The Empire State Building is one of New York’s must-see attractions, and its Midtown Manhattan location means there are plenty of options for staying nearby. Whether you dream of skyline views, boutique surprises or just a wallet-friendly place to unwind after an adventure-filled day, we’ve got a hotel for you. Here’s our inside look at high-end stays, hip mid-range gems, and laid-back budget boltholes, all just a hop and a skip from the Empire State Building.
High-end
The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue
Walking distance: 8 minutes
By public transport: Around 5 minutes by cab
The Langham delivers sleek modern luxury in a calm, light-filled space on Fifth Avenue. Think plush beds, marble bathrooms and floor-to-ceiling windows showing off skyscraper views that remind you where you are: the undeniable heart of Manhattan. Rooms feel huge by New York standards, with deep rosewood finishes, gentle lighting and plenty of smart tech. Even entry-level rooms have Nespresso machines, rainfall showers and buttery-soft robes. If you’re celebrating something special, suites dial up the wow factor with oversized tubs and window-facing chaise lounges perfect for catching a sunset show.
The lobby bar, bright and dynamic, is a favorite of locals and guests for a glass of wine or signature cocktail. For food, Ai Fiori surprises with Mediterranean-inspired fine dining—think handmade pasta and steak tartare, plus a knockout breakfast menu. Don’t miss the spa for a restorative massage after miles of city explorations.
The Langham’s service shines—expect staff to remember your name and favorite morning coffee order, whether you’re in town for work or fun.
The Nomad Hotel
The Nomad Hotel
Walking distance: 9 minutes
By public transport: Jump on the N/R/W or B/D/F/M a block away for a quick subway ride
The Nomad stands out for its blend of Parisian glamour and New York grit in a Beaux-Arts stunner just north of the Flatiron. Each room feels richly layered: velvet chairs, moody wood and artfully arranged bookshelves lend genuine character. Clawfoot tubs and custom-made beds set the stage for deep relaxation, while the rooftop offers some of the city’s favorite cocktails, where views sweep across Midtown and downtown.
Downstairs, the restaurant’s communal tables invite freewheeling conversation over truffle-laced roast chicken and well-mixed drinks. Bring a book, your appetite and an open mind—this isn’t your average cookie-cutter luxury stay. The Nomad’s speakeasy-style library lounge, with its spiral staircase and cozy alcoves, is the spot you’ll want to hunker down for a quiet afternoon or late-night nightcap. This is a perfect home base if your idea of a New York classic includes both morning walks and jazz evenings.
The Evelyn Hotel
Walking distance: 10 minutes
By public transport: Around 5 minutes by cab
Stepping into The Evelyn is like wandering into a lively 1920s dream, full of whimsical touches, smooth jazz and gleaming Art Deco mirrors. This boutique spot balances sophistication with unexpected fun, mixing bold wallpapers, old-school phonographs and luxe velvet next to smart-room technology. Suites surprise with soaking tubs and super-king beds, while all guests get fluffy robes and Malin+Goetz amenities.
Sip complimentary afternoon espresso in the marble lobby, and don’t miss their standout restaurant, Leonelli, serving up rustic Italian comfort in a setting that’s as inviting as a friend's kitchen. The basement lounge hosts live music several nights a week and service is warm and informal, so you’ll quickly feel right at home.
The NoMad Las Vegas (NYC Outpost)
Walking distance: 8 minutes
Public transport: Around 5 minutes by cab, or its a couple of blocks to the 6, N, or R subway lines
The NYC outpost of The NoMad mingles Vegas glitz with New York’s signature sophistication. Rooms feature bold velvet drapes, freestanding bathtubs, and custom artwork. Downstairs, the “Living Room” lounge feels like a grand old library, perfect for espresso martinis. The all-day dining spot delivers playful, seasonal plates; the rooftop shines with a greenhouse vibe, leafy plants, and inventive cocktails. Everything here is plush and intentionally over-the-top—in a good way. Slink into their jazz nights for an immersive experience, or head to the spa for an exfoliating treatment after your day at the top of the city.
