Whether you’re drawn by Lower Manhattan’s soaring skyline, bustling waterfront or historic streets, a stay near the One World Observatory—only the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere—puts you at the heart of it all. We’ve rounded up our favorite hotels around this cloud-piercing skyscraper, from plush Manhattan hideouts to wallet-wise wonders.
High-end
The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel
Walking distance: 5 minutes to One World Observatory (via Nassau St and Fulton St)
By public transport: Fulton St station (A, C, J, Z, 2, 3, 4, 5 trains) is next door for easy access citywide.
Set in a restored 1880s landmark, The Beekman shimmers with old-school glamour that’s well suited to Manhattan’s most storied quarter. Inside, it’s easy to see why architecture buffs and Insta addicts visit purely for the photo opps: a nine-story Victorian atrium soars overhead, crisscrossed by intricate iron balconies and lit by a fantastically ornate skylight. But the mood here is more than just Gilded Age. Each room features elegant modern touches—plush beds, velvet reading chairs, oak floors and stacks of design books. Bathrooms gleam with marble and brass, and the in-room art nods to the literary and architectural legends of New York.
Two standout restaurants sit just off the lobby. Chef Tom Colicchio’s Temple Court blends fine American dining with cozy, low-lit ambiance—think jewel-toned banquettes and creative tasting menus. Augustine serves up French classics in a lively setting perfect for brunch or a celebratory dinner. The Bar Room buzzes from happy hour through midnight, drawing a fun mix of travelers and locals for signature cocktails under flickering gaslights.
When you’re ready to explore, One World Observatory is just a quick walk—making it easy to beat the crowds to a sunrise or sunset slot.
Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown
Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown
Walking distance: 3 minutes to One World Observatory (via Barclay St and Church St)
By public transport: Chambers St station (A, C trains) or Park Pl (2, 3 trains) are both within 3 blocks for easy access around the Big Apple.
If you crave 5-star luxury and stellar service to match, book a room at the Four Seasons Downtown. Rooms and suites are bright and extraordinarily spacious with soaking tubs, rainfall showers and floor-to-ceiling panoramas of the city or sky. Tech lovers will appreciate in-room tablets to control lighting and temperature, and to order room service, while plush beds promise a restorative night’s sleep after city sightseeing adventures.
But what really sets this hotel apart are its amenities. The on-site spa is an oasis after a day of exploration, featuring an indoor lap pool and sauna, and a serious menu of massages and facials. Wolfgang Puck’s CUT is the resident restaurant, drawing fans of dry-aged steaks and creative cocktails to an energized dining room crammed with the city’s movers and shakers.
The staff perfects the balance between professional and personable, remembering preferences and always greeting you with a smile. Whether you want a private yoga class, the inside scoop on the quietest times to visit One World Observatory, or a table at the hottest new Tribeca bistro, they’ll make it happen. And, when you want to visit the Observatory, just step outside and you’ll be there before you know it—no cab required.
The Greenwich Hotel
Walking distance: 10 minutes to One World Observatory (via Greenwich St)
By public transport: Franklin St station (1 train) is less than 5 minutes from the hotel
In the heart of Tribeca, The Greenwich Hotel is a one-of-a-kind retreat where subtle luxury and the spirit of neighborhood New York meet. Each of the rooms and suites has a unique personality: hand-loomed rugs, Moroccan-tiled bathrooms, deep soaking tubs and libraries stocked with world literature. There’s a definite private residence vibe—plush beds, silk drapes and a minibar filled with local treats make every stay feel personal. The ambient noise of downtown gives way to a hush inside, offering a break from the day’s excitement.
Travelers swoon for the tranquil pool and Japanese-inspired Shibui Spa, tucked below-ground in a lantern-lit sanctuary built from 250-year-old timbers. After your treatment, you can relax in the private guest-only lounge and courtyard or plan your next adventure with help from a canny concierge. On-site, Locanda Verde serves up rustic Italian fare—impossibly fresh pastas, wood-fired meats, and standout cocktails—in a buzzy, sun-drenched dining room popular with Tribeca locals.
From here, it’s just a short stroll to One World Observatory and some of the city’s best riverfront walks, as well as indie galleries, nightlife and the Tribeca Film Center. It’s not uncommon to spot a celebrity reading by the fire, but the Greenwich Hotel never trades on its A-list connections. Instead, you get sincerity, privacy and a sense that you’ve discovered your own downtown secret.
