Best Luxury Boutique Hotel in Chelsea NYC: The High Line Hotel

This fall John and I had the chance to sneak away for a few days in New York City…as many of you know, it’s one of my favorite places on the planet, and fall is my favorite time there.  We are fortunate to visit often, so now, rather than trying to hit all the touristy spots in town, our goal is to really explore each of the individual neighborhoods and understand what New York City locals love about different areas of the city.  I make it a point (particularly when we aren’t traveling with the kids) to stay in a couple of different places on each trip so we can explore more.  John knocked it out of the park with his choice to stay at the best boutique hotel in Chelsea NYC The High Line Hotel.  

WHAT IS A BOUTIQUE HOTEL?

If you’ve heard the term Boutique Hotel…but aren’t really sure what that means, let me see if I can help explain. A boutique hotel is a smaller, (usually under 100 rooms) stylish hotel with unique characteristics and a more personal feel that distinguishes it from a big chain hotel. Because boutique hotels are smaller they often offer very personal service. We were booking this second leg of our trip at the last minute…searching for the best affordable boutique hotels in Chelsea NYC and The High Line Hotel definitely did not disappoint!

New York City’s Chelsea neighborhood is located on the west side of Manhattan nestled between 14th Street and 34th Street from the Hudson River to as far east as 6th Avenue. Midtown West makes up it’s boundary to the north. Greenwich Village and the West Village are just to the south.

Often times the design and decor in each room is a bit different and the lobbies and public spaces are cozy gathering places.  Many boutique hotels are located in renovated or restored historic buildings which gives them some fun quirks and interesting history with a modern twist. 

The High Line Hotel is a perfect example of a luxury boutique hotel in NYC.  Nestled in the heart of Chelsea’s buzzing gallery district with a vibrant art scene, this gorgeous 4-star hotel is housed in an historic building, an old theological seminary building dating back to the mid- to late 1800s. The old brick buildings have a collegiate feel, and the gorgeous lush Parisian style courtyard is a beautiful place to hide and escape the hectic pace of Manhattan. 

THE HIGH LINE HOTEL GUEST ROOMS

The guest rooms are decorated with super cool antiques that I can imagine being sourced from the amazing local flea markets and each room has it’s own special decor. 

Each room is comfortably appointed with free wifi, a flat-screen TV, air conditioning and a beautifully appointed private bathroom. The hotel offers an on-site restaurant, room service, concierge services and guests get free access to a local fitness center, Chelsea Piers. The hotel does not offer a business center so you will be forced to relax! 😉

So many cozy touches in each room and hallway space.  I just wanted to move right in.  The rooms are a nice size for city rooms.  Plenty of space for two people to be more than comfortable.  With a bed, desk AND sitting area against the fabulous old arched glass windows. 

This is such a delightful property, it has to be one of the coolest hotels in New York City. 

I was obsessed with the dark mouldings, and the vintage rugs!!!  So pretty! 

AMENITIES AT THE HIGH LINE HOTEL

The lobby and front desk area doubles as a cozy coffee shop and lobby bar where guests gather to sit and talk about the day.  Dogs are welcome and the neighborhood surrounding the hotel is a great place to wander with your furry friend. 

Cute bikes with baskets are also available for guests to borrow for a ride through town or along the waterfront. Chelsea is such a charming neighborhood. The famous Chelsea Market is within walking distance, as well as lots of other popular points of interest. I love to just wander down the residential streets and look at the pretty homes.  

Some interesting history about The High Line Hotel is that it is where the Christmas classic ‘”Twas the Night Before Christmas” was penned.  It would be so cool to stay here at Christmas time! 

We spent our days at The High Line Hotel wandering the neighborhoods, visiting the Chelsea Flea Market, watching a Chelsea (UK) soccer match at the famous Legends, and eating at fun restaurants like Cook Shop right across the street from the hotel and in the meat packing district just a short walk away.  

I don’t know that The High Line Hotel  would be a perfect place for family stays, but for a weekend getaway as a couple it is perfection! We’ll have to go back as a family so I can report. 😉

Room prices range roughly between $350-500 a night depending on the time of year. Condé Nast Traveler readers have awarded the High Line Hotel a coveted reader’s choice award last year, and it is truly one of a handful of boutique gems in the city. 

I hope you enjoy your stay and let me know about your experience or any other amazing luxury hotels in New York City that I need to know about so I can add them to my list of places to stay. I am always on the hunt for the best hotels in the city!

If you love to travel as much as we do, here are some more posts you don’t want to miss! 

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Happy Travels!

Tammy