Top 15 Cool And Unusual Hotels In New York

New York has a renowned passion for creativity, and I found that many of its places to stay were nothing short of spectacular. During my time living in this high-octane city, I discovered everything from quirky boutique hideaways to fun party hotels – here are my favorite unique spots…

1. Hotel on Rivington

This 4-star boutique tower was such a striking place — all sleek glass architecture, wraparound windows, and epic Manhattan skyline views that blended Lower East Side grit with modern luxury.

My King Studio felt indulgent with its Tempur-Pedic bed in crisp Frette linens, hardwood floors, and a spa-style bathroom stocked with organic toiletries — I loved showering in the corner glass stall while watching the city lights glitter below.

I sipped a Matcha-infused Green Kimono in the rooftop bar, grabbed Avocado & Tofu Breakfast Wraps each morning, and savored Truffle Edamame Dumplings with daiginjo sake at Kin Gin. Perfectly set in the vibrant Lower East Side, it was steps from the Delancey/Essex subway and a short walk to SoHo, the East Village, and my favorite spot, Katz’s Deli.

My personal highlights…

• Alternating between heavenly strawberry oak milk pancakes at the onsite cafe and comforting Noodle Kugels at Katz Deli each morning!

Address: 107 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002

2. YOTEL

I had a blast staying at this tech-forward 4-star urban hotel! It instantly stood out for its ultra-modern, space-saving “cabins” and futuristic touches like the robotic luggage concierge, YOBOT — I loved how fun, fast-paced, and tech-savvy it felt.

My Premium Queen Cabin had spaceship-style minimalist décor with glossy white panels, purple mood lighting, and modular furnishings. I played around with the adjustable SmartBed™, mood settings, and flat-screen TV, and I especially loved the glass-enclosed monsoon shower stocked with luxe Urban Jungle toiletries — heaven for a design geek like me!

I checked in via the slick self-service kiosk, grabbed banana muffins from the Grab+Go amenity machine, worked out on Peloton bikes in the 24/7 gym, and enjoyed Roasted Beet Burritos at the creative Green Fig restaurant before admiring Manhattan views from the rooftop terrace. Perfectly set in Midtown, I could walk to both Times Square and  Hudson Yards very easily!

• To book, check prices or availability for YOTEL

Address: 570 Tenth Avenue, W 42nd St At, New York, NY 10036

My favorite highlights… 

• Sipping on a cucumber-citrus sippers and bottomless mimosas at the weekend Social Brunch on the rooftop terrace.

3. Moxy NYC Chelsea

I stayed at this stylish yet budget-friendly 4-star boutique hotel in Manhattan’s Flower District and loved its striking industrial-chic design, rooftop bar, and lobby that doubled as a lush botanical oasis.

The slim 35-storey concrete-and-glass tower rose 420 ft above 28th Street, and inside I found playful floral touches — pressed flower art, bold wallpaper, copper-ceilinged bar, and cheeky neon signs — giving it a fun, energetic vibe without feeling pretentious.

My minimalist King Room featured floor-to-ceiling windows, a smart TV with Netflix, an air purifier, and a large walk-in rain shower. I couldn’t resist testing the retro rotary phone that doubled as a quirky wake-up call!

I soaked up Empire State Building views from the rooftop lounge, dined on Peach & Corn Panzanella at the TAO Group’s trattoria, and even joined a drag bingo night and live DJ set — all within walking distance of the High Line, Penn Station, and local cafés.

Address: 105 W 28th St, New York, NY 10001

My highlights…

• Gorging on hot pink cotton candy pancakes washed down with a hibiscus-infused cocktail topped with edible florals, all while soaking up incredible views from The Fleur Room rooftop lounge!

4. Standard High Line

I had an awesome stay at this trendy 4-star high-rise boutique hotel in NYC’s Meatpacking District! It stood out for its bold design straddling the High Line and its lively, party-ready atmosphere — this place truly buzzed with energy.

Inside, I found sleek modern décor with a retro twist: mid-century furnishings, glossy white brick walls, glam mirrored ceilings, and risqué art that gave it an edgy, fashionable vibe.

My minimalist Standard Double Room had floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning river views, a funky platform bed, and a fully exposed glass-walled shower by the window — not exactly private, but I loved the cheeky design!

I sipped French Martinis under the disco ball at rooftop club Le Bain, dined on Charcoal-Roasted Pumpkin at The Standard Grill, and enjoyed tangy Downeast Apple Ciders in the outdoor biergarten — all just steps from the Whitney Museum, Hudson River Park, and the High Line.

Address: 848 Washington St, New York, NY 10014

My personal highlights… 

• Listening to the live chill vibe played by Marco Weibel & Spurge on a relaxed Sunday Sunset set at their popular rooftop nightclub Le Bain.

5. The Box Hotel

This stylish 4-star boutique hotel was one of the most endearing places I’ve stayed in New York — a hidden gem set in a converted Brooklyn factory with loft-style suites and plenty of original local artwork.

