NYC is huge and one of the most densely populated metropolitan areas on Earth. While the midtown and downtown neighborhoods are highly popular among travelers, today, we want to highlight the quieter uptown. In case you didn’t know, Uptown is anything north of 59th Street in Manhattan. This includes well-known areas like the Upper West Side and Upper East Side. We love exploring Uptown; we can always witness what made New York “New York.” Another thing that we like about this area is the variety of accommodations. The hotels in Uptown, New York City, cater to all kinds of travelers. We’ve stayed at high-end hotels in the area, and there were times when we were surprised by the simplicity of some accommodations, too. To ensure your Uptown trip is as flawless as possible, you should look at the following hotel recommendations.
Table of contents
- The Harlem Flophouse
- Northern Lights Mansion
- Hotel Belleclaire
- Arthouse Hotel
- Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel
- The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel
- Edge Hotel Washington Heights
- The Pierre, A Taj Hotel
- The Mark New York
- Hotel Beacon
- Lowell Hotel
- Our Verdict!
- Where to Stay in Uptown, New York City?
- What is considered Uptown in New York City?
- What’s the difference between Uptown and Downtown New York?
- Is Central Park Uptown or downtown?
The Harlem Flophouse
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Kicking off this list is The Harlem Flophouse. This historic 1890s townhouse had a ton of charm. First, let’s talk about its fantastic location. It’s just a 5-minute walk from the legendary Apollo Theater and the beautiful green space of Morningside Park. Plus, we could easily walk to the subway. Exploring New York was a breeze for us.
There are only four rooms on-site, and they’re all uniquely decorated and have hardwood floors, offering that classic vibe. While our room wasn’t luxurious, it gave us a more memorable and personal experience. We appreciated having an in-room sink for convenience, and the shared bathrooms with their antique claw-foot tubs added to the whole vintage vibe.
Another big plus? This place is budget-friendly! It even welcomes kids (under 12) to stay for free, making it a great option for families. Bonus points for being pet-friendly. Yep, your furry friend is welcome too. Speaking of which, here are the top pet-friendly hotels in New York City!
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Northern Lights Mansion
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Most Charming. Northern Lights Mansion is the answer for those searching for a unique stay in Uptown. Located on a charming residential street in a beautiful 1880s brownstone, we loved staying here. It felt worlds away from the usual tourist hustle. In fact, it was an easy 8-minute walk to the subway so that we could explore the city without any hassle, but the mansion itself offered a peaceful retreat.
Our room was exactly what we pictured for an upmarket guesthouse – genteel and full of old-world charm. But the real stars here are the extra touches. Some rooms even have fireplaces, chandeliers, or whirlpool tubs! So, it’s one of the best hotels with a jacuzzi in the room in New York City. We were lucky enough to snag a room with a private terrace. This means we were able to enjoy each morning with a cup of coffee and fresh air.
Beyond the room, the mansion offered us some fantastic shared spaces. The communal kitchen allowed us to whip up light meals and snacks, and the elegant lounge with stained-glass windows was a dream come true. It felt like stepping back in time and was perfect for relaxing with a book or socializing with fellow guests. There was even a beautiful garden where you could enjoy some fresh air, a rarity in New York City.
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Hotel Belleclaire
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Built in 1903, Hotel Belleclaire has this grand, ornate Beaux Arts look from the outside. However, when we were inside, it felt surprisingly casual and relaxed. The location on the Upper West Side was fantastic. It was close enough to walk to Riverside Park for a morning jog and just a short stroll from the iconic American Museum of Natural History.
While we were there, we were spoilt by the great amenities. We enjoyed relaxing in the media lounge, and the 24-hour fitness room allowed us to squeeze in a quick workout. The coffee bar in the lobby was great, too, especially in the mornings.
Our room, the New Amsterdam Suite, was a nice blend of old and new. The wood floors felt classic, and we loved the low-key, stylish vibe with the earth tones. Everything we needed was there – free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV for catching up on shows, and more. Better yet, some suites even have themed parlor suites honoring famous guests like Mark Twain. How cool is that?
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Arthouse Hotel
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If you plan on staying on the Upper West Side, consider the Arthouse Hotel. We could get around easily as the hotel was just two blocks from the subway. But you didn’t have to venture out to be impressed. Plus, iconic locations like the American Museum of Natural History and Central Park were only an 8-minute stroll away.
As you can guess from its name, this hotel is extremely stylish. Our room had beautiful hardwood floors and a bright, contemporary feel. We loved having all the essential amenities and a coffeemaker to start our mornings right. The room even featured unique artwork from local artists. If you’re looking for extra space, the hotel offers suites as well.
