New York City—a whirlwind of culture, art, and life that never pauses. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, one truth stands tall: where you stay in the city can completely define your experience. A hotel in NYC isn’t just a place to crash—it’s part of the story, the backdrop to your adventure. From timeless icons near Central Park to chic boutique spots in the heart of Brooklyn, the city is packed with stays that bring the energy, style, and comfort you’re craving.

But with thousands of options out there, finding the perfect place to lay your head can feel overwhelming. That’s where this list comes in. We’ve curated the absolute best of the best—15 incredible New York hotels that deserve a spot on your must-book list right now. These aren’t just hotels—they’re destinations in their own right. Think rooftop views, Michelin-starred dining, five-star spas, celeb-worthy suites, and vibes that scream “only in New York.”

Whether you're dreaming of luxury lounging, craving a creative hideaway, or looking to stay in the middle of it all, there's a hotel here that'll hit the mark. Ready to find your perfect NYC stay? Let’s dive in.

1. The Plaza Hotel — Timeless Luxury at Central Park
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Nestled right on the southeast corner of Central Park, The Plaza Hotel isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a piece of living history. This legendary landmark has graced New York City since 1907, and it still reigns supreme when it comes to luxury, glamor, and prestige. From hosting royalty and presidents to making cameo appearances in films like Home Alone 2 and The Great Gatsby, The Plaza is the embodiment of classic Manhattan grandeur.

Once you step through its opulent doors, you’re immediately transported into a world of gilded ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and white-glove service. Each room and suite is tastefully decorated with French-inspired furnishings, and many overlook Central Park or Fifth Avenue. The bathrooms? Decked out in 24-carat gold-plated fixtures—because why not?

But The Plaza isn’t just about luxury for luxury’s sake. It’s also a complete experience. Afternoon tea at The Palm Court is basically a rite of passage, and the hotel’s Champagne Bar is perfect for a bubbly nightcap. There’s also a world-class spa, 24-hour butler service, and designer shops in the lower-level Plaza Food Hall.

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2. The Greenwich Hotel — Tribeca’s Hidden Gem
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Tucked away on a quiet cobblestone street in Tribeca, The Greenwich Hotel is the ultimate example of under-the-radar luxury. Owned by Robert De Niro, this boutique hotel doesn’t advertise itself with flashy signs or over-the-top glam. Instead, it draws in guests with its warm, handcrafted design, discreet service, and undeniable charm.

Every inch of the property feels personal, as if you’ve stepped into a carefully curated private home rather than a hotel. The 88 rooms and suites are all individually decorated with influences from around the world—think Tibetan silk rugs, Moroccan tiles, and reclaimed wood beams. The attention to detail here is unmatched.

It may be the most magical feature. The lush, ivy-covered courtyard. Hidden from the outside world, it’s a peaceful sanctuary where guests can sip coffee, read a book, or enjoy a moment of calm in the city that never sleeps.

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3. The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue — Understated Glamour
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Smack in the middle of Midtown Manhattan—but blissfully quiet—The Langham, New York offers a rare blend of serenity, elegance, and convenience. Located on Fifth Avenue between Bryant Park and the Empire State Building, this sleek, sophisticated hotel is perfect for travelers who want high-end comfort without the scene.

Unlike some of New York’s more theatrical hotels, The Langham keeps things simple and elegant. The design is modern with neutral tones, clean lines, and plenty of space (a luxury in NYC). The rooms are oversized by Manhattan standards, with floor-to-ceiling windows that provide sweeping views of the skyline. Even the bathrooms are impressive, featuring rainfall showers and deep soaking tubs.

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4. The William Vale — Williamsburg's Trendiest Stay
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Step aside, Manhattan—The William Vale is making waves from across the East River in Brooklyn. Located in the heart of Williamsburg, this ultra-modern high-rise hotel is all about edgy design, youthful energy, and incredible skyline views. If you're craving a stay that feels fresh, artistic, and a little rebellious, this is it.

Every room at The William Vale comes with a private balcony, which is almost unheard of in NYC. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail or snapping a sunset selfie, those panoramic views of Manhattan and Brooklyn are worth the price alone.

The design here is a mix of industrial-chic and cutting-edge minimalism, with custom artwork, sleek lines, and high-tech features throughout. And unlike some city hotels that feel cramped, The William Vale offers spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that make everything feel open and light.

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5. The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel — Where History Meets Hip
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Located in the Financial District, The Beekman is a beautiful blend of historic grandeur and contemporary cool. Housed in a 19th-century building that was once one of NYC’s first skyscrapers, the hotel centers around a breathtaking nine-story atrium with a pyramidal skylight. It’s the kind of space that makes your jaw drop the second you walk in.

Rooms feature oak floors, leather headboards, vintage-style furnishings, and walls adorned with art that feels part gallery, part Gatsby. It’s moody, sexy, and utterly captivating.

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6. The Mark Hotel — Upper East Side Elegance
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If you're seeking the ultimate Upper East Side experience, The Mark Hotel is your go-to. This 5-star gem sits just steps from Central Park and Madison Avenue’s upscale boutiques. But it’s more than just location—The Mark exudes a distinct blend of Art Deco charm and contemporary elegance. Designed by legendary French interior designer Jacques Grange, the interiors are chic, sleek, and unique.

