Aerial view of the Central park in New York with golf fields and tall skyscrapers surrounding the park.
Pandora Pictures/Shutterstock.com

Upper West Side and Hell's Kitchen Hotels: Our Guide on Where to Stay

Updated by Pat Dorri on March 7 2024

If you are looking to experience more of New York City away from the tourist hot spots, then consider a stay in Upper West Side or Hell's Kitchen. Here you can get a feel for city life away from the hustle and bustle, but without straying too far from popular sites Central Park, Lincoln Center and American Museum of Natural History.

Head to Upper West Side and you can expect a relaxed atmosphere, with historic brownstones and popular Children's Museum of Manhattan plus Riverside Park. Neighboring vibrant Hell's Kitchen, is close to the Theater District and Times Square. Both are a great choice for those who want to be in the heart of the action and a slice of local life.

Read on for our favorite hotels in each category below, or click the links to skip to the hotel type you're looking for:

Where should I stay in Upper West Side?

Our favorite hotels in Upper West Side and nearby Hell's Kitchen are all shown on the map below.

Click the icons to see each hotel's name, its category, and a quick link that takes you straight to more information further down the page.

Our favorite luxury hotels in Upper West Side

From the bright lights of Times Square, to the dizzy heights of the Empire State Building, you can be sure to see jaw-dropping sights at every turn when you visit New York City. Why not add to the experience and book an exclusive stay in one of NYC's most luxurious hotels in Upper West Side and Hell's Kitchen, where Michelin stars and world-class spas are at your fingertips.

Aerial panorama of New York City waterfront skyline at sunset viewed from above Riverside Park
Enjoy the stunning views across New York City waterfront from Riverside Park in Upper West Side.
Mihai_Andritoiu/Shutterstock.com

Upper West Side and Hell's Kitchen are exciting neighborhoods close to all the action whilst also bringing an authentic flair. There are also plenty of great luxury hotels in the area, where you can expect some of the best service, dining and entertainment in the city. Check out some of our favorite choices below.

1. Trump International Hotel New York

'The Fancy One'

📍 One Central Park West, Upper West Side, New York, NY 10023

Book a stay at Trump International Hotel New York and you can expect a luxurious experience, in a prestigious location, with top-notch facilities, dining experiences and sweeping views of Central Park and the city skyline.

Close up of globe in the front of Trump International Hotel and Tower at Columbus Circle
The renowned Globe at the base of Trump International Hotel New York marks the entrance to this impressive hotel.
Osugi/Shutterstock.com

Why we love staying at Trump International Hotel New York

Staying at Trump International New York offers a prestigious Central Park location, with stunning views, and service to match. You can expect plenty to keep you occupied during your stay, plus you are on the doorstep to NYC top sites.

  • This luxurious hotel enjoys stunning views of the city and Central Park.
  • Take advantage of the welcoming indoor pool and spa - perfect after a day's shopping and sightseeing.
  • Afterwards book a table at on-site Nougatine, offering casual dining overlooking Central Park.
  • No need to worry about your car during your stay, with on-site valet parking.

What is there to do close to Trump International Hotel New York?

In an enviable spot right by Central Park, you don't need to walk far to explore top NYC attractions. It's prime location is one of the big draws of this hotel, and here are some of our favorite local places to visit when you are staying at Trump International Hotel New York.

  1. The Upper West Side - This upscale neighborhood combines architectural charm with cultural richness, where you can visit sites such as Beacon Theatre and American Museum of Natural History.
  2. Central Park - Popular haven in the heart of Manhattan, offering a peaceful escape from the bustle of city life.
  3. Times Square - The heart of New York's Theater District, famous for its neon-lit billboards, bustling crowds, and entertainment.
  4. The Jean Georges Restaurant - Located within the Trump International Hotel, it is known for its fine dining and has been rewarded with two Michelin stars for its exceptional cuisine and service.

Click here for more information about Trump International New York

2. Mandarin Oriental New York

'The Exotic One'

📍 80 Columbus Circle, Upper West Side, New York, NY 10023

The Mandarin Oriental New York is renowned for its Eastern-inspired atmosphere, incredible views, opulent spa and world-class dining. A stay here is sure to leave a lasting impression.

 Colorful Music exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), an art museum
Make sure to visit The Museum of Modern Art during your stay, with regularly updated installations.
Anton_Ivanov/Shutterstock.com

Why we love staying at Mandarin Oriental New York

If you are looking for a hotel experience that has The Hard Rock Hotel is the place for you, and stands out from other hotels. With memorabilia-laden interiors and a energetic atmosphere, this is sure to be a buzzing stay. Keep reading to see what else you can expect to find.