The Arthouse Hotel isn’t short on things to do either. We enjoyed delicious Italian food at the on-site restaurant, and for a fun night out, make sure to head to the hip speakeasy-inspired bar. Not enough? This amazing hotel even has two rooftop terraces so that you can soak up the city skyline.
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Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel
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You can’t talk about the best hotels in Uptown, New York City, without mentioning the Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel. One of the first things that surprised us was the lobby, whose ambiance transported us. There, we found the Victoria Lounge, with its live piano music and soul-fusion food. It was our favorite spot to grab a delicious bite and a creative cocktail.
Another highlight of our stay was experiencing the hotel’s “Evenings at Renaissance” program. Sipping cocktails on the rooftop bar with the city lights sparkling below was a truly unforgettable experience. The vibrant atmosphere and live music perfectly captured the essence of Harlem’s artistic spirit.
Once we’ve checked everything on our to-do list for the day, we would call it a day and throw ourselves onto our plush bed. We kid you not, our room was flawless. It blended modern comfort with hints of Harlem’s rich history and vibrant art scene. The best part was that we could wake up each morning to breathtaking views of the Harlem River.
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The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel
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The Carlyle, a Rosewood Hotel, is overflowing with history. When we first arrived, we weren’t expecting the lobby. It was small, but the charming black marble floor and minimalist design captivated us. Once we finished taking a quick nap, the first thing we did was head to the Bemelmans Bar. It’s popular for its out-of-this-world martinis.
Though there are many room options on the property, we decided to go all out and book the Superior Suite. It was big, clean, and comfy – everything we expected it to be. We also loved the spotless marble bathroom. At night, we would enjoy a glass of wine while relaxing in the seating area in our bathrobes.
Location-wise, this hotel is an integral part of the Upper East Side’s tapestry. The neighborhood boasts other remarkable hotels, but it still holds its own, existing as part of this illustrious group and as its own unique world. Besides, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Central Park are both only a short walk away.
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Edge Hotel Washington Heights
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Another great addition to this list of the best Uptown hotels New York has to offer is Edge Hotel Washington Heights. Nestled right next to Columbia University Medical Center, it’s the perfect spot for anyone visiting the area’s many cultural and educational institutions. And to tell you the truth, we were surprised by the hotel’s modern charm.
The hotel is sleek and stylish, a refreshing contrast to the historic neighborhood. Unlike some high-end Uptown hotels, this one offers a more humble experience without sacrificing comfort. Throughout our stay, we could stay fit thanks to the fitness center, and the staff treated us like VIPs.
Our room was modern and comfortable, and the best part? We scored a beautiful view of the George Washington Bridge! Plus, getting around the city was a breeze – the 1, A, and C subway lines are all super close, making it easy to zip down to Midtown or Lower Manhattan.
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The Pierre, A Taj Hotel
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If you don’t mind splurging, The Pierre, A Taj Hotel is worth considering. This hotel offers old-world elegance. When we first arrived, white-gloved attendants greeted us, and the impeccable service continued throughout our stay. The location was also perfect for shopaholics like us. Bergdorf Goodman was practically next door, and Fifth and Madison Avenues, with their designer boutiques, were just a short stroll away.
Pierre is steeped in history, having hosted countless social events since 1930. We felt the glamour when we dined at Perrine, the hotel’s elegant restaurant. It serves delicious seasonal American cuisine with daily specials that pay homage to the hotel’s culinary legacy. We also enjoyed live jazz at Two E, the hotel’s bar. During the day, Two E transforms into a lovely spot for traditional afternoon tea – a quintessential New York experience.
The attention to detail at this historic NYC hotel was truly impressive. The highly trained housekeeping staff impeccably maintained our room, and the concierge team, part of the prestigious Les Clefs d’Or, went above and beyond to assist us with anything we needed. Traveling with your kids? The hotel also offers a variety of special amenities for little ones, from welcome treats to movies.
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The Mark New York
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Best Luxury. Our experience at The Mark New York is one we won’t forget. Right off Madison Avenue, we were surrounded by high-end stores like Vera Wang and mere steps from Central Park. Aside from the location, the staff were all fantastic, too. From the moment we walked through the door, the front desk treated us warmly, making us feel right at home.
One of the things we loved most about this pre-gala host was the range of experiences it offered. Beyond the incredible restaurants and bars, it has a variety of other services that guests can take advantage of. We particularly enjoyed the workout with fitness guru Dan Flores, followed by a pampering session at the Frédéric Fekkai Salon. Little touches like complimentary shoeshine service and loaner bikes just added to the overall feeling of luxury.
