Best Hotels in New York City

The Blue Moon Hotel is a boutique establishment near the East Village of New York City. A city landmark, this Orchard Street hotel has only 22 rooms. All of them are filled with retro furnishings and bright colors, and they all include a view. National Geographic selected this hotel as one of its "150 Hotels You'll Love" in 2008. Guests get a free continental breakfast every morning full of fresh, hand-made local goodies (Orchard Street is full of kosher bakeries and delis), as well as free wireless Internet and cable. The Blue Moon Hotel is located at 100 Orchard Street in the Lower East Side; the phone number is (212) 533-9080.

Located in the genteel Sutton Place section of New York City, the New York Palace is an old-world hotel with 893 rooms on 55 floors. A popular venue for weddings and other special events, the New York Palace is known for great service and luxurious appointments. The room prices can be breathtaking (one site lists the cheapest at $595 per night), but the location near Fifth Avenue and the amenities make it worthwhile. The New York Palace Hotel is located at 455 Madison Avenue and 50th Street; the phone number is (212) 888-7000.

There's a surprise bed-and-breakfast on the Upper West Side. The Inn New York City at 288 West 71st Street is a quiet secret for many New York City tourists. With large duplex suites, private entrances and elegant spa rooms, this very homey hotel is decorated just like a well-appointed, comfortable home. The small size and large rooms guarantee an attentive stay. The phone number for the Inn New York City is (212) 580 1900.

The Bryant Park Hotel is located right across from the city park of the same name. Every year, many in the fashion industry gather in the tents across the street for the fashion shows, making the Bryant Park Hotel a go-to spot for celebrities, models and other cognoscenti. The Bryant Park Hotel has a popular bar and restaurant, and is known for excellent service. The decor is well-appointed, modern and sleek, and the location is perfect for anyone who wants to be right in the middle of all the action. The Bryant Park Hotel is located at 40 West 40th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues; the phone number is (212) 869-0100.