I loved its funky industrial-chic décor with exposed brick, vintage furnishings, bold colors, and a cozy, creative Brooklyn vibe. My Loft Suite felt like a cool city apartment with high ceilings, hardwood floors, a comfy living area with a sofa bed, a full kitchen, and thoughtful extras like a private sauna and a cute vintage rotary phone.

I feasted on Pineapple Fried Rice and Spineless Cactus cocktails in the cozy Brooklyn Lantern restaurant, then hit the small gym before exploring Greenpoint’s artsy cafés, waterfront parks, and hangouts. The location was awesome — it was quiet yet just a short ferry or subway ride to Manhattan.

Address: 77 Box St, Brooklyn, NY 11222

My highlights… 

• Being drive to the decadent Peter Pan Donut Shop in the cool Checker cab – we were told by the smiley chauffeur we could go up to a 1½ miles of the hotel! 

6. Hotel Hugo

This stylish 4-star boutique tower in SoHo instantly wowed me with its sleek industrial-meets-mid-century design and twin rooftop bars boasting jaw-dropping Hudson River views.

I loved how it blended polished concrete, steel, and vertical greenery with bold mid-century furnishings and colorful contemporary art — giving it a chic SoHo-loft feel with a touch of boho flair.

My Superior King Room had floor-to-ceiling windows, an oversized leather-accented platform bed dressed in Frette linens, walnut furnishings, and a sleek rainfall shower enclosed in glass. The Italian mosaic tiles and Argan bath products made the bathroom feel pure luxury.

I sipped cocktails while soaking up river views from the rooftop, then dined on Fig Toast drizzled with truffle oil at the trendy Café Hugo below. Hidden in Hudson Square between SoHo and the West Village, it felt exclusive yet steps from boutiques, galleries, and the scenic Hudson River Greenway.

• To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Hugo

Address: 525 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10013

My personal highlights…

• Curing a hangover with a super healthy Green Machine Smoothie and Multi Grain Avocado Toast from their onsite cafe.

7. Arlo SoHo

I was completely won over by this chic 4-star micro-hotel in Lower Manhattan’s Hudson Square/SoHo area for its clever space-saving rooms and social, design-savvy vibe.

Its sleek interiors mixed walnut millwork, black metal, and glass partitions with bold art and smart built-ins — a hip, youthful, and creative space that felt perfect for mingling.

My guest room featured a large luxury bed, built-in storage, a rain shower, and attractive floor-to-ceiling windows. My favorite detail was the full glass garage-style window that opened onto a private terrace — the perfect spot for morning coffee with skyline views.

I sipped Frozen Passion Fruit Mojitos at the rooftop bar, relaxed with James Baldwin in the cozy library, sampled Mini Alfajores from the 24-hour Bodega pantry, and explored on the complimentary bikes. Its Hudson Square location was ideal — I was very near SoHo, Tribeca, and the scenic Hudson River Greenway. Staff also mentioned it had a cool sister hotel, Arlo NoMad, in Manhattan’s creative NoMad neighborhood.

• To book, check prices or availability for Arlo SoHo 

Address: 231 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013

My personal highlights… 

• Sipping on a rich bourbon ‘Spirited Fox’ cocktail whipped up by a talented in-house mixologist while listening to live Jazz at Foxtail, their glam speakeasy-style cocktail bar – I loved its playful, hidden-den vibe!

8. The Jane

I thought this historic, quirky budget boutique micro-hotel in Manhattan’s West Village was such a hidden gem! Set in a landmark 1908 building, it charmed me with its Titanic-era character, ship cabin–style rooms, and Wes Anderson–esque décor.

Inside, I loved the nostalgic yet whimsical vibe — dark wood paneling, velvet tufted couches, brass fixtures, and Edison-bulb chandeliers gave it a theatrical, old-world feel with a dash of downtown creative energy.

My Captain’s Cabin featured a queen bed, rainfall shower, flat-screen TV, and charming nautical touches — the porthole-style mirrors made it feel like an ocean liner suite!

I sipped New York Sours during the lively “Happy Hump Day” social in the chandelier-lit ballroom bar, enjoyed a hearty avocado toast brunch at Café Gitane, explored on vintage-style bikes, and admired Hudson River views from The Jane Rooftop Terrace — all just steps from the High Line and Meatpacking nightlife.

Address: 113 Jane St, New York, NY 10014

My highlights… 

• The exceptionally unique decor – I found myself in the company of old-school bellhops, attentive maids dressed in black-and-white uniforms, carved moose heads, and stuffed monkeys adorned with fez hats!

9. The Ludlow Hotel

Address: 180 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002

• Curling up in a vintage worn leather sofa by the fireplace with Sunbird by Jason Fulford hardback book in their cozy lobby lounge.

10. M Social Hotel Times Square 

This contemporary 4-star gem in Midtown wasn’t merely a hotel — it was a vibe and an experience! I loved its bold design, panoramic Times Square views from the rooftop, and lively, social energy that made the whole place feel alive. The interiors were strikingly modern with colorful lighting, geometric wall art, and sleek metal accents paired with bright yellow chairs — all adding to the city’s electric vibe! 

