Best Hotels 2018 - Long Island City, NY
One of the fastest growing and trendiest neighbourhoods in NYC, Long Island City, has undergone an amazing Renaissance over the last decade or so. Long Island City is a community that is filled with character and personality and so are its unique and charming boutique hotels.
New businesses, from fashionable boutiques, bars and restaurants to pet spas and yoga studios are sprouting up all over the place. With all of this activity going on, the hotel industry wanted to get in on a good thing. The fact that LaGuardia Airport is in close proximity to Long Island City certainly did not hurt. Manhattan is over-priced as it is and staying in even the most modest hotel can certainly put a dent in your budget.
Industry leaders saw that there was a real need for smaller, smarter hotels in Queens. This brave, new breed of hotel would give travellers a genuine alternative to the expensive and over-booked options that, for far too long, were the only game in town.
The LIC Hotel - Long Island City
Conveniently located, the sights and sounds of Manhattan and the surrounding trendy neighbourhood of Long Island City are right at your doorstep.
Midtown is only a ten minutes away by train and a short Uber ride (or walking) will take you to some very cool places in the heart of LIC and Astoria.
One of the most interesting neighbourhoods in New York, LIC is home to MOMA PSI, The Noguchi Museum, Silver Cup Studios, Socrates Sculpture Park and Gantry Plaza State Park.
Hip and happening restaurants like Maiella are located on the beautiful waterfront esplanade.
Woodbines, M.Wells restaurant, Alobar and the John Brown Smokehouse are among the dozens of restaurants and bars you can visit here.
But after a full day of taking in the Empire State Building, the Intrepid Museum, Macy's, Rockefeller Center and enjoying the culinary delights of Vernon-Jackson's Long Island city neighborhood, you will need a comfortable place in which to stretch out, relax, watch some TV or maybe exchange Facebook messages with the folks back home. Don't forget to send them photos of your New York vacation!
The LIC Hotel is the perfect spot for world-weary travellers from both near and afar. A genuine smile and friendly greeting is just the start of your experience at this charming hotel.
At reception the staff will get you squared away and up to your room in no time. They know that you're tired and want nothing more than to take a nice, hot shower and sink into a comfy bed, before making your plans for the evening.
The house keeping staff is on point. They emphasize cleanliness and comfort here. You'll be happy to know that private parking is available on-site. So, if you're driving your family car or a rental, you won't have any worries about finding a safe and secure parking space.
Start your day off the right way with a complimentary breakfast. Didn't mom always tell you that your AM nosh was the most important meal of the day? We're not just talking about a room temperature cup of coffee and a hard bagel either. The LIC Hotel lays on quite a spread complete with freshly cooked eggs your way, sausage, bacon, an array of muffins and croissants as well as luscious fruits.
The rooms here are not fancy, but they are inviting. The color scheme is relaxing and everything has that brand new (or almost new) feel.
As far as most travellers are concerned; the most important prerequisites in any hotel room are a comfortable bed and a clean bathroom with a decent shower. Got to have that hot water so you can sooth the cares of the day away!
The beds provide a comforting softness but with proper support for your back. You'll be off to sleep in no time flat.
During the nicer months, you can go up to their roof top deck and catch some sun while also enjoying amazing views of the city.
Location and Contact Info
44-04 21st Street
Long Island City, NY 11101
(718) 406-9788
Z NYC Hotel - Long Island City
Ensconced inside of a stunning 14 story tower, the Z NYC Hotel is perched beside the scenic east River, just steps from the iconic Queensboro Bridge.
A young veteran on the hip Long Island City hotel scene, the Z NYC has a smart and sexy Jazz Age theme. Retro decor meets industrial chic for a totally captivating ambiance .
You'll be transported back to the golden age of travel, where luxury and white glove service reigned supreme.
The front desk is made from vintage steamer trunks while several other Roaring Twenties artifacts decorate the lobby and genteel hallways. By the way, that train station that's in the neighbourhood is not where the Orient Express pulls in. It's the home for the more mundane but get you where you need to go number seven line.
Got a meeting at Citi Group, Rolex or Jet Blue? No worries; these titans of industry are all within walking distance of the hotel. The Z Van also provides complimentary transportation to and from Manhattan. Simply inquire at the front desk for details and times.
The Z offers deals aplenty, designed for your needs and life style. The Seasonal Picnic Package allows guests to enjoy all of the perks of a delicious, seasonal picnic, year round. This sterling offer includes accommodations in a very special guest room that overlooks the city skyline. You will receive a tasty picnic set-up for two, either in-room or on the roof top, depending on the weather and time of year. Prepared by one of the hotel's chefs, the picnic basket includes a scrumptious entree and side dish, as well as a thirst-quenching refresher and dessert.