The Conrad New York Downtown
Walking distance: 10 minutes to One World Observatory (via Vesey St and West St)
By public transport: World Trade Center (E train) or Battery Park City Ferry are just blocks away
With its futuristic glass exterior and art-filled lobby, the Conrad New York Downtown delivers contemporary flair and soaring Hudson River views. Every room here is a suite, offering separate living and sleeping areas, two TVs, espresso machines, marble baths and, in many cases, breathtaking river views—ideal for families, business travelers, or groups who want a little extra room.
There’s plenty to love without even leaving the premises. Whether you’re enjoying afternoon tea in the lobby lounge, sipping rooftop cocktails with Statue of Liberty views at Leonessa, or dining on innovative Mediterranean cuisine at Atrio, you’ll experience a true sense of place.
Conrad’s staff are warm and resourceful—expect expert sightseeing tips, memorable service, and a smile. You’re within a block of Brookfield Place’s luxe shopping and gourmet markets here, and the Observatory is a less-than-10-minute walk through gleaming city towers and landscaped parks.
The Roxy Hotel
Walking distance: 15 minutes to One World Observatory (via Avenue of the Americas, White St, & Church St)
By public transport: Canal St station (A, C, E, 1 trains) is less than 5 minutes away
The Roxy Hotel brings a dose of old-school cool and lively nightlife to Tribeca. As soon as you step into its retro-chic lobby, the buzz of creative energy is palpable—think mid-century sofas, vintage tiling and an enormous neon-lit clock that’s become as much a local landmark as a timepiece. Rooms are stylish and practical, with velvet headboards, plush beds and inviting window seats that let you soak in city scenes or just unwind after a busy day downtown. The bathrooms are roomy with Carrera marble vanities, luxurious C.O. Bigelow products, and rain showers for a splash of modern comfort.
There’s a buzzing cocktail lounge and a jazz club that hosts renowned local musicians nightly, giving you a taste of New York’s storied music scene without ever stepping outside. For movie buffs, there’s an in-house 99-seat cinema screening indie films, cult classics and the occasional live concert video. The café is your spot for Brooklyn-roasted coffee and fresh pastries in the morning, transforming into a cozy spot for drinks or snacks by nightfall.
You’re a hop and a skip from SoHo’s retail therapy here, while One World Observatory is a 15-minute stroll, or just a couple of stops by subway.
Mid-range
The Artezen Hotel
The Artezen Hotel
Walking distance: 5 minutes to One World Observatory (via Nassau St and Liberty St)
By public transport: Fulton St station (A, C, J, Z, 2, 3, 4, 5 trains) is next door for easy access citywide.
The Artezen Hotel brings a fusion of modern design and comfort to the heart of Lower Manhattan. Step inside and you’re enveloped by sleek marble, calming earth tones and an air of tranquility that’s like a friendly hug after the city’s bustle. Rooms are apartment-like: spacious, filled with light, and equipped with everything a traveler needs—think espresso machines, rainfall showers, spa-worthy toiletries and yoga mats. Air purifiers and blackout shades ensure restful sleep.
The friendly staff here are passionate about helping guests connect with the neighborhood. Whether you need a running route, dinner reservation or just the best nearby bagel, they’re on it. Downstairs, the lobby lounge is a serene spot to plan your day or grab a quick espresso. The in-house fitness studio keeps your routine on track, and complimentary water bottles and snacks are always available if you’re in a rush.
The location couldn’t be more convenient: Liberty Park, Trinity Church, and the Oculus shopping complex are all a quick walk. One World Observatory is virtually next door, yet the Artezen’s block feels whisper-quiet— a true private retreat from the action.
Hotel Indigo NYC Financial District
Walking distance: 7 minutes to One World Observatory (via Greenwich St and Rector St)
By public transport: Rector St station (1 train) or Wall St station (2, 3 train) are both a 3-minute walk from the hotel
Colorful, contemporary and filled with downtown energy, Hotel Indigo offers a vibrant base for those seeking practical comfort and local flavor. Each room is decorated with bold murals that nod to the neighborhood’s storied shipping and market history. Expect comfy beds, big windows, rainfall showers and smart TVs—plus vibrant décor that makes every corner Instagram-worthy, no filter required.
Downstairs, Buttonwood, the hotel’s buzzing bar and eatery, gets lively at happy hour with craft cocktails and globe-trotting bites. You’re surrounded by dozens of classic NYC restaurants, parks and historic sites, and it’s only a short stroll to Wall Street’s iconic Charging Bull or The Battery’s harbor views. For travelers who want a fun, fresh atmosphere and unbeatable convenience, Hotel Indigo delivers a true taste of downtown without the sky-high price tag.
Gild Hall, a Thompson Hotel
Walking distance: 10 minutes to One World Observatory (via Gold St and Fulton St)
By public transport: Fulton St station (A, C, J, Z, 2, 3, 4, 5 trains) is next door for easy access citywide.