Hotel Giraffe
Walking distance: 12 minutes
By public transport: Around 5 minutes by cab, or you can walk two blocks to 28th Street subway (R/W)
Hotel Giraffe bills itself as “timeless style, prime location” and delivers on both. Sunlight streams across the cheerful lobby, where complimentary continental breakfast sets the tone for a relaxed stay. Rooms sparkle with modernist wood touches, plush beds and big windows; suites feature private balconies with city views (and binoculars if you’re feeling nosey!). The rooftop, decked with lantern-lit tables and trailing ivy, is an absolute gem for a glass of wine or summer spritz. Staff help arrange everything from Broadway tickets to late-night pizza, and daily wine-and-cheese receptions make socializing easy.
Mid-range
Arlo NoMad
Arlo NoMad
Walking distance: 7 minutes
By public transport: n/a
Arlo NoMad is for savvy guests who want cool design and snap-worthy terrace views at a smart price. Think airy rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, minimalist décor and cityscape scenes that are headed straight for your Instagram feed. The bar buzzes from happy hour till midnight, serving craft cocktails and Mediterranean-style share plates perfect for unwinding after a full day. The crown jewel: the glass-floored rooftop lounge. Step (or gingerly tiptoe) out over 31 stories, camera in hand—these are the views dreams are made of, with zero crowds. The hotel’s ‘living room’ is decked out with books, cozy nooks and strong coffee, and weekly events—like board-game nights and guest speakers—set the tone for friendly socializing.
MADE Hotel
Walking distance: 6 minutes
By public transport: n/a
MADE Hotel feels like a little urban oasis tucked away in NoMad—think warm wood finishes, lush living plant walls, and floor-to-ceiling windows letting in tons of natural light. Even the standard rooms deliver comfort, with custom linens, incredibly comfy beds and modern touches like Bluetooth speakers and glass rain showers. If you want to upgrade, opt for a suite with a soaking tub and city views that are pure New York.
Downstairs, Paper, the lobby café, serves locally roasted coffee and artisanal pastries every morning. The real showstopper, though, is Good Behavior: the rooftop bar. Fairy lights, palm trees, city views stretching from the nearby Empire State Building all the way downtown, and clever tiki cocktails—this is where you want to start (or end) your NYC evenings.
Ace Hotel New York
Walking distance: 8 minutes
By public transport: Hop on F/M/N/R/W subway lines at nearby 34th Street Herald Square
Ace Hotel New York promises a lived-in vibe and quirky touches. The always-buzzing lobby is famous for its craft coffee from Stumptown, plush velvet sofas and art installations that rotate through the seasons. Upstairs, you’ll find rooms that mix retro fun with true comfort—some have turntables and on-loan guitars, and all include fluffy beds, blackout curtains and local art.
Groups love the lofts, which are spacious and flooded with natural light, while couples gravitate toward the comfy “medium” rooms for cozy nights in. Don’t miss Koloman, the hotel’s restaurant, which serves Parisian-inspired dishes in a beautiful, art-nouveau setting—order anything with duck for a treat. You’re also steps away from the Empire State Building, great shops on Broadway, and some of New York’s best bagels right downstairs.
Moxy NYC Chelsea
Walking distance: 10 minutes
By public transport: Around 5 minutes by cab, two blocks to 28th Street subway (R/W); also near the 6th Avenue bus
The Moxy NYC Chelsea combines clever, modern design with plenty of fun. Think oversized floral installations in the lobby and a bright, buzzy atmosphere throughout. Rooms might be cozy in size, but they’re big on details, with under-bed storage, ultra-comfy mattresses and floor-to-ceiling windows revealing city views worth swooning over.
Groups and solo travelers alike love the Crashpads, but if you want a little extra space, check out the king rooms on higher floors. The Magic Hour rooftop bar steals the show: a retractable glass roof, twinkling string lights and creative cocktails make it the perfect spot for selfies and sundowners.
Hotel Hendricks
Walking distance: 5 minutes
By public transport: Around 5 minutes by cab, two blocks to Herald Square subway (B/D/F/M/N/Q/R/W)
Hotel Hendricks blends sophisticated style with a playful edge. You’ll find richly textured interiors throughout, from suede headboards to chunky brass fixtures, plus lush plants as part of the signature décor. Rooms are smartly designed with extra-comfy beds and city views that beg for a few sunset photos.
The Jungle Room bar serves up tropical-inspired drinks in an emerald-hued hideaway, while the Hendricks Rooftop provides sweeping skyline views—look out for the Empire State Building starring in nearly every photo. Downstairs, Paloma dishes out Latin-inspired favorites in a casual, friendly setting, making dinner plans a breeze.
