Hotels in Long Island City

Long Island City: A Skyline Symphony Amidst Artistic Oasis

Discover Long Island City, a vibrant urban gem just across the East River from Manhattan. Known for its striking skyline and artistic flair, this dynamic neighbourhood boasts attractions like MoMA PS1, a hub for contemporary art, and the serene Gantry Plaza State Park, offering stunning waterfront views. Stroll through its diverse streets lined with eclectic eateries, breweries, and murals, or indulge in the local craft scene. With a unique blend of culture, creativity, and urban charm, Long Island City invites travellers to explore its hidden treasures and embrace the pulsating rhythm of New York City life.

Top locations to stay in Long Island City

Some of the best areas to stay in when visiting Long Island City are New York, Brooklyn, and Jersey City. New York offers vibrant theatre and urban culture, Brooklyn boasts stunning skyline views and artistic neighbourhoods, while Jersey City features impressive skyscrapers and waterfront parks. For first-time visitors, New York is the ideal choice to experience the city's iconic attractions.

1. New YorkOpens in a new window: Staying in New York is an unforgettable experience, with its vibrant cultural scene, iconic landmarks, and bustling energy. You’ll be surrounded by world-class theatres, museums, and art galleries, making it a haven for culture enthusiasts. Explore famous attractions like Times Square, Central Park, and the Empire State Building, or delve into the rich history at places like the Museum of Modern Art. The city is also a shopper's paradise, boasting everything from high-end boutiques to unique thrift stores. Don’t miss out on the diverse culinary scene, offering flavours from every corner of the globe. Whether you're after a Broadway show or a quiet stroll through a picturesque neighbourhood, New York has it all.
2. BrooklynOpens in a new window: Brooklyn is a trendy borough that's perfect for those looking to experience urban charm with a touch of artistic flair. Known for its iconic skyline views, especially from Brooklyn Bridge Park, this area is filled with creative spaces, galleries, and music venues. You can wander through hip neighbourhoods like Williamsburg and DUMBO, where you'll find unique shops, local art, and vibrant street life. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront or indulge in some artisanal food markets. Brooklyn’s rich cultural diversity means you can savour a range of international cuisines, making it a delightful spot for food lovers.
3. Jersey CityOpens in a new window: Jersey City offers a fantastic blend of modern living and historical charm, making it an appealing place to stay. Just a stone's throw away from Manhattan, it boasts stunning waterfront views of the New York skyline. Explore Liberty State Park for outdoor activities and a taste of history, or visit the Liberty Science Center for a fun and educational experience. The city is home to a variety of shopping options, from upscale boutiques to local markets. Additionally, Jersey City has a growing arts scene, with galleries and cultural events that showcase local talent, making it an inviting destination for those looking to explore beyond the typical tourist spots.

Things to do in Long Island City

Long Island City offers a delightful blend of urban dynamism and natural beauty, with stunning waterfront views, lush parks, and inviting green spaces. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the shoreline, explore vibrant art installations, and indulge in eclectic shopping experiences. Whether you're seeking a relaxed day outdoors or an energetic cultural outing, this neighbourhood has something for everyone.

• Prospect ParkOpens in a new window – This urban park offers a refreshing escape from the bustling city life. With its lush greenery, serene lakes, and winding paths, it's the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic with friends and family. Take a moment to enjoy the beautiful landscapes, or if you're feeling active, engage in some outdoor sports. The park is also home to various cultural events throughout the year, making it a vibrant hub for community activities.
• Madison AvenueOpens in a new window – Known for its iconic streetscape, Madison Avenue is a must-visit for those who appreciate a mix of history and modernity. Walk along this famous thoroughfare and marvel at the stunning skyscrapers that define the New York skyline. Explore the unique shops and boutiques that line the street, offering everything from high-end fashion to quirky finds. The avenue is alive with energy, making it an ideal destination for a day of exploration and discovery.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Long Island City

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Long Island City is from January to March, when hotel prices are generally lower. To fully appreciate the area's key landmarks, cultural attractions, and historical sites, a stay of at least 3 to 4 days is recommended. During your visit, you can explore stunning urban scenery, iconic skyscrapers, intriguing museums, and delightful cafes, all while enjoying great value for money. Additionally, you might find that prices could drop further, making your trip even more affordable.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Long Island City, you may start by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you're more likely to see discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com could keep you informed about flash sales and special last-minute promotions. The Smart Shopping tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you can book a last-minute getaway when prices drop or rooms become available.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay in a hotel in Long Island City. For those seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised touch and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we will suggest alternative dates that could offer more affordability, helping you secure the best possible deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be pricier, but with Long Island City's superb public transport connections, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that is still well linked. For those keen to explore alternative, less congested neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Long Island City

Long Island City experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 32.0°F (0.0°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 76.8°F (24.9°C). July tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Long Island City are April, July, and November, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, October, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.