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Before you go making Village People jokes, give the Vanderbilt YMCA a chance—after all, its history goes back much further than the disco era. Named after its benefactor, Cornelius Vanderbilt, and established in 1875 as a residence for railroad workers, the Vanderbilt is one of the oldest buildings in Midtown. Though the small rooms may not have changed much over time, the hotel now doubles as a community center, making for an especially friendly staff. The fitness center comes complete with a weight room, running track and two swimming pools. A stay at the Vanderbilt won’t place guests in the midst of trendy or tourist-y New York, but it also won’t put them in the poor house: “It’s CHEAP to stay at the YMCA…” (Insert bad choreography here.) — E. J. Samson

An escape from the louder, more frenetic parts of Manhattan.

Cons
Situated in a predominantly residential area, there isn’t much to do in the neighborhood. Also, most rooms don't have a private bathroom, so you have to walk down the hall.