artistic, pet-friendly hotel within walking distance of the Flatiron Building and Madison Square Park. The hotel has five different bars and restaurants. 

It’s important to note that Gramercy Park is privately owned and available to residents only. However, the famous Gramercy Park Hotel is undergoing extensive renovations and is set to reopen in the spring of 2026. In the past, hotel guests had access to the park, so keep an eye out for updates! 

Pros of Staying in Gramercy

• Very safe 
• Stunning architecture 
• Central location near Midtown & Union Square 
• Quiet & more residential 

Cons of Staying in Gramercy

• Very expensive 
• Gramercy Park is private (Outside the park is just as pretty!)
• Less touristy (be prepared to walk to main attractions)   

East Village 

👉 Best Area For Creative Culture  | ✨ Best East Village Hotels: The Bowery Hotel • Moxy NYC East Village • UNTITLED at 3 Freeman Alley 

The East Village is one of New York City’s trendiest neighborhoods, a popular place to live among college students and young professionals due to its history, artistic scene, and buzzing nightlife. 

The neighborhood has become more expensive over the years, but the volume of bars, restaurants, and accessibility to the rest of Manhattan gives value for the money. 

The Bowery Hotel is a bohemian boutique stay with floor-to-ceiling windows and unique, industrial-style interiors. The central location is near music venues, bars, and the Bleecker Street train station. 

The best part of the East Village is the unbeatable food scene. An immigrant-friendly neighborhood, expect authentic cuisine reminiscent of home. Balade is one of the best Lebanese restaurants in the city, as well as Veleska’s Ukrainian comfort food (perfect for winter). 

Be sure to take advantage of the nightlife and check out Webster Hall for live music, or grab a cocktail at Please Don’t Tell. 

Pros of East Village:

• Trendy & artsy vibe
• Incredible food scene 
• Great nightlife diversity
• Multiple subway lines 

Cons of East Village:

• Can be loud & congested for families 
• Many older buildings

Greenwich Village

👉 Best Area For Nightlife | ✨ Best Greenwich Village Hotels: Greenwich Hotel • The Marlton Hotel • Washington Square Hotel 

Greenwich Village, which includes the West Village, is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Manhattan. It’s the heartbeat of NYC with its picturesque tree-lined streets, proximity to subways, and landmarks like Washington Square Park and the Stonewall National Monument. 

The area is known as one of the best for dive bars since New York University and The New School call Greenwich Village their campus. If you’re looking for an affordable option or are solo traveling, I recommend staying at Washington Square Hotel. For families, The Greenwich Hotel is highly rated, with two fabulous restaurants, The Drawing Room and Locanda Verde Tribeca. 

The ambiance is artsy and it’s full of brownstones that speak to Old New York City charm. The streets in Greenwich Village are even busier than SoHo, with popular bars like Dante NYC and Blind Tiger open late. The food scene is just as good as the bar scene, so it’s a well-rounded neighborhood for all kinds of travelers. 

Pros of Staying in Greenwich Village:

• Best neighborhood for nightlife 
• Historic & artistic feel 
• Many subway lines (A/C/E, B/D/F/M, 1/2/3, and L)
• Plenty of dining options & dive bars 

Cons of Staying in Greenwich Village:

• Can be loud & crowded for families 
• Not as many hotels 

Long Island City

👉 Best Area For Budget Travelers | ✨ Best Long Island City Hotels: Ravel Hotel, Trademark Collection by Wyndham• LIC Hotel • The Local NY

Long Island City is in the borough of Queens and sits to the east of Manhattan. The 25-acre Gantry Plaza State Park boasts spectacular waterfront views of the East River and well-manicured greenery full of people when the weather is nice. This area is my top choice for budget hotels since it’s conveniently close to Midtown Manhattan by subway. 

Long Island City used to be full of industrial warehouses, now converted to breweries, art galleries, and attractions like MoMa PS1, an affiliate of The Museum of Modern Art.

You can find hotels with great accommodations like Ravel Hotel and LIC Hotel, perfect for families. The area is highly accessible to Midtown Manhattan and Brooklyn with 8 subway lines. You can even take a ferry directly from Gantry Plaza State Park to Wall Street/Pier 11. 

