Deciding where to stay in New York comes down to which part of the city you want to explore most.
- Manhattan puts you close to Times Square, Central Park, and the Empire State Building.
- Brooklyn gives you easy access to Prospect Park, the Brooklyn Museum, and the waterfront views from DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass).
- Queens is where you’ll find Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Citi Field, and some of the city’s best international food.
First-time visitor to the Big Apple? Here’s a quick guide on how the city is designed. It’s made up of five areas: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Each is its own mini-city, with different neighborhoods, attractions, and hotel options.
Most first-time goers stay in Manhattan, Brooklyn, or Queens, so we’ll focus on those for this guide. We’ve gathered hotels for different budgets below, so keep reading for more!
Manhattan
Manhattan is the most central area for first-time visitors, and choosing where to stay in New York often starts here. You’ll be within reach of landmarks like Central Park, the Empire State Building, Broadway theaters, and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).
Public transport is straightforward, with multiple subway lines converging in Midtown, making it easy to branch out to other areas.
Pod Times Square
With its proximity to major landmarks in Manhattan, Pod Times Square gives you bang for your buck
Located in Midtown West, Pod Times Square is ideal for travelers wanting to be near Times Square and Broadway. If you set up a base here, you’ll find yourself about 10-minute walk away from both the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center and Bryant Park.
While rooms are more on the compact side, they’re clean and comfortable! It’s also about a 12-minute walk away from Times Sq – 42 St Subway Hub, which connects you to many lines.
- Price: $$
- Good for: Affordable, central stays
Hotel Riu Plaza New York Times Square
This hotel has several nearby public transportation stops, including the 49th St. Station on the subway
A polished option with more space and amenities, Hotel Riu Plaza New York Times Square is less than a 5-minute walk away from Times Square and Broadway. It’s also very close to Rockefeller Center (a 12-minute stroll away), and Central Park (about 18 minutes away on foot, perfect if you’re trying to get your steps in).
With free WiFi, a fitness center, buffet breakfast, 24-hour front desk, and spacious rooms,this Manhattan hotel gives you comfort and a great location.
- Price: $$$
- Good for: Comfortable, 4-star stays.
OYO Times Square
If you’re looking for a centrally-located place to stay on a budget, OYO Times Square is for you.
If you’re still searching online for ‘NYC where to stay,’ OYO Times Square is a great pick if you want to be near Times Square without overspending. You’ll have fast subway access to Central Park, SoHo, and the Financial District (49th St. Subway Station is just a 1-minute walk away).
If you’re looking to save in Manhattan while still being smack in the middle of it, this option works. Rooms are a bit of a squeeze, but if you’re planning to spend the whole day sightseeing, it’s more than enough!
- Price: $
- Good for: Budget stays in Manhattan.
Brooklyn
If you’re deciding where to stay in New York for a more local vibe, Brooklyn is a great pick. It balances a neighborhood feel with some of NYC’s most famous views. The Brooklyn Bridge, Brooklyn Heights Promenade, Prospect Park, and cultural spots like the Brooklyn Botanic Garden are all here.
Casa Blanca Hotel Brooklyn
Casa Blanca Hotel Brooklyn is a budget-friendly stay for solo travelers and couples
Casa Blanca Hotel Brooklyn is a practical choice for travelers looking for a no-frills stay. Located in the Fort Greene area in Brooklyn, it offers free WiFi, 24-hour front desk, and basic amenities. Plus, youYou You can access the subway via DeKalb Av Station (Flatbush Av Ext.), about 15-minutes away on foot.
- Price: $
- Good for: Cheap Brooklyn stay with a good location.
Hotel Mirage Brooklyn
A variety of room types are available here, with most comfortably fitting up to 4 people
Hotel Mirage Brooklyn works well if you want comfort without splurging on luxury. You’ll be close to Barclays Center for concerts and NBA games, and just a few subway stops from DUMBO, where you’ll get the iconic Manhattan Bridge photo ops. Public transport is convenient via the Kingston-Throop Avenues station, which is just a quick 6-minute walk away!
