The Beekman A Thompson Hotel

The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel may have opened in August 2016, but the historic building dates back to 1883. It was previously used as an office building before receiving landmark status in 1998, and then it later sat vacant until it was purchased in 2012 for its current purpose. Three years of extensive renovations took place to bring the property to modern luxury status, while still retaining some of its old grandeur. The design throughout is downright stunning, mixing chic midcentury furniture with antique embellishments. The curated look is immediately apparent as soon as guests enter the lobby with mosaic marble tile, wood-paneled walls, a Persian-rug-covered reception desk, and velvet armchairs. But the real piece-de-resistance is the nine-story atrium in the bar area; the striking feature has intricate wrought-iron railings and is topped with a pyramidal skylight that illuminates the interior hallways. Nearly every turn is met with a carefully placed object, especially the Bar Room that pays homage to the 19th century with portraits of Edgar Allan Poe, bookcases lined with vintage novels and curios, and colorful living-room-style furniture in leather and velvet. Though this area of downtown was typically sleepy after work hours, it's seen a reemergence thanks to other new hotels and shops, and tourists drawn to the National September 11 Memorial nearby. During the day, the vibe is mostly quiet, as couples and business travelers are sightseeing or in meetings, but at night, the bar is often packed with locals and guests for evening cocktails. The two fine-dining restaurants on-site also draw a crowd, one of which is helmed by celebrity chef Tom Colicchio, whom we spotted during our visit. All in all, this hotel certainly competes with the other top luxury properties in New York City. Those seeking a slightly hipper location but similar aesthetic might want to consider The Bowery Hotel. 

The Beekman has a convenient location for business travelers working downtown or tourists more interested in lower Manhattan sights than Times Square. The hotel is situated in the Financial District, just a couple blocks from City Hall Park. Multiple subway lines can be reached within five minutes on foot for easy access to other city neighborhoods. The National September 11 Memorial & Museum is a 10-minute walk away, while the pedestrian entrance to the Brooklyn Bridge is five minutes. There are ample restaurants, bars, and shops nearby. Time Square is about a 20-minute subway ride, and Central Park is about five to 10 minutes more. LaGuardia Airport is a 30-minute cab ride, and John F. Kennedy International Airport is either a 45-minute drive or 75-minute subway journey. The hotel offers valet parking for a fee, and free car service on a first-come-first-served basis. 

Like the rest of the property, the 287 rooms and suites are similarly decorated in a style that incorporates lots of vintage furnishings. They're outfitted with dark-wood floors, leather headboards, white walls adorned with quirky local artwork, large armoires, and a mix of marble, metal, and wood furniture. Fuchsia rugs, fringe lamps, and pleated patterned skirts around the minibar tables add a healthy dose of personality. All have black-marble desks and plush armchairs, while suites add sitting areas (some in separate rooms) with sofas and tables. Standard amenities are unsurprisingly top-notch, including bluetooth-compatible radios, impressively stocked minibars, large flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, turndown service, safes, and blackout curtains.  Sleek bathrooms are done in white marble, with rainfall showers and separate tubs in some. High-end D.S. & Durga toiletries, hairdryers, bathrobes, and slippers are provided. Though mostly quiet, some rooms occasionally suffer from nearby construction noise. 

Travelers may be disappointed to learn that there's no full spa offered on-site, but staff can arrange for in-room treatments. The fitness center, which opened in early 2017, provides two floors of workout space and Peloton studio spin bikes. Where the hotel really shines is in the dining department. Fowler and Wells is an upscale American eatery helmed by celeb chef Tom Colicchio, and it's open for all three meals. The other fine-dining restaurant, Augustine, is a French spot open all day and run by Keith McNally (of Balthazar fame). Guests and locals alike frequent The Bar Room under the atrium. The large space has cozy furnishings and an all-day menu of cocktails, coffee, and a variety of light appetizers and entrees. Wi-Fi is free throughout. Pets up to 35 pounds are allowed for free.