Whether you’re looking to be in the heart of it all, prefer a quieter location, travelling as a family or have a particular attraction you’d like nearby, each NYC neighbourhood provides something unique and you’re probably wondering where to stay in New York.
It’s helpful to have a general idea of how the sections of the city differ before beginning a hotel search, so here we give you a break-down of each of the most popular areas for tourists so you can get an understanding of which one best suits your needs.
Best Neighbourhood in New York for the ‘trendy’ people: SoHo
Location: South of Hudson Street
SoHo is known as one of the trendiest areas of the city. It’s easily recognizable by its trademark cast-iron architecture and its charming cobblestone streets make it a popular area for visitors. Some of the city’s chicest shops and boutiques are dotted all around Soho.
A stay in Soho puts visitors in close proximity to Chinatown, Little Italy, and Nolita meaning not only is this part of the city great for those looking for somewhere trendy, but it also offers so many upscale restaurants you’ll never run out of dining options.
Downside: not close to the NYC top landmarks and attractions
Times Square: 2.9 miles
Brooklyn Bridge: 1.2 miles
Empire State Building: 2.5 miles
Central Park: 3.8 miles
Broadway: 3.0 miles
New York Harbour (for Statue of Liberty): 1.1 miles
9/11 Memorial: 1.5 miles
Grand Central Station: 2.9 miles
The High Line: 1.5 miles
Rockefeller Center: 2.9 miles
Where should you stay in SoHo?
This swanky place, situated on Hudson Street in SoHo, is currently one of the most award-winning 4-star hotels in New York.
Although we’ll avoid listing each individual award the hotel has won over the past few years as it’d make for a pretty boring editorial, a couple of the most impressive include and 2019 Lifestyle Hotel of the Year by the Boutique & Lifestyle Leaders association and Winner of 2017 Indie Awards for Best Independent Hotel. For a list of all their awards visit their website.
The modern rooms, which are complemented with chic decor, come with a variety of bed types and views, so be sure to ask at reception which options are available and you might bag the perfect room for your requirements.
Tucked away down a cobbled side street in the upmarket neighbourhood of Soho, the Crosby Street Hotel is the very embodiment of the phrase “city escape”.
In addition to this boutique hotel’s beautifully designed rooms, there is also a state-of-the-art screening room where guests can watch a movie, complemented by food and drinks, meaning you can enjoy a first-class date night without having to leave the confines of your hotel. If that doesn’t guarantee a hassle-free romantic evening, we aren’t sure what does!
Best neighbourhood in New York for nightlife: Meatpacking District
Location: West 14th St to Gansevoort Street/Hudson River east to Hudson Street
With its cobbled streets, hip dining spots and upscale boutiques, the Meatpacking District is one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in New York. However, make no mistake about it, it’s the nightlife people usually come here for.
You’ll find a host of clubbing options in the Meatpacking District, and as well as the thumping discotheques, the streets are also packed with well-known restaurants, bars and cafes.
There are also several attractions to visit within walking distance including several must-see museums, Chelsea Market, and the unique elevated park known as the High Line.
Downside: not closely located to other areas of the city
Times Square: 3.0 miles
Brooklyn Bridge: 2.6 miles
Empire State Building: 2.4 miles
Central Park: 3.6 miles
Broadway: 3.0 miles
New York Harbour (for Statue of Liberty): 2.5 miles
9/11 Memorial: 2.3 miles
Grand Central Station: 3.0 miles
The High Line: 0.3 miles
Rockefeller Center: 3.3 miles
Where should you stay in the Meatpacking District?
It might be named the Standard Hotel, but the views from this property are anything but.
The hotel overlooks the famed High Line Park and it also offers the perfect spot to take in views of Manhattan and the Hudson River with its floor to ceiling windows.
There’s also a German beer garden where you can grab an ice-cold beverage and a rooftop dance club where you can have a boogie until it’s time to hit the clubs later on.
Address:
848 Washington St,
10014
New York
The SoHo House is a great choice for guests looking for modern and stylish accommodation for their New York stay.
This super chic and trendy property offers all the amenities you’d expect in a luxury New York City hotel. As well as being expertly decorated with comfy couches in top-notch decor, SoHo House is also ideally situated as it’s close to many of the area’s attractions and some of the best local restaurants.
Address:
25-35 9th Ave,
10014, New York
Best neighbourhood in New York for the touristy vibe: Midtown
Location: north to 59th St/south to 23rd St
If you enjoy staying n the heartbeat of a city then Midtown is the place for you. Times Square is loaded with hotel options that will put you right in the midst of New York’s exciting vibe.
There are always plenty of people moving in and out of the multitude of shopping and dining places in Midtown, and visitors staying in this area are only steps from all the top attractions, well-known landmarks, Broadway theatres and Manhattan’s most popular museums.
