Quality Inn Long Island City

With its red-brick exterior and green awning bearing its name, this six-story Quality Inn has the generic look of the low-cost chain hotel that it is. But once inside, the spacious, quiet lobby, with its black-and-white marbled checkered floors, artsy gold chandeliers, black leather couches, and ambient blue ceiling lights creates an illusion of luxury. Even the elevator, which looks plain Jane at first, surprises with quirky polka-dot patterned overhead lights. But with no bar or restaurant, there isn't much activity here. Most guests arrive late and check out early before heading back to the airport.

Located within a five-minute walk of the Queensboro Plaza subway station, the Quality Inn Long Island City is within a 20-minute subway ride to Times Square.  It sits on a corner at the end of a construction-filled block near an overhead subway rail on a narrow cobblestone side street. The location is convenient for tourists wanting to be within easy reach of Manhattan at non-Manhattan prices. Nearby subway lines include the E, M, R and 7 trains. Before dashing off to Manhattan, note that Long Island City itself has some sights that are worth a visit, most notably the Museum of Modern Art's famed PS 1, which is about a 10-minute subway ride away. Film aficionados might like to tour the Silvercup Studios, which is within a 10-minute walk of the Quality Inn. Vernon Boulevard, which has a number of restaurants, cafes, and a few art galleries sprinkled in, is a 20-minute ride on the No. 7 line. The Socrates Sculpture Park is a 10-minute drive or a 20-minute subway ride, which will entail some walking. LaGuardia Airport is three miles away, while John F. Kennedy Airport is seven miles away.

Rooms, which include mini-fridges and free Wi-Fi, are large, clean, and basic, but don't expect views --  rooms look out on driveways and construction sites. The generic decor consists of textured cream walls and dark wooden furniture, with gold accents in the bed skirts and eclectic-patterned curtains. Hung abstract paintings add a sprinkle of color and personality. Wardrobe closets are large, there are ironing boards, irons, and safes stashed inside. The bathrooms are clean, with curtained shower/tub combos, and toiletries.

The Queen Deluxe rooms are the stand-outs. They are larger and have a noticeably fresh smell. But the highlight is a six-jet whirlpool in the corner. The single tubs are lined with gray- polished marble, have their own overhead lighting, and a set of soap and lotion samples -- a nice touch in a budget hotel.

As with many hotels in the budget category, amenities are limited. But the hotel is a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking a convenient location at non-Manhattan rates. There are no fitness facilities or meeting rooms, but the Wi-Fi and a continental breakfast are included in the room rate, some of the rooms have whirlpools, and newspapers and an ATM are available in the lobby. Expect to pay extra for parking, a common theme in New York City.