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New York’s 20 Hippest Hotels

New York’s 20 Hippest Hotels

New York is hip. So hip that it probably invented hip. So it's fairly safe to assume that a visit to New York will require a certain level of hipness on your part. Well, what better way to achiever this than to book into one of New York’s 20 hippest hotels. Our gurus have scoured the city and here is their short list; from stunning design-led properties and chic industrial conversions, to luxury stays frequented by those in the know!

For a design hotel

MADE Hotel is super cool, from its leafy, coffee shop/cocktail bar lobby to its reclaimed walnut floors, brushed concrete walls, and rooftop bar and terrace with show-stopping views of New York and superb food — and check out this bathroom with the window bricks overlooking the cityscape!
The Hotel 50 Bowery is new and chic, with exposed brick and brushed concrete walls, fantastic hanging lights and trendy colours — the kind you’d see in a Scandinavian film, or an Art Nouveau era factory. There are also Chinatown inspired splashes of red and lantern-esque lights. The views are excellent, from both the 229 rooms and suites and from the incredible rooftop bar.
The Crosby Street Hotel is a chic SoHo hotel with chic interiors by Kit Kemp, which attracts celebrities and design fans alike. There are 86 rooms and suites, with large windows, comfy beds, impeccable lighting and well appointed bathrooms — and all featuring chic colours and fabrics. There’s also a relaxed guests’ drawing room with an honesty bar, and a residents’ terrace too. The dining room and bar are popular with locals, and the hotel has a 160 seat private cinema with regular Sunday screenings.

For Cool Views

The William Vale is a cool pick in Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neighbourhood. The building itself is super contemporary, and the interiors are borderline futuristic, with floor to ceiling windows and white on white decor. The rooftop bar and 5,000 square foot pool is a big draw on a Saturday night, and its views of the city skyline are incredible. The menu is created by two of New York’s top chefs, and there’s a gym.
The Hoxton Williamsburg is a Hoxton hotel, but also in trendy Williamsburg. Converted from a watch factory and definitely fulfilling the brand’s industrial chic style, there’s lots of clever fixtures and fittings, and excellent use of space, with vast, well set up lounges and communal spaces. There are bars, a restaurant and roof terrace with incredible views of the skyline.
The Hotel on Rivington is well positioned on the trendy Lower East Side, close to Wall Street and the World Trade Centre, a position which means that its floor-to-ceiling windows have spectacular views of the city. The sleek, minimal details and furnishings give the feeling of a cool loft space. And the restaurant is a fusion of American brasserie cuisine and sushi.

For a top location

Freehand is a hip and affordable hotel in the heart of Manhattan, with almost 400 rooms and suites, and fantastically decorated communal spaces which include three restaurants, two bars and a 24 hour gym. Rooms have a mid-century vibe, with hand painted murals by local artists, making them interesting and memorable. Some rooms are triples or quadruple.
In a great spot in the trendy East Village, The Bowery is hip, chic and young, with 153 comfortable, loft-style rooms with vast windows and incredible views. The bars and restaurants are done in a vintage style with lots of old world charm, but of course you’ll find all the mod. cons..

For Romance

The Maritime Hotel is, as the name suggests, a nautical themed affair, with porthole windows and compact cabin-style rooms overlooking the Hudson River in the Meatpacking District between Chelsea and the West Village. There are two restaurants, both scaled to suit one of those elegant cruise liners from yesteryear, and the largest outdoor space of any New York hotel. Cool cats come from far and wide to eat in the restaurant. It’s family friendly, but we also think super romantic.
The Standard is tall, thin and covered in windows, so you have views from every room — even from the comfort of your bath. The decor is chic, and a bit edgy to suit the neighbourhood, and the bar and restaurant are places to be seen in, as well as to enjoy hip all-American food. The 18th floor lounge has 360 degree views, and becomes a nightclub after 9pm.

For SoHo Style

Sixty SoHo is in a near perfect SoHo location, surrounded by desirable restaurants, bars and boutiques. It’s chic through and through, starting in the lobby and ending on the rooftop bar and terrace, passing though 97 rooms and suites, littered with individual details, such as artworks by Harland Miller. The bar and restaurant are lively places in which to see and be seen.