You also get an assortment of fun games to play like checkers, cards and connect four. The Park, Stay and Go deal includes complimentary parking at MTP Parking during your stay; 10% off the best available room rate and a continental breakfast with your choice of unlimited premium coffees.
The Z Wellness program features the one thing that busy New Yorkers can't get enough of; spa treatments that are designed to make all of that accumulated stress just melt away.
An experienced massage specialist will come to your room by appointment through the concierge. A welcome variety of treatments are available including Swedish, deep tissue and couple's massage. The Cellar Bar offers breakfast, lunch and dinner in a casual yet refined setting. And the food is delicious.
If you want to get out and about, The Z has an eco-friendly mode of transportation just for you... bicycles. Yes, that's right; the hotel will provide you with a complimentary bike, together with a helmet, bike chain and a detailed map of the surrounding neighborhood. How many hotels will do something like this?
Other perks range from free domestic and international call, valet laundry and dry cleaning services to a fully equipped business center with computers and printers. And, to top things off, they are dog-friendly. The family pet is more than welcome.
Guest rooms, from superior twin room to Deluxe King, all feature luxurious beds that are dressed with the finest 300 thread count sheets and linens. Take off that stiff shirt, tie and dress shoes and switch over to a Boca Terry Bathrobe along with signature Z flip-flops.
If you have to get up in the middle of the night, you'll be happy to know, especially on a cold winter's night, that every bathroom has a heated floor.
Seasoned travellers have consistently voted the Z NYC Hotel as one of the top performers in the NYC area. There's a very good reason for that. At the Z, they really care. You are a living, breathing person. Not just a reservation number.
Location and Contact Info
11-01 43rd Avenue
Long Island City, NY 11101
(212) 319-7000
The Wyndham Garden - Long Island City
It's all in the details at the Smart and sleek Wyndham Garden Hotel. When it comes to your comfort and convenience, they leave nothing to chance. The staff and management know that, when it comes to making your stay as pleasurable as possible, it's the little things that count!
A smile here, a kind word there and a timely response to a request for more towels or water bottles makes all the difference in a guest's day. It's all part of the big picture that contributes to a guest's decision to return on their next business trip or vacation or try another hotel and see what they have to offer.
The Wyndham has a ton of amenities going on, including 24 hour concierge service, a fitness and business center, assistance in procuring Broadway show and concert tickets as well as a wide range of children's activities.
Traveling will never, ever be a perfect art form or anything close to it. How many times have you arrived in a city, hours before your appointed check-in time at the hotel, only to be told that you cannot have access to your reserved room? You are forced to wander the streets or kill time in the hotel bar or lobby.
That won't be a problem at the Wyndham. Early check-in is always available. And, if you are rushing to catch a flight, they offer express check-out. You won't have to waste valuable time at the reception desk. The Wyndham offers 128 spacious, warm and cozy guest rooms. There's no impersonal, cold here today and gone tomorrow feel here.
Every room comes with True Blue Bath products as well as a coffee machine and a supply of Wolfgang Puck coffee. The beds are comfortable and housekeeping makes sure that your room is spotless. Wyndham, like most hotels, change their deals, from time to time. But there is always a money-saving offer, available.
Right now, stay three nights and save 20% per night. Now, that's something to write home about.
Their in-house restaurant, Fushia, is so good, residents who live in the neighbourhood dine here, not just guests of the hotel. That really makes a statement about the food. The kitchen turns out both Asian Fusion cuisine and classic American comfort food dishes, with a very special twist. Many of their Asian-inspired dishes are gluten-free.
You'll love how efficient room service is. Even when the kitchen is very busy, your food will be delivered to your room, hot and in a timely manner.
Location and Contact Info
44-29 9th Street
Long Island City, NY 11101
(718) 906-1900
Aloft Hotel - Long Island City
Over the last few years, Long Island City has been the neighbourhood of choice for artists who are looking for a supportive environment, a safe, tight-knit community and rents that, for the time being at any rate, are still somewhat cheaper than what you'll find in Brooklyn and Manhattan.
Many old factories and office buildings have been turned into lofts and studio spaces where painters, sculptors and jewellery designers can thrive and bring their creations to market.
Therefore, it's only fitting that a hotel, that is as artistic and beautifully designed as Aloft, should be located in Long Island City.
