Boutique hotels in New York City

The Big Apple is well known for its skyscrapers, but there are also many hidden-gem boutique hotels that’ll make your stay a memorable one. Here are our top picks for boutique hotels NYC.

Sometimes it’s nice to skip the large chain hotels that can often feel overcrowded and at times monotonous, and focus more on smaller, more intimate hotel experiences, especially when visiting a city that already feels so jam-packed and intense. Thankfully, among the big chain hotels, there is (somehow) still enough space for boutique hotels NYC to flourish, which, at times, seem to offer more personable and unique experiences. From the most exclusive keys, to a (not so) secret garden, to Parisian gardens, to full service spas and beyond, boutique hotels in NYC have stepped up their game to make sure they are on par with some of the best New York hotel offerings. Here’s a list of our favorite boutique hotels in New York City.

The Beekman – a landmark amongst NYC hotels

This NYC favorite, located in the Financial District, is inside an historic building that was brought back to life after an unbelievable transformation. The Beekman is a landmark, best known for its nine-story atrium and jaw-dropping architecture. Each guest room has a vintage touch to them, serving some retro vibes. The hotel is also home to restaurants Temple Court, by famed restaurateur and chef Tom Colicchio and Augustine, by restaurant giant Keith McNally.

LIFE Hotel, NoMad – walk the walk at this boutique NYC hotel

The building that once housed LIFE Magazine is now a boutique hotel in NYC, making it possible to walk the same hallways as writers and artists who graced the pages of the iconic magazine.

The hotel’s 98 guest rooms and suites pay tribute to the building’s 1894 heritage, with turn-of-the-century-inspired décor, which provides a fun contrast to the technology alongside it.

Gramercy Park Hotel – unlock the secret garden

Many know Gramercy Park is only accessible by key, and a stay at the Gramercy Park Hotel provides guests with the coveted park key to the elite park that so many can only dream of holding.

The hotel is designed by Julian Schnabel and houses the acclaimed restaurant Maialino, in addition to the Rose Bar. But it’s the park, located across the street, which makes this boutique stand out from the rest.

Ace Hotel New York – historic hotel in Manhattan

In the heart of the action, Ace Hotel New York reaches out to the creative, the young, and those with an affinity for aesthetically pleasing details. The lobby is a workplace hub that draws in creative folks looking for an environment built for productivity. Once the work is done, spend some time in the hotel’s boutique shop, check out the art space which features up-and-coming artists, grab a drink at the really cool lobby bar or snap a pic of yourself in the photo booth.

High Line Hotel – a luxury NYC hotel offering

First built in 1895 as student housing for the General Theological Seminary, the High Line Hotel pays homage to its European roots, with it’s Parisian-inspired garden and courtyard for guests to enjoy as they sip their morning coffee or evening glass of wine. The rooms are full of light and feature hardwood floors, locally sourced furniture and oversized windows that look onto the High Line, a 1.45 mile-long elevated linear park, greenway, and rail trail created on a former New York Central Railroad spur on the west side of Manhattan.

The Mark Hotel – a boldly lavish NYC hotel

Expect to find nothing less than boldly lavish and luxurious rooms designed by the world-renowned Jacques Grange at The Mark Hotel. The décor consists of ebony, sycamore and nickel furnishings, a state-of-the-art Crestron panel to control room temperature, entertainment, and shades and lighting with just one touch.

The soaking tubs in the bathrooms at The Mark Hotel are black and white marble, to keep up with the theme of overindulgence. Guests who require extra-special shopping needs can call the hotel concierge for direct access to personal shoppers and expert advice from Bergdorf Goodman staff.

The William Vale – a boutique experience with superb views

This larger boutique with 183 modern rooms features floor-to-ceiling windows in addition to open-air balconies that look over the city’s iconic skyline.

During the warmer months, guests can lounge poolside at the 60-foot outdoor pool complete with pergolas, daybeds, and cabanas. Award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini serves up wood-fired pizza at Leuca, The William Vale’s on-site Southern Italian restaurant.

Crosby Street Hotel – an unassuming luxury hotel in NYC

This acclaimed boutique hotel in NYC was designed to be both inviting and visual appealing, with splashes of unexpected color throughout the spaces.

The majestic factory windows and heavenly beds in each guest room add to the Crosby Street Hotel’s wow factor. Make sure to enjoy afternoon tea in the hotel’s lush, sun-drenched courtyard, explore the common spaces, and head outside to get to know the neighborhood.

