Image courtesy of The Whitby Hotel, Firmdale Hotels
A boutique hotel is intimate, charming and idiosyncratic. It doesn’t have to be small, but it should feel that way: more personable, more special, more character-driven. The best boutique hotels in NYC check all of those boxes. Below, we highlight 15 of our favorite boutique hotels in NYC, from a tiny West Village gem to a luxe TriBeCa classic. All of these properties are frequently booked by our Fora Advisors, and all merit repeat visits.
Connect with a Fora Advisor to plan, book and level up your stay at a boutique hotel in NYC.
NYC boutique hotels with lots of character
The Whitby, Crosby Street Hotel and Warren Street Hotel
Image courtesy of Crosby Street Hotel, Firmdale Hotels
All three of these vibrant properties belong to Firmdale Hotels, an ultra-chic, meticulously designed collection of luxury hotels across New York and London. Like all Firmdale properties, the Whitby, Crosby and Warren are filled with art — pieces by famed artists, antiques, global finds — bold patterns and lots of color.
“Kit Kemp is an incredible self-taught designer,” Fora Advisor Julie Spence said of Firmdale’s co-owner and artistic genius. “Kit’s style somehow mixes bold colors, patterns and textures to perfection — it’s luxurious yet warm and often whimsical.”
The Whitby is a great choice for travelers who want to hit Midtown’s big tourist spots — Central Park, the city’s top museums (the MoMA is mere steps away), Times Square, Broadway and more — while enjoying a homebase that’s anything but touristy.
"The Whitby's whimsical style beautifully combines elegance, artistry and a spirit of fun," said Fora Advisor Jane Henzerling.
“With an understated façade, this is discreet luxury at its finest: the rooms are bathed in light, spacious and quite well appointed,” Fora Advisor Jennifer Schwartz added. “Between Kit Kemp's signature design palate and the adoring staff, you will feel just as cozy here, as if you were in your own home.”
Image courtesy of The Whitby Hotel, Firmdale Hotels
The same goes for the Crosby: “This hotel feels very high-end and luxurious but, most importantly, it felt so homey!” Fora Advisor Lauren Platt said.”
Fora Advisor Lisa Van Brunt loved the rooms’ “cozy, contemporary vibe with fun fabrics that will brighten up any gloomy NYC day."
She said the staff also inevitably brightens the day. "A welcoming smile and positive vibe goes a long way, especially in NYC!" she said.
(Sidenote: The Whitby, Crosby Street Hotel and Warren Street Hotel were among the first Michelin Key hotels in the US.)
Warren Street Hotel, in TriBeCa, is Firmdale’s newest boutique hotel in NYC.
“While Warren Street Hotel does mirror its siblings in terms of cozy maximalist design, this property's brighter, more playful personality definitely sets it apart from the rest,” Fora Advisor Gabby Rosansky said.
Fora Perks at Firmdale Hotels in New York City:
$100 food / beverage credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Related article: Announcing Our Partnership with Firmdale Hotels + 4 of Our Favorite Firmdale Properties
The Roxy Hotel New York
Image courtesy of The Roxy Hotel New York
Don’t be surprised if you catch half of Fora HQ “working” or holding small meetings in the Roxy’s airy lobby (the lobby bar is perfect for post-work drinks). Guestrooms line the perimeter of the hotel, so the lobby feels far more communal and open, with an exceptionally high ceiling. (Think of the Roxy as a hollow, Art Deco cylinder.) Django, the hotel’s underground jazz club, is not to be missed, nor is a night in their cinema, where you can enjoy a classic movie and a cocktail.
Fora Perks at The Roxy Hotel New York:
$50 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hotel Chelsea
Image courtesy of Hotel Chelsea
Few hotels are as steeped in New York City’s history as Hotel Chelsea, a sister property to the Greenwich Hotel in TriBeCa. Patti Smith, Andy Warhol, Janis Joplin and other notable characters frequented this colorful, eclectic West Side gem — and you’ll find curated works throughout its storied corridors. El Quijote, its famed Spanish restaurant, is a magnetic spot for savvy locals and travelers alike.
“A recent restoration helped refresh the hotel while maintaining the original artistic and rock and roll vibe,” Fora Advisor Anna Dobrenski said.
The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel
Image courtesy of The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel
The Beekman is where vintage charm meets modern luxury. The hotel's nine-story, skylit atrium, framed by wrought-iron railings, creates a grand yet inviting communal space. Check out the hotel’s exclusive Bar Room, and don’t miss a meal at Temple Court, where chef Tom Colicchio offers a refined take on classic New York dining.
