Exclusive | New York City: Where to Stay Part Four

BEST 4: WEST VILLAGE/MEATPACKING DISTRICT
The hippest of New York's hedonistic hip head for the Meatpacking District's Gansevoort Hotel (18 Ninth Ave., at 13th St.; 212-206-6700 or 877-426-7386; $485+). Their Plunge bar/ lounge/ garden/ pool, a rooftop oasis of cool, attracts a slew of celebrities, who saunter in from their adjacent West Village pads. Breathtaking 360-degree views and an expansive event loft keep everyone entertained in between celeb sightings.

Washington Square Hotel (see BEST 4: VALUE)

Named for the tiny park nearby, the Abingdon Guest House (13 & 21 Eighth Ave., btwn Jane & 12th Sts.; 212-243-5384, fax 212-807-7473; singles $169+, doubles $179+) is housed in two 1850s Federal-style townhouses. Its nine guestrooms are painted in bright colors and most have at least one exposed brick wall. For a particularly queer time, choose the Sherwin or Landau Rooms, which are rose- and lavender-hued respectively. Note for those who plan to bring company home: after 9 p.m., management allows only registered guests on the premises.

While not quite on par with the Abingdon, Incentra Village Guest House (32 Eighth Ave., btwn Jane & 12th Sts.; 212-206-0007, fax 212-604-0625; singles $149+, doubles $179+) is just across the street and still a reliable option, not to mention generally cheaper. Some rooms have kitchenettes and fireplaces, and all have private baths. Simple wood furnishings have been charmingly and innovatively used to create a country aura in the midst of the big city. The garden suite has its own rear patio/terrace.

Part One | Part Two | Part Three | Part Four | Part Five

Related Articles:
New York City: Introduction
New York City: Where to Eat
New York City: Where to Play/Meet
New York City: What to See and Do
New York City: Where to Shop
New York City: Neighborhoods
New York City: Resources