Ready to experience NYC like a local? Then check out this native New Yorker’s guide to the single best boutique hotel in Chelsea New York in 2024.
Because you know what, I get it. It can be super overwhelming to try and find nice accommodations in NYC that are at least somewhat reasonably priced.
Yeah, I’ve been there. I sublet my apartment and sometimes need to find a local place to stay for a few days.
And, you know what? It can be TOUGH. But, I’ve lived in the city for 30+ years. So, I know exactly which boutique hotels in Chelsea NYC that you do and do NOT want to stay in.
So, come with me as we explore all of the best boutique hotels Chelsea NYC has to offer.
And if you’re open to it, be sure to check out some of the best boutique hotels in Midtown NYC too.
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Short on Time? ⏰ Then book a room at The Hotel Chelsea. It’s hands down my all-time fave hotel on this list. 😀
Best Boutique Hotel in Chelsea New York: 2023
1. The Maritime Hotel
⭐️ Rating: 8.8/10.0 (526 Reviews) Price: $189 per night 📍Location: 363 W 16th St, New York, NY 10011 Details: Read more on Booking.com Now!
This enchanting, nautical-themed, 4-star hotel is an easy pick for the best boutique hotel in Chelsea NYC.
And that’s because this magical accommodation sits right across the street from the world-famous Chelsea Market – one of the places you must eat in NYC – and is adjacent to various 9th Avenue subway stations.
So, it will be super easy (and safe) to explore other parts of the city. Just be sure to hit up the Highline and the Rubin Museum of Art first since both are less than 3,000 feet away from the hotel.
Yup, all that awesomeness and we haven’t even gotten to your room. Because in-room highlights include a mini-bar, teak furniture, five-foot-tall windows, an iPod dock, marble bathrooms (with full rain showers), plush bathrobes, and so much more.
After all, this place is SWANK with a capital “S” since coffee, bike rentals, and gym membership are all INCLUDED (aka free) with the price of your stay.
Plus, there’s the ever-fabulous on-site restaurant, Catch Steak. Yeah, they prepare some of the world’s greatest cuts of meat and whip up internationally influenced dishes that are super delish.
“I would definitely stay here again. This stay really enhanced my trip. It was so wonderful to wake up to a perfect view.”
Marissa (click here to read more reviews)
Pro Tip: While this is easily one of the best boutique hotels in Chelsea NYC, the breakfast is okay. It’s a bunch of cold items and feels somewhat cheap given the price point of this hotel.
2. The New York Edition
⭐️ Rating: 8.2/10.0 (51 Reviews) Price: $552 per night 📍Location: 5 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10010 Details: Read more on Booking.com Now!
Located near Chelsea in the Flatiron District, this posh, 5-star hotel sits inside the immortal Metropolitan Life Clock Tower from 1909 and is easily one of the best Manhattan hotels with a balcony.
This is also the best boutique hotel Chelsea NYC has to offer that is a mere 10-minute walk from the Empire State Building.
Now, once you step inside your room, you’ll uncover accommodations resplendent with rainfall showers, WiFI, 48″ flat-screen TVs, and stunning views of the Empire State Building through oversize windows (make a special request for this upon booking).
“The place was gorgeous, the service was excellent and the staff was absolutely amazing!”
Denise (click here to read more reviews)
You’ll also love their custom Le Labo bath amenities and can even admire photography by Melvin Sokolsky hanging on the wall of every room.
But, if you’re extra flush with cash, upgrade to a studio with a vaulted ceiling and a spacious living area.
However, no matter where you stay you can still use the gym, an opulent spa, an on-site Michelin-star restaurant, and one of two chic bars.
Personally, though, I’d hit up the Lobby Bar since they serve Magic Owl Easy Blond Ale alongside amazing artisanal cocktails.
The Clocktower restaurant is also a solid choice when it comes to food since they put a modern twist on classic dishes.
This uber-fab eatery also sits on the second floor and is home to three unique dining rooms, as well as a bar made entirely out of gold leaf (had to pick my jaw up off the floor when I saw it).
3. Pendry Manhattan West
⭐️ Rating: 8.9/10.0 (47 Reviews) Price: $533 per night 📍Location: 438 W 33rd St, New York, NY 10001 Details: Read more on Booking.com Now!
Well situated in the heart of the city, this is the best boutique hotel in Chelsea that is known for its welcoming, contemporary design and luxurious, California-style interior.
So, if you’re looking for a hotel that is less than five minutes from the subway and that has sleek, refined rooms then this is the best boutique hotel in NYC for you.
