Residence Inn New York Manhattan/Central Park

Those expecting a run-of-the-mill Residence Inn are in for a pleasant surprise at this hotel. The tallest hotel in North America -- at the time of our visit in 2016, at least -- there's a lot to like about this skyscraping property. From the shimmery glass exterior that towers above Broadway, to the funky black marble lobby, there's plenty of polished style here. The use of contemporary art -- particularly striking when taken with the abundance of shiny black marble and black leather in the lobby -- makes a bold statement, from the Giacometti-like figural sculptures that greet guests when they walk in the door, to the neo-industrial frosted glass panels that offer some privacy from the bustle of Broadway outside. Some of the brand's mid-range hotel holdovers are present here too, including the convenience store in the lobby, but there's also a lively vibe -- perhaps not surprising given the location near the Theater District and Times Square. The Bistro on the third floor has a full bar and serves a happy hour that's popular with guests. Sports and news play on the TVs while soft music is piped through the speakers. Still, without a proper restaurant, most guests do spend their time out and about in the city, and travelers should expect to see nearly all types here, from vacationing couples to business travelers and even a few families.

By Manhattan standards, it doesn't get more central for tourists or business travelers than this hotel. Located on the corner of West 54th Street and Broadway in Midtown, the hotel is a five-minute walk to Central Park and a 10-minute walk to Times Square. The immediate area surrounding the hotel is teeming with local vibes as well as tourist attractions. There are dozens of local restaurants lining Ninth Avenue in Hell's Kitchen, just two blocks west of the hotel, while MoMA, Rockefeller Center, and Radio City Music Hall are a 10-minute walk or less in the other direction. It will also take 10 minutes to reach Fifth Avenue, which is home to plenty of luxury and name-brand stores, as well as sights like St. Patrick's Cathedral. Depending on the show, most Broadway theaters are within a 15-minute walk, though many are even closer.There are several subways nearby, including the B, D, A, C, and 1 lines at 59th Street-Columbus Circle and the N, R, and Q lines at 57th Street. The Time Warner Center, also at Columbus Circle, has plenty of shops as well as a grocery store for anyone looking to take advantage of the hotel's kitchenettes. There is no free airport shuttle at the hotel, however the concierge can arrange transportation to any airport for a fee. The hotel is a 35-minute car ride to LaGuardia, while JFK and Newark Airports are a 50-minute car ride from the hotel. Keep in mind that drive times vary wildly in New York City, and traffic can make all of these commutes far longer.

Much of the sharp design seen in the hotel's common areas continues in the rooms, making these a huge step up from what most travelers familiar with the brand might expect. They're done in deep navy blues, white, and gray, with dark wood veneer furniture. There's an almost Mediterranean appeal to the decor, with plenty of contemporary accents including white leather headboards and carpeted floors that are reminiscent of classic tilework. Abstract art is built into the entertainment panel on the wall, and classic touches like the tufted white leather armchair and blue-gray silk throw pillows complete the polished look. While this hotel opened in 2013, we did spot a bit of wear on the corners of furniture throughout the room we visited.The kitchenettes -- stowed neatly into cabinets and drawers -- are a surprising and welcome addition. Hidden away are a microwave, mini-fridge, dishwasher, toaster, cookware and serving ware, a crockpot, and kettle. There are even some extras like salt, pepper, powdered creamer, and a wine opener. A coffeemaker with free coffee and free microwave popcorn are a nice touch, though stovetops or hot plates are lacking -- they can be requested from the front desk. Flat-screen TVs are affixed to the wall, creating more space for moving around these moderately sized rooms. Beds are comfortable and covered in down duvets, with clean and crisp white sheets that were a little over-starched when we visited. There is decent amount of storage space in rooms, which can include a small, lighted closet, bedside tables, and storage ottomans. Other room tech is limited to free Wi-Fi and alarm clocks. Floor-to-ceiling windows keep everything bright -- even in the bathroom. Views vary, and can include of Central Park, Times Square, and Midtown -- though check ahead as some views are less impressive, and the best views are on the higher floors. Rooms on the higher floors may be prone to wind noise on occasion as well. Bathrooms have a similarly sleek look to them, with dark tile floors, contemporary fixtures, and dark wood accents. All have glass-enclosed walk-in showers with high-end showerheads and Bath & Body Works bath products.

The Bistro is the closest thing to a restaurant, though it only offers pre-made snacks, sandwiches, and salads, plus Starbucks brand coffee. it also doubles as a full bar and serves an evening happy hour. There is plenty of seating on plush white couches and at tables throughout -- fine for a quick bite or a nightcap. The hotel also provides a free breakfast buffet with hot and cold dishes including waffles and oatmeal plus fresh fruit, coffee, and tea. It’s a little confusing as to whether guests are supposed to leave their dishes or take them to a bus bin, leaving some of the seating messy with stacks of dirty plates. The hotel also offers a grocery service for stocking kitchenettes, where guests deliver a list to the front desk and return to a stocked kitchen at the end of the day.The 35th-floor fitness center is compact, but has a nice selection of modern equipment including pulley machines, free weights, cardio options, and even kettlebells. Windows look out onto the busy streets below and towels are provided. Morning yoga and core conditioning classes are offered on a first-come-first-served basis. The hotel also has a laundry room on the same floor. Eight event rooms and five breakout rooms can be reserved. All have modern audiovisual equipment, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel (while the regular service is reliable, faster Wi-Fi is available with a paid upgrade). There are also small business centers located on the third and fourth floors for those who need a computer and printer. The hotel has a market in the lobby for anyone needing sundries. Valet or self-parking are available at an off-site lot, and like everywhere in New York, it will be expensive.