Where to Stay in New York City: Top 6 Neighborhoods & Hotels

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By Riley H.

May 26, 2025

New York City has many neighborhoods, each with its character. From the bright lights of Times Square to the artistic vibe of SoHo, there's something for everyone. Whether visiting for the first time or returning for more, where you stay can make a big difference. Here is a guide to the best places to stay in New York, focusing on things to do in each area.

Where to stay in New York

Where to Stay in New York?

Here is the New York Map to help you understand where to stay in New York:

Where to stay in New York

Landmarks
New York
0km
Wall St
0.95km
SoHo
1.19km
New York University
1.87km
Penn Station
4.13km
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
8.08km
Central Park
8.31km
Columbia University
10.98km
LaGuardia Airport
13.07km
John F Kennedy Intl. Airport
20.58km

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Summary of Neighborhoods and Features

If you don't want to read the details, here is the summary of recommended areas you can consider to stay:
NeighborhoodKey Features
Midtown ManhattanCentral hub with major landmarks like Times Square, Broadway theaters, and the Empire State Building.
SoHoTrendy artsy area with boutique shopping, galleries, and cobblestone streets.
Upper East SideLuxury shopping, fine dining, and famous museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Downtown BrooklynMix of historic architecture, modern amenities, and proximity to Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Greenwich VillageBohemian vibe with tree-lined streets, charming cafes, and cultural spots like Washington Square Park.
Long Island CityModern area with affordable hotels, waterfront parks, and stunning views of Manhattan’s skyline.
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Midtown Manhattan: The Heart of the City

Midtown is the busiest part of New York. You will find famous landmarks like Times Square, the Empire State Building, and Broadway theaters here. It is best for first-time visitors, theater lovers, people who want to stay close to the action.
Where to stay in New York

Time Square @Trip.com

Recommended Hotels

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Things to Do in Midtown Manhattan:

Visit Times Square – The lights and energy of Times Square are a must-see. It’s busy, bright, and always buzzing.

Times
Times Square & Skyscrapers Walking Tour
two-hour tour
Tours by Foot guide you through Midtown Manhattan
From $39
Book Now!

Tour the Empire State Building – Head to the top for amazing views of the city.

Empire
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is an iconic symbol of New York City and is recognized worldwide
breathtaking panoramic views of the New York City skyline
From $33.45
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See a Broadway Show – If you're in the city during theater season, don’t miss the chance to see a Broadway performance.

Broadway
Broadway
lively and crowded place on Broadway is the intersection with Times Square
"The Phantom of the Opera", "The Lion King", "The Bad Witch" and so on
From $36.31
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SoHo: Trendy and Artsy

SoHo is known for its art galleries and boutique shopping. The area has a relaxed feel compared to Midtown. It is still close to important attractions. SoHo is a good choice if you want to experience a mix of culture and style.
Where to stay in New York

Soho @Trip.com

Recommended Hotels

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Things to Do in SoHo

  • Explore Art Galleries – SoHo is packed with galleries showcasing contemporary art. Wander the streets to discover hidden gems.
  • Shop at Boutique Stores – The SoHo streets are filled with designer boutiques and unique stores. It’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind items.
  • Visit Washington Square Park – This iconic park is a short walk from SoHo. Relax and enjoy the view of the famous arch.
Washington
Washington Square Park
appeared in many American film and television dramas
adjacent to New York University

Upper East Side: Elegant and Classic

The Upper East Side is famous for its luxury. It is home to high-end shops and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This area offers a more refined New York experience. It is a great place to stay if you want to enjoy quiet streets and easy access to museums.
Where to stay in New York

Central Park @Trip.com

Recommended Hotels

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Things to Do in Upper East Side

Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art – Spend hours exploring one of the world’s most famous museums. The art collection here is amazing.

Highlights
Highlights of the Metropolitan Museum Guided Tour
Metropolitan Museum of Art is aNew York icon since its founding in 1870
collection of more than 2 million objects
From $65
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Walk in Central Park – The park is just a short walk away. It’s perfect for a morning run or a relaxing afternoon.

Shop on Madison Avenue – Madison Avenue is lined with high-end stores. Whether you're window-shopping or looking for designer items, this area is a shopper’s paradise.