Downside: has a touristy feel, overly crowded, you won’t get that living-like-a-New Yorker experience
Times Square: 0.3 miles
Brooklyn Bridge: 5.6 miles
Empire State Building: 0.8 miles
Central Park: 1.2 miles
Broadway: 0.3 miles
New York Harbour (for Statue of Liberty): 3.9 miles
9/11 Memorial: 6.9 miles
Grand Central Station: 0.5 miles
The High Line: 1.7 miles
Rockefeller Center: 0.4 miles
Where should you stay in Midtown?
This award-winning hotel sits just across the street from one of New York’s most famous parks, offering great views for guests lucky enough to have rooms overlooking its grounds.
The trendy property offers world-class dining and all the charm you’d expect from one of the city’s most prestigious properties – it also has a great location, for those looking to be in the thick of the action in Midtown.
Address:
40 W 40th St,
10018, New York
If you want to be mere steps away from Broadway theatre, great dining and plenty of NYC attractions but don’t want to blow your entire travel budget on your accommodation then Staybridge Suites is the ideal place for you.
Perfect for ensuring you’re in the midst of it all while offering convenient amenities like its own fitness centre – ideal for those on the look-out for value-for-money Midtown Manhattan hotels; and let’s face it there aren’t too many to choose from!
Address:
340 W 40th St,
10018, New York
Best neighbourhood in New York for families: Upper West Side
Location: Between Central Park & Hudson River/59th W & 110th St
The Upper West Side sits to the west of Central Park in the upper end of Manhattan.
Home to many children’s museums and the famed American Museum of Natural History, the Upper West Side is the city’s most family-oriented neighbourhood. The area is mostly residential, quieter than many of the city’s other neighbourhoods and considered quite safe, making it perfect for families looking for some peace and quiet when they’re not out seeing the sights of New York.
The area is also home to the Lincoln Center, which hosts performing-arts institutions like the Metropolitan Opera and New York City Ballet – another option for the family if there’s a show on during your stay.
Downside: not very close to landmarks, not centrally located
Times Square: 3.2 miles
Brooklyn Bridge: 8.4 miles
Empire State Building: 3.5 miles
Central Park: 0.4 miles
Broadway: 3.2 miles
New York Harbour (for Statue of Liberty): 6.5 miles
9/11 Memorial: 6.4 miles
Grand Central Station: 3.2 miles
The High Line: 3.5 miles
Rockefeller Center: 2.5 miles
Where should you stay in Upper West Side?
Located on a quiet residential block in the Upper West Side in Manhattan, the Royal Park Hotel & Hostel is the ideal choice for families looking for somewhere that’s close to the main attractions while still being far enough away from the madness to guarantee peace and quiet.
The hotel has a range of amenities and services available for guests, and families looking to see some of the city’s best attractions can take advantage of the property’s concierge who’ll be glad to talk you through the options available.
Another reason the Royal Park is a stand out choice for families is the kids club, which is great for couples travelling with young children as this luxury allows them to see the sights safe in the knowledge the little ones are happy and entertained back at the hotel.
Address:
258 West 97th Street,
10025, New York
Overlooking the Hudson River, the Riverside Tower Hotel is one of the most prominent fixtures in Manhattan and also a great option for travellers on a budget.
The property is located within walking distance of Central Park, Beacon Theater and the National Museum of Natural History, making it a great base for families wishing to explore the more educational attractions in the city.
Address:
80 Riverside Dr,
10024, New York
Best neighbourhood in New York for museum lovers: Upper East Side
Location: 59th to 96th St/5th Avenue to East River
If you are a museum lover then there’s no question Upper East Side is the spot for you. Home to Museum Mile, you’re in close proximity to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Guggenheim, The Frick, plus many more cultural venues. The Upper East Side is where the most elite New Yorkers call home and you’ll witness some of the best New York City architecture.
The posh neighbourhood is also known for its luxury shopping outlets on Madison Avenue, so if you’re in NYC for some shopping and you’ve got some serious funds to burn then you’ve found the right place.
Downside: not very many restaurants
Times Square: 2.5 miles
Brooklyn Bridge: 6.7 miles
Empire State Building: 3.6 miles
Central Park: 0.5 miles
Broadway: 2.5 miles
New York Harbour (for Statue of Liberty): 7.3 miles
9/11 Memorial: 7.9 miles
Grand Central Station: 2.1 miles
The High Line: 4.2 miles
Rockefeller Center: 2.5 miles
Where should you stay in the Upper East Side?
The Pierre hotel in Upper East Side offers guests luxury, as well as a glimpse into the past with its old-world charm and decor.
Situated just a short walk away from Central Park, the hotel is also ideally located for anyone looking to explore the park’s relaxing setting.
Address:
2 East 61st Street &, 5th Ave,
10065, New York,
The Hotel Plaza Athenee is a luxury hotel which has seen some of the world’s best-known stars come and go over the years.