If you’re open to staying at a hostel, The Local NY is the best in Queens. This is a budget-friendly option with a rooftop terrace to meet new people and check out the city skyline. 

Pros of Staying in Long Island City:

• Growing food scene with diverse options
• Quality hotels at cheaper price 
• Can get to Midtown Manhattan in under 20 mins 
• Gantry Plaza State Park for stunning waterfront views 

Cons of Staying in Long Island City:

• Not much of a late-night scene 
• Need to take the 7, E, M, N, and R trains to Manhattan 

Williamsburg

👉 Best Area For Younger Travelers | ✨ Best Williamsburg Hotels: The William Vale • Moxy Brooklyn Williamsburg• Penny Williamsburg

Williamsburg is a trendy neighborhood in the borough of Brooklyn that has boomed over the last decade for its thriving nightlife, diverse food options, and creative scene. It sits adjacent to Lower Manhattan, and offers crystal-clear views of the East River and Manhattan skyline from Domino Park.

Williamsburg is one of the best neighborhoods for younger travelers, first-timers, and families if you’re looking for hotels outside of Manhattan.

My number one highly-rated hotel choice here would be Penny Williamsburg for its eclectic “hipster” rooms, reasonable prices, and unbeatable skyline views from the rooftop bar. The hotel is centrally located with easy subway access to Manhattan via the L line and only 7.5 miles from LaGuardia Airport. 

If you’re a couple looking for a romantic stay, I recommend The William Vale, which boasts a 60-foot rooftop swimming pool for impeccable views and an open-air balcony in every guestroom. 

Williamsburg has drawn in young tech professionals over the years and its popularity rivals Manhattan neighborhoods. Bedford Avenue is full of vintage clothing shops like Brooklyn Woke Vintage and Rugged Road & Co.

You’ll find a lively bar and music scene and a fantastically diverse food scene. To be clear, you could return to New York City for a second visit just for Williamsburg since there’s so much to do and see in this neighborhood. 

Pros of Staying in Williamsburg:

• Brooklyn’s trendiest neighborhood 
• Creative & artsy community 
• Excellent food scene 
• Many bars and great nightlife options 
• Easy access to Manhattan 

Cons of Staying in Williamsburg:

• L train subway line often has issues 
• Popular spots can get crowded 
• Prices comparable to Manhattan 

Greenpoint

👉 Best Area For Laid-Back Travelers | ✨ Best Greenpoint Hotels: Franklin Guesthouse • Henry Norman Hotel • The Box House Hotel

I consider Greenpoint, Brooklyn, the quieter “sister neighborhood” of Williamsburg. It runs along the East River just north of Williamsburg and is historically Polish-American. You’ll find well-maintained old architecture mixed with modern construction and converted warehouses. There’s also fantastic cuisine, cute coffee shops, and walkable streets.

While akin to Williamsburg, Greenpoint is more mellow, with nightlife feeling more local than big-city. If you’re a family, it’s a great neighborhood to consider staying for a more relaxed, suburban feel.

The Henry Norman Hotel is my top choice for a high-quality hotel on a quiet residential street. Franklin Guest House is another worthy boutique hotel with luxurious, stylish lofts that make you feel like you live in the neighborhood. 

Although Greenpoint is well-connected to Manhattan and Downtown Brooklyn by the G line at Greenpoint Avenue, the area is more residential, and some parts aren’t as close to amenities. You can also take the 8-minute ferry into Manhattan departing from Greenpoint Landing and enjoy the picturesque views from the water. 

Pros of Staying in Greenpoint:

• Beautiful residential neighborhood 
• Quieter and family-oriented
• Great food & coffee scene 
• Hotels can have good deals 

Cons of Staying in Greenpoint:

• G train is the only subway line 
• Not as many nightlife options

Gowanus, Brooklyn

👉 Best Area For Unique Venues | ✨ Best Gowanus Hotels: TownePlace Suites by Marriott New York Brooklyn • Tru by Hilton Brooklyn • BOND Townhouse 

Gowanus in Brooklyn is a trendy neighborhood rapidly growing in popularity, particularly among young professionals. Formerly an industrial zone known for the Gowanus Canal, the former warehouses have been converted to apartment lofts, venues, and breweries. 