- Price: $$
- Good for: A more comfortable Brookly, near publich transportation.
Queens
Queens is the largest area, home to Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Citi Field, and the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center (home of the US Open). If you’re deciding where to stay in New York with budget and convenience in mind, Queens is a good option. It’s also practical for airport access, with both JFK and LaGuardia nearby.
Ramada by Wyndham Flushing Queens
Ramada by Wyndham Flushing Queens gives you great value without breaking the bank
Located in Flushing, Ramada by Wyndham Flushing Queens gives you cost, comfort, and proximity to major NYC sites. You’ll be within a 5-minute drive of Citi Field and Flushing Meadows-Corona Park.
The hotel features free WiFi, a business center, 24-hour front desk service, luggage storage, and free breakfast daily. Plus, LaGuardia Airport is less than 5 minutes away by car. For Manhattan, though, expect a train/subway ride of about 30-40 minutes depending on connections.
- Price: $$
- Good for: Comfortable stays in Flushing with easy dining and transit.
Holiday Inn Express Jamaica – JFK Airtrain
Holiday Inn Express Jamaica is a 3-star, budget friendly stay for those who prioritize airport convenience
Holiday Inn Express Jamaica – JFK Airtrain is a solid choice if you want quick access to the JFK Airport. With the AirTrain nearby, reaching the terminals is stress-free, and you can still get into Manhattan in about 35–40 minutes by train. If you’re wondering, ‘Where do I stay in New York if I want to stay near the airports?’, this hotel is for you.
- Price: $$$
- Good for: Airport travelers who want convenience to JFK via AirTrain
NYC Travel Tips
Planning a visit to New York? These simple tips can help make your trip easier, more affordable, and way more fun; no matter how many times you’ve been.
Stay Connected with a USA eSIM
NYC is massive, and you’ll definitely need your phone for directions, restaurant reviews, or booking a ride. Skip the hassle of public Wi-Fi and use a USA eSIM instead. It’s quick to activate and keeps you online the entire trip!
Save Big with Klook Pass New York
Want to check off the top attractions without spending a fortune? The Klook Pass New York lets you visit big names like the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, and The Edge, all under one discounted pass. You can even skip the ticket lines at some spots.
Get Around Easily with the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
New to the city? Skip the subway confusion and try New York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus instead. It’s a simple way to tour New York. Just hop off at any stop to explore, then hop back on when you're ready to go. Perfect for sightseeing without the stress.
FAQs on Where to Stay in NYC
What area in New York is best to stay in?
It depends on your priorities. Manhattan is the most central and gives you quick access to landmarks like Central Park, Times Square, and Broadway. Brooklyn is best for a local vibe, green spaces, and skyline views, while Queens is great if you want affordability, diverse food, and easy airport connections.
Where to stay for the first time in New York?
If it’s your first trip, Manhattan is usually the most convenient choice. You’ll be close to major attractions and won’t spend much time commuting. Midtown (near Times Square or Rockefeller Center) is a popular first-timer base because you can walk to a lot of iconic spots.
What is the safest part of New York City to stay in?
Neighborhoods like Midtown Manhattan, the Upper West Side, and Brooklyn Heights are generally considered safe and well-traveled by visitors. As in any big city, staying aware of your surroundings and using well-lit, busy streets at night is always a good idea.
Is Times Square a good location to stay?
Yes, especially if you want to be in the middle of the action! Times Square hotels put you within walking distance to Broadway theaters and major subway hubs. The trade-off is higher prices and more crowds, but for many first-time travelers, the convenience and atmosphere make it worth it.
NYC Where to Stay Made Simple
Still wondering where to stay in New York? From the bright lights of Manhattan to the creative vibes of Brooklyn and the hidden gems in Queens, there’s a neighborhood that fits every travel style and budget.
Still unsure? Bookmark this post, explore your options, and take the stress out of planning your trip. You’ve got plenty of choices—now it’s just about picking the one that matches how you want to experience New York!
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