What's that they say? Location, location, location. The Hudson Hotel has that going for it in spades—it's walking distance from Central Park, the Time Warner Center, Lincoln Center and Times Square, but sits on unassuming 58th and 8th, out of the lion’s den. Take the escalator up from the ground floor and be transported into a soothing world of Philippe Starck–designed glamour, all wood and grandiose chandeliers. The rooms, sitting high stop the city deliver more of that study-like atmosphere, along with modest but comfortable amenities, including Malin + Goetz shower products in the bathroom and free WiFi. (The only exceptions to the style scheme are the brightly lit lime-green hallways and erratic splashes of the color, which feel distinctly Starck but also a bit stark.)
The Hudson may not draw the NYC crowd on weekends it did in the early aughts, but the cool kids might be wise to return: Beer hall Hudson Common manages to balance the bookish design of the whole place with a down-to-earth and unpretentious vibe: Order a burger and truffle fries at the window, then grab a seat on a comfy leather chair or at a long wood communal table; and the Library Bar is perfect for reading by yourself or playing a game of pool. (If eating and drinking without ever leaving the hotel is what you’re into, Private Park, Hudson Bar and, weather permitting, Sky Terrace, have got you covered.) The Hudson also hosts periodic events and popups popular with locals and tourists alike, like a minigolf course on the patio and Gatsby-themed New Year’s Eve party.
The Hudson may not have the buzz it once did or the splash of whatever new glass-box or boutique hotel has popped up in our crowded skyline, but it’s a solid choice for anyone looking for someplace equal parts chic, convenient and comfortable.
Time Out Tip: Skip whatever newfangled bakery of the moment you were planning to visit and instead head just a few blocks down to Brasserie Cognac on Broadway and 55th to find the city's best croissant. Just the right amount of crunch on the outside and buttery flakiness inside (not to mention a pretty modest $2.25 price tag), and you'll probably want to order more than one. (We say go for it. Yolo, y’know?)