New York’s borough Brooklyn is synonymous with cool, and hotels in the area are no exception to this. Whether you’re planning on spending time sifting through the vintage stores of Williamsburg, brunching at Heath Ledger’s café in Greenpoint or enjoying a drink at a bar set in a pool store, the area offers something for all tastes.
Hotels of the region are as equally varied and exciting, so if you’re ready to up your street cred and hang out with the cool kids, here’s where to stay.
Staying in a hotel doesn’t have to mean cramped quarters. Greenpoint’s Box House Hotel easily serves as a home away from home thanks to its spacious and uniquely decorated suites. Its lofts are perfect for the lone traveller or couple who need a touch of R&R, while the larger suites can accommodate a group of four comfortably.
The light-filled suites contain natural oak hardwood floors, giving way to a series of artworks from Brooklyn artist Kip Jacobs. Free WiFi, fully-equipped modern kitchens and hand-selected antique furnishings will make you feel so homely you might not want to leave the suite… but make sure you do! Grab a bagel from one of the many nearby cafés and head to the Museum of Modern Art for the day.
If you’re unable to score a suite at The Box Hotel, don’t despair. The team behind The Box Hotel are also responsible for The Henry Norman Hotel, a renovated 19th-century warehouse on one of Greenpoint’s leafy back streets.
All 52 suites have been individually designed, featuring art by local Brooklyn artists. The fitness room and sauna are there for those who have gorged on a few too many hot dogs, but if you’re less inclined you can simply lounge back on the rooftop deck and take in the panoramic skyline views.
Just around the corner is Five Leaves, the café planned by Heath Ledger before his death. For those who are missing an Aussie interpretation of brunch, it’s a must.
Located in downtown Brooklyn, Nu Hotel boasts itself as ‘Brooklyn’s original boutique hotel’, and rightly so. The Nu Perspectives rooms are stark and white, offset by stunning feature walls of bright, bold street art, painted by resident artists. Minimalism at its best!
Grab a bike from reception and spend the day exploring the neighbourhood or biking the Brooklyn Bridge. Afterwards, return to your room and relax in a hammock or refresh in the rain shower. Take it from us, this is a shower experience you won’t forget quickly.
The handcrafted cocktails from the downstairs hotel bar, Misdemeanor, are also worth a mention. Make sure you try The Karner Blue – Brooklyn Republic vodka, gin, peach liquor, blue curacao, lime and pineapple.
A newcomer on the Brooklyn hotel scene, The Brooklyn A’s rooms feature a good mix of contemporary design, texture and colour. Immaculate detail has been given to each room’s design and layout, taking inspiration from Brooklyn’s suburban revitalisation.
Solid wood furniture, offset by a palette of beiges and greens compliment stencils of the Brooklyn Bridge adorning the walls. Each room comes with its own Nespresso machine, so you can enjoy a brew from the comfort of your bed. Add a touch of disco to your shower with the LED rain showerhead in the presidential suite.
Barclays Center is located close by, making The Brooklyn A a great place to stay if you’re catching a show.
Home to one of New York City’s largest outdoor pools, the McCarren features stunning rooms with views of either McCarren Park or the acclaimed hotel pool. The rooftop bar offers panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, live music, and some of the best local beers.
The penthouses here are the definition of luxury. Kick back in a marble bath and treat yourself with some high-end products by Davines, while enjoying a glass of wine from your personal wine bar. All rooms feature Frette Linens and glass-enclosed rain showers. In Summer, reserve a seat by the water to work on your tan, or indulge in a spot of people watching. Waterside yoga classes are available to keep you feeling fresh, or for something a little more strenuous, check in at the hotel’s fitness centre and ride the peloton bikes.
Located in a hipster paradise, McCarren Hotel & Pool is just a short walk from some of Brooklyn’s best vintage stores. Be sure to make it to 10ft Single by Stella Dallas to get your hands on some seriously cool threads.
Located in Greenpoint, The Condor Hotel prides itself on attention to detail. All rooms contain kitchenettes and a special mention goes to the free breakfast – complete with Belgian waffles, bagels, muffins, croissants, fruits and freshly baked cookies.
When it comes to pillows, some like it hard and some like it soft. At the Condor, you can have it your way, with the Sweet Dreams Pillow Menu giving you the option to customise your pillow for a good night’s rest. The bathrooms consist of eco-friendly bath products, deep soaking tubs and massaging shower heads.
Spend the day relaxing in the hotel garden, designed to serve as a calming space within the hustle and bustle of Brooklyn. At night, wander down to Union Pool – a colourful bar and live music venue set in a former pool supply shop.