Few hospitality providers work harder than those in New York City, where the sheer number of competitors make it nigh impossible to stand out. Which is why we were quite intrigued to explore sister hotels Library Hotel and Hotel Giraffe (ranked #3 and #4 on TripAdvisor respectively as of April 2014).
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After a fantastic stay at Library Hotel during our time in New York City last month, we were fortunate to check out Hotel Giraffe immediately following. And we weren’t disappointed …
The Skinny
In their words, Hotel Giraffe is inspired by:
… the gentle power, grace and beauty found in one of nature’s most beloved animals. Inspired by the architecture and design of the Art Modern period that has distinguished this vibrant NoMad neighborhood since the 1920’s and 30’s, Hotel Giraffe embodies the graceful elegance, strength, and beauty as well as the legendary kindness found in one of nature’s most beloved animals.
This luxury hotel offers timeless style, spacious guestrooms and suites, and most importantly, gracious service that makes it an ideal New York City getaway for leisure and business travelers alike. Experience a world of sophisticated style, unsurpassed comfort and gracious service …
The list of onsite amenities is lengthy, especially for a hotel in one of the world’s most expensive cities. They include:
- A continental breakfast served daily in the Grand Lobby with a selection of newspapers
- Selection of refreshments 24 hours a day
- Wine & Cheese Reception every evening with live piano music on weeknights
- High speed internet access
- Passes to New York Sports Club
The Traveler’s Take
Design + Atmosphere
The name of the game at Hotel Giraffe is luxurious, yet understated elegance. Extra tall 10-foot ceilings, classically upholstered chairs and ottomans, leather headboards, modern linens and B&W photos from the early 20th century all work together perfectly. A clever blend of old and new, it all combines to create a feeling of warm luxury – stately, yet inviting with a touch of glamour.
The Room
We were fortunate to score one of the property’s exclusive King Balcony suites. With the separate seating area/living room, the entire guestroom tops out at 435 square feet – “massive” by NYC standards. It’s perfect for couples looking to splash out on a romantic getaway or for families who can make use of the foldout sofa bed.
Guestroom at Hotel Giraffe (NYC) © Mike Richard
The Juliet balcony in our room overlooked Park Avenue – one of the most prestigious addresses in all of Manhattan. It makes for great people-watching in the city!
In addition to its many onsite amenities, the list of in-room amenities includes:
- Complimentary high speed and wireless Internet access
- In-room safe
- Stereo systems with CD player
- 40-inch flat panel television with 250 premium cable channels
- DVD player
- iHome MP3 Dock / Alarm Clock
- Honor bar
The Location
Balcony View Down Park Avenue at Hotel Giraffe (NYC) © Mike Richard
Like its sister location, Library Hotel, Hotel Giraffe is situated in midtown Manhattan at the epicenter of New York City. It’s minutes by foot from the subway and the city’s best restaurants, services and attractions. Most notably: 5th Avenue Shopping, Times Square, Rockefeller center, Bryant Park, Empire State Building, Grand Central Terminal and the New York Public Library, just to name a few.
Pricing + Availability
Select rooms on limited dates can be had for around $250 USD + tax (nightly), while the average nightly rate throughout the year runs closer to $400. Check the hotel’s special offers for a list of their latest discounts and deals.
The Bottom Line
A near-perfect blend of classic design and modern amenities; excellent location in the center of the center of the world; and a stunning rooftop garden … all at mid- to upper-level (for NYC) prices. For all these reasons, Hotel Giraffe is well worth a look on your next Manhattan stay.