The Sohotel is located in the Bowery of NYC, which is a neighborhood in the lower East Side of Manhattan. It is the oldest continuously operating hotel in New York City, opening its doors in 1805 and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Some people love chain hotels because they know exactly what to expect, but I think staying in the same square white-walled room is boring. I yearn for unique, boutique hotels that surprise me. I also have a real soft spot for old buildings.
The Sohotel had all of the character I look for in a hotel from the brick walls to the exposed beams.
I had booked a standard room but received an email offer to upgrade to a nicer room. I passed at the time but upon check in, it was offered again. The very kind man at the desk even offered to show me the rooms and let me pick. I was glad that I did, because I ended up upgrading. The standard size room felt a little stuffy to me.
Sohotel NYC Premium King Room
I stayed in room 404 which was a Premium King Room with three windows facing Bowery Street, the oldest thoroughfare in Manhattan (even the street is historic!). For a country girl who is used to sleeping in silence, the city can be a constant orchestra of beeping cars and sirens. The higher up you are, the further you are from the ruckus. Plus you have a better view.
My room was really spacious as was the bathroom, which touted heated floors.
The room was equipped with a safe, mini fridge and a flat screen tv. I loved the steel beams that gave it an industrial feel. After staying in a sweltering hotel room elsewhere, I really appreciated the in-room heating system that I had full control of.
Around 6:00 each night, a lady would knock on the door to see if I needed anything. It was really sweet, I felt like my Grammy was checking in on me. When you hear the knock, answer… she has chocolates.
Family Rooms
The Sohotel has family rooms that sleep 5 people, which is unheard of in New York City! The rooms have two queen beds as well as a twin bed.
Another detail that kids will love at the Kodak Printomatic instant print cameras in the rooms. You can bring them on your sightseeing adventures and print your pictures right then and there.
The Sohotel offers valet parking for $59 a night per car, $74 for a SUV. No pets are allowed at this hotel. There is no elevator in the building which is a consideration for anyone with mobility issues.
For a list of all of my favorite nearby restaurants, click here. These are all within walking distance to the Sohotel.
I have had the pleasure of staying at the Sohotel twice now and am always impressed by the rooms and the service, especially for the price. Although the Sohotel is considered a budget hotel, the only thing that makes it feel like a budget hotel is the price. The most stressful part of finding lower east side hotels is the cost. At the Sohotel NYC, you can find an affordable room without sacrificing space. It is a hip and trendy hotel with a great location.
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