Hotels in Long Island City

Long Island City: Where Skyscrapers Embrace Art and Waterfront Serenity

Long Island City, nestled just across the East River from Manhattan, is a vibrant tapestry of artistic flair and urban charm. Known for its striking skyline views, this cultural hotspot boasts the renowned MoMA PS1 and the scenic Gantry Plaza State Park, where stunning sunsets await. Wander along the waterfront, indulge in artisanal eateries, or explore eclectic galleries that showcase local talent. With a unique blend of innovation and history, Long Island City invites travellers to experience the dynamic pulse of New York City while offering a refreshing escape from the bustling streets of its famous neighbour.

Top locations to stay in Long Island City

When visiting Long Island City, New York, some great areas to stay in are New York, Brooklyn, and Jersey City. New York offers vibrant theatre and urban culture, Brooklyn boasts stunning skyline views and a dynamic atmosphere, while Jersey City features impressive skyscrapers and waterfront parks. For first-time visitors, New York is the best choice, providing easy access to iconic attractions.

1. New YorkOpens in a new window: Staying in New York is an unforgettable experience, offering a vibrant blend of urban life, culture, and iconic landmarks. With its world-renowned cultural attractions like Broadway theatres, museums, and art galleries, you’ll never run out of things to do. Explore Times Square's bright lights, take a stroll through Central Park, or enjoy the stunning views from the Empire State Building. The city is also a shopper's paradise, boasting everything from high-end boutiques to quirky thrift shops. Whether you're looking for fine dining or casual eats, New York's culinary scene is diverse and exciting, making it an ideal base for your adventures.
2. BrooklynOpens in a new window: Brooklyn is a dynamic borough known for its artistic vibe and urban charm. It’s a fantastic place to stay if you’re keen on exploring unique neighbourhoods, each with its own character. From the historic streets of Brooklyn Heights to the trendy shops in Williamsburg, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the stunning views of the Manhattan skyline from Brooklyn Bridge Park, or the cultural experiences at venues like the Brooklyn Academy of Music. With a variety of local eateries and craft breweries, Brooklyn’s food scene is a delightful exploration of flavours that’ll keep you coming back for more.
3. Jersey CityOpens in a new window: Jersey City offers a refreshing alternative to New York's hustle and bustle, with its own distinct urban appeal. The waterfront area provides breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, making it a picturesque spot for leisurely walks. It’s also home to a blossoming arts scene, with galleries and cultural venues showcasing local talent. Shop at the Newport Centre or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at local markets. The city's diverse cuisine reflects its multicultural population, offering delicious dining options that are sure to please. Staying in Jersey City allows you to experience the charm of a smaller city while remaining just a short journey from New York's attractions.

Things to do in Long Island City

Long Island City offers a dynamic blend of urban excitement and natural beauty, boasting stunning city views alongside tranquil waterfront parks. Enjoy leisurely boat rides, invigorating walks along picturesque trails, and explore diverse art installations. With its vibrant shopping scene and fascinating local tours, it’s a delightful destination for every traveller.

• Prospect ParkOpens in a new window – Stroll through the lush greenery of Prospect Park, an urban oasis where you can enjoy picnics, scenic walks, or simply relax amid nature. With its stunning landscapes, this park is perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of city life. Don’t miss the iconic Prospect Park Lake, where you can take a leisurely paddleboat ride.
• Brooklyn Bridge ParkOpens in a new window – Head to Brooklyn Bridge Park for breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. This vibrant waterfront park offers pathways for walking and cycling, as well as open spaces for sports and relaxation. Grab a bite at one of the food vendors and enjoy the lively atmosphere by the river.
• Madison AvenueOpens in a new window – Explore Madison Avenue, a bustling street known for its high-end shops and stylish boutiques. Take a leisurely stroll, indulge in some retail therapy, and discover unique finds that reflect the quintessential New York style. The energy of this street is infectious, making it a great stop for any shopper.
• Bleecker StreetOpens in a new window – Visit Bleecker Street, famous for its charming blend of shops, cafés, and cultural hotspots. This street buzzes with life, offering a mix of trendy boutiques and local eateries where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks. It’s a wonderful place to experience the local vibe and grab a bite.
• Pelham Bay ParkOpens in a new window – Venture out to Pelham Bay Park, the largest park in New York City, where you can hike, bike, or even horse ride through expansive trails. Nature lovers will appreciate the diverse wildlife and scenic views, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Don’t forget to check out the stunning beaches along the park’s coastline!

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Long Island City

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Long Island City is between January and March, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For a fulfilling experience, it's advisable to stay for at least 3 to 4 days to fully appreciate the area's landmarks, cultural sites, and historical attractions. During your stay, you can explore the stunning urban scenery, iconic skyscrapers, charming cafés, diverse shopping options, and engaging museums, all of which offer great value for money. Additionally, you might find that prices could drop even further during this period, making it an excellent choice for those travelling on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Long Island City, begin by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, enhancing your chances to save. Additionally, the Smart Shopping feature in the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, so you’re more likely to see the best options available. With these tools, you could seize opportunities for a spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay at a hotel in Long Island City. For those seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised touch and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll recommend alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you to potentially secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre generally tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Long Island City's superb public transport connections, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well linked. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Long Island City

Long Island City experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 32.0°F (0.0°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 76.8°F (24.9°C). July is usually the wettest month. April, July, and November are the peak travel months in Long Island City, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. On the other hand, January, October, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.