“Each room is a sophisticated mix of classic design and contemporary details, creating a space that feels both timeless and fresh,” Fora Advisor Samantha Dwinell said. “The ideal guest is someone who loves the charm of the past but appreciates the sleekness of modern amenities — a perfect spot for those who enjoy the best of both worlds.”
Book your stay with a Fora Advisor to enjoy complimentary Hyatt Privé perks.
Fora Perks at The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel:
$100 hotel / resort credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Related article: How Titus Negrescu Found a Home at The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel
The best hotels for a moment of downtown luxury
The Greenwich Hotel
Image courtesy of the Greenwich Hotel
Robert de Niro’s fashionable TriBeCa hotspot never gets old. Wooden floors, old books and bespoke objects decorate the spacious rooms. The hotel’s Shibui Spa is arguably the best in the city, complete with a serene pool area, steam showers, the softest Japanese robes and all-natural treatment products. After a day of exploring — or relaxing — make a beeline for Locanda Verde, the hotel’s sexy Italian restaurant helmed by an NYC favorite, chef Andrew Carmellini.
Fora Perks at The Greenwich Hotel New York:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Barrière Fouquet's New York
Image courtesy of Barrière Fouquet's New York
This luxury TriBeCa gem combines Parisian sophistication with a New York spirit.
“From the effervescence of the signature scent, to the whimsical florals and perfect pastel pink used throughout, Barrière Fouquet’s is a feminine property through and through,” Fora Advisor Jennifer Schwartz said.
We also love the hotel’s French-inflected dining options. There’s Titsou Bar, a tastefully opulent speakeasy, Par Ici Café, a vegetarian staple and Brasserie Fouquet's New York, a bistro-inspired restaurant serving elevated French fare.
Part of what makes the hotel so special is that it’s family-owned, Fora Advisor Ashly Petropulos said. The original hotel owner’s children are dedicated to upholding her luxe vision.
That dedication is “evident in every detail of the New York location,” Ashly said. ”From the sophisticated design to the attentive service, the passion and care that the family pours into maintaining the high standard of their brand truly shines through."
Fora Perks at Barrière Fouquet's New York:
$100 food / beverage or spa credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
11 Howard
Image courtesy of 11 Howard
This sleek, minimalist SoHo hotel is effortlessly cool. It’s Scandinavian-chic-meets-downtown hip. Dine at Le Coucou, the hotel’s Michelin-Starred destination restaurant, which is consistently lauded for housing one of the city’s most beautiful dining rooms. And the wellness here is top-notch. 11 Howard has collaborated with HigherDOSE, the at-home light-therapy company, to create an on-site “infrared wellness spa.” Treatments include lymphatic drainage massages, red-light facials and infrared sauna sessions.
“11 Howard’s rotating collection of contemporary art, including striking works by Jeff Koons and other leading artists, elevates the hotel's modern aesthetic,” Fora Advisor Anna Dobrenski added.
Fora Perks at 11 Howard:
$25 daily food / beverage credit, welcome amenity, upgrade and late check-out whenever possible.
Related article: Our Favorite Hotels from TV Worth a Real-Life Visit
The Mercer
Image courtesy of the Mercer
The Mercer is where locals go when they need a break — a stylish, tasteful, beautifully appointed break. With six floors and just over 70 rooms, this SoHo gem feels especially intimate. We also love how the Mercer’s fitness center is available by appointment only, so if training is your thing, you can do so in peace. End your day at Sartiano’s, the hotel’s dimly lit Italian restaurant.
“The Mercer is perfectly situated in SoHo with a sophisticated, clean, ever-so masculine vibe,” Fora Advisor Jennifer Schwartz said. “Soaring ceilings, marble-clad bathrooms and sharing an address with Sartiano's? Count me in.”
Fora Perks at The Mercer:
Hotel / resort credit, welcome amenity, $30 daily breakfast credit, complimentary minibar snacks and soft drinks, upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Related guide: Trendiest Soho Hotels NYC Has to Offer
Boutique hotels in NYC with an approachable price
Hotel 50 Bowery
Image courtesy of Hotel 50 Bowery
The location of this NYC boutique hotel is prime: It’s in the heart of Chinatown, within walking distance of SoHo, Little Italy and the Lower East Side. In other words, you have easy access to Lower Manhattan’s best neighborhoods.
