Hotels in NYC I Love (From Bougie to Budget-Friendly).
Whether you're visiting New York City for the first time or planning a delightful staycation (which I highly recommend, by the way), picking the right hotel truly matters. This vibrant city offers an abundance of options — some are iconic landmarks, others maintain a low-key charm, and then there are those that just perfectly capture the unique vibe of NYC. With that in mind, I put together a thoughtfully curated list of hotels in NYC that I genuinely love — places I’ve personally stayed in, toured extensively, or bookmarked for my future travels. Whether you’re looking to splurge on a luxurious escape or find a cozy spot that’s budget-friendly yet stylish, there’s something here for you to consider.
The Plaza Hotel (Midtown)
vibe: luxury, old-world glamour, main character moment
If you’re gonna go all out, this is truly it. The Plaza is undeniably the classic New York hotel. Just imagine: gilded ceilings that shimmer elegantly, afternoon tea served at the enchanting Palm Court, and being just a stroll away from Bergdorf Goodman, Central Park, and the iconic 5th Avenue. It’s not cheap, but if you're celebrating something monumental (or simply want to indulge in your very own "Eloise at the Plaza" fantasy), it’s absolutely and 100% worth every penny. Even stopping in for a delightful tea or a refreshing cocktail at the elegant Rose Club feels exceptionally special and memorable.
💰 rates: $$$$
📍 fifth ave & central park south
The Civilian Hotel (Midtown/Times Square-ish)
vibe: artistic, theatrical, hidden gem
This one’s a favorite of mine. The Civilian is so thoughtfully designed, drawing inspiration from the vibrant Broadway and theater world, and it showcases curated art in every corner. The ambiance is moody and chic, radiating a distinctly downtown vibe, despite its location in the heart of Midtown. Rooms are not only cozy but also sleek, making them a perfect retreat for relaxation. The rooftop bar, Rosevale, offers its unique atmosphere, providing a whole vibe that enhances your stay. It’s an ideal spot for girls’ weekends, solo getaways, or creative trips where you seek inspiration in every direction you look.
💰 rates: $$–$$$
📍 48th st between 8th & 9th ave
Budget-Friendly But Chic Hotels
Here’s where I truly get excited about the incredible options available. These are the affordable-but-stylish picks that I consistently recommend when friends ask me where to stay in the vibrant city — especially if you want to enjoy good design and a solid location without having to pay those extravagant plaza prices. Each option is thoughtfully selected to ensure you have a delightful and memorable stay.
1. Arlo Hotels (Multiple Locations)
vibe: trendy, minimalist, great for solo travelers
Arlo Soho and Arlo Nomad both hit that sweet spot exceptionally well — small rooms, yes, but they are super clean, thoughtfully designed, and equipped with lots of charming public spaces where you can work, relax, or enjoy a delicious drink. Plus, the rooftops are absolutely on fire, offering stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere.
💰 rates: $–$$
📍 soho, nomad, midtown
2. The Moxy Hotels (Times Square, East Village, LES)
vibe: playful, party-adjacent, always buzzing
Moxy is definitely the ideal choice for the social traveler seeking vibrant experiences. With great bars, beautifully photogenic rooms, and plenty of fun little surprises (hello, disco ball elevators), it's a perfect blend of excitement and comfort. Among the various locations, the East Village one stands out as my favorite. It offers a more laid-back atmosphere and is conveniently walkable to an array of delicious food options.
💰 rates: $–$$
📍 times square, east village, lower east side
3. The Jane Hotel (West Village)
vibe: vintage-y, artsy, extremely new york
This one’s got a rich history — sailors used to stay here during the bustling early 1900s — and it feels like a quirky little time capsule that transports you back in time. The rooms are super tiny (like, cabin tiny), creating a cozy yet intimate atmosphere, but it’s incredibly cheap, especially for being located in the vibrant West Village (!!), and is bursting with character that adds to its charm.
💰 rates: $
📍 jane st & west side highway
bonus: tips for booking nyc hotels
book early. the closer to your dates, the higher the prices jump (especially in spring and fall).
watch for fees. some hotels sneak in “resort fees” even if they’re not resorts 🙄
use points or sales. sign up for hotel loyalty programs or track on sites like Hopper or Google Hotels
don’t overlook staycations. even if you’re a local, a one-night escape can refresh your whole mood
Whether you want to splurge at the iconic Plaza Hotel, soak up the vibrant theater vibes at the charming Civilian, or keep it cute and stylish at Arlo or Moxy, there’s a unique version of NYC hotel magic waiting just for you. So go ahead and romanticize your next unforgettable stay in the city that never sleeps. You deserve it. And if you choose to stay at one of these fabulous spots, be sure to tag me in your adventures. I want to live vicariously through your keycard and all the experiences that come with it!
talk soon 🕊️
— ally
Whether you're visiting New York City for the first time or planning a delightful staycation (which I highly recommend, by the way), picking the right hotel truly matters. This vibrant city offers an abundance of options — some are iconic landmarks, others maintain a low-key charm, and then there are those that just perfectly capture the unique vibe of NYC. With that in mind, I put together a thoughtfully curated list of hotels in NYC that I genuinely love — places I’ve personally stayed in, toured extensively, or bookmarked for my future travels. Whether you’re looking to splurge on a luxurious escape or find a cozy spot that’s budget-friendly yet stylish, there’s something here for you to consider.