A hotel may only be where you lay your head during a trip, but it can make or break your vacation. That’s especially true for NYC, which boasts a wealth of beautiful hotels that range from opulent luxury stays near top NYC attractions to sleek boutique hotels in trendy neighborhoods. These hotels landed on our list of best hotels because they offer something extra to make the experience more special, whether it’s a stunning view from a rooftop bar or a gorgeous space to hold your wedding photos.
Located in SoHo, this stylish hotel feels quintessentially New York and is walkable to many of the city’s best neighborhoods. The rooms and suites are elegant and spacious, but it’s the rooftop pool and bar situation that really makes this property shine. The pool overlooks the city’s most iconic buildings and is a perfect spot to sip cocktails or enjoy a light lunch.
It’s easy to see why this hotel is a celebrity favorite, with Kim Kardashian and Meghan Markle both having stayed here. The Mercer is known for its sleek and sophisticated aura, with 97 residential-style rooms and suites by designer Martin Brudnizki. The hotel also offers “incredible Parisian [dining] throughout the various restaurants,” and has a secret, private movie theater that looks like it’s straight out of the Champs-Elysees.
The only drawback of this elegant It List 2024 winner is that the neighborhood is a bit busy and the hotel can feel noisy at times. However, it’s still a gorgeous property to stay in with a pristine Guerlain spa, afternoon tea, and sweeping views of Central Park and Fifth Avenue. For the most dramatic city skyline views, book a room or suite that faces the Empire State Building (like the glam Empire Suite 5th Avenue).
Landing on our World’s Best Awards list in 2021 and 2023, this property is a true gem. The hotel sits at the intersection of stylish luxury and traditional elegance, with modern accommodations in a historic 1882-built neo-Renaissance mansion and a 55-story tower that overlooks St Patrick’s Cathedral. The hotel’s five different restaurants, including Sage Grill and Steakhouse and Shang Palace, serve up dishes that range from organic salmon to Australian lamb racks.
The hotel’s 190 rooms and suites are infused with Japanese sentiments, and each room features unique design touches, such as the Hinoki-Yu room with its fragrant, aromatic Japanese cypress tub. The hotel is also known for its wellness offerings, including a zen rock garden and Bonsai Hall stocked with examples of the Japanese tree and designed to help guests relax.