Gownaus is an excellent choice for travelers on a budget, young people seeking a creative scene, and visitors primarily staying in Brooklyn. The hotels are much more affordable than in Manhattan. TownePlace Suites by Marriott is highly rated for the area, offering rooms under $300 and within walking distance of Barclays Center. 

If you want to avoid tourist destinations and get a more unique feel, Gowanus has a surprising number of diverse venues. Popular activities include shuffleboarding, axe throwing, archery, and bouldering, all taking place in state-of-the-art settings. 

Once you’ve picked an activity, grab a craft beer or cider at Threes Brewing or Wild East Brewing Co., and mingle with Brooklyn locals.

Pros of Staying in Gowanus

• Very trendy and rising in popularity 
• Excellent bar scene with unique venues 
• Very accessible to popular Brooklyn neighborhoods 
• Attracts a strong artistic/ creative crowd 
• Can reach Manhattan in 35 mins via the R, Q, & F subway lines

Cons of Staying in Gowanus

• Far from some parts of Manhattan 
• Limited parks and scenic viewpoints 

Brooklyn Heights

👉 Best Area For Families Staying in Brooklyn | ✨ Best Brooklyn Heights Hotels: 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge New York •  Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge

I’ve recommended Greenpoint and Williamsburg in this guide, but my number one choice for families staying in Brooklyn is Brooklyn Heights. The affluent neighborhood is in proximity to Lower Manhattan, extremely safe, and the waterfront views are ethereal from the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. 

The one drawback of Brooklyn Heights is the limited hotel options. However, 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is a stunning waterfront hotel with arguably the nicest skyline in the city. The hotel is eco-friendly and perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway as well as families. 

Brooklyn Heights is worth taking a day to stroll the picturesque streets and see the unique architecture and old brownstones, particularly along Henry and Montague Street. 

If you have children (without allergies), be sure to visit The Brooklyn Cat Cafe, with two floors dedicated to cats and kittens. 

I recommend getting up early and grabbing brunch at Clark’s, an upscale diner locally famous and known for serving delicious comfort food. For dinner, al Badawi serves fresh Middle Eastern cuisine and doesn’t shy away from large portions. 

Pros of Staying in Brooklyn Heights

• Ideal location near Lower Manhattan & rest of Brooklyn 
• Stunning architecture 
• Waterfront views via Brooklyn Heights Promenade 
• Very safe for families & children 
• Cleaner streets 

Cons of Staying in Brooklyn Heights

• Few hotel options
• Nightlife is more oriented towards low-key bars

Boerum Hill

👉 Best Area For Historic Charm | ✨ Best Boerum Hill Hotels: Hilton Brooklyn New York • Bond TownHouse • Ace Hotel Brooklyn

Boerum Hill is a small neighborhood in the northwestern part of Brooklyn, not likely on your radar when searching for hotels. If you’re a seasoned traveler, the 19th-century brick rowhouses, tree-lined streets, easy subway access to Manhattan, and diverse food scene make this underrated neighborhood a great place to stay.

Sports fan? Barclays Center is home to the Brooklyn Nets and an eleven-minute walk from Boerum Hill, making it a good choice to stay if you’re catching a game. ACE Hotel Brooklyn is a 10-minute walk from Barclays Center and 2 miles from The Brooklyn Bridge. 

BOND Townhouse is a luxury boutique hotel and one of the most popular places to stay, so make sure you book in advance to get a room. Hilton Brooklyn New York is ideal for families and tourists on a budget.  

Brooklyn Heights Promenade’s pedestrian walkway is one of the best paths to catch stunning waterfront views of Downtown Manhattan and The Brooklyn Bridge. You can get to Lower Manhattan in 20 minutes by subway, but this area is further away from Midtown. While the nightlife is quieter, Boerum Hill has exceptional cuisine, particularly many Italian options.  

Pros of Staying in Boerum Hill:

• Easy access to Downtown Brooklyn & Manhattan 
• Very walkable 
• Plenty of cafes & restaurants 
• Cultural hub 
• Safe 

Cons of Staying in Boerum Hill:

• Limited nightlife
• Lack of parks, green spaces
• Farther from Manhattan 

Sunset Park

👉 Best Area For New York Harbor views | ✨ Best Sunset Park Hotels: Holiday Inn Express NYC Brooklyn – Sunset Park, an IHG Hotel • Wyndham Garden Brooklyn Sunset Park • Liberty View Brooklyn Hotel

Sunset Park is a neighborhood in Southwestern Brooklyn where the name truly speaks for itself. The official Sunset Park is an elevated 24.5 acres of pristine green beauty, offering views of New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty, and Manhattan from its highest points. 