For Hip Luxe

The Refinery Hotel is not a luxury hotel converted from an oil refinery, but a hat factory. The 197 plush rooms have high ceilings, hardwood floors, contemporary artworks and some offer views of the Empire State Building. The industrial conversion vibe is mixed with a suave contemporary flare to great effect.
The Andaz 5th Ave has an irreproachable address in the heart of Midtown. Its large glass windows make the most of the location, and the minimalist interiors are sleekly chic, with lots of space. Many rooms have private balconies overlooking Fifth Avenue. There’s a trendy bar downstairs serving tapas and cocktails.

For Families

HGU New York is an eco-conscious design hotel in the NoMad district, where you’re surrounded by hip restaurants and bars, and New York landmarks. Its 90 rooms and suites house a rather impressive collection of contemporary art and Turkish rugs, and the white-on-white bathrooms are a spacious pleasure. The terrace cocktail bar and ground floor bistro are also point-winners for cool. You can bring your pets as well as your kids, and the hotel will organise sitting of either.
The Nolitan is in a prime spot in Nolita, the charming predominantly shopping area north of Little Italy. It has 57 rooms and suites, with contemporary decor: think minimal, architectural styles against white walls and polished concrete. Bike hire is complimentary, as is skateboard hire. The decor, location and smaller size make it a good pick for families, we think, and the corner suites have incredible views.
Arlo Nomad is a cleverly designed hotel in the NoMad district, which manages to fit 248 rooms and suites into a small footprint, and still have expansive feeling communal spaces. The floor-to-ceiling windows help give a feeling of space, and the bespoke wood furnishings are smart and clever. There are two bars, a chic Sixties-style cocktail lounge and the glittering roof terrace, and there’s a Middle Eastern restaurant. Twelve of the bedrooms come with bunk beds for kids and all ages are welcome.

For great value

The Moxy NYC East Village is big and affordable, but beautifully designed with it. The 280+ rooms and suites are cosy and stylish, with spacious bathrooms featuring rain showers. The best have incredible city views. Because of the hotel’s size there’s plenty of lounging space, including three bars and a chic French restaurant, a roof terrace and cafe.
The Boro Hotel in Queens is just one subway stop from Manhattan, and that’s why it’s so affordable, but still so impeccably designed. The industrial chic decor featuring plenty of glass, concrete and wood flooring is pleasingly minimal in the 108 rooms and suites, and communal areas, which include a rooftop cocktail bar and a superb pizzeria.

Still not sure where to book?

You could browse our recommendaitons for all the best places to stay in New York
Or consider our Guru’s recommendations for 40 of Manhattan's Best Hotels, the Best Midtown Manhattan Hotels, the Best Uptown Manhattan Hotels, the Best Hotels for 5th Avenue,12 of Times Square’s Best Hotels or the best pet friendly hotels in New York
Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
- Hotel 50 Bowery New York (Lower East Side) 229 rooms from AU$598
  
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  Local exploring  -  Nestled into New York's Chinatown, with interiors that give nod to their surrondings- the ideal spot for an Eastern adventure
  City Style  -  A trendy and uber chic hotel offering a rooftop bar with fabulous views of the Manhattan skyline
  Sights nearby  -  You are right on the edge of Chinatown and a short hop to Brooklyn so get out and explore all the area has to offer!
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  A hip new addition to the hotel scene on the Lower East Side. Interiors are on point, with exposed brick walls, hanging Edison light bulbs, Chinatown inspired slashes of red and lantern style lamps. The views are remarkable- from the fantastic rooftop bar as well as from the chic suites and rooms. See More
  
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- The Bowery Hotel New York (East Village) 135 rooms from AU$579
  
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  Close to nightlife  -  Bowery Ballroom and Mercury Lounge are just 800m away, as well as a whole range of hip bars and clubs.
  Local exploring  -  This trendy district is full of exciting sites and areas to explore by foot or by bike.
  Lively  -  More for revelry than for pampering.
  Great walks  -  The hip and trendy East Village is best explored on foot, wander the streets or ask at reception for a good route!
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet, Fodors, Frommers, Kiwi Collection
  
