Profile

When the Hotel Belleclaire was renovated, its classic, no-frills budget style was fused with modern urban attitude. Still, although the Upper West Side hotel is much spiffier than before—a mod art-deco lobby with floating cubic stools and end tables, rotary-inspired courtesy phones at the front desk, and Internet access—price not service continues to be the draw. The relatively inexpensive guest rooms, equipped with Nintendo video game systems and iPod docks, cater to a younger clientele. The cozy suites "pamper" guests with Frette linens on beds which range from full to queen-size. Other hotel perks include a fridge in every room, an on-site masseuse, special package deals, such as admission to the nearby American Museum of Natural History and 24-hour delivery from the famed Manhattan Diner. Want to save a few more dollars? Ask for a room with a shared bath. And, for an honest take on city life, rooms on the west side of the building offer that timeless New York view—a brick wall. — Corinne Iozzio

The quiet Upper West Side locale gives guests the option of experiencing the city like a New Yorker, only venturing to more touristy locations if they choose. The two-room suites are roomy enough for families.

Cons
Radiators in some rooms can be noisy.

Claim to Fame
The Belleclaire building, built in 1903, is an official New York City Landmark, which housed Russian revolutionary Maxim Gorky and author Mark Twain. The hotel has also been featured in several feature films including Mel Gibson's Ransom.