Grayson Hotel

Grayson Hotel Overview

You know what struck me first about the Grayson Hotel? Walking up to this place on West 39th, you’d almost miss it if you weren’t looking – it’s got this understated elegance that doesn’t scream “tourist trap” like some of the flashier Midtown spots. I mean, you’re literally a three-minute walk from Bryant Park (which honestly becomes your afternoon refuge when you need to escape the hotel room), and Times Square is close enough that you can easily walk there but far enough that you’re not dealing with the Elmo costume chaos right outside your window.

The lobby has this warm, lived-in feeling – not sterile like those glass-box hotels that make you feel like you’re in a waiting room. Check-in was surprisingly smooth, actually, and the staff seemed to genuinely know the neighborhood. When I asked about good coffee nearby, the front desk guy didn’t just point me to the nearest Starbucks but mentioned this little place on 38th that locals actually go to. The rooms themselves are what I’d call “New York appropriate” – you’re not getting a suburban hotel suite here, but everything feels thoughtfully designed rather than cramped. The beds are legitimately comfortable (I’m picky about this), and there’s enough space to actually unpack without living out of your suitcase. What I really appreciated was the attention to sound – you’d think being in Midtown would mean constant noise, but they’ve clearly invested in decent windows because I slept better than I expected.

Here’s the thing about staying here – you’re in the sweet spot of Manhattan geography. Bryant Park Winter Village if you’re there during the holidays, the main library when you want somewhere quiet and grand to decompress, and you can walk to Penn Station in maybe ten minutes when it’s time to leave (though honestly, just take the subway from Herald Square, it’s easier with luggage). The 8.6 rating makes sense to me because this isn’t trying to be the fanciest place in the city, but it gets the important stuff right. Parking is going to cost you – this is Midtown, after all – but if you’re flying in, the location more than makes up for it. I’d definitely stay here again, especially because you feel like you’re actually in New York rather than some generic hotel bubble that could be anywhere.

Grayson Hotel Accommodations

Reviews of Grayson Hotel

• Beyza from United States (9/10)

  The location was the best. The hotel is very close to Bryant park.

• Tammy from United States (9/10)

  Staff was amazing!!! They were all friendly and went over the top to make our stay perfect! The location was exactly what we were looking for. Nestled on a side street just far enough off the main strip but only 2 blocks away from Bryant park and all the main attractions. We have already said this is the only place we will stay when visiting NYC.

• Diana from United States (8/10)

  The Hotel was in an awesome location. We came as a family for Christmas and we walked everywhere! One block from Bryant park. Close, but far enough away from, Times Square. Short walk to Rockefeller Center. Ten minutes to Macys. The breakfast every morning was great with a full menu to choose from and also a breakfast buffet available if wanted. I truly thought the breakfast was a great perk to our “breakfast included rate”. The rooms were very clean. The rooftop bar was beautiful. Not many bad things to say about our visit. Only upsets were room size, elevator speed, and no refrigerator in room. (My photos added are from the rooftop bar.)

• Pier from United States (9/10)

  Convenient location, friendly staff, great rooftop bar

• Susan from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Great location, walking distance to Rockefeller centre, Empire State, Madison Sq Gardens, Macy’s etc. Large comfortable bed. Great rooftop bar with view of Empire State Building

• Sandi from Canada (9/10)

  The breakfast was delicious and offered a wide variety of items on the menu. Everyday we were greeted by an awesome staff who wanted to be sure we enjoyed our stay.

• Natasha from United States (9/10)

  Everything was Great

• Yahaira from Puerto Rico (9/10)

  All

• Natasha from United States (9/10)

  Everything

• Marc from United States (9/10)

  Simple, Clean and Fresh. Get room to relax in with a view of the Empire State Building

Surroundings

Facilities