Liberty View Brooklyn Hotel is a fantastic, budget-friendly stay with rave reviews. Wyndham Garden Brooklyn Sunset Park and Holiday Inn Express-NYC Brooklyn-Sunset Park by IHG are also good options for budget travelers. 

While the neighborhood itself is charming and safe, you’re 30-40 minutes from lower Manhattan by subway. The area is more ideal for travelers remaining in Brooklyn. 

Besides catching sunsets, the best thing to do in Sunset Park is check out Industry City. With retro-industrial buildings plastered with funky murals, food and drinks, crafty shopping, live music, and ongoing events, you can spend the day there doing different activities. This is New York City’s most diverse creative hub on the Brooklyn waterfront. 

Pros of Staying in Sunset Park:

• Great affordable food scene 
• Tons of green spaces 
• Waterfront view of Manhattan skyline 
• Good for families 
• Vibrant mix of cultures 
• Creative hub 

Cons of Staying in Sunset Park:

• Far from Manhattan 
• Lack of high-end retail & shopping
• Nightlife is limited

Chinatown

👉 Best Area For Diversity & Culture | ✨ Best Chinatown Hotels: Hotel 50 Bowery – JdV by Hyatt • The Leon Hotel • Hotel Mimosa

Chinatown in Lower Manhattan is a densely populated neighborhood within walking distance of Little Italy and Tribeca. The area is home to a thriving Asian community, with endless options of restaurants, markets, and tea shops. The Canal Street subway is well-connected to Manhattan and Brooklyn. 

I would recommend staying in Chinatown if you want to immerse yourself in a diverse cultural atmosphere or if you’re a family seeking budget-friendly hotels. Plus, Chinatown has a central location with easy access to Midtown Manhattan. 

The Leon Hotel is a great choice within walking distance of the Brooklyn Bridge and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Hotel Mimosa is a budget-friendly option 1 mile from SoHo, with The East Broadway Subway Station 1,056 feet from the hotel. 

The downside to Chinatown is that it’s constantly busy and might not be suitable for travelers looking for a quiet place to stay. The area will be bustling with market goers from Canal Street to Mott Street during the day. 

Dumbo, Brooklyn, and Midtown, Manhattan, are a twenty-minute subway ride from Chinatown. With the Brooklyn Bridge a fifteen-minute walk from Canal Street, so you can’t beat the location. 

Pros of Staying in Chinatown:

• Authentic markets & restaurants 
• Very walkable 
• Excellent location 
• Multiple subway lines
• Budget-friendly hotel options 

Cons of Staying in Chinatown:

• Very crowded & noisy 
• Canal Street can feel like a “tourist trap”
• Limited bars & nightlife 

Koreatown

👉 Best Area For Korean BBQ & Karaoke | ✨ Best Koreatown Hotels: Life Hotel New York• Hyatt Herald Square New York• Hotel Stanford • The Avalon Hotel 

Koreatown is a tiny enclave bordering NoMad, nestled between Madison Avenue and Greeley Square. West 32nd Street is home to over a dozen karaoke bars and the best Korean barbecue in the five boroughs. If you’re visiting New York City to see a game at Madison Square Garden or need access to Penn Station, this is as close as you’ll get, with both being within a 5-minute walk. 

The Avalon Hotel is the best boutique hotel in the area, offering suites, single guestrooms, and dog-friendly rooms available for booking. If you’re a business traveler, the hotel has facilities for scanning, printing, and faxing. The 19th-century Hotel Stanford is within walking distance of Times Square and the Empire State Building, and just a few hundred feet from the 34th Street-Herald Square subway line. 

Koreatown is a popular choice for bachelorette or group parties due to its bustling karaoke scene and proximity to Midtown. Herald Square is a two-minute walk away and is home to retail stores like H&M, Sephora, Nordstrom Rack, Macy’s, and Urban Outfitters. If you’re a fan of Korean skincare, you can purchase products from The Face Shop, H Art Koreatown, and Besfren Beauty on West 32nd Street. 