Inviting, urbane and oozing with classic charm, Gild Hall is a standout retreat in the Financial District. Walk in and you’ll notice warm dark woods, shelves of leather-bound tomes, and leather accents straight from an English manor—yet the vibe is distinctly cosmopolitan. Rooms balance timeless gravitas with playful touches, from tartan throws and brass fixtures to vintage trunk-style minibars. Bathrooms are spacious and well-stocked, featuring rain showers, Frette linens and D.S. & Durga bath products.
Downstairs, Felice Ristorante serves up rustic Tuscan dishes and expertly paired wines in a social, candlelit dining room. There’s also La Soffitta Wine Bar upstairs for post-sightseeing debriefs.
You're a brisk 10-minute walk from One World Observatory, with iconic NYC attractions like the Brooklyn Bridge just as close by. For travelers who crave a sophisticated, homey atmosphere with a distinctly New York twist, Gild Hall fits the bill.
The Frederick Hotel
Walking distance: 10 minutes to One World Observatory (via West Broadway and Barclay St)
By public transport: Chambers St station (1, 2, 3, A, C trains) is right across the street
Classic on the outside and contemporary within, The Frederick Hotel in Tribeca offers an intoxicating blend of historic charm and urban cool. Built in 1845, the hotel’s brick façade conceals interiors that brim with stylish touches—soaring ceilings, dramatic lighting and pops of teal and gold. Each guest room offers plush bedding, subway-tiled bathrooms and thoughtful extras like Nespresso machines, Frette robes and Bluetooth speakers. For an extra treat, some rooms feature skyline views or deep soaking tubs.
The on-site restaurant, Serafina, is a favorite for wood-fired pizzas and lively brunches. The reading lounge is a peaceful spot to escape with your Baedeker, while the compact gym keeps routines on track. Guests rave about the knowledgeable, approachable staff—always full of local recs for ramen joints, rooftop bars and riverside strolls.
Step outside, and you’re instantly amid hip Tribeca galleries, boutiques and cocktail dens. One World Observatory is a 10-minute walk or a quick subway ride, making it easy to visit whenever the mood takes you.
Smyth Tribeca
Walking distance: 13 minutes to One World Observatory (via West Broadway and Park Place)
By public transport: Chambers St (1, 2, 3, A, C trains) is half a block from the hotel
Sleek, sophisticated, and settled in one of the city’s most beautiful neighborhoods, Smyth Tribeca offers a residential feel with boutique hotel perks. Warm woods, caramel leathers and local artwork create an atmosphere that’s more chic city apartment than hotel chain. Rooms are spacious and thoughtfully designed, with oversized windows, rain showers, Bluetooth speakers and custom sofas for lounging after sightseeing.
Smyth Tavern turns out comforting classics in a bright, airy space, as appealing for morning coffee as it is for a late-night Negroni. There’s an intimate cocktail bar and reading lounge, and a small but well-equipped gym.
The staff are neighborhood pros, eager to share the best of Tribeca—from film festival events to hidden sushi gems or the prettiest corners of the waterfront. You’re minutes from cobbled streets, stylish boutiques and lively cafes; and just over 10 minutes’ stroll to One World Observatory.
Budget-friendly
The Washington
The Washington
Walking distance: 5 minutes to One World Observatory (via Greenwich St and Albany St)
By public transport: Rector St station (1 train), is less than five minutes’ walk from the hotel, for connections across the city.
Smart, modern and very conveniently located for visiting One World Observatory, The Washington hits the sweet spot between price and style. Step into a bright lobby, then up to compact, cleverly designed rooms with sleek lines and large windows. Crisp linens, work-friendly desks, rainfall showers and strong Wi-Fi ensure you stay comfortable whether you’re sightseeing or catching up on emails. Many rooms deliver knockout views of the neighboring skyscrapers—including some upper floors where you’ll catch a glimpse of One World Trade Center glittering just beyond your window.
Amenities at The Washington focus on convenience, from a fitness room to a grab-and-go breakfast bar, ideal for early risers heading to the Observatory or exploring the Financial District.
The front desk team is always happy to point you towards nearby cheap eats, cool coffee shops, or late-night food trucks—and they’re pros at arranging last-minute museum tickets or advice on the best ferry views at sunset. Hit the surrounding streets and you’ll find classic delis, fast-food favorites and the Oculus shopping complex just a stone’s throw away.