  A young, hip and delightfully atmospheric hotel in the trendy East Village. Chic and comfortable rooms with large windows providing plenty of light and splendid views. The vintage bars and restaurants are full of old world charm. A fun and lively destination in an up and coming district. See More
  
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- The Standard High Line New York (Meatpacking District) 338 rooms from AU$686
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Wonderfully indulgent suites feature romantic stand alone baths with stunning views and downstairs expect wonderful cuisine.
  City Style  -  A super trendy creation by Andre Balazs- achingly hip and housing one of New York's most sought after nightlife spots.
  Views  -  Great views of the skyline and Hudson Bay
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet, Fodors, Kiwi Collection
  
  Oh-so chic rooms in the edgy ambient neighbourhood of Lower West Side. Ceiling to floor windows offer stunning views across New York, even from your bath tub. Hip all American food at the hotel restaurant and a 'to be seen in' bar. A hyper-modern way to experience New York. See More
  
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- Refinery Hotel New York (MIdtown South) 197 rooms from AU$608
  
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  City Style  -  A fashionable hotel in the heart of the Garment District- boasting a jazz bar, buzzy restaurant and chic interiors
  Great walks  -  You are just moments from the lovely Bryant Park
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  Lively  -  Hip and happening.
  Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels, Tablet
  
  A fabulous luxury hotel in a former hat factory, in New York's Garment District. Plush rooms boast high ceilings, hardwood floors, contemporary artworks and some offer views of the Empire State Building. The industrial conversion vibe is mixed with a suave contemporary flare to great effect. See More
  
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- MADE Hotel New York (NoMad) 108 rooms from AU$367
  
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  Local exploring  -  Located in the famed NoMad area with plenty to explore, and views of the Empire State Building from it's terrace bar
  City Style  -  A hip and happening hotel with uber cool interiors (and an excess of plantlife) that draws a young creative crowd
  Sights nearby  -  The Empire State Building is literally a stone's throw away, and so are many other imporatant NY sights
  Great walks  -  Wander down to Madison Square Park and explore this stunning stretch of greenery
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet
  
  A cool and collected hotel in the hip NoMad area of New York. The atmosphere is young and vibrant, from its leafy coffee shop/cocktail bar lobby to the reclaimed walnut floors and exposed concrete bedrooms. The rooftop bar and terrace offer show-stopping views and the food is by chef Greg Proechel. See More
  
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- HGU New York New York (Nomad) 90 rooms from AU$468
  
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  Local exploring  -  Situated in the heart of NoMad - perfect for discovering trendy restaurants, landmark sites and more
  Sights nearby  -  Explore Central Park with the Zoo, Rumsey Playfield, Delacorte Theatre and John Lennon’s iconic memorial at Strawberry Fields
  Restaurant  -  Ground floor stylish restaurant serving lunch and dinner from a simple bistro-style menu
  Great walks  -  Take a trip to the High Line and see art installations
  
  A mindfully designed and eco-conscious hotel in the NoMad district of New York. Luxurious rooms and suites feature chic modern art collections, custom Turkish patchwork rugs and white-tiled bathrooms. Sip on artisan cocktails on the terrace and eat at the delicious bistro. A hip base. See More
  
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- Moxy NYC East Village New York (East Village) 286 rooms from AU$166
  
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  City  -  Situated in NYC's East Village, the Lower Manhattan neighbourhood synomous with rock ‘n’ roll, outsider art and LGBTQ+ activism
  City Style  -  Each floor draws inspiration from a different era in East Village's history - from the earliest settlers to modern day
  Local exploring  -  The East Village is a place infused with the spirit of rebellion and the creative, experimental, edge of youth
  Sights nearby  -  Located directly across from famed music venue Webster Hall and just blocks from Union Square and New York University
  
  A trendy boutique hotel situated in East Village, the neighbourhood synonymous with the birth of the American counterculture. Cosy, stylish and affordable rooms offer walk-in rain showers and stunning city views. Sip artisan cocktails at one of the three bars and dine on French cuisine. A hip stay. See More
  
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- Crosby Street Hotel New York (Soho) 86 rooms from AU$872
  