Pros of Staying in Koreatown

• Close to Midtown and major attractions
• Within walking distance of Penn Station
• Lively karaoke bar & nightlife scene 
• Best Korean BBQ in the city
• Close to major retail stores for shoppers

Cons of Staying in Koreatown

• Not ideal for families due to loud nightlife 
• Very congested streets
• Limited food scene beyond Korean BBQ

Tribeca

👉 Best Area For Historic Architecture | ✨ Best Tribeca Hotels: The Greenwich Hotel • The Frederick Hotel Tribeca • Warren Street Hotel 

Tribeca is one of the most architecturally beautiful neighborhoods in New York City, situated in Lower Manhattan bordering the Financial District and Soho. The affluent area is a popular home base for celebrities with fine dining, shopping, galleries, cobblestone streets, and Hudson River views at Pier 25. 

If you’re looking for a luxury hotel stay, the area has no shortage. The Greenwich Hotel, co-owned by actor Robert De Niro, features 88 individually decorated rooms, a spa, an underground pool, and the highly popular restaurant Locanda Verde. 

The Frederick Hotel Tribeca is a more affordable option within walking distance of the World Trade Center. The Chambers Street subway is a one-minute walk away and can get you to Midtown in 15 minutes. 

The streets are less congested than in the nearby Financial District. With an array of unique stores and boutiques, be sure to check out The Mysterious Bookshop, Church Street Surplus, One Art Space, and Shinola Tribeca Store. 

Architectural marvels like 56 Leonard, The Woolworth Building, and Staple Street Skybridge are sure to catch your eye, with styles ranging from Art Deco to Gothic Revival. 

Pros of Tribeca:

• Prime location in Lower Manhattan
• Accessible subway 
• Charming streets and historic buildings
• Safe location for families and couples
• Within walking distance of the Financial District

Cons of Tribeca:

• Not as well known for nightlife
• Expensive
• Less casual dining options 

Kips Bay

👉 Best Area For Casual Dining & Pubs | ✨ Best Kips Bay Hotels: Lex Hotel NYC • Freehand New York • American Dream Hostel 

Kips Bay is a neighborhood situated to the east of Manhattan, bordering Murray Hill to the north and Gramercy to the south. If you want to stay in a more budget-friendly part of Manhattan, consider staying in Kips Bay. The neighborhood is quieter with a low-key pub scene and is within walking distance of the East River.  

Lex Hotel is a laid-back boutique-style hotel walkable to The Empire State Building and Madison Square Park. The amenities feature a lovely rooftop terrace, a daily continental breakfast, and the hotel is pet-friendly. 

If you’re a younger traveler or a student visiting New York City on a strict budget, American Dream Hostel offers shared rooms, highly rated breakfast, and 24-hour security. With a lounge and shared kitchen area, you’re guaranteed to meet other travelers if you’re visiting solo. 

The neighborhood features a lively pub scene and plenty of casual dining, so you’ll feel more like a local rather than a tourist. With only a 15-minute walk to The Empire State Building, you’re close to major attractions while avoiding the congestion. The 23rd and 28th Street subway stations can take you throughout the city via the 6 line. 

Pros of Kips Bay:

• Affordable Manhattan option for budget-travelers
• Great laid-back pub scene
• Safe neighborhood
• Subway access to rest of city 
• Walkable to the East River 

Cons of Kips Bay:

• Not many fine dining or upscale nightlife options
• Not walkable to many major attractions 
• More residential feel than touristy 

Jersey City, New Jersey

👉 Best Area For Access to Manhattan | ✨ Best Jersey City Hotels: Canopy by Hilton Jersey City Arts • Residence Inn by Marriott Jersey • Hyatt House Jersey City 

If you want to stay outside of New York City, consider Jersey City, New Jersey, directly across the Hudson River. Enjoy a picturesque Manhattan skyline and view the Statue of Liberty from Liberty State Park, or visit an interactive museum at the Liberty Science Center. 

You can get to Manhattan in minutes by taking the $3 PATH train from Grove Street station in Downtown Jersey City to Lower Manhattan. If you want to be on the water, take the ferry from Paulus Hook terminal directly to Wall Street in under ten minutes. 