The luxury hotel is one of the most iconic 5-star places in New York, and the property features luxury decor and furnishings throughout, while regularly housing some of the most notable celebrities around.
For such high-quality accommodation, the rooms are relatively inexpensive, although at around $400 p/n they aren’t exactly cheap – then again not much is in the posh neighbourhood of Upper East Side!
Address:
37 E 64th St,
New York,
NY 10065
The best neighbourhood in New York for live music: Greenwich Village
Greenwich Village is known as one of the trendiest areas of the city. Rich in history, this mostly residential area is known as a hub for live music. It’s home to some of the best dining options and most interesting architecture the city has to offer. It’s a great place to stroll with its tree-lined streets and charming brownstones.
Downside: not many hotels, not nearby top NYC attractions
Times Square: 2.3 miles
Brooklyn Bridge: 1.9 miles
Empire State Building: 2.0 miles
Central Park: 3.2 miles
Broadway: 2.2 miles
New York Harbour (for Statue of Liberty): 1.8 miles
9/11 Memorial: 2.1 miles
Grand Central Station: 2.3 miles
The High Line: 1.0 miles
Rockefeller Center: 2.3 miles
Where should you stay in Greenwich?
While Greenwich Village doesn’t have an abundance of choice in terms of accommodation, The Walker Hotel would stand out in any neighbourhood in New York.
The boutique hotel features gorgeous, individually decorated rooms each with their distinct style, and there is also a range of amenities and services including a fitness centre, bar and restaurant.
Address:
52 W 13th St,
1001, New York
Best neighbourhood in New York for business: Financial District
Location: The area South of Chambers Street
Home to many of the city’s money-minded, the Financial District is a great choice for people on official duties, although the area isn’t strictly business.
It’s also home to many top NYC attractions and offers easy access to a host of other area attractions. Visitors flock to the area’s 9/11 Memorial & Museum and the newly revitalized South Street Seaport area.
From lower Manhattan visitors have easy access to Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.
Downside: not centrally located, many people leave the area after business hours, quiet on weekends
Times Square: 5.9 miles
Brooklyn Bridge: 0.5 miles
Empire State Building: 3.0 miles
Central Park: 6.4 miles
Broadway: 5.9 miles
New York Harbour (for Statue of Liberty): 1.0 miles
9/11 Memorial: 0.4 miles
Grand Central Station: 5.1 miles
The High Line: 2.7 miles
Rockefeller Center: 5.8 miles
Where should you stay in the Financial District?
Holiday Inn Manhattan – Financial District
Although the Financial District doesn’t have as many hotels to choose from as some of the other neighbourhoods in Manhattan, there are a few gems and our pick of the bunch is the Holiday Inn.
This hotel benefits from an ideal location as it’s situated just a few blocks from a number of the city’s premier attractions, including Wall Street, the 9/11 Memorial and the Statue of Liberty.
Each room features luxury bedding, flat screen HD TVs and coffee machines, and guests in town on business can take advantage of the hotel’s state-of-the-art business centre and in-room desk facilities.
Address:
99 Washington St,
10006, New York
Most unsafe areas in New York
New York is considered one of the safest cities in the US, with the violent crime statistics well below the national average. However, as with all other major cities in the world, New York still has its fair share of crime and unfortunately, a small percentage of it is directed towards tourists.
Don’t allow that to put you off though. While a careless attitude could get you into a spot of bother, if you avoid areas most prone to crime and violence, remain vig This is why it’s important to remain vigilant, and follow a few simple rules then you should be fine.
The main areas to avoid are the sketchier neighbourhoods in the Bronx, which include Mott Haven, Hunts Point, Tremont and Fordham – as well as Brownsville in Brooklyn, which is also a no-go zone for anyone wanting to stay safe.
Also, try to avoid parks at night time as they can be a magnet for gangs and it’s not uncommon for muggings to occur in typically safe places like Central Park after dark.
With a little common sense the likelihood of you becoming a victim of crime in NYC is low – especially for a US city – just be sure to keep valuables out of plain sight and stay within well-lit areas at night and you should be just fine.
Safest areas in New York
Address Report created a table of NYC’s safest and most unsafe neighbourhoods after crunching data for the crime stats in the city. They took into consideration total crime, as well as violent and non-violent crime, and finally neighbourhood population, and they concluded Queens was the safest of the 5 boroughs with none of the top 20 most unsafe neighbourhoods coming from that borough.
They found the top 5 safest neighbourhoods were in Manhattan (Sutton Place, Beekman and Battery Park City) and Queens (Malba and Belle Harbour).
You’ll be fine walking around pretty much anywhere in NYC during the day and the majority of Manhattan is safe day or night, although there are quite a high number of violent crimes around Times Square and the Theater district, as well as the Meatpacking District.
Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of which area in New York best suits your needs. For our tips on affordable accommodation, check out our best guides.
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