“Superb! A great hotel in a great location, with top class staff.”
Eamon (Read more reviews now)
After all, rooms feature smart TVs, a sitting area, and stunning city views, with suites featuring separate living areas, a private fireplace, and a piano too (oh la la).
Room service is also available around the clock and guests can make use of a modern restaurant, a lovely rooftop bar, and a fitness center too.
And, added bonus? Complimentary breakfast is also included with your stay so three cheers to that.
4. Motto by Hilton New York City Chelsea
⭐️ Rating: 8.8/10.0 (939 Reviews) Price: $140 per night 📍Location: 113 W 24th St, New York, NY 10001 Details: Read more on Booking.com Now!
Real talk? This is one of the most highly-rated boutique hotels in Chelsea New York that is also extremely well-priced.
So, if you’re on a budget then look no further than Motto by Hilton New York City Chelsea.
“Close to Eataly and the Highline and on a quiet street with good restaurants I will be staying here again.”
Megan (Read more reviews now)
After all, rooms are well-priced at well under $200 per night and feature smart TVs, WIFI, room service, city views, etc.
Staff are also super attentive and if you stay here, you’ll be less than three minutes away from the subway.
Additionally, you can enjoy a gym, free bike rentals, a terrace, and a hip bar/Italian restaurant, making this an excellent place to stay in NYC.
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5. The Hotel Chelsea/Chelsea Savoy Hotel
⭐️ Rating: 9.2/10.0 (333 Reviews) Price: $285 per night 📍Location: 204 W 23rd St, New York, NY 10011 Details: Read more on Booking.com Now!
A top contender for the best boutique hotel in Chelsea New York, The Hotel Chelsea sits on a vibrant corner of this neighborhood and is surrounded by a wealth of super cool restaurants, bars, and galleries.
So, given this hotel’s excellent location, you’ll never run out of things to do in Chelsea – especially since the Flatiron Building, Macy’s, and Madison Square Garden are all right around the corner.
Plus, you’re only a block away from the subway. So, you won’t have to worry about walking long distances in the evening.
You’ll also devour their amazing Continental breakfast, which features delicious salmon with herb cream cheese on crusty, sourdough bread (YUM).
And then there are the rooms. They are sleek and sophisticated with hardwood furniture, minifridges, and modern TVs.
Additionally, this 3-star hotel offers full concierge service at a 24-hour front desk, in addition to a fitness center, free WiFi, and even an on-site bar/restaurant.
But, don’t take my word for it. Because guests are saying that:
“The room was absolutely stunning. Huge by New York standards.
The most comfortable super king bed, softest sheets, fluffy pillows that I had to look and see the make of to get some at home! Our room had a balcony and was right by the Hotel Chelsea sign.
The hotel staff were so kind and generous. We got an upgraded room and a bottle of wine to celebrate our anniversary.
Nothing I didn’t like. I was completely blown away.”
Holly (read more reviews now)
6. MADE Hotel
⭐️ Rating: 8.6/10.0 (1,121 Reviews) Price: $179 per night 📍Location: 44 West 29th Street, NoMad, New York, NY 10001, Details: Read more on Booking.com Now!
Straddling the border between Nomad and Chelsea, this is a top pick for the best boutique hotel in NYC that is well-located near Koreatown and the Empire State Building.
This is also one of the best boutique hotels in NYC with a fun, BOHO vibe that helps to create a lively atmosphere – an attribute that is best enjoyed in their outstanding, on-site bar.
There’s even a sleek terrace on the second floor that makes for a great place to relax before grabbing dinner at Ferris. It’s an enchanting on-site eatery that is known for its fantastic American cuisine.
Additionally, industrial-chic rooms come fully outfitted with smart radios, floor-to-ceiling windows, plush bathrobes, flat-screen TVs, and free WiFi.
“I loved the design, two different pillows to choose, mattress, Davines shampoo! The staff is amazing! Will miss it all.”
Natalia (read more reviews now)
Breakfast is also included with your stay, as is access to 24-hour front desk service. Just don’t leave without visiting Good Behavior on the 18th floor.
It’s an amazing lounge that serves up Tiki-themed drinks and stunning panoramas of the city.
Pro Tip: Also stop by Paper, one of the best cafes in New York City that serves coffee, tea, baked goods, and cocktails/wine in the evening.
7. The Moore
⭐️ Rating: 8.4/10.0 (768 Reviews) Price: $195 per night 📍Location: 300 W 22nd St, New York, NY 10011 Details: Read more on Booking.com Now!