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  Local exploring  -  Some of New York's best shopping, bars, cafes, restaurants and galleries are right on your doorstep
  Sitting Room  -  Residents only drawing room with honesty bar
  Sights nearby  -  A walk south-east of the hotel takes you to Little Italy.
  Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape, Fodors
  
  This achingly chic hotel in Manhattan’s SoHo district attracts celebrities and design addicts alike with its cool interiors by Kit Kemp. Despite the enviable location, it’s on a quiet street so you can leave the city chaos behind. Service is impeccable while still being relaxed. See More
  
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- Boro Hotel New York (Long Island City) 108 rooms from AU$277
  
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  Weddings  -  From small intimate gatherings to events with upto 200 guests - the New York backdrop makes this a memorable location
  City Style  -  Designed by architects Grzywinski+Pons, this is a stylish and functional city space perfect for the young and trendy
  Local exploring  -  Surrounded by a thriving scene of bars and restaurants, plus you are just one metro stop from Manhattan
  Local markets  -  During the summer months, a trip to LIC Flea and Food is a must
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  An uber-hip Queens property offering cutting edge design and a great location just one subway stop from Manhattan. Interiors mix glass alongside concrete with sharp lines and minimalist furniture. A rooftop cocktail bar and superb pizzeria complete the picture at this trendy stay. See More
  
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- The Hoxton Williamsburg New York (Williamsburg) 175 rooms from AU$292
  
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  Local exploring  -  This hotel is perfect for guests looking to explore the bars, boutiques and coffee shops of this newly-cool area of New York
  Romantic Break  -  With cosy rooms, a rooftop bar and skyline views, book this hotel for a chic romantic getaway in the Big Apple
  City Style  -  Set in the heart of stylish and hip Williamsburg, this hotel offers contemporary New York charm
  Sights nearby  -  A trip to New York would not be complete without visiting the Statue of Liberty, the most famous national monument in the USA
  Recommended by  -  CN Traveller
  
  This first US outpost of boutique British hotel group the Hoxton is nestled in the heart of trendy Williamsburg. True to the brand's industrial-chic identity, the hotel occupies the site of a former watch factory, referenced in the guestrooms' brass fittings and skyline views - a slick city stay. See More
  
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- Hotel on Rivington New York (Lower East Side) 110 rooms from AU$387
  
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  Weddings  -  The Penthouse is a premier event space in NYC, with floor-to-ceiling glass, 3000 sq ft across three levels and panoramic views.
  Local exploring  -  5 minutes from Little Italy, and close to SoHo, Tribeca and Chinatown, with Ground Zero and Wall Street both 1 mile away.
  City Style  -  A youthful and hip hotel with spectacular views of the Financial District and the downtown bridges.
  Restaurant  -  American brasserie CO-OP Food & Drink serves globally inspired, locally sourced cuisine and fresh sushi.
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  Youthful and modern hotel on the trendy Lower East Side, located near Wall Street and the World Trade Centre. The bright rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with spectacular views and sleek furnishings. The restaurant blends American brasserie with sushi and adds to the liveliness of the hotel. See More
  
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- Freehand, New York New York (Gramercy Park) 395 rooms from AU$352
  
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  Groups  -  With triple and quadruple rooms this is the ideal hotel for thos travelling as a group
  Value chic  -  A trendy and fun hotel in an unbeatable location, without the killer pricetag
  Great walks  -  Explore the area on foot and end up soaking up some fresh air in Madison Square Park
  Full of character
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet
  
  Finally an affordable and hip hotel in the heart of Manhattan! The interiors are bold and interesting and the walls are covered in unique murals designed by local artists. The three restaurants, two bars and 24 hour gym are all achingly cool. A real winner! See More
  
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- The William Vale New York (Brooklyn) 183 rooms from AU$396
  
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  City Style  -  This hip new hotel offers wonderful views of the NYC skyline, killer food, funky futuristic interiors and private balconies
  Hotel Entertainment  -  The hotel boasts New York's largest outdoor pool, a massive 5,000 square-foot number surrounded by a pool deck and loungers
  Romantic  -  Good for couples.
  Lively  -  Hip and happening.
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  A trendy new hotel in Brooklyn's uber cool Williamsburg neighbourhood. The ultra modern building is matched by sleek futuristic interiors, floor to ceiling windows and white on white tones. The food is curated by two of the city's top chefs and the rooftop draws a crowd on a Saturday night. See More
  
