HI New York City Hostel

HI New York City Hostel Overview

First Impressions

Walking up to HI New York City Hostel on Amsterdam Avenue, you might do a double take — this isn’t your typical cramped hostel squeezed into a basement somewhere. The building has this solid, almost institutional feel that actually works in its favor, and once you’re inside, it’s clear they’ve put real thought into making budget travel comfortable. I mean, finding a three-star place in Manhattan that doesn’t feel like you’re sacrificing everything for location is honestly pretty rare.

Upper West Side Advantage

Here’s what I love about this spot — you’re right in the heart of the Upper West Side, which locals know is one of the most livable neighborhoods in the city. Central Park is literally a few blocks away (perfect for morning runs or just escaping the concrete), and you’ve got the subway right there on 103rd Street. The couples who stay here consistently rave about the location, and I get it — there’s something romantic about strolling through this tree-lined area that feels more like a real New York neighborhood than the tourist chaos of Midtown.

The Hostel Experience

What surprised me most about HI New York City Hostel was how they’ve managed to create actual privacy and comfort in a shared-space concept. The rooms are clean and well-organized, with sturdy bunk beds that don’t creak every time someone moves (you know how annoying that can be). They’ve got lockers that actually fit your stuff, decent lighting for reading, and — this is key — the bathrooms are maintained really well throughout the day. The common areas have this relaxed vibe where you can hang out without feeling like you’re in a college dorm.

Practical Perks

The kitchen facilities here are actually usable, which isn’t always the case with hostels. You can grab groceries from the Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s nearby and cook your own meals — honestly a lifesaver when you’re trying to stretch your budget in an expensive city. There’s also a laundry room (because nobody wants to pack three weeks’ worth of clothes), and the Wi-Fi works consistently throughout the building. Small things, but they matter when you’re staying somewhere for more than just a night or two.

Why Guests Love It

Recent guests consistently rate this place highly for location, and after spending time in the area, it makes total sense. You’re close enough to all the major attractions — the Museum of Natural History is practically next door, Lincoln Center is a pleasant walk south — but you’re also in a part of the city where actual New Yorkers live and work. The staff seems to genuinely care about helping travelers figure out the city, and there’s this nice mix of international visitors and domestic travelers that creates a good energy. For the price point in Manhattan, HI New York City Hostel delivers way more than you’d expect.

To book a hotel in New York during holiday windows, visitors plan ahead to balance Fifth Avenue strolls with Rockefeller tree views.

HI New York City Hostel Accommodations

Reviews of HI New York City Hostel

• Jakub (9/10)

  The check in was very well organized. The hostel was very clean and comfortable.

• Laith from Jordan (8/10)

  The staff is very good and the facilities are clean, less than 5 mins walking to metro station

• Leon from Australia (9/10)

  It has everything you need for a reasonable price comparing to the average in NY, subway transportation in NY in 24 Hours so you don have to be worried about location that as there is a station really close to the hostel.

• Eduardo from Mexico (7/10)

  Is easy to make the check in and the personal is very kind. Is near to Central Park and the subway station to easily transport to any place at the city.

• Daniella from Brazil (9/10)

  The location and the mattress

• Megan from Australia (9/10)

  Great common areas and the beds were super comfortable

• Yong from Taiwan (9/10)

  This hostel sets the benchmark for hostel living. Where do I start? I like that the room (6-bed dorm) had ample spacing between the bunk beds, so it wasn't too crowded. The lockers provided had enough space for a luggage and a large backpack, but you would need to bring your own lock. The beds are relatively comfortable but nothing worth aweing over. The only complaint about my room is that there wasn't much space to hang your clothes or personal belongings, so your coats and jackets need to be stashed away in your locker/bag when not in use. The bathrooms are abundant and showers are large, with ample hot water for showers. I especially like the amount of activities provided by the hostel, including walking tours, comedy nights, hangouts, all of which you can meet people from all corners of the world! The location is really just a stone's throw away from the 103th subway station, which has a relatively high frequency of trains even at night. I like the convenience of the 1 Train which gets you into downtown Manhattan quickly and directly. There are also several nice cafes and bagel shops near the hostel due to its proximity to Columbia University. I think this is a wonderful place to stay if you're visiting New York!

• Rebecca from United States (8/10)

  Very clean and comfortable

• Helen from United Kingdom (7/10)

  Cheapest place I could find, well located.
  Clean.

• Clara from Germany (8/10)

  nice location with easy access to the subway and really close to Central Park!
  The bathrooms were always clean.

Surroundings

Facilities