New York City is literally the city that never sleeps. That's because there is something to do or some place to go 24/7. That also means there are hundreds of ways to spend your money other than on your accommodations. So eat well and enjoy the entertainment, all while staying in downtown where you're close enough to walk or take the subway. That means selecting one of these good, cheap hotels in Manhattan.
The Carlton, which also is known as "New York City's Art Hotel," has been a hotel for most of its life, but by the 1980s it had become a shelter for welfare tenants. At that time, a new manager took over, and eventually the hotel was transformed by artists who decorated and painted it. The hallways and rooms are colorful, and its location on Manhattan's east side makes for short trips to restaurants and shops. Room for two people with private bathroom starts at $130/night.
Carlton Arms
160 E. 25th St.
New York, NY 10010
212-679-0680
carltonarms.com
Heading to New York City for a shopping spree? Stay just three blocks away from Fifth Avenue at the Hotel Wolcott, and spend your money on the important things. Plus, since the Hotel Wolcott is centrally located in Manhattan, the theater district, Rockefeller Center and Madison Square Garden (just to name a few) are within walking distance. You also can enjoy complimentary coffee and muffins in the morning. Queen rooms start at $200/night.
Hotel Wolcott
4 West 31st St.
New York, NY 10001
212-268-2900
wolcott.com
Indulge in a little history and culture while staying at a hotel known for its famous guests. Among its list of past visitors and residents are Mark Twain, Janis Joplin and Arthur Miller. Bob Dylan composed songs while staying here, and it's also where writer Dylan Thomas died of alcohol poisoning. It's close to the Empire State Building, Midtown and Greenwich Village. Standard room with one double bed starts at $149/night.
Hotel Chelsea
222 W. 23rd St.
New York NY 10011
212-243-3700
hotelchelsea.com
Looking for a bargain and a view? Book a room at the Bentley on Manhattan's upper east side overlooking the river and the Queensboro Bridge. The hotel doesn't lack size or amenities either. Rooms are large and offer flat-screen TVs, desks, minibar, safe and marble bathrooms. Central Park and Fifth Avenue shopping are just five blocks away, and don't leave without enjoying a drink at the rooftop bar. Standard rooms start at $135/night.
Bentley Hotel
500 E. 62nd St.
New York, NY 10065
212-644-6000
hotelbentleynewyork.com
This hotel claims to be the oldest in town, and the luxuries are few. But it's just steps from Chinatown, Little Italy and, of course, SoHo. The rooms are small but clean and comfortable after undergoing a recent renovation. Plus, the beds feature therapedic mattresses, and there's Italian-imported bath amenities. Room with two double beds starts as low as $119/night.
SoHotel
341 Broome St.
New York, NY 10013
212-226-1482
sohotel-ny.com
