Where to Stay in New York City: A Practical Guide to Choosing the Best Hotels

One of the biggest challenges travelers face when planning a trip to New York City is choosing the right hotel. With hundreds of hotels in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and beyond, it can be overwhelming to figure out which neighborhood is most convenient, whether the area is safe, and how to balance comfort with budget.

Adding to the difficulty, recent government regulations on short-term rentals (such as Airbnb and VRBO) have driven hotel rates higher. Unless you’re traveling between January and March, it’s tough to find a good hotel in New York City for less than $350 per night. And keep in mind: hotel taxes add close to 20%, turning that $350 room into more than $400 per night. On top of that, many hotels add a “resort” or “facilities” fee of $20–$40 per night.

Family-Friendly Hotels in NYC: What to Expect

Families often assume they’ll find the same types of rooms available in places like Orlando or Los Angeles—large hotel rooms with multiple beds, sleeper sofas, or adjoining options. But in New York City, most hotel rooms are designed for double occupancy, meaning they comfortably accommodate only two people. Double-queen rooms aren’t guaranteed, sleeper sofas are rare, and rollaway beds are almost impossible to find. A handful of family-friendly hotels in Manhattan do offer larger family sized suites or adjoining rooms, but they’re limited and book quickly.

Why Finding the Best NYC Hotel Is Overwhelming

‍It’s easy to get lost in the endless rabbit hole of New York City lodging options. After hours of scrolling through booking sites and reading reviews, you may come away feeling more confused, discouraged, and uncertain than when you started.

That’s why I’ve created this curated resource. Below, you’ll find a map of recommended hotels in New York City that I have personally vetted—or that my travelers have stayed at with positive reviews. All of these hotels are in safe, convenient neighborhoods and offer reliable quality. I’ve highlighted:

• Hotels I personally recommend: where I've stayed or booked my clients with positive reviews.‍
• Hotels with larger-format rooms: ideal for families or groups. ‍
• NYC hotels with breakfast included: a rarity that can save you money and time.‍
• Boutique hotels in charming neighborhoods: for travelers who want a more local, authentic experience.

CLICK HERE for the map. Please feel free to share it!

NYC Hotel Prices: When to Visit for the Best Deals

‍Hotel rates in New York City are dynamic, shifting with demand. If a major event or holiday is happening, expect higher rates. During quieter times, prices dip. The cheapest months to book a hotel in NYC are January through March, while the most expensive time is during the holiday season (November–December).

Need more help?

Click on the yellow Plan Your Trip Button and send me a message. I'm happy to answer your questions and help you plan your trip to New York City. I offer 60-minute Travel Consultations and Custom Itinerary Planning. I can even purchase all of your tickets and make your dining reservations for the ultimate stress-free travel experience!