RIU Hotel Near Manhattan: Your Guide To NYC Stays

by Alex Braham 50 views

Hey guys! Planning a trip to the Big Apple and looking for the perfect place to crash that's close to all the action? You've probably heard of RIU Hotels, known for their awesome service and comfy stays. If you're aiming to explore Manhattan but also want a hotel that offers a bit of respite from the city's hustle, finding a RIU hotel near Manhattan is a smart move. Let’s dive into why this is a great idea and how to make it happen.

Why Choose a Hotel Near Manhattan?

Choosing a hotel near Manhattan, especially one like a RIU hotel, offers a balanced approach to your New York City adventure. Manhattan, the heart of NYC, is packed with iconic landmarks, bustling streets, and endless attractions. Staying right in the middle of it all sounds tempting, but it often comes with hefty price tags and smaller rooms. Opting for a hotel near Manhattan can give you the best of both worlds: easy access to the city's highlights and a more relaxed, budget-friendly experience.

Benefits of Staying Close

  • Cost Savings: Hotels in the immediate vicinity of Times Square or Central Park tend to be significantly more expensive. By venturing just a bit outside the main island, you can find comparable quality at a fraction of the cost. Think of all the extra spending money you'll have for Broadway shows or that fancy dinner you've been eyeing!
  • Larger Rooms: Space is a luxury in Manhattan. Hotels near Manhattan often offer more spacious accommodations, allowing you to spread out and unwind after a long day of sightseeing. Trust me, after navigating crowded sidewalks all day, you'll appreciate having some elbow room.
  • Peace and Quiet: Manhattan is known for its vibrant energy, which can sometimes translate to noise and constant activity. Staying just outside the borough provides a quieter environment, ensuring a restful night's sleep. You'll wake up refreshed and ready to tackle another day of exploring.
  • Easy Transportation: New York City boasts an extensive public transportation system. Staying near a subway or bus line provides quick and easy access to all of Manhattan's attractions. Plus, you get to experience the city like a local!

Finding RIU Hotels Near Manhattan

Okay, so you're sold on the idea of staying near Manhattan. Now, let's talk about how to find a RIU hotel that fits the bill. While RIU Hotels aren't directly in Manhattan, several options in the surrounding areas offer convenient access to the city.

Explore Neighboring Areas

  • Long Island City, Queens: Just across the East River from Manhattan, Long Island City (LIC) is a fantastic option. It's known for its stunning skyline views, vibrant arts scene, and easy subway access to Midtown. Plus, it's often more affordable than staying in Manhattan itself. Look for hotels near the 7, E, M, or G subway lines for the quickest commute.
  • Jersey City, New Jersey: Another excellent choice is Jersey City, located just across the Hudson River. You'll find a range of hotels with breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. The PATH train provides a direct and speedy connection to various points in Manhattan, making it a breeze to get around.
  • Brooklyn: Certain neighborhoods in Brooklyn, like Downtown Brooklyn or Brooklyn Heights, are incredibly convenient for accessing Manhattan. You'll find a mix of hotels and a vibrant local atmosphere. The A, C, F, R, 2, 3, 4, and 5 subway lines offer direct routes into Manhattan.

Use Online Travel Agencies

The easiest way to find RIU hotels near Manhattan is by using online travel agencies (OTAs) like Expedia, Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Kayak. These platforms allow you to filter your search by location, price, amenities, and hotel chain. Here’s how to make the most of these tools:

  1. Enter Your Destination: Start by entering "Manhattan, New York" as your destination. This will give the travel site a focal point.
  2. Expand the Search Area: Look for an option to expand the search area to include nearby cities or neighborhoods. This will allow you to see hotels in Long Island City, Jersey City, and Brooklyn.
  3. Filter by Hotel Chain: In the filter options, look for a way to specify "RIU Hotels & Resorts." This will narrow down the results to only show RIU properties (if any) in the expanded search area.
  4. Sort by Distance: Once you have your results, sort them by distance from Manhattan. This will show you the hotels that are closest to the city center.
  5. Read Reviews: Take the time to read reviews from other travelers. This will give you valuable insights into the hotel's cleanliness, service, and overall experience.

Check RIU's Official Website

While RIU Hotels might not have a direct presence in Manhattan, it's always a good idea to check their official website. Sometimes, they have partnerships with hotels in nearby areas or offer package deals that include accommodations and transportation to Manhattan. Plus, booking directly through the hotel's website often comes with perks like free breakfast or Wi-Fi.

Making the Most of Your Stay

So, you've booked your RIU hotel near Manhattan – awesome! Here are a few tips to ensure you have an unforgettable trip:

Plan Your Transportation

  • Subway: The NYC subway is your best friend. Purchase a MetroCard for unlimited rides and download a subway map app to navigate the system like a pro.
  • PATH Train: If you're staying in New Jersey, the PATH train is a convenient option for reaching Lower and Midtown Manhattan.
  • Buses: Buses are a great way to see the city, but they can be slower than the subway, especially during rush hour.
  • Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available, but they can be expensive, especially during peak times. Traffic can also be a major factor.

Must-See Manhattan Attractions

  • Times Square: No trip to NYC is complete without experiencing the bright lights and energy of Times Square.
  • Central Park: Escape the urban jungle in this sprawling green oasis. Rent a bike, have a picnic, or simply stroll through the park's scenic pathways.
  • Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: Take a ferry to Liberty Island and Ellis Island to learn about the city's rich history and immigration heritage.
  • Museums: NYC is home to world-class museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and the American Museum of Natural History.
  • Broadway: Catch a Broadway show for a quintessential New York experience. Book your tickets in advance to secure the best seats.

Explore Beyond Manhattan

Don't limit yourself to just Manhattan! Each of the five boroughs has its own unique character and attractions.

  • Brooklyn: Explore trendy neighborhoods like Williamsburg and DUMBO, visit the Brooklyn Museum, or walk across the Brooklyn Bridge.
  • Queens: Discover diverse cuisines in Astoria, visit the Queens Museum, or catch a Mets game at Citi Field.
  • The Bronx: Visit the Bronx Zoo, explore the New York Botanical Garden, or catch a Yankees game at Yankee Stadium.
  • Staten Island: Take a free ferry to Staten Island for stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty.

Final Thoughts

Finding a RIU hotel near Manhattan is a smart way to enjoy all that New York City has to offer without breaking the bank. By staying in neighboring areas like Long Island City, Jersey City, or Brooklyn, you can enjoy more spacious accommodations, a quieter environment, and easy access to Manhattan's iconic attractions. So go ahead, plan your trip, book your hotel, and get ready to experience the magic of the Big Apple!