My soundproofed Social City View King Room featured a plush bed, rain shower, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the glittering skyline. At night, the Times Square lights transformed my room into a glowing urban dreamscape!

I sipped cocktails on the wraparound terrace at Beast & Butterflies, played Pac-Man in the game room, admired the interactive lobby art, and worked out on NordicTrack machines — all just steps from Broadway, Central Park, and the heart of Times Square.

Address: 226 West 52nd Street, New York, NY 10019

My favorite highlights… 

• Sipping on a tangy Passionfruit Margarita made from Patrón Blanco, Chinola passionfruit, and Cointreau while gazing at the neon-lit Times Square from their rooftop bar!

11. Hotel Alameda, Highline

I developed a real soft spot for this stylish 61-room 4-star boutique hotel in Chelsea — it felt refreshingly unique with its boho-inspired social spaces, statement guest rooms, and superb urban views.

The vibe was effortlessly creative, blending industrial-chic cool with South American flair — sleek poured-concrete floors, bold folk-art throws, handcrafted rugs, and splashes of bright color gave it an artistic warmth.

My Deluxe Room featured a cloud-soft king bed on a reclaimed wood platform, handcrafted furnishings, a walk-in rain shower, and floor-to-ceiling windows. I especially loved the scatter of hand-woven rugs that added such cozy charm.

I sipped a Pimm’s Cup on the hip rooftop terrace, browsed hand-poured soy candles in the boutique, and loved being just steps from the High Line, Chelsea’s galleries, vibrant dining, and the Meatpacking District’s nightlife.

Address: 518 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001

My highlights… 

• Listening to the classic Cuban rhythms of the Buena Vista Social Club on vinyl in their awesome record room!

12. Made Hotel

I really felt like I’d made it when I stayed at this design-forward 4-star boutique hotel in NoMad — a perfect mix of industrial-chic style and eco-conscious charm.

Inside, reclaimed wood, raw concrete, handcrafted ceramics, and lush greenery created a creative, effortlessly cool vibe that felt pure New York.

My sleek Standard King Room featured a floating platform bed layered in organic linens, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a rain shower. I especially loved the artisanal touches — the carved stone sink was a true standout!

I grabbed Nitro Cold Brew from the Paper coffee shop, soaked up skyline views and tiki vibes at the Good Behavior rooftop bar, and mingled with creative locals in the buzzing lounge. Its central NoMad location was ideal — steps from Madison Square Park, the Flatiron District, and endless dining and shopping.

• To book, check prices or availability for Made Hotel

Address: 44 W 29th St, New York, NY 10001

My highlights… 

• Enjoying potent Ginger Pineapple Daiquiris and pineapple skewers in their rooftop tiki bar! 

13. Dream Downtown

This chic 4-star hotel in Chelsea/Meatpacking was a seriously dreamy stay! It wowed me with its Insta-famous porthole façade and dramatic glass-bottom pool that floated right above the lobby — pure design magic.

Inside felt like a futuristic nautical fantasy with porthole windows, silver Chesterfield sofas, curved ottomans, and moody lighting — the vibe was energetic, social, and made for partying.

My King Room with Pool View featured a plush bed with Egyptian cotton linens, sleek metallic accents, and a rainfall shower. I couldn’t get over the surreal porthole view of swimmers gliding through the pool above me!

I sipped cocktails at the PHD rooftop lounge, lounged on pink cabanas beside the pool, danced to DJ Katz in the Electric Room, and dined on a Fresh Mango Salad at Natura Café — all perfectly set where Chelsea meets the Meatpacking District.

Address: 355 W 16th St, New York, NY 10011

My personal highlights…

• Opting for a super – healthy Acai Bowl at their onsite Beach Club which came with acai, mango, chia pudding, banana, pomegranate seeds, and almonds.

14. Henn na Hotel

It was love at first beep — this fun, futuristic 4-star hotel run by robots completely charmed me! From dinosaur receptionists to AI concierges, it was easily one of the most innovative stays I’ve ever had.

The minimalist décor mixed clean lines, neutral tones, and jungle-style foliage, creating a quirky yet surprisingly zen atmosphere once the novelty of the robots settled in.

My sleek Deluxe Double Room had two plush beds, smart lighting, voice-activated controls, and an air purifier. I loved the LG Styler robotic wardrobe that steamed my clothes automatically — and the cheeky animatronic robot assistant by my bed!

I watched my luggage roll in via robot delivery, took restaurant tips from the AI concierge, and entered my room with facial recognition before devouring pan-fried gyozas in the Japanese restaurant — all just steps from Herald Square, Macy’s, and Times Square.

Address: 235 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001

My highlights… 

• Chatting to my AI concierge – he offered me nearby restaurant suggestions and made great choices in the popular Korean BBQ Antoya and the upscale Zoi Mediterranean Cuisine!

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