  • Every room has floor-to-ceiling windows to soak in the breath-taking city skyline views.
  • The 75 ft lap pool offers views of the Hudson River, with spa offering a huge range of treatments and therapies.
  • Stunning interiors throughout the hotel and lounges, with beautiful Eastern-inspired designs peppered throughout.
  • In-room dining option means you don't need to even get out of bed while you enjoy incredible food, and views, from your room.

What is there to do close to Mandarin Oriental New York?

You'll find Mandarin Oriental New York conveniently located by popular attractions and high-end shops, with plenty to do just steps away from the hotels impressive entrance. Here are some our best picks to visit during your stay.

  1. Central Park - Offers everything from wooded trails to cultural events, with plenty happening throughout the year.
  2. Fifth Avenue - High-end boutiques and historic landmarks, and home to iconic Empire State Building and New York Public Library.
  3. The Museum of Modern Art - Housing an impressive collection of contemporary artworks, painting and sculptures.
  4. MO Lounge - Make sure to book a table at MO Lounge at the hotel, offering delicious all-day contemporary American dining, or 346Tea. An outstanding afternoon tea.

Click here for more information about Mandarin Oriental New York

Our favorite Boutique Hotels in Upper West Side

If you are opting for a hotel away from central Manhattan, then why not also look for something a bit unique and quirky? There are lots of interesting places to stay in Upper West Side or Hell's Kitchen that have plenty of personality as well as great quality and service.

Aerial view over New York City at sunset. The Empire State Building is colored in red to honor the New York City Fire Department (FDNY).
You will never tire of the view across the incredible New York City skyline.
Mihai_Andritoiu/Shutterstock.com

Choosing to stay at a boutique hotel adds an extra level of excitement to an already unforgettable visit. Keep reading to see some of our favorite boutique hotels in Upper West Side and Hell's Kitchen, You won't be disappointed.

1. Romer Hell's Kitchen

'The Quirky One'

📍 8th Avenue, Hell's Kitchen, New York, NY 10019

This fabulous, quirky, hotel has great style, delicious cafe and fashionable corner store to boot. Set in the heart of Hell's Kitchen it is a great choice if you are looking for something fun and funky close to all the action.

Scenic view of the buildings, people and traffic within Hell's Kitchen
Hell's Kitchen is brimming with great local spots to visit, adding a vibrant and edgy slant on your stay.
schusterbauer.com/Shutterstock.com

Why we love staying at Romer Hell's Kitchen

Offering something different from the picture-perfect luxury hotels, Romer Hell's Kitchen brings lots of personality and a designer edge to your stay. This great value hotel is a real talking point. Here is what else you can expect to enjoy.

  • The rooms are modern, stylish, and spacious too. Great to relax into after a busy day, and night, exploring the city.
  • The hotel works with many local businesses and offers hotel guests invites to events.
  • Parking is included with your stay, so easy to arrive and start exploring the local area.
  • Hell's Kitchen Lounge and Restaurant on-site offers classic cocktails, and shareable dishes.

What is there to do close to Romer Hell's Kitchen?

Set in the fabulous Hell's Kitchen, this hotel is surrounded by gritty charm for an authentic NYC stay. With plenty of top attractions within walking distance, here are some of our favorite places to visit.

  1. Hell's Kitchen - There is plenty to explore in the immediate neighbourhood, with international restaurants, vibrant bars and nighlife.
  2. Central Park - You can expect a memorable visit whenever you choose to go, with plenty of space to explore - including a zoo!
  3. Hell's Kitchen Flea Market -A popular outdoor bazaar known for its wide range of vintage clothing, antiques, and local artisan crafts.
  4. Hell's Kitchen Neighborhood Café - Stop by at Romer's very own cafe for all-day dishes and local coffee.

Click here for more information about Romer Hell's Kitchen

2.The Wallace Hotel

'The Quiet One'

📍 242 West 76th Street, Upper West Side, New York, NY 10023

A stay at The Wallace Hotel is going to deliver something extra special to your visit to New York City, with stunning, stylish, rooms, impressive views and cosy lounges to unwind in the evening with a cocktail or two.

Evening view of the entrance to Metropolitan Opera House at Lincoln Center, with lit entrance and stairs
Check out a performance at the renowned Lincoln Center, within walking distance to The Wallace Hotel.
Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.com

Why we love staying at The Wallace Hotel

The Wallace Hotel stands out with its boutique style and modern, art-filled interiors, offering a sophisticated retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here are some other reasons why we think this hotel is great.

