Hotels in Upper East Side

Upper East Side: Where Cultural Elegance Meets Urban Serenity

Nestled along the banks of the East River, the Upper East Side is a luxurious enclave of culture and sophistication in New York City. This iconic neighbourhood boasts world-class museums like The Met and the Guggenheim, stunning architecture, and tree-lined streets perfect for leisurely strolls. Indulge in upscale shopping along Madison Avenue or savour gourmet dining at elegant restaurants. With its proximity to Central Park, visitors can enjoy both vibrant city life and serene green spaces. The Upper East Side's blend of art, history, and refined charm makes it a must-visit destination for discerning travellers seeking an unforgettable experience. For great hotel rates in Upper East Side, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Upper East Side

The Upper East Side is ideal for travellers seeking a blend of culture and excitement. Times Square dazzles with its lights and energy, Central Park offers a serene escape, and Madison Square Garden hosts world-class events. Accommodations range from luxury hotels to budget options, providing choices for every traveller. For first-time visitors, Times Square is a must-see for its iconic atmosphere and proximity to attractions, making it the best starting point for your New York adventure. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Upper East Side:

1. Near Times SquareOpens in a new window: If you're looking to immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of New York City, staying near Times Square is a must. The area is filled with dazzling lights, world-class dining, and endless shopping opportunities. Consider Casablanca Hotel by Library Hotel CollectionOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel ideal for families and boutique lovers, featuring unique decor and child-friendly amenities. Another option is Hilton New York Times SquareOpens in a new window, also a 4-star hotel, perfect for business travellers and families, offering business facilities and essential amenities for kids. For a more luxurious stay, The Knickerbocker HotelOpens in a new window is a 5-star hotel that caters to business and family needs, providing extensive meeting spaces and childcare services.
2. Near Central ParkOpens in a new window: Staying near Central Park allows you to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational activities of one of the world's most famous parks while being close to the city's cultural attractions. Excelsior HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, is great for business and family travellers, featuring a business centre and play areas for kids. For a more opulent experience, The CarlyleOpens in a new window offers a 5-star boutique atmosphere with stylish decor and child amenities. The MarkOpens in a new window is another excellent choice, with adventure options nearby and business facilities for travelling professionals.
3. Near Madison Square GardenOpens in a new window: This area is perfect for those looking to catch a concert or sporting event, with Madison Square Garden right at your doorstep. Hyatt Place New York / ChelseaOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel, is ideal for business travellers and pet owners, featuring a fully equipped business centre and pet-friendly policies. Another option is Renaissance New York Chelsea HotelOpens in a new window, which caters to business professionals with its extensive conference facilities. For a budget-friendly alternative, The Chelsean New YorkOpens in a new window offers a 3-star experience in the shopping district, making it easy to explore the local retail scene.

Things to do in Upper East Side for first times

Three days in the Upper East Side offers a delightful blend of cultural exploration and urban charm. Visitors can stroll through lush parks, enjoy scenic river views, and immerse themselves in art and theatre, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and vibrant entertainment. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Upper East Side:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure in the vibrant Times Square, where the bright lights and lively atmosphere set the tone for your visit. Take a moment to soak in the energy and snap a few photos. Next, stroll over to Herald Square, home to the iconic Macy's department store, perfect for some shopping or simply enjoying the bustling surroundings. Conclude your day at the New York Public Library, a stunning architectural gem where you can explore its vast collection and beautiful reading rooms—ideal for a quiet escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
• Day 2: Start your morning in the serene expanse of Central Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk or rent a bike to explore its hidden gems. Afterward, visit The Dakota, famous for its striking Gothic architecture and rich history, including its association with John Lennon. Your day wraps up at the American Museum of Natural History, where you can delve into fascinating exhibits that span the natural world—perfect for both curious minds and families alike.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at the stunning Grand Central Terminal, where you can admire the magnificent architecture and the famous celestial dome. Then, take a short walk to the Empire State Building, where you can ascend to the observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Wrap up your day with a thrilling Broadway show, immersing yourself in the world of theatre and entertainment that New York City is renowned for—an unforgettable finale to your Upper East Side experience.

4 tips to find a great Upper East Side hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit the Upper East Side is from January to March, when hotel rates are significantly lower. International travellers should book their flights at least three months in advance to secure cheaper fares, while domestic travellers should aim to book at least two months ahead for better pricing. For a budget-friendly experience, a stay of at least 2-3 days is ideal for exploring the area’s main attractions, which include renowned museums and impressive architecture. This approach ensures great value for money while allowing you to fully appreciate what the Upper East Side has to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to the Upper East Side, Hotels.com offers a great selection. To explore potential discounts, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you could find reduced rates on accommodations close to your travel date. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and special last-minute offers, helping you make the most of your travel budget.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in the Upper East Side.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying closer to major attractions or city centres may offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, striking a balance between cost and the ease of reaching the sites you intend to visit.

Best time to go to Upper East Side

Upper East Side experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 31.6°F (-0.2°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 76.8°F (24.9°C). July is usually the wettest month. March, April, and July are the peak travel months in Upper East Side, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, May, October, and November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.