The Frederick Hotel – a reimagined hotel in Manhattan

Since opening in 1845 as the Gerard House, The Frederick Hotel has since hosted several notable guests over the years. Rumor has it that Abraham Lincoln took a nap here in the 1850s and that artist/actor Vincent Gallo paid a mere 22 USD per week in the early 1980s.

The hotel has since been reimagined and now houses 130 vintage-styled rooms in addition to the three-story Serafina Italian restaurant, which offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and room service.

Baccarat Hotel New York – a luxurious hotel near Times Square New YorK

This Midtown hotel is about as luxurious as they come, and with a name that comes with such prestige, it’s no wonder why this majestic hotel can render guests speechless solely from its beauty. Baccarat Hotel New York features Parisian-inspired living spaces decked out in the finest materials and amenities.

Arlo SoHo – where every day is a new experience

This boutique hotel provides guests with multiple opportunities to stay on property. With on-site programming offering everything from “Cozy AF Knitting” classes, where guests are taught how to knit a pair of gloves while sipping on hot chocolate, to mixology classes where guests are taught to shake, strain, and stir alongside some of the city’s finest mixologists, guests are highly encouraged to stay.

In addition to the 325 modern rooms, Arlo SoHo’s restaurant Harold’s Meat + Three serves incredible options to choose from like their mac and cheese and blistered shishito peppers.

Gowanus Inn & Yard – Industrial chic NYC hotel

Located across the bridge in Brooklyn, Gowanus Inn & Yard’s industrial chic architecture fits right into the aesthetic of the borough’s quirky Gowanus neighborhood.

With 76 studio-designed rooms, each a fusion of function and comfort, the Gowanus Inn & Yard is simple and practical for budget conscious travelers.

The Ludlow – a boutique hotel in NYC offering city skyline views

As guests walk through the steel and glass doors of the lobby into a lounge with oak-paneled walls, they will quickly get a feel for The Ludlow’s vibe, which pays tribute to New York in the 1980s.

The 175 rooms have a loft-like essence with big casement windows, many of which provide impressive views of the New York skyline. The hotel’s restaurant, Dirty French, serves Gallic classics with a New York sensibility.

The NoMad Hotel – a classical, luxurious hotel

Housed in a turn-of-the-century Beaux-Arts building, which has been fully restored to its original grandeur, The NoMad Hotel is a fresh take on the classic grand hotels of Europe, while giving that distinct New York taste.

The 168 rooms feel residential and are decorated in a classic, timeless style. Make sure to also book your tickets to The Magician, an intimate evening of magic featuring Dan White, which is held inside the hotels on weekends.

The Greenwich Hotel – luxurious offerings at De Niro’s place

Owned by Robert De Niro, The Greenwich Hotel offers guests the opportunity to have some solitude and privacy. With an incredible 15,000 USD a night penthouse, an acclaimed full-service spa, a drawing room, and an open-air courtyard reserved for guests only, this downtown oasis is the definition of indulgence and exclusivity.

The hotel is also home to Locanda Verde, a casual neighborhood Italian taverna that serves upscale menu items with first-class service.

The Standard – low-key luxury in Manhattan

Maintaining its chill factor, The Standard in the East Village is the embodiment of low-key luxury. The 21-story tower is entered through an original tenement-style building before ascending to unparalleled views of the city.

You’ll find a quiet, calm garden tucked away at street level, in addition to the widely acclaimed Narcissa restaurant, Café Standard and Narcbar, which are scattered throughout the property, as well as colorful locals who like to hang in the hotel’s hip spaces.

11 Howard – Boutique hotels in NYC eco-friendly pick

This sustainable boutique hotel is at the forefront of eco-friendly hospitality, leaving no detail compromised in the process.

From the minimalistic and chic design built on natural materials to the hotel’s dedication to philanthropy, 11 Howard is a unique property that will please you while giving you bonus points for being kind to the environment by staying there. The hotel is also home to Le Coucou, a Stephen Starr restaurant.

The Time New York – just steps from Times Square

A hidden gem within the Theater District and just steps from Times Square, The Time New York offers a luxurious experience for all guests. Take advantage of the hotel’s seasonal specials and avoid the hefty price tag one would come to expect from a property that offers Italian Frette linens, rain showers, and plush amenities courtesy of Maison Margiela Paris. There is a reason why this hotel is considered to be one of the best Times Square hotels!

Be sure to arrive at one of the luxurious boutique hotels in NYC in style by booking a professional Blacklane chauffeur service in New York.