This high-end, 3-star hotel is a mere 2-minute walk from the subway and features 81 minimalist rooms with minifridges, flat-screen TVs, bathrobes, free toiletries, coffeemakers, and WiFi.
Room service is also available and you can upgrade to a suite if you want a terrace with an open-air tub.
Regardless of the room you choose though, breakfast is DEFFO included at the best boutique hotel in Chelsea.
Pro Tip: Don’t leave without visiting their rooftop wine bar. You’re also super close to Penn Station, which is handy if you’re coming in from JFK.
“it’s very beautiful and comfortable. located in a great area on a nice residential street. Alicia in reception was delightful and very helpful. All the ladies were great.”
Beverly (read more reviews now)
8. Moxy NYC Chelsea
⭐️ Rating: 8.3/10.0 (3755 Reviews) Price: $158 per night 📍Location: 105 W 28th St, New York, NY 10001 Details: Read more on Booking.com Now!
With multiple locations scattered throughout the city, Moxy NYC Chelsea is an easy pick for the best boutique hotel in Chelsea NYC.
In fact, this trendy hotel was voted one of Travel Weekly’s best midscale hotels – and that says a lot since this is one of the best boutique hotels in New York City that was recently built in 2018.
It also provides visitors with a free Continental breakfast and even has a fitness center and communal lounge that guests are welcome to use.
““Perfect central location and amazing view of Empire State Building from our room. Small but functional rooms in a trendy hotel. Designed for younger crowds with great bars and nice cafe on main floor.”
Christine (read more reviews now)
The property is also well-located near MSG, is just a short walk from the 28th Street subway station, and comes fully equipped with WiFi/a 24-hour front desk.
And then there are the bright, industrial-chic rooms, which have air purifiers, flat-screen TVs, complimentary toiletries, hair dryers, floor-to-ceiling windows with city views, and full baths in some bathrooms.
Also, be sure to grab a drink at their posh cocktail lounge. It sits on the 35th floor and is home to some of the best views in NYC.
9. Walker Hotel Greenwich Village
⭐️ Rating: 8.3/10.0 (847 Reviews) Price: $205 per night 📍Location: 52 W 13th St, New York, NY 10011 Details: Read more on Booking.com Now!
Located right on the border between Greenwich Village and Chelsea, the Walker Hotel Greenwich Village is an elegant red-brick building with stained-glass windows.
It’s also a 4-star hotel that sits just 4 minutes away from the nearest subway station.
Additionally, the Walker Hotel is just 10 minutes from Washington Square park and features an array of sleek, art deco rooms that guests will love.
Highlights include cutom ebony beds, vintage rotary phones, flat-screen TVs, and fully furnished terraces in upgraded suites.
“My daughter and I had a great time and would stay here again. I would recommend this hotel.”
Natalie (read more reviews now)
Plus, you’ll love their complimentary toiletries, slippers, and robes – all of which are 110% ESSENTIAL if you want to order a bit of room service (available 24/7).
However, if you do feel like walking downstairs then be sure to have a craft cocktail in their cool, retro bar before grabbing some food at Society Cafe.
It’s a pretty rad “market to table” restaurant that is overseen by Executive Chef Christopher Zabita. So, yeah, you know the food is good.
Amenities include a retro-chic bar, a polished restaurant with plush booths, and a refined guest lounge featuring a fireplace. There’s also a 24-hour fitness center.
10. Kimpton Hotel Eventi
⭐️ Rating: 8.3/10.0 (507 Reviews) Price: $194 per night 📍Location: 851 6th Ave, New York, NY 10001 Details: Read more on Booking.com Now!
This high-end, 4-star hotel is fly like a G-6 and less than a 15-minute walk from both Times Square AND the Empire State Building.
You’ll also love that the 28th Street subway station is under five minutes away too.
Plus, all the next-level modern rooms at one of the best boutique hotels in Chelsea come with free WiFI, iPod docks (iPads are also available for rent), 37” flat-screen TVs, and rainfall showers.
“The staff was so friendly and kind and gave our dog treats. Check in and check out was easy and we were even upgraded!”
Jessica (read more reviews now)
You’ll even get access to 24/7 room service and can upgrade to a suite to enjoy private balconies, hot tubs, and pool tables – perfect if you’re spending your birthday in NYC.
And if you have dreams of romantically pedaling through the footpaths of Central Park, you can grab a rental bike before digging into some home-style Italian food at their restaurant.
You can also hit up the 24-hour gym, stop by the tour desk, and visit the spa before relaxing on their outdoor terrace with a multimedia screen (for outdoor movies).