  • Nestled between two parks, the hotel is in a quiet yet central location on the Upper West Side.
  • The Wallace Hotel features a cosy lounge that offers live music on selected days.
  • Enjoy a great breakfast in the comfort of your room, with the room service option available at an extra charge.
  • Want to keep on the move? Then the state-of-art fitness center is open throughout the day and night.

What is there to do close to The Wallace Hotel?

The location of The Wallace Hotel is the perfect balance between Upper West Side's residential charm and closeness to cultural hotspots such as Lincoln Center and Central Park. Here is what else you can expect to see locally.

  1. Beacon Theatre - A historic venue known for its intimate setting for concerts, comedy shows, and other performances.
  2. Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts - Home to the Metropolitan Opera, New York City Ballet, and New York Philharmonic.
  3. The American Museum of Natural History - One of the largest museums in the world, renowned for its impressive collections of dinosaur fossils.
  4. The Wallace Lounge - Start your evening off here with a choice of imaginative cocktails, and variety of small plates perfect for sharing.

Click here for more information about The Wallace Hotel

Our favourite Budget Hotels in Upper West Side

Staying in Upper West Side or Hell's Kitchen places you really close to the top attractions in NYC, plus all the local sites and places to eat and drink. With so much to enjoy your budget needs to stretch to fit it all in, and there are great places to stay that won't break the bank.

Buildings and streets of Upper West Side of Manhattan, with yellow cabs driving along the road
You'll get a different side of New York when you meander around the brownstone buildings and shops along Upper West Side.
lucasinacio.com/Shutterstock.com

There are lots of budget hotel options in Upper West Side and Hell's Kitchen to consider when you visit this area of New York. If you are considering spending a little less on accommodation, to maximise what you can spend on what else is on offer, then keep reading to see some of our top choices.

1. CIVILIAN Hotel

'The Arty One'

📍 305 West 48th Street, Hell's Kitchen, New York, NY 10036

Close to New York's Theatre District, this theatrical and modern hotel has individually designed rooms with personality, plus great views of Manhattan, which you can enjoy from the rooftop bar. What's not to love!

Yellow taxi cabs and glowing electric signs abound at night in Times Square
Tick off a Broadway show from your itinerary, when you head for a memorable visit to New York City.
Lauren Orr/Shutterstock.com

Why we love staying at CIVILIAN Hotel

A must stay for any theater fans, the CIVILIAN Hotel has a theatrical edge as well as positioned close to the sights and shows of Broadway, with interiors dotted with designer flair and charm. Keep reading to see what else you can expect from your stay.

  • This stylish boutique hotel is close to Times Square, but provides a quiet retreat at the end of the day.
  • The rooms are cozy and comfortable, with great views of the Manhattan skyline.
  • The hotel features an impressive art and sculpture collection by local artists.
  • Modern Rosevale Kitchen on-site serves up irresistible American dishes.

What is there to do close to CIVILIAN Hotel?

A great choice for those looking for a hotel that fits with any budget whilst still delivering on location, service and style. The excellent location has so many great sites a short walk away, here are some of the best to visit.

  1. Times Square - Electrifying crossroads of the world, famous for its dazzling neon lights, enertainment and bustling crowds.
  2. Radio City Music Hall - Iconic entertainment venue known as the "Showplace of the Nation," and celebrated for its Art Deco design.
  3. Broadway Theatre- Legendary stretch of performance venues, with a dazzling array of productions and plays.
  4. Starchild - Head to the CIVILIAN Hotel rooftop lounge for evening drinks and chance to soak up views of New York's skyline.

Click here for more information about CIVILIAN Hotel

2. Hotel Scherman

'The Relaxing One'

📍 346 West 46th Street, Hell's Kitchen, New York, NY 10036

This contemporary and convenient hotel offers a quiet place to head after a busy day. Plus you can enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning which really is a bonus when it comes to a NYC hotel stay.

 Main lobby at Grand Central Terminal, with bustling crowds in the foyer
Make a visit to the impressive Grand Central Station foyer and you can immerse yourself in this breath taking, bustling setting.
Luboslav Tiles/Shutterstock.com

Why we love staying at Hotel Scherman

Staying at Hotel Scherman offers a charming and quiet respite, just steps away from the vibrant Theater District. It is perfect for a budget stay, where you can still expect great service and style.

  • A comfortable and quiet boutique hotel in a great location close to Times Square.
  • The rooftop terrace is a perfect spot to unwind from a busy day exploring the city.
  • Delicious complimentary Continental breakfast included every morning.

What else is there close to Hotel Scherman?

Located on a 46th Street, also known as 'Restaurant Row', there are unlimited options of where to head for food and drinks during your stay, as well as visiting bigger city sights. Here are some of our top places to visit during a stay at Hotel Scherman.