Every room is decked out in custom furnishings, black-and-white marble bathrooms, and all the luxury tech you could ask for. It’s minimalist, but with a bold personality. You might even spot a celebrity or two—after all, it’s famously known as the home base for Met Gala prep and red carpet glam squads.

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7. The NoMad Hotel — Parisian Glamour in Manhattan
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Blending Parisian romance with Manhattan sophistication, The NoMad Hotel is a favorite among design lovers and jet-setters. Though the original NYC location closed in 2021, the new NoMad is back with a reimagined space, and it’s better than ever. The style? Think moody lighting, rich velvet drapes, clawfoot tubs, and vintage artworks that give the rooms a sultry, old-world charm.

The hotel is centrally located in the Flatiron District, just steps from Madison Square Park, offering easy access to downtown cool and uptown classics.

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8. 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge — Eco-Luxury With a View
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Overlooking the East River with direct views of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge, 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is a dream stay for eco-conscious travelers. This hotel is all about sustainability without sacrificing style. Reclaimed wood, native greenery, organic linens, and filtered water stations give every corner of the hotel an earthy yet elevated feel.

But the best part? The view. Whether you’re lounging in your room, enjoying a yoga class on the rooftop, or sipping cocktails at the bar, the backdrop is always breathtaking.

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9. Lotte New York Palace — Midtown Majesty
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If you’ve ever watched Gossip Girl, you’ve seen Lotte New York Palace. This stunning Midtown hotel—housed in a combination of a historic 19th-century mansion and a sleek glass tower—is an iconic choice for anyone craving classic New York elegance.

Its cathedral-like courtyard, grand staircase, and crystal chandeliers transport you to a bygone era. At the same time, its luxurious suites and modern amenities ensure your comfort is firmly rooted in the now. Some rooms even offer direct views of St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Rockefeller Center.

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10. Ace Hotel New York — Cool, Creative, and Community-Driven
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Located in the trendy NoMad neighborhood, Ace Hotel New York is a creative haven that’s part hotel, part community space, and all-around cool. With exposed brick walls, vintage furniture, and a rotating collection of local art, this hotel has an industrial, artsy vibe that resonates with musicians, designers, and globetrotters alike.

Each room is unique—some have turntables and vinyl collections, others feature acoustic guitars or retro fridges. It’s a bit like staying at your most stylish friend’s loft, if that friend also happened to offer excellent coffee and a killer lobby bar.

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11. The Ludlow Hotel — Boho Luxe in the Lower East Side
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For travelers craving downtown edge with boutique luxury, The Ludlow Hotel delivers on all fronts. Located in the heart of the Lower East Side, it’s surrounded by legendary music venues, hip restaurants, and gritty-chic charm. But inside, it’s all plush linens, Moroccan lamps, and a dreamy blend of bohemian and upscale aesthetics.

Many rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline or East River, and the loft-style layouts, reclaimed wood floors, and industrial lighting create the perfect blend of cozy and calm.

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12. The Standard, High Line — Party With a View
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Perched above the High Line Park and known for its full-glass walls and unbeatable Hudson River views, The Standard, High Line is one of the city’s most dynamic and daring hotels. It’s chic, it’s playful, and it’s become something of a legend in New York’s hotel scene.

The rooms are modern and minimal, but with floor-to-ceiling windows in every direction, the real star of the show is the view—sunset over the river, city lights at night, and people-watching in the park below.

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13. Arlo SoHo — Affordable Style for Explorers
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Located at the edge of SoHo, Arlo SoHo is one of New York’s best-kept secrets when it comes to affordable boutique stays. This micro-hotel is known for its efficient design, community atmosphere, and playful personality.

Rooms are compact (we’re talking cozy), but every square inch is well-thought-out. There’s clever storage, beautiful lighting, floor-to-ceiling windows, and modern bathrooms that punch above their weight. It’s a dream basecamp for travelers who plan to spend more time out exploring than in bed.

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14. The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad — Refined and Remarkable
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Last but not least, The Ritz-Carlton NoMad brings a fresh new energy to the iconic Ritz name. Opened recently in the vibrant NoMad neighborhood, this skyscraper hotel is sleek, sculptural, and seriously stunning. It’s everything you’d expect from the Ritz—opulence, service, and attention to detail—with a modern New York twist.

Rooms are spacious and sophisticated, with panoramic skyline views, marble bathrooms, and design touches that scream quiet luxury. The service? Flawless, from check-in to turndown.

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15. The Waldorf Astoria New York — Iconic Grandeur Reborn

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After an extensive multi-year renovation, the Waldorf Astoria New York has reopened, bringing back all the storied glamour with modern elegance. Located at 301 Park Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, this legendary hotel has long been an icon of NYC hospitality.  

Housed in a landmark Art Deco building, the Waldorf has kept its majestic roots—grand public spaces, luxurious finishing touches, and a heritage that whispers tales of old New York—while introducing sleek upgrades and contemporary amenities.  

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