The Williamsburg Hotel

Combining elements of industrial Brooklyn and Williamsburg’s own eclectic vibe, this 2017-built hotel stands as a svelte red-brick, glass, and weathered steel statement just two blocks from the East River. Inside, soaring bare brick walls, oak parquet floors, and colorful retro-modern touches create a rustic yet polished scene in the lobby. At its center, an Eric Reiger art installation strung with a rainbow of yarn hangs over the oak and brass lobby bar. Check-in formality is tucked away in the far corner, and a cascading spiral staircase leads to a street-level mezzanine overlooking the lobby. Lofty brick archways envelop Harvey -- a chic diner-meets-bistro space that adjoins the lobby -- which is illuminated by a galaxy of petite pendant lights suspended overhead.

While fairly subdued by day, The Williamsburg can become more of a scene at night, when the live music starts, and guests and non-guests alike spill in for cocktail hour. The rooftop is the main draw in the summer, where the pool can get a bit crowded (non-hotel guests are allowed access for a fee).

The hotel resides in Williamsburg, one of Brooklyn’s hippest neighborhoods and home to endless restaurants, bars, cafes, and boutiques, many of which line Bedford Avenue, which is just two blocks away (a five-minute walk from the hotel). The property sits two blocks from the East River and the East River State Park, which is host to seasonal food fest, Smorgasburg (four-minute walk). The nearest subway stations are the L at Bedford Avenue (a seven-minute walk) or the G at Metropolitan Avenue (14 minutes on foot), allowing for easy access into Manhattan. It's only about a five-minute subway ride into Manhattan from here. Top attractions like Times Square, the World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, and Central Park take about a half-hour to reach by public transportation. JFK International Airport is about a half-hour away by car (depending on traffic; can take longer) or a bit over an hour by public transportation, while LaGuardia Airport takes 20 to 30 minutes by car or an hour via public transit.

Categories range, and ascend in size, from Queen Room, through Queen Terrace, King Terrace, and Studio Terrace, to the Skyline Suite. Aside from Queens, all rooms have terraces, and those that don’t take in sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline overlook surrounding streets. Art Deco-flavored decor begins with high ceilings, reclaimed oak floors, and floor-to-ceiling glass windows that let in loads of natural light and showcase spectacular views -- especially from higher floors. Brass lamps are suspended over comfy beds with caramel leather upholstered bedheads, crisp white linen, and bed runners in saffron or teal shades. 

Rooms are decked out with conveniences, including minibars, wall-mounted flat-screen TVs, small Bluetooth speakers, bathrobes, and safes -- but coffeemakers are absent, as are irons and ironing boards (though these can be provided on request). There are plenty of other thoughtful perks like pillow menus, eye masks, earplugs, and white noise machines (though street noise is minimal). Bathrooms are sleek and stylish with their teal-colored subway tiling, Art Deco flooring, marble vanities, and timeless brass fixtures -- but they tend to lack privacy. They have walk-in rainfall showers, while higher-category units add soaking tubs.

Entry-level Queen Rooms are a bit small at 220 square feet, and they lack balconies. Those craving more space might want to upgrade to 400-square-foot Studio Terraces, which add lounge settings, bathtubs, and bigger balconies. Skyline Suites are the largest and most impressive option here at 550 square feet, offering full-width open-plan layouts and freestanding bathtubs. They're lined with windows that offer panoramic views.

The highlight here is the hotel's rooftop, which features a chic pool as well as the Water Tower Bar towering above it. The pool deck is lined with striped wooden loungers and offers great views over the Manhattan skyline, plus there's a poolside bar serving drinks and snacks. Daybeds and cabanas are available for a fee. Note that the pool is open to non-hotel guests alike, which means it can get crowded. Morning yoga sessions are hosted on the pool deck daily and are free for guests.

Even better panoramic views can be had from the Water Tower Bar, and live music is available at certain times. The hotel also has a trendy lobby bar that offers a choice of bar, table, and velvet lounge-booth seating -- often used by guests as a work area during the day. Harvey restaurant adjoins the lobby, serving New American fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as weekend high tea. Room service is also provided, as is free morning coffee and newspapers in the lobby.

Other perks at the Williamsburg include free Wi-Fi throughout the property, free cruiser bikes available to loan, and free tuk-tuk service around the area. There are no fitness or spa facilities though. This is a pet-friendly property, and the hotel provides things like treats and other amenities.