The William Vale

The William Vale Overview

First Impressions

Walking into The William Vale feels like stepping into a scene from a design magazine — and I mean that in the best possible way. This five-star Brooklyn hotel rises 22 stories above the East River, and honestly, the lobby alone makes you feel like you’ve discovered something special. The floor-to-ceiling windows frame Manhattan’s skyline so perfectly it almost seems intentional (well, it probably was). You know what struck me most? How the space manages to feel both grand and welcoming at the same time, which isn’t easy to pull off in a luxury hotel.

Location & Neighborhood

Here’s the thing about Williamsburg — it’s gotten pretty trendy, but The William Vale sits right on the waterfront where you actually get some breathing room. You’re literally steps from East River State Park, which locals use for morning runs and sunset walks. The hotel’s position on North 12th Street means you can walk to all those hip restaurants and bars everyone talks about, but you’re not drowning in the weekend crowds. Manhattan is just one subway stop away via the Bedford Avenue L train, though honestly, the complimentary shuttle to the city is pretty convenient too.

The Rooms

I’ve stayed in a lot of hotels, and The William Vale’s rooms actually live up to the hype about those beds — they’re ridiculously comfortable. The floor-to-ceiling windows continue up here, and depending on which side you’re on, you’ll either get sweeping views of Manhattan or the more industrial (but somehow charming) Brooklyn landscape. The bathrooms are spacious with deep soaking tubs, and there’s this nice touch where they provide Malin+Goetz amenities. What I really appreciated was the thoughtful design — plenty of outlets, good lighting for actually reading, and blackout curtains that work.

Dining & Amenities

The rooftop at this place is something else entirely. Westlight, their rooftop bar and restaurant, sits on the 22nd floor and offers what might be the best panoramic views of Manhattan you’ll find anywhere in Brooklyn. The cocktails are expertly crafted (though pricey, as you’d expect), and the small plates are surprisingly good. Down on the ground level, Leuca serves modern Italian that’s actually worth the splurge. The outdoor pool area feels like a resort oasis — which is pretty remarkable considering you’re in the middle of Brooklyn. There’s also a fitness center that’s well-equipped, and yes, they do have parking available, which anyone who’s driven in this area will appreciate.

Why Guests Love It

What makes The William Vale work so well is how it balances luxury with authenticity. You get all the high-end amenities and impeccable service you’d expect from a five-star property, but it doesn’t feel stuffy or disconnected from the neighborhood around it. Couples especially seem to love it here — and I can see why, given those views and the romantic vibe of the rooftop. The staff genuinely knows the area and can point you toward the best local spots, not just the obvious tourist destinations. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy world-class hospitality while still feeling like you’re experiencing the real Brooklyn.

The William Vale Accommodations

Reviews of The William Vale

• Balint from Hungary (9/10)

  The location and the view from the Gotham rooms were great. The bed was comfy, the room was clean, soundproofing was good, the bathroom and the water pressure were awesome.

• Katherine from United States (8/10)

  I stayed in the "gotham corner suite with wraparound balcony" and it was a fantastic view. Considering I spent as much for this room as I would have for a similar sized suite in manhattan but without the view, I think it is worth it. I splurged as we were traveling with our baby so I knew there would be more room time than is typical for us on vacation. The bathroom was great as well with views even from the bathroom.

• Daniella from United States (7/10)

  The William vale is a beautiful hotel and the staff is great

• Bradford from United States (9/10)

  Love it

• Nicola from United Kingdom (8/10)

  Incredible view of the Manhattan skyline. Bed was very comfortable

• Holly from Germany (8/10)

  Beds are cosy, lovely toiletries, great mini bar selection, room service came twice a day and staff were so friendly and accommodating.
  View from the room was a Brooklyn view rather than Manhattan, but still so impressive.
  
  Upstairs bar is a really cool spot for a drink!
  
  Location is great with easy access to subway.

• Linda from Switzerland (9/10)

  Good standard

• Anna from Greece (9/10)

  Everything!

• Sudha from Canada (9/10)

  Staff
  Room

• Hanna from Poland (9/10)

  Perfect location – Williamsburg, Brooklyn is one of the safest and nicest areas in NYC. Beautiful views, especially at night. Room perfectly sized, functional and cozy. Everything clean and tidy. Service at an exceptional level, the staff were very kind and attentive – as a solo traveler I genuinely felt taken care of.

Surroundings

Facilities