Brooklyn was the first American "suburb," providing a haven for early Manhattanites who wanted to expand. In recent years, it's become ever more popular, offering affordable apartments, a burgeoning culinary scene and interesting events. For visitors to New York, Brooklyn has some excellent hotels that ensure you're close to the action of Manhattan while having a cozy place to come back to.
The Hotel Le Jolie is a boutique hotel in the heart of Williamsburg. According to the website, it is "inspired by precise European hospitality and the evocative charm of New York City." It is located on the L and G lines near the Metropolitan-Lorimer stops, which allow easy access into Manhattan or Queens. It is a popular stay for those who love the hip, quirky neighborhood of Williamsburg but enjoy popping into Manhattan as well. Have brunch at The Roebling Tea Room, take in trivia on Wednesdays at Pete's Candy Store or browse vintage clothing at the nearby Beacon's Closet and Buffalo Exchange.
Hotel Le Jolie
235 Meeker Ave.
Brooklyn, NY 11211
718-625-2100
hotellejolie.com
The Hotel Le Bleu is located in Park Slope, a few avenues from restaurant-laden Smith Street in one direction and bar street 5th Avenue in the other. It has an Italian restaurant, Il Tetto, on its rooftop, but is also very close to a number of restaurants in Park Slope, such as the sandwich/bar shop Bierkraft and the French restaurant Moutarde. Every room comes with a Fresh Start basket of water, fruit, baked goods and yogurt, as well as free Wi-Fi and New York Times delivery.
Hotel Le Bleu
370 4th Ave.
Brooklyn, NY 11215
718-625-1500
hotellebleu.com
The Marriott Brooklyn Bridge consistently gets great reviews on TripAdvisor for service and accommodations. Close to the Borough Hall subway station, which hosts the 2, 3, 4, 5, N, R, A, C and F lines, visitors here are incredibly well connected. It is situated in between the historic neighborhood of Brooklyn Heights to the north and the fun Cobble Hill to the south. Check out the famous Promenade at Montague Street for one of the best views of the Manhattan skyline. The hotel itself has a restaurant and bar, as well as a 12,000-square-foot health club, complete with a pool.
Marriott Brooklyn Bridge
333 Adams St.
Brooklyn, NY 11201
718-246-7000
marriott.com
Nu Hotel is located right on the restaurant- and bar-laden Smith Street, a popular destination in downtown Brooklyn. Nu Hotel's rooms are designed in a modern chic style, with a focus on the Brooklyn atmosphere. The website describes these touches: "Stenciled quotes from famous Brooklynites, found objects from old local landmarks, and scattered paintings of Jean-Michel Basquiat -- which echo the authentic, confident character of Brooklyn." Every room has free wireless and complimentary continental breakfast, but with local favorites such as the French Bar Tabac and Southern Char no. 4 so close, guests might opt to explore.
Nu Hotel
85 Smith St.
Brooklyn, NY 11201
718-852-8585
nuhotelbrooklyn.com
Aloft Brooklyn opened in October 2010. Located in between Brooklyn Heights and Cobble Hill, is a contemporary hotel designed with Brooklyn's hip residents and attitude in mind. It has a laid-back style and approach, calling its concierge the Aloha Desk and providing a store in the lobby where guests can pick up any sundries they may have forgotten. Its WXYZ bar operates as a music venue in addition to hotel bar and hosts live music. Designed in a colorful, modern style, even the gel-tiled elevators are state of the art. Rooms have soft lighting and beds designed in the loft style.
Aloft Brooklyn
216 Duffield St.
Brooklyn, NY 11201
starwoodhotels.com/alofthotels