  1. Times Square - Bustling with tourists, street performers, and digital billboards that illuminate New York City's entertainment district.
  2. The Rockefeller Center - A landmark complex, famous for its Art Deco buildings, seasonal ice-skating rink, and views from Top of the Rock.
  3. Grand Central Station - Not just to visit for those travelling, but to visit to admire the ceiling mural and bustling marketplace.
  4. Broadway - Close by, this is home to New York's theater scene, where you can enjoy world-classplays, musicals, and performances.

Click here for more information about Hotel Scherman

Our favourite Family Friendly Hotels in Upper West Side

Thinking of visiting New York City with the whole family? Then there are plenty of fabulous places to visit with everyone in mind, and lots of hotels geared up for families too, particularly when you head towards Upper West Side and Hell's Kitchen neighborhoods.

Busy intersection with yellow taxis on the Fifth Avenue
Shop till you drop along famous Fifth Avenue, with gifts and treats for the whole family.
Ryan DeBerardinis

Choosing a family-friendly hotel in Upper West and the surrounding area makes sure that both adults and children are in for a great stay, in terms of both location and what the hotel provides during a family stay. With this in mind, check out some of our top picks below!

1. Hotel Lucerne

'The Traditional One'

📍 201 West 79th Street, Upper West Side, New York, NY 10024

The Hotel Lucerne is a great option for families heading to New York City, with plenty just on the doorstep, lots to keep you entertained, and breakfast included - ideal for everyone in your party.

Dramatic front entrance of Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum of modern and contemporary art
Take the short drive from Hotel Lucerne to visit the memorable artwork collections of Guggenheim Museum.
Tinnaporn Sathapornnanont/Shutterstock.com

Why we love staying at Hotel Lucerne

This pretty and modern hotel is totally geared up for guests of all ages, and at a reasonable price too given its location on the Upper West Side. Take a look at why this is a top pick for families looking for an extra special stay.

  • The hotel is in a beautiful historic building, with light and bright bedrooms and large family rooms.
  • If you want to chill out then make the most of the in-room flat screen TV and video games.
  • An American breakfast is included each morning. Why not enjoy it outdoors on the pretty patio?
  • Fancy something different? There are many restaurants and cafes within close walking distance.

What is there to do close to Hotel Lucerne?

A close walk to many top sites including Central Park, the Hotel Lucerne is in an enviable location close to all the action, whilst still providing a nice quiet stay come evening. Keep reading to see what is just on the doorstep during this great hotel stay.

  • The American Museum of Natural History - 0ffers a journey through time with vast collections of dinosaur fossils to cosmic exhibits.
  • Central Park - The city's beloved green heart, where nature, culture, and leisure activities can be enjoyed.
  • The Guggenheim Museum - A short drive from the revered Guggenheim Museum. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, it is a masterpiece of modern architecture, housing a renowned collection of impressionist, modern, and contemporary art.
  • Nice Matin - Make sure to book a table at Hotel Lucerne's restaurant, serving up French-Mediterranean dishes.

Click here for more information about Hotel Lucerne

2. Hotel Beacon

'The Central One'

📍 2130 Broadway, Upper West Side, New York, NY 10023

Named after an air beacon installed on the rooftop, the largest at the time, the memorable Hotel Beacon is a shining example of a great family hotel, set in a lovely area with great sized, modern rooms, for all the family to enjoy.

Sea Lion Pool at Central Park Zoo, New York City
Fun for all the family with a visit to the zoo nestled within vast Central Park.
Alan Tan Photography/Shutterstock.com

Why we love staying at Hotel Beacon

A stay at Hotel Beacon offers rooms and suites to suit families wanting to explore NYC, with many of the top attractions right on the doorstep. Here are some of the reasons why a stay here works well for you and your little ones.

  • A great hotel for families with studio rooms and suites that are all equipped with kitchenettes.
  • In top location Upper West Side, it is the perfect base to explore Manhattan.
  • Visit Viand Cafe on-site, offering all-day American-inspired meals.

What is there to do close to Hotel Beacon?

The location of Hotel Beacon in the Upper West Side is ideal for those looking for a quintessentially New York experience, located in a neighborhood known for its residential charm, whilst also being close to Central Park. Here are some other highlights.

  1. Verdi Square - A small park at the intersection of Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue, with monument of composer Giuseppe Verdi.
  2. Strawberry Fields - A tranquil section of Central Park dedicated to the memory of John Lennon, marked by the 'Imagine' mosaic.
  3. The Metropolitan Museum of Art - Known as the Met, is one of the world's largest and finest art museums with over two million works.
  4. Tecumseh Playground - A family-friendly spot with children's play equipment and basketball courts.

Click here for more information about Hotel Beacon