When planning a trip to New York City, sightseeing is likely high on your list, from visiting the Statue of Liberty to traversing the Brooklyn Bridge. For the full experience, book a hotel where you can enjoy these iconic views from the comfort of your room.
These New York City hotels with the best views make it possible, offering unique views from every angle. This list details skyline, waterfront and Central Park views so you can choose the best hotel for your trip.
Skyline Views
The New York City skyline is one of America’s most iconic landscapes. It twinkles with millions of lights and showcases some of the most impressive buildings the city has to offer. Here are the best hotels with skyline views in New York City.
1. The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad
- View of: Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, Downtown Manhattan
- Amenities: Rooftop bar, deep soaking tubs, large windows with sweeping views
- AAA Benefit: Members save 5 percent or more and earn Marriott Bonvoy points
The Ritz-Carlton New York, situated in the NoMad neighborhood, offers a AAA Five Diamond-designation. With their luxurious rooms and towering floor-to-ceiling windows giving guests unmatched views of the Manhattan skyline. For 270-degree views of iconic structures like the Empire State Building, step into Nubeluz, a high-end rooftop bar perched on the hotel’s 50th floor.
2. Lotte New York Palace
- View of: Midtown skyline, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Rockefeller Center
- Amenities: Upscale spa, large suites, historic courtyard with street-level views
The AAA Four Diamond-designated Lotte New York Palace is a showstopper, with Neo-Italian flair modeled after Rome’s Palazzo della Cancelleria and upscale, roomy suites. While there are several spectacular views along the hotel’s 51 floors, it best spotlights St. Patrick’s Cathedral. This 19th-century Gothic structure stands 330 feet tall and stretches an entire city block.
The tranquil hotel grounds resemble an Italian palace and the U-shaped Villard Mansion sits in the courtyard, where guests can unwind. The hotel is also well-known for its award-winning spa that offers soothing services ranging from sound healing to organic wellness treatments.
3. Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown
- View of: Tribeca Building, The Oculus
- Amenities: Luxurious spa and soaking tubs
Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown is nestled in Lower Manhattan, next to the Oculus landmark at the World Trade Center and the National September 11 Memorial, providing up-close views of the towering, bird-like structure.
The AAA Five Diamond-designated hotel has offerings such as an ultra-luxurious mid-century spa with an indoor pool, sauna and gym. Therapeutic services include dozens of customized massages, spiritual healing and detox treatments.
4. JW Marriott Essex House New York
- View of: Midtown Skyline, Central Park
- Amenities: State-of-the-art fitness center, pet-friendly, Central Park views
- AAA Benefit: Members save 5 percent or more and earn Marriott Bonvoy points
The AAA Four Diamond-designated JW Marriott Essex House New York is an Art Deco icon known for its flashy neon red sign and elegant, stately interior. The prestigious hotel sits on the edge of Central Park, offering wide-open views of the Midtown Skyline and easy access to the city’s natural amenities.
It also means it’s the perfect park for pets and this hotel welcomes dogs 25 pounds and under through its doors. Your companion is treated as well as you, with treats, bowls and beds available upon request.
5. Aloft Long Island City
- View of: Queensboro Bridge, Manhattan Skyline and East River view
- Amenities: Rooftop terrace, bar, billiards room
- AAA Benefit: Members save 5 percent or more and earn Marriott Bonvoy points
Aloft Long Island City hotel boasts a AAA Three Diamond-designation as well as incredible Manhattan views from its comfy rooftop terrace, most notably, the Queensboro Bridge. Rooms have the standard modest-size layout the brand is known for. Aloft tends to price its rooms a bit lower than those of nearby competitors. Therefore, it’s one of the more affordable NYC hotels with a view for those who prefer a mid-tier room.
6. Wyndham Garden Chinatown
- View of: Empire State Building, Manhattan Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge
- Amenities: Rooftop lounge, beer garden
Not only is the AAA Three Diamond-designated Wyndham Garden Chinatown situated in one of the best culinary hotspots in New York, but it’s also one of the best hotels in New York City with a view.
