This hotel is very well located, just a medium walk or short cab ride from Times Square, or Columbus Circle, and central enough that it is never too far from SoHo, Flatiron, or the Museum of Natural History.
The design is great, with great decor, and very comfortable furniture, especially the bed. The rooms are huge for NYC standards, with giant bathrooms, great views, and decent amenities. However, the shades are far from "blackout" so if you're a light sleeper, you may want to bring an eye mask. Didn't bother us though.
The rooftop lounge has great views and a neat design aesthetic as well, though there was a fair share of cheesballs hanging out there. The drinks and oysters were great, though a bit pricy, especially considering how inexpensive the hotel is. It was also a bit odd to need to take the elevator down to the lobby from our room in order to go up to the lounge. No direct access from hotel floors.
As with all Kimpton properties, the wine hour is always nice, and they are very pet friendly. However, there were quite a few service missteps...
First, when we pulled up, no one helped us with our luggage or out of the car. Eventually, after a few minutes the valet came over to park our car (hint: there is a much less expensive self park lot a block before the hotel).
Second, we were assigned to a room that was already occupied. This was very awkward... to try to walk into someone else's room! The front desk gave us the correct room and keys, with an apology, but didn't seem to think it was a big deal.
Third, we called down to have our car brought around 30 minutes before leaving, and were told it would take only 15. After 25 minutes of standing in 90 degree heat, with our dogs, I asked the doorman how long it would take... turns out guest services never relayed the request to the valet. So another 15 minutes of waiting. As compensation the hotel waived one day of parking charges.
So, overall a good hotel, but three pretty serious (and un-kimpton-like) gaffes in the service department. Still, given the size of the rooms, and the very low price, I would go back.
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