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to return to the best boutique hotel in Chelsea for free wine hour between 5:00 pm and 6:00 pm daily.
11. Selina Chelsea New York City
⭐️ Rating: 7.0/10.0 (768 Reviews) Price: $112 per night 📍Location: 518 West 27th Street, Chelsea, New York, NY 10001 Details: Read more on Booking.com Now!
If you’re on a budget then Selina Chelsea is the best boutique hotel in NYC for you.
In fact, Selina is a well-known boutique hotel/hostel brand that currently has hundreds of hotels dotted all across the globe (I also stayed at their Melbourne location and LOVED it).
And the Chelsea location does not disappoint with sleek, minimalist decor and a primo location near the Highline.
Yes, the reviews are bit low. But, I generally enjoyed my stay here since hip, Japanese-inspired rooms feature comfy platform beds, bean bag chairs, ultra-fast WiFi, flat-screen TVs, and Japanese soaking tubs (only in some rooms).
Rental bikes are also available and there’s a cool rooftop pool that is open seasonally (as well as an outdoor terrace).
“Cute, super clean, didn’t feel like I was at a place with shared accommodations. Like the minimalist vibe, didn’t feel like an excuse to be cheap. was actually pretty stylish.”
Julia (read more reviews now)
Plus, they offer an array of private rooms as well as hostel dorm rooms. So, if you’re backpacking on a shoestring budget then this is a great choice.
Pro Tip: I actually really enjoyed my stay here and don’t know why the reviews are so low. Not only were the rooms well-decorated but the staff was lovely and the coffee was tasty too.
My only issue was that this hotel felt a bit far away from everything. But, it is well-located if you wanna see Sleep No More at The McKittrick Hotel. It’s an amazing show that makes for one of the most unique things to do in NYC.
Best Boutique Hotel in Chelsea New York: FAQ
What’s the best boutique-style hotel in Chelsea?
Obviously, this varies from person to person but my pick for the best boutique-style hotel in Chelsea is The Hotel Chelsea.
It’s just an all-around excellent hotel with stunning views and impeccable service. The breakfast is really good too so would DEFFO suggest staying here.
What’s the best way to get to my boutique hotel in Chelsea?
The best way to get to your boutique hotel in Chelsea is to use the subway, For the Chelsea neighborhood specifically, you can take the C/E train to 23rd Street Station (and 8th Ave), the 1 train to 23 St. Station (7th Av.), and the A/C/E/L train to 14 St. Station (8th Av.).
Pro Tip: The BEST way (IMHO) to get from JFK to Chelsea is to take the Airtrain to Jamaica Station. Once here, hop on the Long Island Railroad and take that to Penn Station. You can then hop on the subway and take the A/E train to Chelsea.
Is Chelsea a good area to stay in NYC?
Yes! Chelsea is one of the best areas to stay in NYC. It’s situated on the west side of lower Manhattan, and overlooks the Hudson River.
This part of the city is also full of trendy clubs, cool art galleries, amazing food markets, and delicious restaurants.
Plus, it’s super safe and is well-located between uptown and downtown. So, you really couldn’t ask for a better place to stay.
What is considered a boutique hotel?
Generally speaking, boutique hotels should be smaller in size and should not have more than 100 rooms.
This way some of the best boutique hotels in Chelsea New York can offer more personal service and can better cater to the needs of their guests.
It should also be independently owned or part of an “only-boutique” chain. Additionally, these types of hotels are typically found in the city center or in trendy neighborhoods.
What is special about a boutique hotel?
What is special about a boutique hotel is that it is smaller in size. Therefore, it should feel quiet and intimate – thereby providing customers with more personal service – like at some of the best hotels with Central Park views.
Boutique hotels also tend to follow the local culture and generally don’t feature more than 100 rooms per facility.
What is the difference between a boutique hotel and a regular hotel?
Unlike bigger hotel chains, boutique hotels are smaller and offer much better service. They also tend to be upscale, with a luxurious style and personality all their own.
Additionally, most boutique hotels are known for trendy designs, uniquely stylized rooms, premium amenities, and excellent service – which is why you should consider staying at the best boutique hotel in Chelsea New York.
Map of the Best Boutique Hotels in Chelsea New York
Additional New York Resources You’ll Love
Short on Time? ⏰ Then book a room at The Hotel Chelsea. It’s hands down my all-time fave hotel on this list. 😀
There you have it! That wraps up this guide to the best boutique hotel in Chelsea New York.
Tell me, did your picks for the best Chelsea boutique hotels make the list? If not then let me know in the comments below.
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