The hotel’s panoramas are perfect for those who want to take a look into the Big Apple’s architectural past, with Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge views, as well as the iconic Empire State Building. Enjoy them from your room via floor-to-ceiling windows or at Rooftop 93, a bar spanning two floors that faces the Empire State Building.
Central Park Views
Central Park serves as an oasis in New York City’s hustle and bustle and having a view of Manhattan’s 843-acre backyard is one of the most coveted experiences for those visiting the Big Apple. Here are notable hotels with Central Park views to consider for your next visit.
7. Park Lane New York
- View of: Fifth Avenue, Central Park South
- Amenities: Rooftop Bar
Park Lane New York, a AAA Four Diamond-designated luxury property in Midtown, is known for its picturesque panoramic Central Park views in upper-floor rooms. It’s also located right off the famous Fifth Avenue, a stretch of the city densely filled with high-end storefronts and museums.
For additional views, stop in the Darling Rooftop Bar. It’s a polished, romantic lounge, with a wide wraparound terrace. Guests can enjoy a well-mixed cocktail while watching the sun set over Central Park.
8. Mandarin Oriental New York
- View of: Central Park, Columbus Circle, Hudson River
- Amenities: 75-foot-long lap pool, nearby shopping
The AAA Five Diamond-designated Mandarin Oriental New York hotel is perched on top of the Deutsche Bank Center and there are no bad views, since every room features large floor-to-ceiling windows.
Eastside rooms have expansive park views, while westside rooms face the Hudson River, offering beautiful sunset views. Hudson River View rooms have a slightly different layout, include even larger floor space and feature a window over the deep soaking tub to watch a panorama of colors descend nightly over nearby New Jersey
Expect rooms with contemporary luxury and cosmopolitan flair. Its exceptional location affords proximity to high-end shopping, entertainment and some of the city's very best restaurants. Guest rooms are not overly spacious but are well-designed and have a sophisticated style. The marble baths are roomy and sleekly outfitted with appealing enhancements.
9. Residence Inn by Marriott New York Manhattan/Central Park
- View of: Central Park, Hudson River, Times Square
- Amenities: In-room kitchenettes, complimentary breakfast, Central Park views
- AAA Benefit: Members save 5 percent or more and earn Marriott Bonvoy points
The AAA Three Diamond-designated Residence Inn by Marriott New York stands 68 stories tall and is known as the tallest hotel in North America, so you can expect unparalleled views of the city. Rooms start on the 35th floor, so all guests are perched above obstructions, paired perfectly with floor-to-ceiling windows.
North-facing rooms offer views of Central Park, while south-facing rooms face visitors towards the Hudson River. And for those seeking more affordable NYC hotels with a view, kitchenettes make it easy to save money on meals and a complimentary hot breakfast is available every morning.
10. The Ritz-Carlton, Central Park
- View of: Central Park
- Amenities: Telescopes in select rooms
- AAA Benefit: Members save 5 percent or more and earn Marriott Bonvoy points
The AAA Five Diamond-designated Ritz-Carlton, Central Park hotel is inside a historic limestone high-rise, which places visitors slightly closer to the sidewalks and treelines than other modern buildings.
Its townhouse feel is both cozy and inviting, yet not quaint, as it offers some of the best park views in the city. The Ritz-Carlton knows it and even equips certain rooms with telescopes. Tree-level views of Central Park South can be found in the Club Lounge while enjoying breakfast, afternoon tea or cocktails.
11. The Plaza Hotel
- View of: Gapstow Bridge and The Pond in Central Park
- Amenities: Champagne Bar, The Palm Court
The Plaza Hotel offers a AAA Five Diamond-designation and sits right next to Central Park South, lavishly decorated with old-world decor and high-end design elements. Their beloved Legacy Suites offer unobstructed views of the historic Gapstow Bridge and The Pond, two stand-out features of the park.
The Palm Court offers sips of Champagne beneath a stained glass dome and the French-Inspired Guerlain Spa provides a retreat from the bustling city. It’s one of the few hotels in NYC with a view and an interior both worth your time.
12. The Pierre, A Taj Hotel, New York
- View of: Central Park, Upper East Side
- Amenities: White-glove service, rotunda dining
The Pierre is a AAA Four Diamond-designated revered landmark that offers a unique diagonal view of Central Park across the Upper East Side. It’s an idyllic winter destination with clear views of Wollman Rink, a popular spot for ice skaters in the colder months.
