Hotel is a Step Back in Time
I discovered a hotel that really feels like stepping into old New York, with apartments that let you live like you used to. The Shelburne Sonesta New York, built in 1929, offers a unique experience where you can get a true sense of what life was like years ago, while still having all the modern comforts you need today. It’s located in Murray Hill, just a short walk from major landmarks.
Why Consider This Hotel Stay
I think this hotel is a great option for many types of travelers. It offers a variety of room styles, from regular hotel rooms to apartment-like suites. This means you can pick what works best for your trip. The hotel is also very well-equipped, which means you might not even need to leave to find what you’re looking for.
The location is fantastic, putting you close to famous sights like Grand Central Terminal and the Chrysler Building. These are easy to get to for exploring the city. But it also has dining options that feel local, offering a nice balance for visitors.
Good to Know: The hotel building dates back to 1929 and still has a functioning USPS mailbox in the lobby.
For those who need to keep up with work, there are comfortable spaces to do so. You can even use computers and printers if you forget your own. The hotel is also dog-friendly, which is a big plus for people traveling with pets. They even have special menus for dogs.
The rooftop bar, Vintage Green, gets very high ratings and is a great spot to enjoy the city views. If you’re someone who likes to stay active, there’s a 24-hour gym with popular equipment like Pelotons. It’s nice to know that even if you get injured, there’s a medical practice right on the first floor of the hotel.
Exploring Your Room Options
When you look at the rooms at The Shelburne Sonesta New York, you’ll find quite a bit of choice. There are over 325 rooms, which include standard guest rooms, guest suites, and apartment-style living spaces. These apartments come in studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts.
About one-fifth of the rooms have a kitchenette. I found this to be really useful. It gives you a chance to feel more at home, especially if you’re on a longer trip or traveling for business. It’s a feature that connects back to the hotel’s history, as it was originally a residential building before becoming a hotel.
Having a kitchenette made me think about cooking simple meals. I could imagine stopping by a local market, like the Union Square Farmer’s Market, which is about a twenty-minute walk away, to pick up some fresh food. This helps make a hotel stay feel more personal and less like a temporary stop.
For families traveling with children, the apartment-style options are especially good. You get more space to spread out, which everyone appreciates. Alternatively, you can request to connect two guest rooms if you need more room. It’s all about finding the setup that fits your family best.
💡 Quick Tips
- Consider a one or two-bedroom apartment for extra space, especially for families.
- Look for rooms with kitchenettes if you want to prepare simple meals during your stay.
- Inquire about connecting rooms if you need more sleeping space without an apartment layout.
Dining Experiences at the Hotel
The food and drink options at The Shelburne Sonesta New York are definitely a highlight. There are two restaurants on site: Take Care Bistro and Vintage Green. They both seem to offer a much better experience than you might expect from hotel dining.
Take Care Bistro serves dishes that are simple but well-prepared. They use creative twists on classic bistro food. I’ve read that the Brussels sprouts are a must-try, with a sweet and sticky sauce. The crispy chicken sandwich is also mentioned positively, especially with its gochujang sauce.
Vintage Green is the rooftop restaurant and bar. It offers expansive views of the city and is decorated with florals and greenery. It’s a great place to visit, especially around sunset. The service there is noted for being attentive, making the experience even more enjoyable.
They have interesting specials, like a pitcher of lemonade that you can spike with your choice of alcohol. They also offer a substantial hot dog meal, featuring gourmet hot dogs with special fries and a variety of pickled vegetables. The chicken katsu sliders come highly recommended as a favorite dish.
For parents traveling with kids, having these dining options on-site means you don’t have to go far to find a good meal. It simplifies planning dinner, especially after a long day of sightseeing. I always look for hotels that make meal times easier for my family.
My daughter, Emma, would likely love the fun drinks at Vintage Green, and Sofia, my older one, would probably enjoy the more substantial food options. Having these choices within the hotel makes it so much easier to manage everyone’s preferences without a fuss.
Service and Hotel Facilities
The service throughout The Shelburne Sonesta New York is described as warm and welcoming. It seems like the staff makes an effort to ensure guests feel comfortable and well-cared for. That welcoming atmosphere is important when you’re traveling, especially with family.
The hotel has several unique and comprehensive facilities. The lobby is spacious and has different areas for working or relaxing. There’s even a ping-pong table, which can be a fun way to pass the time if you arrive early for check-in or have some downtime.
In addition to the USPS mailbox dating back to 1929, the hotel also features a medical center on the first floor. This is a really practical amenity to have readily available. The gym is open 24 hours a day and includes treadmills and Pelotons, so you can stick to your fitness routine.
If you don’t have a spa on-site, which is common in many New York hotels, there’s an arrangement with a nearby hotel. As a guest here, you can get a discount at The Benjamin Royal Sonesta New York for spa services. It’s always good to have options for relaxation.
📊 Key Details at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Hotel Name | The Shelburne Sonesta New York |
| Address | 303 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016 |
| Starting Price (Guest Room) | $298 per night |
| Starting Price (Apartment) | $361 per night |
| Key Nearby Transport | Grand Central Terminal (walkable) |
| Pet Fee | $75 per stay (up to two dogs) |
Exploring the Neighborhood
The hotel is situated in Murray Hill. While the area might have a certain reputation, the hotel itself provides a quiet retreat. When you step outside, you’ll find yourself in a location that puts you close to many of New York City’s famous attractions.
It’s very close to Grand Central Terminal and the Chrysler Building, making it easy to see these iconic spots. Other popular attractions like SUMMIT One Vanderbilt and Bryant Park are also within reach. For travelers looking to explore more of Manhattan, the 7 train is a short walk away, offering quick access to areas like Times Square and Hudson Yards.
If you’re looking for a classic New York dining experience, Benjamin Steakhouse Prime is just around the corner. This neighborhood offers a good mix of tourist attractions and local flavor.
What is the area like around the hotel
The hotel is located in Murray Hill. It is close to many famous New York City landmarks. You can easily walk to places like Grand Central Terminal and the Chrysler Building.
The neighborhood provides access to major subway lines, making it simple to travel to other parts of the city. There are also dining options nearby for a classic New York meal.
Who Should Book a Stay Here
I believe The Shelburne Sonesta New York is a versatile choice that suits many travelers. For families, the apartment-style suites offer a real advantage in terms of space and comfort. Being able to have room for everyone, and maybe even a separate sleeping area for the kids, makes a big difference on a trip.
Business travelers will find facilities like a spacious conference room and reliable WiFi helpful. The lobby area with computers and printers is also a practical feature for those on work trips.
For those who love to travel with their furry friends, the hotel is dog-friendly with a reasonable fee per stay. This means you don’t have to leave your pet behind.
And, of course, for anyone who appreciates having excellent dining options right at their doorstep, the on-site restaurants, Take Care Bistro and Vintage Green, are strong reasons to consider booking a stay. It’s great to have such convenient and well-regarded food choices available without having to venture far.
Planning a trip to New York can be exciting, and having a comfortable and well-located base is key. I think this hotel offers a lot of different benefits that can make a visit enjoyable for various needs. It balances history with modern convenience, which is a nice combination.
You might want to look at places to stay in NYC if you’re exploring your options for accommodation in the city. Having a hotel that caters to different needs, like families or business travelers, can truly enhance your experience.
For a more general look at what the city offers, you can explore top things to do in New York to get a sense of the many activities available.