Downtown Brooklyn: Budget friendly & Great view

Brooklyn is a great place to experience a different side of New York. The neighborhoods of Williamsburg and DUMBO offer a mix of creative energy and urban style. You can find great food, cool cafes, and amazing views of Manhattan.
Where to stay in New York

Brooklyn Bridge @Trip.com

Recommended Hotels

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Things to Do in Downtown Brooklyn

  • Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge – One of the most iconic experiences in New York. Enjoy views of the skyline as you cross from Brooklyn to Manhattan.
  • Explore Williamsburg’s Bars and Cafes – Williamsburg is known for its vibrant nightlife and excellent food scene. You’ll find everything from craft breweries to trendy coffee shops.
  • Visit Brooklyn Bridge Park – This waterfront park offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and is perfect for a picnic or a relaxing walk.
New
New York City 90-Minute Cruise
4.7/5: Good
meeting point：Pier 78 at Hudson River Park 455 12th Ave
From $29.99
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Greenwich Village: A Bohemian Atmosphere

Greenwich Village is known for its charming streets, cozy cafes, and laid-back vibe. The area has a rich history and a bohemian feel. It’s quieter than Midtown but still offers easy access to downtown attractions. Perfect for those who want a peaceful place to stay while exploring New York.
Where to stay in New York

Greenwich Village @Trip.com

Recommand Hotels

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Things to Do in Greenwich Village

  • Stroll Through Washington Square Park – This park is the heart of Greenwich Village. Watch street performers, relax by the fountain, or just enjoy the atmosphere.
  • Visit the Comedy Cellar – If you enjoy stand-up comedy, this is the place to be. Many famous comedians have performed here.
  • Walk Along Bleecker Street – This street is lined with cafes, bookstores, and shops. It’s perfect for an afternoon stroll.
Guided
Guided Walking Tour of Greenwich Village Nightlife
4.8/5: Excellent
New User Exclusive $3 OFF
From $37
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Long Island City (LIC): Budget-friendly with easy transportation

Long Island City (LIC) is in Queens, just across the East River from Manhattan. It is a hub of creativity and modern living. The neighborhood has tall buildings, contemporary art spaces, and scenic views of the Manhattan skyline. LIC is perfect for visitors who want to stay close to the city while enjoying a fresh and dynamic atmosphere.

Recommand Hotels

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Things to Do in LIC

MoMA PS1: Discover contemporary art exhibits at this famous museum. It also hosts outdoor summer parties.

MoMA
MoMA PS1
Specialty exhibition halls
22-25 Jackson Ave, Queens, NY 11101
From $18.2
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  • Gantry Plaza State Park: Relax by the waterfront. The park offers open green spaces, a playground, and unmatched views of Manhattan.
  • Socrates Sculpture Park: Explore outdoor art installations while enjoying the fresh air.
  • Local Breweries: LIC has a thriving craft beer scene. Visit breweries like LIC Beer Project or Fifth Hammer Brewing for unique local flavors.
  • Hunters Point Library: A striking architectural landmark with peaceful reading areas and stunning city views.

How to Transfer to the City Center

LIC is well-connected to Manhattan. It’s easy to get to the city center:

  • Subway: Take the 7, E, M, or G train. The 7 train brings you to Grand Central Terminal in less than 15 minutes.
  • Ferry: The NYC Ferry departs from Gantry Plaza State Park. It offers a scenic ride to Midtown and Downtown Manhattan.
  • Taxi or Rideshare: Taxis and services like Uber are widely available for quick and convenient trips.
Rent a car for convenience Here!

Tips for visiting New York

Where to stay in New York

Time in New York

New York is on Eastern Time (ET), so if you’re flying in from another time zone, it can be helpful to adjust your schedule a few days before your trip. If you find yourself waking up too early or struggling to sleep, a short walk around Central Park or near the Hudson River can help reset body clock.

Understand the Tax in New York

In New York, sales tax is added to most items, but it’s important to know what to expect:

Sales Tax: The standard sales tax rate is around 8.875%, but it can vary slightly depending on the borough. For example, clothing and footwear under $110 are exempt from sales tax, making it a great place to shop for bargains.
Tipping: In restaurants, a tip of 18-25% is expected. For taxis, it's customary to tip around 10-15% of the fare. Hotel staff, like bellhops or housekeepers, may expect small tips too, usually around $1-$5 per service.

How to Save Money

CategoryHow to Save
Free MuseumMany museums have free or "pay what you wish" days.
- Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Free entry Fridays, 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM.
- American Museum of Natural History: Suggested donation instead of fixed ticket price.
Discounted Theater Tickets Visit the TKTS booth in Times Square for same-day Broadway tickets. Discounts often go up to 50%.
City Passes Buy a New York CityPass or New York Pass to save on multiple attractions. These passes often include skip-the-line privileges and discounts.

Plan Your Transportation

New York’s public transportation system, especially the subway, is the easiest and most affordable way to get around. Consider buying a MetroCard for unlimited rides. The subway is fast, but it can be crowded during peak hours, so be prepared for that. If you prefer walking, New York is a very walkable city, and many attractions are close to each other.
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