Freehand New York
Walking distance: 9 minutes
By public transport: It’s just steps to Madison Square Park (N/R/W/6) subway options
Set in a beautifully restored historic building, Freehand is decorated with murals by local artists and peppered with mid-century furnishings and potted greenery. Room choices range from cozy bunks (ideal for groups or solo travelers) to spacious kings, all with inviting beds and thoughtful touches.
Downstairs, Simōne Café keeps the energy flowing with all-day coffee and pastries, while the Bar at Freehand mixes up inventive cocktails in a chic yet relaxed lounge. The real social hub is Studio, the rooftop restaurant where you can enjoy Mediterranean-inspired bites with panoramic city views stretching to—you guessed it—the Empire State Building.
Budget-friendly
The Paul Hotel NYC
The Paul Hotel NYC
Walking distance: 6 minutes
By public transport: It’s just steps to 28th Street (R/W) subway options
The Paul Hotel is perfect for those who want character, comfort and value all in one. The rooms maximize space with smart storage solutions, large windows and desks, so whether you’re traveling solo or as a couple, you won’t feel cramped. Contemporary décor brings a splash of color to each space. Some rooms even have balconies—perfect for people watching.
Start your mornings with a light breakfast in the lobby, then head upstairs in the evenings for a birds-eye view at the rooftop lounge, where you can spot the Empire State Building glowing against the night sky. The friendly staff can point you toward the best bagels or help you score Broadway tickets at the last minute. It’s a welcoming spot that proves you don’t have to pay top dollar for a memorable Midtown stay.
The Hotel @ Fifth Avenue
Walking distance: 7 minutes
By public transport: It’s just steps to the subway at Herald Square–34th Street (B/D/F/M/N/Q/R/W)
The Hotel @ Fifth Avenue offers a prime location and classic New York style on a budget. Rooms are comfortable, clean and well-equipped—think big cozy beds, smart TVs and large mirrors to help you get ready for a night out.
This is the kind of hotel perfect for travelers who want to get out, explore and come back to a relaxing space. Continental breakfast is included, and you’re in the middle of Manhattan, surrounded by Korean restaurants, cool dessert cafes and, of course, minutes from the Empire State Building.
The Herald Hotel
Walking distance: 3 minutes
By public transport: 34th Street–Herald Square subway (B/D/F/M/N/Q/R/W) is just round the corner
The Herald Hotel keeps things simple—clean, modern rooms, crisp linens and everything you need for recharging before another round of sightseeing. The vibe is relaxed, and the staff are ready with restaurant recommendations, MetroCard tips, or advice on what to do next.
It’s easy to roll out of bed and reach the Empire State Building or the shops of Herald Square in moments. There’s also a small rooftop terrace for your morning coffee or sunset break.
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Life Hotel
Walking distance: 7 minutes
By public transport: It’s a short hop to 28th Street (R/W) and Penn Station (1/2/3/A/C/E).
Life Hotel lives up to its creative history—the building once housed LIFE Magazine’s offices—and today, rooms have a bright, welcoming feel with plush beds, subway-tiled bathrooms and vintage photos that give a fun, local touch.
The lobby bar is the kind of place you’ll want to hang out, whether you’re sipping a coffee in the morning or relaxing with a craft beer at night. The Empire State Building is a few blocks away, and with Penn Station close, Life Hotel is a favorite for value-seekers who want both comfort and easy access to New York’s best sights.
The American Hotel
Walking distance: 11 minutes
By public transport: It’s a couple of blocks to 28th Street (N/R/W), or three blocks to Penn Station for multiple subway lines and buses.
Quirky and welcoming, The American Hotel is a rare find that nails budget comfort right in the middle of Manhattan’s action. The vibe here is friendly and unpretentious, with compact, clean rooms perfect for city explorers who want to make the most of their stay without breaking the bank.
Rooms offer everything you need for a solo city break or a weekend trip with friends—think crisp linens, strong showers, plenty of plug sockets, and solid Wi-Fi. There’s a bright lounge off the lobby and stacks of restaurants, shops and snack stops nearby. The staff have a wealth of local knowledge, offering excellent suggestions for late-night eats or the best way to beat the lines at the Empire State Building.
Want more NYC hotel tips? Check out the best stays near MoMA or find out where to rest your head close to the Statue of Liberty.
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