"Chinatown isn't a typical stay location in NYC, but if you've been many times, it's a fun spot to be outside of the tourist areas," Fora Advisor Jen Barnes said.
Hotel 50 Bowery’s rooms are comfy, modern and colorful, and come with some pretty spectacular views, especially from the upper floors, according to Fora Advisor Lindsay Vickerman. "You have a perfect view of the Midtown skyline, with the Empire State Building front and center," she said.
Fora Perks at Hotel 50 Bowery:
$75 hotel / resort credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, upgrade and early check-in whenever possible.
The Marlton Hotel
Image courtesy of the Marlton Hotel
No trip to New York City would be complete without a visit to charming Greenwich Village, the idyllic setting of many a movie. The Marlton, just off of Fifth Avenue, embodies the neighborhood’s bohemian vibe, but with a hipster edge. You’ll encounter many local New Yorkers working remotely in the handsome lobby, fueled by coffees served from the on-site espresso bar.
“The rooms are small, but cozy,” Fora Advisor Kelly Arcella said. She described the hotel as a “boutique, artsy” choice. Kelly added that the free breakfast is one of the hotel’s main draws, and the restaurant and the connecting lobby are perfect for reading or working.
Related guide: Fora Advisor Louisa Vann's Site Inspection of The Marlton, Greenwich Village
Fora Perks at The Marlton Hotel:
$25 daily minibar credit, complimentary bottle of wine, breakfast daily, upgrade and late check-out whenever possible.
Freehand New York
Image courtesy of Freehand New York
This lively boutique hotel in New York’s Flatiron District has a young, buzzy and artistic vibe. Custom artwork from Bard students and alumni line the walls, and the food-and-beverage outlets carry with them a fun, youthful energy. Don’t miss Broken Shaker, the hotel’s rooftop bar — and a former James Beard Award finalist, no less.
Fora Perks at Freehand New York:
Waived daily facility fee.
Boutique hotels in NYC that make excellent hipster hangouts
The William Vale
Image courtesy of the William Vale
The William Vale is so Brooklyn — in the best way. It’s hip, modern and vibey, with a rooftop bar overlooking the East River and the Manhattan skyline.
Fora Advisor Courtney Carter recommended enjoying your balcony views before heading up to the 22nd-floor terrace for additional views, drinks and a buzzy atmosphere.
The hotel is also hyperlocal, near Williamsburg’s coolest boutiques, restaurants, bars and markets.
Another plus: "The fact that every room has a (huge) balcony is amazing!" Courtney said. “There's nothing like having your morning tea while looking over at the Manhattan skyline.”
Fora Perks at the William Vale:
Exclusive rates and breakfast daily.
The Standard East Village
Image courtesy of The Standard East Village
The Standard East Village is a trendy spot, offering a laid-back, artsy atmosphere that reflects the character of the East Village. Sleek, modern rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows offer views of downtown Manhattan, and outdoor garden spaces with casual dining options capture the neighborhood’s bohemian charm.
The Standard also has a property on the High Line if you’d rather stay in the Meatpacking District. Expect panoramic views of the Hudson River and a lively, design-forward stay with great nightlife (Le Bain, on the hotel rooftop, is a must).
Fora Perks at Standard Hotels in New York:
Food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Plan your NYC boutique hotel stay with a Fora Advisor
These are just a few of the standout boutique hotels in New York City; there are accommodations to suit every budget and style. Booking with a Fora Advisor guarantees personalized service to help you find the ideal hotel and room type tailored to your preferences.
If you’d like further assistance, your Fora Advisor can also curate a personalized New York itinerary, whether you're interested in exploring iconic landmarks, sampling the incredible foodie scene or immersing yourself in the city's rich cultural offerings.
NYC boutique hotel FAQs & tips
Read on for a few answers to common questions about boutique hotels in NYC. If you’re looking for general information about visiting, check out our destination debrief of New York City.
Which of these boutique hotels in NYC allows pets?
Most of the options above allow up to two pets. Weight limits, additional fees and other considerations vary by hotel. A Fora Advisor can help you choose a boutique hotel in NYC that best suits your travel needs.
Which hotels have the biggest rooms or can accommodate groups?
Each hotel above can easily accommodate groups in separate rooms. If you prefer joining rooms, though, check in with a Fora Advisor. They’ll provide details on which properties offer this option. We recommend booking group travel to New York City well in advance.
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