Holiday Inn Manhattan – Financial District
Walking distance: 7 minutes to One World Observatory (via Greenwich St and Rector St)
By public transport: The hotel is a couple of minutes from Rector St Station (1 train), and five from Wall St Station (R, W, 4, 5 trains)
Towering over the historic streets of Lower Manhattan, the Holiday Inn Manhattan–Financial District combines comfort, accessibility and a welcoming vibe in the world’s tallest Holiday Inn property. Its unbeatable location puts you less than 10 minutes from One World Observatory—close enough to be up the tower or wandering Battery Park faster than you can finish your morning coffee.
The rooms here are cleverly designed to make the most of the vertical space. Expect plush beds, a large window with city or harbor views, free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs with streaming capability. Compact bathrooms are pristine, with refreshing showers, a good supply of towels, and handy amenities for travelers on the go.
There’s a fitness center on site, and St. George Tavern right is a lively spot for casual Asian fusion and classic American bar fare. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to offer directions, book tours or suggest top neighborhood eats (including plenty of wallet-friendly options just steps outside).
The Wall Street Inn
Walking distance: 12 minutes to One World Observatory (via Broad St and Exchange Pl)
By public transport: 4 minutes to Broad St station (J, Z trains) and five to Wall St (2, 3 trains)
The Wall Street Inn offers an experience that’s more old-school Manhattan than slick new chain. This brick-clad, Beaux-Arts building delivers vintage charm inside and out, from brass keys at the desk to fresh flowers in the tiny breakfast salon. Rooms are warm and inviting, with traditional furnishings, soft beds and generous desks for writing postcards or plotting your next sightseeing excursion.
The Wall Street Inn is famed for its generous free breakfast—think bagels, yogurt, fruit and strong coffee served in a sunlit room that feels lifted from a European pensione. There’s also a small gym and sauna for unwinding after a day of exploring. Guests often comment on the tranquil, almost residential vibe, giving you a restful retreat after Lower Manhattan’s energy.
You’re an easy walk to the Observatory and just a few blocks from iconic sights like Trinity Church, Stone Street and Fraunces Tavern. Friendly, old-fashioned service adds a layer of local color, and the staff never hesitate to lend advice, maps, or an umbrella for rainy days.
Build your unique New York itinerary with our trip planner
We’ll give you the best route to check off all your must-sees, museums, landmarks and more
The Leon Hotel
Walking distance: 25 minutes to One World Observatory (via Lafayette St, direct route)
By public transport: Grand St station (B, D trains), take one stop to Broadway-Lafayette, transfer for 4/5 to Fulton St, then a quick walk to One World Observatory
On the edge of Chinatown and Nolita, The Leon Hotel is budget boutique—the kind of place where you can check in late, grab a coffee from the corner bodega, and still wake up to some of the prettiest views of the downtown skyline. Rooms are bright, with contemporary design, large beds, mini-fridges and rainfall showers. Upper floors have sweeping views down to the Freedom Tower and Brooklyn Bridge.
Staff are local experts who are as happy walking you to the nearest dumpling spot as they are securing tickets for uptown museums. There’s no restaurant or gym, but you get access to literally hundreds of local eats, coffee shops, bars and indie boutiques right outside your front door.
To get to One World Observatory, take a scenic 25-minute saunter through Soho and Tribeca or hop on the subway and zip downtown. The hotel’s location makes it easy to explore the Lower East Side, Little Italy, and the Seaport before making your way to Manhattan’s tallest tower.
Eurostars Wall Street
Eurostars Wall Street
Walking distance: 15 minutes to One World Observatory (via Wall St and Broadway)
By public transport: Wall St station (2, 3 trains) is 3 minutes from the hotel
Bright, modern and convenient, Eurostars Wall Street is perfect for travelers who’d rather save on the room and splurge on experiences. The vibe is unfussy—expect airy rooms with wooden floors and big beds. Many rooms have a small kitchenette with a microwave. Blackout drapes, speedy Wi-Fi, and effective air conditioning keep things comfortable.
Eurostars doesn’t have full-scale public spaces or fancy restaurants, but makes up for it with convenient self-serve breakfast and staff who know the Financial District inside and out. They’re always ready with a tip for the best late-night slice, a walking route to the Observatory, or directions to that little-known riverside park for some quiet time.
The South Street Seaport is just steps away for waterfront sips and historic ambles, while a straight shot up Wall Street lands you at the Observatory doors in around 15 minutes.
Looking for more NYC hotel tips? Check out the best stays by Central Park and check out our pick of high-end, mid-range and budget options near the American Museum of Natural History.
Step up your sightseeing with Go City®
We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.
See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® - just choose a pass to get started!
This article was generated with the help of AI to provide accurate and up-to-date information. The Go City team has reviewed and curated the content to ensure it meets our quality standards for accuracy and relevance.