Tradition is everything at this classic destination and it’s reflected in the service, with full concierge support and elevator operators ready to help at any moment. The Rotunda dining lounge doesn’t have park views, but is nonetheless a visual highlight, with opulent blue sky and garden murals that transport visitors to an outdoor paradise.
Waterfront views
New York is, at its heart, a city surrounded by water. As an archipelago strewn together by various tunnels and bridges, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy waterfront vistas. Here are some of the best options to consider:
13. The Cloud One Hotel New York-Downtown
- View of: Hudson River
- Amenities: Lounge with views, large soundproof windows
The Cloud One Hotel New York-Downtown is in the Financial District and west-facing rooms feature large, soundproof windows with views of the Hudson River. The gentle riverside is equally stunning in the Cloud One Lounge, which features an outdoor sixth-floor terrace for atmospheric views of Lower Manhattan.
14. 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
- View of: Brooklyn Bridge, Jane’s Carousel, Statue of Liberty
- Amenities: Rooftop pool, natural design elements
1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge offers a AAA Four Diamond-designation and sits right on the water, nearly beneath the Brooklyn Bridge, offering up-close views of its towering forms. The East River and Financial District are also within view and Jane’s Carousel can be spotted in the historic Brooklyn Bridge Park. For a view of the Statue of Liberty, book any room with “Liberty” in its name.
The hotel embraces nature as a primary design aesthetic, as lush plants tendril along concrete walls in the interior lobby. Warm, modern furniture offers both a splash of style and comfort and the rooftop plunge pool is seasonally open, with legendary views.
15. The Standard, High Line
- View of: Hudson River, the High Line
- Amenities: River-facing rooms, beer garden, rooftop lounge
The Standard High Line is uniquely situated above a freight rail turned public park on the west side of Manhattan. Rooms facing east offer a Midtown skyline view, while west-facing rooms and lobbies open up to the Hudson River.
It’s one of the best New York hotels, offering city and water views from the same location and you can enjoy them from various perspectives. For an unforgettable view, visit the rooftop lounge. You’ll experience the river and park’s energy up close, step into the street-level beer garden for a craft brew and a healthy dose of people watching.
16. The William Vale
- View of: Downtown Manhattan, East River
- Amenities: 60-foot outdoor pool, private balconies, 360-degree rooftop bar views
The AAA Four Diamond-designated William Vale hotel boasts a futuristic design. The destination features sleek rooms, expansive meeting areas and a pool for guests to enjoy. You’ll also experience upscale dining and a roof lounge with fabulous views.
Since The William Vale is outside of Manhattan, you get a full view of its skyline across the East River. The hotel offers private balconies in every room so you can catch a glimpse without leaving your room.
There’s a resort-like feel on the hotel’s grounds, with a large 60-foot pool and loungers that beckon guests to enjoy warm afternoons in the sun. Westlight bar is located on the rooftop, 22 floors high and has a 360-degree view that encapsulates Brooklyn, Manhattan and Queens.
17. The Dominick Hotel
- View of: Hudson River, SoHo, Empire State Building
- Amenities: Large viewing windows, high-end spa, outdoor pool
With stellar views of the city from the higher floors, the AAA Five Diamond-designated Dominick Hotel offers stylish luxury features, swanky modern Italian furnishings, impressive artwork and marble bathrooms. Guests will be pampered by the doting staff at the pool on a rooftop terrace and sublime spa.
The SoHo location puts you at the very heart of Manhattan's fashion culture, a short walk away from unique, world-class shopping opportunities and myriad fun restaurants and bars.
Plan Your Trip to NYC with AAA
Finding New York hotels with the best views starts with a good plan. Let AAA be your New York travel guide and support you with planning the trip of your dreams. Choose from our carefully curated list of highly-rated properties to find your perfect fit.
Curious about becoming a member? AAA Membership unlocks benefits like exclusive discounts, perks and access to the AAA travel platform. Sign up today and get ready to immerse yourself in the Big Apple’s iconic views.