With its' striking ocean blue facade, the Aloft Hotel is hard to miss. This colorful edifice definitely stands out amidst the faceless, grey buildings that surround it. The decor is snazzy with a distinct urban influence. Colorful artwork decorates the very modern and hip lobby lounge area. It's a peaceful place to relax in. There's even a cool billiard table located at the far end of the room.
Aloft's lounge resembles the living room of a friend, rather than the paint by the numbers decor aesthetic that one finds in most chain hotels, nowadays. But there is one caveat. Your friend would have to be fairly wealthy and have impeccable artistic taste, to match what Aloft's lounge and rooms have to offer, as far as the cozy factor and visual appeal. Another space that you'll want to spend some quality time in is the hotel's spacious courtyard.
Umbrella-topped tables, contemporary and comfy patio furniture and soft couches are surrounded by a brick wall that is adorned with multi-colored graffiti art. There is something nice to see just about everywhere that you look.
Hungry or thirsty? In the mood to cut loose and party a little? Well, Aloft has several options that are sure to be of interest.
Meet, mix and mingle over cocktails at the uber sexy WXYZ Bar, where good times flow freely. When Jimmy Buffett wrote his hit song "It's Five O'Clock Somewhere", he had bars like WXYZ in mind.
Open from 2 PM until Midnight, daily, WXYZ always has great music, beer and wine on tap. The friendly crowd is an interesting mix of locals and guests.
Refuel By Aloft is a grab and go, self-serve pantry that has a wide selection of food and beverage choices. Everything is fresh and, for a hotel, the prices are fairly reasonable. Meals are available and you can even make your own cappuccino!
The ambience is trendy with cool vibes and long communal tables. And best of all, access is 24/7. Getting back to your room after taking in a Knicks or Rangers game at Madison Square Garden or a movie at the Kaufman Multi-Plex in Astoria? Snack to your heart's content at Refuel!
Work off that meal at Aloft's Re-Charge Fitness Center. Sprint, stretch, lift and sweat up a storm. This gym is as well equipped as most neighbourhood boutique gyms. They've got all the fitness equipment you need in a well-lit, colorful and spacious environment. With over 170 bright and breezy guest rooms, there's sure to be one with your name on it. Every room has nine-foot ceilings and extra large windows as well as walk-in showers. You'll sleep like a baby on down pillows and your choice of a King size bed or, for the family, two Queen signature platform beds.
All rooms are temperature controlled by you and the hotel has a special, very romantic honey Moon suite available. You can also book a hypoallergenic room. When it comes to a welcoming environment and superb customer service, the Aloft Hotel flies high above the competition.
Location and Contact Info
27-45 Jackson Avenue
Long Island City, NY 11101
(718) 433-9305
Courtyard By Marriott - Long Island City
The folks at Marriott were among the first of the national chains to re-invent their business model to include smaller, boutique-style hotels. Courtyard By Marriott is all about the personal touches that make all the difference when you are traveling far away from home.
The newest hotel in Long Island City, Courtyard By Marriott has a modern, trendy design. yet, the building still manages to exude a warm and welcoming ambiance. Every aspect of this gleaming hotel, from the reception area to the cozy rooms is a sight for sore eyes for guests who have just arrived, tired and jet-lagged, from the airport.
Once you've settled in, had a nice meal and caught some much-needed sleep, you'll be happy to know that Courtyard By Marriott is within easy access to six major subway lines. So, if you have to make a business meeting in Midtown or just want to get in some ice skating at the Rockefeller Center Rink, there's no need to stress out.
The hotel cafe, appropriately called nosh, is open for breakfast and dinner with bar service and light fare. Earlier in the article we talked about the magnificent renovations that are going on in the Queens Plaza neighborhood. Just a few blocks away from Courtyard By Marriott, you'll find pubs and restaurants like Dutch Kills Centraal and The Beast Next Door.
These establishments serve delicious food, artisanal cocktails and attract a nice mix of local residents and office workers. They are the perfect excuse for you to put your computer away for a couple of hours and get out of your room,(as nice as it is), and stretch those legs.
Courtyard has a variety of rooms to choose from including their famous Studio Suites, which contain a pull-out sofa bed as well as two comfy Queen-sized beds.
When it comes to Credit Card friendly deals, Marriott has more than got you covered. For extended stays of five nights or more, the Stay Longer-Save More offer enables guests to get up to 25% off your bill!
There's also a nifty Transportation Package that you really should look into. This deal includes two 7-Day unlimited Metro cards along with other sensational perks. For all of you sightseers out there who want to do a staycation, this year,look into Marriott's See NYC and SAVE deal. You'll get 20% off their best available rate.
