Check-in to one of the Big Apple's new kids on the block
New York City has long been a destination known for its world-class hotels and now new hotels are springing up all over the city, raising the bar when it comes to design, service and amenities – taking the city's hospitality scene to new heights.
Whether you're looking for a luxurious and historic hotel in Downtown Manhattan, a hotel with a tropical island theme in Times Square or a relaxing escape near the beach in Queens, we've rounded up six of NYC's hottest new hotels.
1. Pendry Manhattan West, Midtown West
Pendry Manhattan West opened its doors to the public for the first time in September 2021. Located on the revitalised west side of Manhattan, close to the High Line and Hudson Yards shops and restaurants, the sophisticated 164-room hotel is housed in a 21-storey, all-glass building.
The Gachot Studios-designed interiors combine the laid-back luxury of California with New York's classic style. There’s a state-of-the-art gym or guests can request a Peloton bike in their room. Come evening, enjoy pre-dinner cocktails at Bar Pendry then feast on Eastern Mediterranean delights at the main restaurant Zou Zou's. And, of course, there are endless other drinking and dining options on your doorstep.
2. The Rockaway, Queens
For an entirely different experience in the summer, spend a couple of nights at The Rockaway, an urban beach escape with an eclectic coastal chic aesthetic, a hip crowd and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Atlantic Ocean.
The surf beach is a short walk away and there is a heated outdoor pool open year-round. The four dining options include a rooftop bar with DJ nights for those long, hot summer evenings. For something more relaxing, it has a spa for those days you want some pampering and the hotel offers yacht charters, paddle boarding and SUP yoga in the warmer months.
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The hotel features 52 rooms and eight apartment-style bungalows which are ideal for extended stays. The ferry to Wall Street is two blocks away and takes 45 minutes.
3. ModernHaus SoHo, SoHo, Manhattan
ModernHaus SoHo is a boutique hotel in the heart of SoHo (short for South of Houston Street), a neighbourhood filled with art galleries, high-end fashion stores and independent boutiques. The 114 rooms overlook the city and its landmarks, and come with high-end amenities, including Frette linens, Nespresso machines and heated bathroom floors.
Extensive outdoor space includes a rooftop pool and bar – something truly coveted in the Big Apple. Another reason you won’t want to leave is the hotel’s signature restaurant, Veranda, which is headed up by Michelin-starred chef George Mendes and located in a retractable greenhouse. Top tip: it puts on a mean Sunday brunch.
You'll also find an impressive art collection from the likes of Alexander Calder and Harland Miller, a gym and a fleet of bikes for exploring the neighbourhood. Guests can also enjoy unique experiences such as a caviar masterclass.
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4. Margaritaville Resort Times Square, Midtown Manhattan
If you love to be in the heart of the action, then Margaritaville Resort Times Square is the place to stay. This newbie to the city's hotel scene has a laid-back tropical island vibe with surfboards on the walls and a giant flip-flop sculpture in the lobby. It might be part of a big chain but it ticks all the boxes for a fun place to call your temporary home.
It's the only hotel with a year-round heated pool in Times Square (frozen piña coladas obligatory), so don't forget to bring your bikinis and board shorts. The hotel has 234 rooms with ocean-inspired interiors, a fitness centre and five restaurants and bars, including the Tiki Bar and a rooftop bar with views of Manhattan's famous landmarks.
5. The Wall Street Hotel, Downtown Manhattan
You'll feel like you've stepped back in time at this vibrant Lower Manhattan hotel, housed in the historic Tontine Building on Wall Street. Its 180 rooms combine old-world charm with a serene colour palette and range from 300-800 square feet (28-56sq m).
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The Wall Street Hotel offers flawless hospitality, affordable rates and superb amenities, including a gym and lounge bar, with the restaurant and a rooftop bar slated to open soon. It’s in a prime position for experiencing all the neighbourhood has to offer. Sights such as Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty and the National September 11 Memorial & Museum are a short walk away. Or you can hop on one of the hotel bikes or electric scooters.
6. Thomson Central Park, Midtown Manhattan
A short walk from Central Park's southern edge on Billionaire's Row is Thomson Central Park. This landmark hotel is the height of elegance and sophistication, and its 587 rooms and suites are sleek and inviting. Book a higher floor room and you'll enjoy exclusive amenities and views across the lush acres of Central Park.
Opt for casual dining in a fun atmosphere at Burger Joint or enjoy an inventive menu in a refined setting at Indian Accent, while SRO is the prime spot for a craft cocktail or two. The hotel is pet-friendly and has a fitness centre, plus it’s minutes from MoMA, Carnegie Hall and Central Park Zoo.
Lead image: Modernhaus SoHo/Facebook