Lower Manhattan attracts a wealth of visitors aiming to avoid the more touristy and crowded Times Square area and see a unique and often undiscovered side of New York. With an array of top-notch eateries, lush public parks, and some of the city’s most historic attractions, NYC’s downtown neighborhoods offer a viable alternative to their busier midtown neighbors. Likewise, many Lower Manhattan hotels are boutique properties, providing added amenities and a more intimate experience than larger chains. We sifted through the boutique hotels south of 14th Street, and these are our top picks.
The Greenwich Hotel
From $459/ night
Bask in old world charm with modern amenities at Robert DeNiro’s TriBeCa hotel. Its 88 unique rooms and suites are decorated with luxury furnishings from around the world. Beyond the usual hotel amenities, the Greenwich features an underground pool, spa, and fitness center, as well as the highly rated Locanda Verde restaurant. This hotel is convenient to Battery Park, the World Trade Center, and 9-11 Memorial, as well as other downtown neighborhoods.
The Nolitan Hotel
From $199/ night
Be chic and in one of the most desirable sections of Lower Manhattan at this 57-room hotel that boasts a modern, industrial design and retro touches. Its well-planned quarters come equipped with safes, gourmet mini-bars, Xbox, Playstation 3 and Wii, as well as plasma TVs and free Wi-Fi. Chill out with wine and cheese in the evenings before you head out to dinner at one of NoLIta’s trendiest spots, or opt for a cozy night in when you dine at Cantine Parisienne, the hotel’s Parisian bistro. The private rooftop lounge provides an outdoor space with city views for Nolitan guests only.
The James Hotel
From $349/ night
Just one block from the Canal Street subway station and minutes to SoHo’s fashionable restaurants and shops, the James is most recognized for its cutting edge design, light-filled spaces, and curated public art project. In each guest room, a ceiling-high glass panel separates the bath from the living quarters. Relax in the James Club, an all-glass lounge that serves complimentary snacks and drinks. As a downtown destination in itself, the JIMMY is an excellent spot to sip a cocktail, take a swim in the seasonal rooftop pool, and enjoy the panoramic city views. The David Burke Kitchen serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the more casual Treehouse Bar and Garden continue to attract the city’s stylish set for food and drink.
The Bowery Hotel
From $399/ night
Located minutes from the Bleecker Street subway station and in the heart of NoHo, the Bowery Hotel offers timeless elegance in a hip neighborhood. Each room boasts floor-to-ceiling windows with city views, hardwood floors, Oushak rugs, and a marble bath. Free Wi-Fi, iPod-docking stations, complimentary bicycles, and a plethora of other amenities make this hotel a downtown favorite. A host of the city’s top restaurants are within a quick jaunt, but if you’d rather not venture out, the hotel has a lobby bar, restaurant, and an outdoor lounge.
Crosby Street Hotel
From $549/ night
Sophisticated guests relish in the Crosby’s upscale yet kitschy interior, characterized by cozy chairs, comfy beds, warm but bright colors, and impeccable attention to detail. The intimate 86-room property is ideally located on cobblestoned Crosby Street in the heart of SoHo, and just minutes from the West Village, NoHo, and NoLIta neighborhoods. Expect luxuries such as a 24-hour fitness center and concierge; free Wi-Fi and an early 2 p.m. check-in, as well as a rooftop kitchen garden, film screening room, and the Crosby Bar for a meal or cocktail.
Walker Hotel
From $299/ night
Staying at this property will put you steps away from all that Greenwich Village has to offer including Washington Square Park, the Village Vanguard, and Union Square. Each 1920s Parisian-inspired guest room is outfitted with designer robes, slippers, and toiletries, as well as complimentary bottled water and Wi-Fi. Art Deco detailing can be found throughout the 113-room boutique hotel, which also boasts a 24-hour fitness center, lobby lounge with a fireplace, and Grape & Vine, a market-driven restaurant and bar.