According to NYC Go, Union Square in Manhattan held the first Labor Day Parade in 1882. In the 21st century, the neighborhood is known for its restaurants, universities, eclectic shops and Gramercy Park. Ten off-Broadway theatres are located here, and the area near Gramercy Park West and South is home to prestigious pre-Civil War homes. With so much to do, you may want to book accommodations in the area rather than travel to the area from another neighborhood.
This hotel borders Gramercy Park and dates back to 1925. It originally held 500 rooms, but as of 2010, it features only 185 larger rooms, half of which are suites overlooking the park. The hotel prides itself on its "high Bohemian" style and features antique furnishings coupled with surreal, contemporary accents. The decor includes Moroccan tile, plush red velvet, Italian fireplaces, hand-woven rugs and a Venetian chandelier in the hotel lobby. For dining and entertainment, check out the Rose Bar or the hotel's other bar and restaurant. To relax and stay fit, book services at the hotel spa and enjoy the fitness center.
Rooms come furnished with mahogany English drinking cabinets, a hidden minibar and DVD player, a lounge chair and velvet-upholstered beds. They also feature leather-top tables, photos by notable photo journalists on the walls and large, wood-paneled bathrooms. Rooms have free Wi-Fi and an MP3 docking station.
Gramercy Park Hotel
2 Lexington Ave.
New York, NY 10010
212-920-3300
gramercyparkhotel.com
For accommodations with an European urban flair, check out the Hotel Giraffe. This small boutique hotel boasts high ceilings, velveteen-upholstered chairs and vintage-photos lining the walls. Rooms feature glamorous accents like pearlized platinum walls and leather headboards. Larger rooms and suites offer French doors leading to balconies (decorated with fresh flowers) as well as large windows with black-out shades. Rooms include marble-top desks, and bathrooms include marble counters and glass doors.
The hotel's service goes an extra step with coffee, tea and cookies available all afternoon, a rooftop garden and an evening wine and cheese hour -- complete with a live piano. Rates also include a continental breakfast.
Hotel Giraffe
365 Park Ave. South
New York, NY 10016
212-685-7700
hotelgiraffe.com
According to "New York" magazine, the Union Square Inn provides a mecca for musicians, artists and writers. Its designs pay tribute to boutique inns in Italy and England. The inn offers budget accommodations with simple furnishings and basic amenities but is located amidst Union Square's live street performances, music and open-air markets. It offers a European-style coffee shop for pastries and beverages.
Rooms feature private tiled bathrooms and Internet access. Rates include a continental breakfast.
Union Square Inn
209 East 14th St.
New York, NY 10003
212-614-0500
unionsquareinn.com
