We decided last minute to make a trip to New York City to hang out with our friend who was shooting in the next season of Kimmy Schmidt (have you guys seen that show yet?). While we were looking for hotels, we were overwhelmed with how many choices there were. Do we pick one of the big chains that we’ve stayed at before and know what to expect or do we try a boutique hotel that has more of the city’s charm?
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We decided on the latter, and we’re so happy we did! The Library Hotel was the first place we stayed and was easily our favorite! They are at the top of every list for best luxury boutique hotels in NYC, including Tripadvisor’s.
It’s conveniently located just a block away from Grand Central Station and the New York Public Library. As soon as you walk in, warm and friendly staff greet you in the lobby, where the walls are lined with books and there’s an entire card catalog behind the front desk.
They have 60 rooms in the hotel with a few different floor plans. They only have 8 junior suites, the largest rooms in the hotel, and they get booked up quick. These rooms have great views of Madison Avenue and the New York Public Library. Otherwise, each of the rooms is filled with books based on the Dewey Decimal system of your room and offer the same great comforts.
Fun fact: This nook was built before the building codes were put into effect, so this hotel is one of the few buildings where you get an unobstructed view of Madison Ave all the way down!
Besides the rooms, there is a rooftop bar that draws a crowd each evening! If you want to get a seat up there, be sure to go early. It was way too crowded after work hours, so we snuck up during the day time to grab some photos.
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Our favorite part of the hotel was the Reading Room that’s open 24 hours with snacks and refreshments! This second-floor lounge is where the complimentary continental breakfast buffet is served, and they host a wine and cheese reception every evening from 5PM-8PM that’s included with your stay! The Reading Room is the perfect place to take a break from walking around the city or for some tea and snacks in between meals.
After staying here, we could see why they have regulars who come back time and time again. They put in so many personal touches (for example, a card in your room with the weather to help plan your next day). Overall, we really enjoyed our time at the Library Hotel and hope to stay again soon!
Be sure to visit their site to read all the details about the rooms and amenities. If you need ideas to fill your itinerary, read 101 Things to Do in NYC. If you love food, check out our ultimate NYC food bucket list! If you’re not familiar with the city, read 21 Things You Should Know Before You Visit NYC.
The Library Hotel NYC
299 Madison Avenue
New York City, New York 10017
[email protected]
212.983.4500
What boutique hotels have you stayed at?
Do you prefer boutique or large chain hotels?