Top 10 Cozy Hotels for Romance in New York City
Hotels possess a magical allure, bringing couples together whether celebrating 40 years of marriage or enjoying a first getaway. They are enchanted with crisp sheets, chocolate-topped pillows, and a temporary haven. In New York City, a plethora of romantic activities await, from Michelin-starred dining to strolls through Central Park. It’s an ideal locale for commemorating special occasions. The right hotel enhances the experience, making Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or anniversaries unforgettable. Whether surfing at Rockaway Beach, enjoying drinks at Bemelmans or ice-skating in Brooklyn with a Manhattan skyline view, each neighborhood offers charm. Explore our pick of 10 NYC area hotels for an unforgettable romantic escape.
Top 10 Cozy Hotels for Romance in New York City
1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
1 Hotel in Dumbo offers unparalleled views of Lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge from its prime waterfront location. This LEED Gold property is a showcase of local artistry, embracing an urban oasis ambiance with abundant greenery and stylish reclaimed materials. While the rooftop bar and pool are summer highlights, the winter season transforms the space into a glacial wonderland adorned with ice sculptures and custom seating. Fear not the cold; Moose Knuckles parkas are readily available to ensure warmth during your enchanting experience.
The Beekman
Amidst New York’s historically rich hotels, the Beekman stands out, residing in an 1880s Queen Anne-style building, a pioneering skyscraper of its time. The site’s legacy traces further back, once housing the Mercantile Library Association and serving as the place where Edgar Allan Poe published The Broadway Journal. Adding to its allure, the hotel’s centerpiece is a soaring nine-story atrium. A romantic evening commences with cocktails in the Bar Room, nestled beneath this architectural marvel. Discover the epitome of luxury and charm at The Beekman Hotel, where history intertwines with modern sophistication.
Glenmere Mansion
Embark on a Tuscan villa getaway without venturing far from the Tri-state area at Glenmere Mansion. Nestled in Chester, New York, just an hour north of the city, this Relais & Chateaux property promises an authentic experience. Set on 150 acres of rolling farmland and adorned with exquisite gardens, the 18-key former Gilded Age country home transformed into a hotel seamlessly transports you to the allure of the Italian countryside. Enhanced by excellent food and wine, Glenmere Mansion ensures a captivating escape reminiscent of Tuscany. Need we say more to entice you into this enchanting retreat?
The Rockaway Hotel
Embarking on the subway journey to the Rockaway Hotel promises a staycation with authentic escapist vibes. Inspired by 1960s surf culture and complemented by captivating ocean views, this property offers the ideal setting to fully immerse yourself in a beach weekend without straying far from New York City. The experience goes beyond the shores, as the hotel features a full-service spa for well-deserved couples’ rest and relaxation. Indulge in the culinary delights of Margie’s, a fun restaurant serving simple American fare with a charming seaside twist, accompanied by lively weekend live music. The Rockaway Hotel ensures a delightful escape within the city limits.
The Lowell
Referring to a hotel as a “home away from home” is often a clichéd sentiment, but the Lowell, situated on a quiet block of prime Upper East Side real estate, truly embodies this notion. The property, resembling a jewel box, radiates a sense of familiarity, especially in its sublime penthouse suite. Boasting three terraces, a wood-burning fireplace, and adorned with de Gournay wallpaper, the experience is nothing short of exceptional. Even if the $19,000-per-night penthouse isn’t your choice, rest assured that all rooms are impeccably appointed. For a special Valentine’s Day, the Lowell collaborates with jewelry maison Chopard, offering a package including a one-night stay, a gift from Chopard’s Happy Hearts collection, and reservations at Majorelle.
The Whitby Hotel
Thanks to the distinctive and quirky aesthetic of interior designer Kit Kemp, the Whitby exudes the charm of a whimsical British hideaway in midtown. Begin your mornings with coffee on a private terrace—each of the 86 individually designed rooms features floor-to-ceiling windows, with most equipped with balconies—offering captivating views of the Manhattan skyline. In the evenings, unwind in the soaking tub while enjoying a movie. The hotel offers a delightful range of activities, from indulging in scrumptious afternoon tea in the Orangery to experiencing Friday night jazz and Negronis at the bar. For a touch of off-campus romance, high-end boutiques like Harry Winston, Cartier, and Tiffany are conveniently just a hop, skip, and a jump away. (Hint, hint.)
The Carlyle
Consult any New Yorker, and they’ll affirm that Bemelmans Bar stands out as one of the city’s most enchanting spots. The iconic murals, crafted by Ludwig Bemelmans, the author of Madeline and a Town & Country contributor, add a touch of magic to the atmosphere (created in exchange for free room and board). The nightly live music and tempting martinis further enhance the irresistible allure of this establishment. Cozy up to the hotel itself, an Upper East Side institution conveniently within walking distance of Central Park and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Bemelmans Bar promises an experience that seamlessly blends artistry, music, and classic New York charm.
The William Vale
The William Vale in Williamsburg is a dynamic destination that evolves with the changing seasons. Embrace winter romance by luxuriating in the hotel’s outdoor red cedar saunas, offering a deeply relaxing detox. Take a spin on the rooftop rink with the twinkling Manhattan skyline as your backdrop. Continue the enchantment at the Winter Village pop-up in the signature restaurant, Westlight, where you can snuggle up in a private chalet and indulge in seasonal cocktails and fondue. For an extra special Valentine’s Day, The William Vale offers an extravagant package, including a stay in the two-story penthouse suite, a couples spa session, and the pleasure of champagne and truffles enjoyed from your private outdoor jacuzzi.
Hotel Barrière Fouquet’s New York
Eliminating the need for a swift journey to Paris, Fouquet’s has unveiled its New York outpost. Situated on a serene block in Tribeca, this chic and charming hotel exudes a homely feel while embracing the renowned French elegance associated with Hotels Barriere Fouquet’s. Refined and understated, the establishment features an outpost of the iconic Parisian brasserie bearing the same name, along with a world-class spa. It boldly claims to be the ultimate staycation, seamlessly merging the best of both worlds. This Tribeca gem promises an unparalleled experience, marrying French sophistication with the vibrant energy of New York.
The Inn at GrayBarns
GrayBarns, a former 17th-century stagecoach stop in Norwalk, Connecticut, just an hour outside of New York City, offers a unique retreat. Home to only six rooms, all king suites, the property also features a tavern and mercantile. Preserving its historical charm, original post and beam structures and reclaimed wood floors pay homage to GrayBarns’ past, while modern luxuries like Frette robes, Le Labo toiletries, heated floors, and rain showers firmly root it in the present. The property’s exclusive charm is enhanced by its adults-only designation, creating an intimate and serene atmosphere for a truly special getaway.
Discover a diverse array of hotels near New York City, each offering a unique and enchanting experience. From waterfront escapes with ice sculptures to historic skyscrapers with soaring atriums, these hotels provide a perfect blend of luxury, history, and modernity, promising unforgettable stays for every type of traveler. Like this post? Don’t forget to check out our other short stories in our Quick Reads section.