We stayed in the Seventy-Seven Room, and it was amazing. As the name suggests, we were offered views of the East 77th Street. While the public spaces boasted a bolder aesthetic, our room was beautifully understated, offering a sense of calm after the city’s hustle and bustle. Also, did you know that The Mark is named one of the most expensive hotels in New York City?
“We’re out of words for this hotel. You need to experience it yourself to know how amazing it is.”
WOW Travel
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Hotel Beacon
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Best Value for Money. Though not the fanciest, Hotel Beacon sure offers a lot for its rate. Right next door to the Beacon Theatre, it offered us a perfect location for exploring this captivating neighborhood. The subway station was just a short walk away, making it easy to get around the city. Central Park was only a mile away, so we could conveniently have a morning jog.
We loved the overall vibe of the hotel. We would head to the sleek bar to unwind and drink after dinner when free. We’re sure you’ll also like to spend your time on the terrace seating. We didn’t have a chance to use the meeting rooms, but they looked well-equipped for business travelers.
The rooms here are a delight. We opted for a suite, which gave us a separate living room area with a sofa bed. That way, we could spread out comfortably after a whole day of sightseeing. The kitchenette was a nice addition, allowing us to whip up some quick meals or heat up leftovers. We also liked the marble bathroom, which was nothing short of luxurious.
Are you looking for more budget accommodations? Here are the best cheap hotels in New York City!
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Lowell Hotel
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Best Experience. If you’re looking for hotels in NYC Uptown that ooze elegance and tranquility, the Lowell Hotel should rank high. Tucked away on a charming side street, it’s a world away from the bustling avenues of the Upper East Side. Although this hotel lacks flashiness, it doesn’t lack luxury. Our room, which is the smallest on the property, felt super spacious and was designed by the White House decorator. It truly felt calming and relaxing. The king-sized bed with 300-thread-count Frette sheets practically guaranteed us sweet dreams.
Little details like fresh flowers in our room made our whole experience more personal and enjoyable. And the fireplace? That’s fantastic. We also loved our luxurious bathroom. Think huge marble with a separate soaking tub and shower, plush Frette bathrobes, and high-end DDC28 toiletries.
The hotel’s restaurant, Majorelle, could easily win an award for “The Most Beautiful Restaurant on the Upper East Side.” Lush flower arrangements and beautifully set tables create a truly stunning atmosphere, and the French-Moroccan cuisine wasn’t too shabby either. If you’re looking for a casual bite or a drink, The Club Room has you covered. Located in the heart of the hotel, it’s a lively spot with a full bar and a menu of small plates.
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Our Verdict!
Knowing which hotels to choose can be pretty challenging since there are so many hotels in Uptown, NYC. To make things easier, we’ve categorized some of our picks above based on the following:
- Best Experience: Lowell Hotel
- Best Value for Money: Hotel Beacon
- Best Luxury: The Mark New York
- Most Charming: Northern Lights Mansion
Where to Stay in Uptown, New York City?
Uptown Manhattan offers a quieter and more residential vibe compared to the more crowded Midtown and Downtown. That said, there are two major areas to consider for your stay: the Upper West Side and Upper East Side.
The Upper West Side is a family-friendly neighborhood known for its beautiful brownstones, cultural institutions like the American Museum of Natural History, and easy access to Central Park. It’s also well-connected by subway, making it easy to get around the city.
Then, there’s the Upper East Side. This elegant neighborhood is home to some of the city’s most prestigious museums, like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and iconic landmarks like Central Park and the Frick Collection. It has a more upscale atmosphere and offers a variety of shopping options along Madison Avenue. Some of Uptown’s most expensive hotels are here, too.
In addition to these two, there’s also Upper Manhattan. It’s close to Central Park and has plenty of family-friendly spots and attractions. What’s more, it has a fantastic food scene, making it a nice destination for foodies.
What is considered Uptown in New York City?
Uptown refers to anything north of Central Park, including the Upper West Side and Upper East Side (starting around 59th Street). However, some use “Uptown” more specifically for neighborhoods even further north, like Harlem and Washington Heights (above 110th Street on the west side and 97th/98th on the east).
What’s the difference between Uptown and Downtown New York?
Uptown refers to Manhattan north of Central Park, known for residential areas and museums like the Met. Downtown is south of Central Park, with the financial district, bustling streets, and iconic sights like the Statue of Liberty.
Is Central Park Uptown or downtown?
Central Park is considered Uptown. In Manhattan, “uptown” refers to anything north of Central Park (around 59th Street), while “downtown” is south of the park. So, the park itself sits right on the border between these two areas.