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- Sixty Soho New York (Soho) 97 rooms from AU$460
  
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  Restaurant  -  Acclaimed restaurant - a paean to Thai cuisine.
  Roof terrace  -  Rooftop bar
  Great walks  -  Learn about the Lower East Side’s rich immigrant history on foot during a guided tour at the Tenement Museum on Orchard Street.
  Local markets  -  Wander down to Chinatown, under two Km away, and check out all this dynamic area has to offer.
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  A hip and stylish SoHo hotel. The chic rooms are full of individual details such as artworks by Harland Miller and selected literature. Phenomenal bar and restaurant are incentive enough to stay here. A lively spot to see and be seen. See More
  
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- The Maritime Hotel New York (Chelsea) 125 rooms from AU$501
  
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  City Style  -  A funky nautical themed hotel in the trendy meat packing district, with a fabulous restaurant drawing a hip crowd
  Hotel Entertainment  -  The hotel's two restaurants and bar draw a lively and fun young crowd of hipsters and celebs
  Close to nightlife  -  Just minutes from the meat packing district- filled with hip bars, clubs and nightlife spots
  Designer Shopping  -  Just a five minute walk away you will find the West Village, one of NY's top shopping areas
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  A funky and unique nautical themed hotel between Chelsea and the West Village. Compact cabin style rooms boast Queen beds and portholes overlooking the Hudson River. With two exceptional restaurants and the largest outdoor space of any New York hotel there is plenty of space for celeb spotting! See More
  
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- The Nolitan New York (Nolita) 57 rooms from AU$629
  
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  Local exploring  -  With skateboards and bikes to borrow it's ideal for exploring SoHo, Little Italy, Chinatown and the Lower East Side
  Local markets  -  This area heaves with trendy boutiques and hotspots for picking up vintage threads
  Views  -  Great views from hotel
  Restaurant  -  Recommended.
  Recommended by  -  Tablet, Great Small Hotels
  
  A trendy spot in the hip Nolita neighbourhood. The interiors are contemporary, minimalist and undeniably cool - think white on white, polished concrete, oak floors and cashmere throws. With yoga mats and iPads awaiting in the rooms and skateboards or bicycles free to rent, nothing has been missed. See More
  
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- Andaz 5th Avenue New York (Grand Central) 184 rooms from AU$770
  
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  City Style  -  A contemporary space made up of large expanses of glass and minimilist design - an undeniably hip stay in the heart of Manhattan
  Local exploring  -  Well situated in between Times Square and Grand Central Terminal - perfect for exploring Midtown
  Restaurant  -  The trendy but informal resturant cum bar, Bar Downstairs, serves tapas and a great cocktail selection
  Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
  Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection
  
  A chic concept hotel located in the heart of Midtown. Interiors are minimalist & sleek with sharp lines, whitewashed walls, and plenty of glass overlooking the iconic skyline. The suites with large terraces are particularly impressive. A cocktail bar and tapas restaurant complete the picture. See More
  
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- Arlo Nomad New York (NoMad) 248 rooms from AU$248
  
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  Local exploring  -  Situated in the neighborhood North of Madison Square Park, convenient to Madison Avenue, Murray Hill and Midtown East
  Foodies  -  Discover a wide range of dyanmic and innovative eateries and restaurants in NoMad, with every cuisine imaginable
  Business meetings  -  Arlo NoMad provides an easy and well positioned base for business and leisure travellers alike
  Sights nearby  -  The Empire State Building is just two blocks north; Penn Station, Madison Square Garden and Korea Town are three blocks west
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  A slick modern hotel set in the heart of the up and coming NoMad district. Craftily designed rooms use limited space well with expansive floor-to-ceiling windows and smart wood furniture. The restaurant Lamalo serves Middle Eastern cuisine and has quickly become one of NoMad’s newest hidden gems. See More
  
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