Book direct on Marriott.com and you'll receive their best rate guarantee. Find a better rate than the one you booked? No problem. Marriott will match it and give you 25% off. That is VERY cool, indeed.
The Your Room, Your Way option allows guests to customize their room, so to speak and request extras when they book. Courtyard By Marriott has achieved a well-deserved reputation as THE hotel to book for destination weddings. Their Long island city location is no exception. They have three beautiful event rooms with over 1,304 square feet of space.
Marriott's special Wedding Concierge service is by your side every step of the way. Upon receipt of a list of your guests, the event team will make reservations on your behalf. they will then send you a report showing which of your guests have reserved a room and the exact time of arrival. With the mobile check-in option, your guests can check in before they arrive and receive an instant alert when their room is ready.
Impress your guests with delicious catering creations exclusively from Marriott's kitchens. talk about planning a stress-free wedding!
Location and contact Info
29-15 Queens Plaza North
Long Island City, NY 11101
(718) 786-0003
Boro Hotel - Long Island City
Relatively new on the LIC boutique hotel scene, this vibrant, contemporary inn has it all! With a sharp, modern aesthetic and a truly warm and inviting ambiance, Boro Hotel really does feel like it's your home away from home.
A well-trained, friendly staff that is willing to go the extra mile for their guests has a great deal to do with Boro's resounding success,as well.
The beautifully appointed lobby is furnished with comfortable leather armchairs along with snazzy Plumen lighting fixtures.
Tucked away in the far corner of the lobby is a mini-library, stocked with volumes from the celebrated Strand bookstore. This entire area makes for a great co-working space or an oasis of calm where you can just sit back and relax after a long day of business meetings or doing the tourist thing.
Off to the side of the lobby is a very cute small bar that features a wallet-friendly Happy Hour. Beers come in at only five dollars while $7 will get you a refreshing glass of wine. You can order a craft cocktail that holds its own with the best that the Meat Packing District has to offer, for just $10.
The hotel also is home to a cafe nook that serves pastries and light bites. For a full meal, though, take advantage of your location. Long Island City is home to some of the best restaurants in, not only Queens, but the entire city! The staff will be more than happy to make as many recommendations as you need. All you need to do is call for delivery. Or, go out and explore.
In the Spring of 2018, watch for the grand opening of Boro's rooftop bar and lounge. Never, ever content to rest on their laurels, the management always has a surprise or two on tap for their guests.
With over one hundred rooms and suites, Boro is sure to have a suitable place for you to relax and regroup from your busy day.
All rooms contain amenities that range from your choice of Queen or King beds, polished hardwood floors, Sam Sung flat screen with Direct TV and custom-designed beds with pillow-top mattresses and plush, Italian bedding that is beyond comfortable.
And, let's not forget the Soundfreaq Blue Tooth enabled radio! The bathrooms are an event in themselves with porcelain tiled floors with teak benches, comfy, stylish oh so soft robes and bath products supplied by Greece's Apivita. Could the Plaza do any better by you? Well, except for that stunning Central park view, it is up for debate. Some of the rooms, like the Queen Manhattan View have a private balcony. The Studio, with just over 405 square feet, has, get this, a deep soaking tub in its' bathroom
The Boro's version of industrial chic luxury starts with their fabulous Penthouse Suite. It's like you were a guest in a swanky Soho loft. Hey, wait a minute; is that Robert DeNiro I just saw grabbing a cup of coffee down the street?
The Penthouse has a fully stocked premium wet bar, a spacious lounge area with seating for four and a patio just outside the sliding glass doors. The hotel offers several special packages that are specifically designed for every type of budget and stay, be it for business or pleasure.
Create your very own family adventure in NYC with their Two Room Family Package. Bring the kids and enjoy 50% off a connecting room. Once you see how luxurious and cozy Boro Hotel is, you won't want to be going back home anytime soon. So, take advantage of their Make It Last offer. Stay three nights or more and you will receive 10% off your room. If you stay five nights or longer, then your discount is 15 %. That's a win-win all the way around.
By the way, if you and your colleagues are in the city on business, Boro has a wonderful meeting space, which includes a spacious conference room. The hip, minimalist space has floor to ceiling windows with plenty of natural light, a wet bar as well as an adjoining 500 square foot terrace. This is a great place to stretch your legs and get a breath of fresh area between presentations and negotiations.
Expand your prospective at Boro Hotel.
Location and Contact Info
38-28 27th Street
Long Island City, NY 11101
(718) 433-1375
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