My top hotel choice for families would be Canopy by Hilton Jersey City due to its central location and fantastic amenities, including a fitness center, terrace, restaurant, bar, and lounge. This hotel is also a good choice for business travelers. 

Hyatt House Jersey City features residential-style rooms for business travelers only a few hundred feet away from the PATH train station and the NY Waterway ferry. 

For more information, see Yvette’s complete guide to staying in Jersey City.

Pros of Staying in Jersey City, NJ:

• Budget-friendly hotels 
• PATH train & ferry into Downtown Manhattan 
• Growing food scene 
• Stunning waterfront views 
• Great local bars 

Cons of Staying in Jersey City, NJ:

• Heavy traffic during rush hour 
• Nightlife-club scene limited 
• More industrial feel in some parts 

Hoboken, New Jersey

👉 Best Area For New Jersey Nightlife | ✨ Best Hoboken Hotels: W Hoboken • Sheraton Lincoln Harbor Hotel • Residence Inn by Marriott Jersey City

If you want exciting nightlife, Hoboken is one of the liveliest cities in New Jersey for a night out on the town. While the prices won’t be lower than in New York City, the bar and restaurant scene is on par with Manhattan in terms of quality. 

The waterfront city offers views of the Manhattan skyline from Pier A Park, and The Hudson River Waterfront Walkway is a scenic spot for a walk or bike ride. Look across the river and get a bird’s eye view of Lower Manhattan. And make sure to check out the nearby Frank Sinatra Statue – he was born there! 

The W Hoboken is the best choice of hotel, due to its central location and easy access to Manhattan by the PATH train or ferry. The PATH train can get you to Lower Manhattan in twenty minutes. 

While farther from downtown Hoboken, the Sheraton Lincoln Harbor Hotel is a great choice for couples with large suites and incredible Manhattan skyline views. Hoboken is a city I recommend looking at apartment rentals for some additional places to stay. 

For more information, see Yvette’s complete guide to staying in Hoboken. 

Pros of Staying in Hoboken, NJ:

• 10-15 mins to Manhattan by PATH train or ferry 
• Walkable 
• Family-friendly
• Vibrant & authentic food scene 
• Offers several parks 

Cons of Staying in Hoboken, NJ:

• Farther from main NYC attractions 
• Limited public transportation within Hoboken 
• Limited tourist attractions 

Tips for Staying in New York City

Keep these important New York City travel tips in mind when planning your itinerary. 

Take Advantage of the Subway

You should take advantage of the subway as much as possible, especially if you’re visiting New York City on a budget. A MetroCard will cost you $3.00 one way to go anywhere in the five boroughs, which is a great deal considering how costly the Big Apple is. 

The subway can be confusing for first-time visitors, so try and familiarize yourself with a subway map to navigate the different train lines. It might seem overwhelming, but I assure you, New York City isn’t too difficult to navigate once you get the hang of it! 

Only Take Yellow Cabs

This tip is important. Make sure your driver is certified and only take trips in yellow, metered taxi cabs. Black cabs and fake Uber drivers are known to take advantage of inexperienced passengers. 

Plan & Book Reservations in Advance

With so many things to do in New York City, it’s important to plan. If you’re visiting major attractions like The Empire State Building, One World Observatory, or The Edge, make sure to book in advance and show up early. There are often long lines, particularly around the holiday season. 

This is especially true if you’re planning on visiting NYC’s museums. Exhibits frequently rotate, and the hours can vary from place to place. Check the website for costs and museum hours in advance. 

Hotels in popular neighborhoods like Midtown, SoHo, and NoMad can book out quickly, and prices can soar during peak seasons. If you’re visiting for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or St. Patrick’s Day, make sure you plan your itinerary well in advance.  

Be Prepared for Unpredictable Weather

The best time to visit New York City is the spring and fall when the weather is cool and comfortable. 

Summertime is full of activities but expect heat and humidity. It isn’t uncommon for a torrential downpour on a sunny day, even when it wasn’t on the weather app! April and May are generally warmer months, but you should pack extra sweaters and jackets just in case the temperatures drop.

