Upper East Side, United States
Renovations in 2013 and 2014
Fitness center
Residential area close to Central Park and Gracie Mansion
Some rooms have spectacular views of the East River or NYC skyline
Flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, microwaves and mini-fridges
Free Wi-Fi throughout
Spacious lobby with areas for lounging and working
An easy taxi ride to/from LaGuardia Airport
Laundry facilities available to guests
A small market open round-the-clock for essentials
No restaurant or bar on the property
Lack of nightlife options nearby
A train, bus, or taxi is required to get to central areas of the city
The Courtyard brand has let go of the red and green decor from days past, and renovations in 2013 and 2014 renovations brought the look here up to brand standards. This 226-room property on the Upper East Side caters to those in the healthcare professions (many hospitals are based nearby) as well as savvy travelers who know how to get around NYC using a MetroCard. Prices are fair for the renovated rooms -- ask for one with a south-facing view -- and features include laundry facilities, a fitness center and sauna/steam rooms. Just know that it's far from the tourist sights and a 10-minute walk to the 6 train.
Scene
A mid-range chain that appeals to business travelers
The modern lobby has an open layout and a range of seating options. During the week, the hotel sees mostly business travelers, especially those in the healthcare professions (there are multiple hospitals nearby) who are on extended stays. There are more leisure travelers on weekends, but the location far from the tourist sights (and a decent walk away from the nearest subway line) makes it better suited to visitors who already know New York reasonably well. There is no bar on the property, but there is a breakfast lounge.
Location
This residential location isn't too far from Museum Mile and Central Park.
This Upper East Side location is off the beaten tourist track, in a residential area filled mostly with locals. Guests will find themselves close to Carl Schultz Park and Gracie Mansion (tours are available), and Central Park is within walking distance. Famous museums such as The Met, Guggenheim, Whitney and Frick aren't too far from here (it's a 17-minute walk to the Guggenheim, and around 30 minutes by foot or a short cab ride to the rest). The 6 train and crosstown bus are close by, and it's straightforward to travel to Yankee Stadium and LaGuardia Airport.
Rooms
Mid-range chain rooms with business-friendly conveniences
Renovations in 2013 and 2014 spruced up the tired red and green decor of this 16-floor hotel, and rooms now sport a refreshing light blue and neutral palette. Gray patterned wallpaper, fresh white bedding, and dark wood furnishings create a pleasing environment, and amenities include microwaves, mini-fridges, and coffeemakers. Catering to the Monday through Friday clientele, each room has a spacious desk and ergonomic chair for taking advantage of free Wi-Fi. Some rooms come with skyline views, while certain corner rooms –- and their cool futuristic sleeper sofas -- have views of the East River. Bathrooms are on the smaller side, but contain the essentials.
Features
Conveniences for travelers who need to a good home base in the city
Beneath the lobby, there is a large fitness center and sauna/steam room, which is such a rarity in the neighborhood that even locals belong to the club (it's free to guests). Guests have also have use of the laundry facilities, as well as a few meeting rooms. Next to the front desk is a market open 24/7 for grab & go essentials. There is no bar or restaurant on-site, though the headquarters for Eli’s Bakery and a family-owned Greek joint, as well as many other dining options, are close by.