The winter months can be harsh, with freezing temperatures common from November to March. If you’re coming during the winter, make sure to pack extra warm clothes. See my full NYC packing list for more insight on what to bring.

Avoid Chain Restaurants Like the Plague

When visiting New York City, you should avoid chain restaurants and fast food at all costs. Seriously, it should be illegal. 

The Big Apple has some of the best restaurants and cuisines from all over the globe. Try new dishes, and venture out of your comfort zone when sampling different styles of cooking. 

Take Advantage of Central Park

If you only have time to visit one park, or if you’re traveling on a budget and are looking for free things to do, Central Park should be the choice. With a castle, a zoo, sprawling green spaces, and picturesque reservoirs, Central Park is in a league of its own. 

Avoid Staying in Dumbo, Brooklyn and Staten Island

Dumbo, Brooklyn, is an incredible neighborhood with famous attractions like The Brooklyn Bridge, Jane’s Carousel, and the iconic Washington Street view of the Manhattan Bridge.

However, I would advise against staying here. There aren’t as many hotels, and the restaurant and bar scene is lacking compared to nearby spots. My advice is to stay in Chinatown or the Financial District in Manhattan and take a day trip to Dumbo. 

If you want to stay in a central Brooklyn neighborhood, choose Greenpoint or Williamsburg. Don’t get me wrong, the neighborhood is well worth the hype as a touristy stop.

While Staten Island is a borough of New York City, it’s far away from famous attractions and has more of a residential neighborhood feel. You can ride the ferry for free from Midtown West/Pier 79 to the St. George neighborhood of Staten Island. The trip takes 35 minutes. Leave Staten Island for later trips to New York City if it’s your first time visiting!

📚 Related Reading: 1-Day NYC Itinerary & 5-Day NYC Itinerary

Want More? Listen to My New York City Podcast Episode!

If you liked this post, you’ll love my New York City episode on the Travel Lemming Podcast. It’s available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts (just search “Travel Lemming New York City”). 

I chat about where to stay in New York City at minute mark 06:33. Here are the hotels I mention in the episode:

• Broadway Plaza Hotel
• The Langham
• The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel
• HI New York City Hostel
• Henry Norman Hotel

The host, Sky, and I also discussed our favorite things to do in New York City (05:40), budgeting & saving money in NYC (32:38), Broadway shows & events (35:45), why more people should visit New York City (03:07) and all the other common questions about travel to New York City. 

Download now and remember to listen to the entire episode before you arrive in New York City.

FAQs about Staying in NYC

What are the best areas to stay in New York City for first-timers?

The best areas in New York City to stay for your first time are Midtown, NoMad, and Murray Hill. These neighborhoods are easy to navigate and close to all major attractions. The subway is well connected, and the streets are safe all hours of the day and night. 

What are safe areas to stay in New York City?

New York City is generally very safe to visit, but you should always be mindful and avoid certain areas. While there are amazing neighborhoods within the Bronx, I would avoid staying there during your first trip since it’s much further away from major attractions and might not be as safe in some areas. 

That’s not to say the Bronx doesn’t have incredible neighborhoods like Woodlawn, Morris Park, and Throggs Neck, definitely worth a visit. If it’s your first or second time visiting, I would stick to well-known neighborhoods like Midtown, SoHo, NoMad, and The Upper East & Upper West Side. These are the safest neighborhoods in New York City for travelers. 

For more information, check out our guide on safety in NYC.

What are the best parts of New York City to stay on a budget?

If you’re traveling on a budget, consider staying in Midtown or Chinatown in Manhattan. However, these neighborhoods will be noisy and have more congestion.

Long Island City, Queens, is another good option, only 20 minutes from Midtown by subway. Hoboken and Jersey City are my top picks for budget traveling in New Jersey, with easy access to Lower Manhattan. 

What are the best parts of New York City to stay for a long trip? 

If you’re staying for a long trip, I recommend more residential neighborhoods, like The Upper East Side, Murray Hill, or The Upper West Side. If you want underrated spots, check out neighborhoods deeper into Brooklyn, like Boerum Hill or Sunset Park. 

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Thank you for reading my guide on where to stay in New York City. I hope this made things a little bit easier. If you feel you need to venture outside the city or want to try something different, be sure to check out our list of fantastic NYC day trips.