Penny Williamsburg

Penny Williamsburg Overview

First Impressions

Walking up to Penny Williamsburg on North 8th Street, you immediately get that this four-star hotel understands its neighborhood. The building fits right into the industrial-chic vibe of Williamsburg without trying too hard — there’s something refreshingly unpretentious about the whole setup. I mean, this is Brooklyn, not Manhattan, and the hotel seems to get that completely. The lobby has this warm, lived-in feeling that makes you want to settle in with a coffee and actually relax for once.

Location & Neighborhood

Honestly, the location is pretty much perfect if you want to experience the real Williamsburg. You’re literally steps from the East River waterfront, and those Manhattan skyline views are absolutely worth the walk. The L train at Bedford Avenue is close enough that getting into the city is actually easy, but you’re far enough from the tourist crowds to feel like you’re staying somewhere authentic. There’s something special about being able to grab artisanal everything within a two-block radius — whether it’s coffee, pizza, or vintage shopping. Couples especially seem to love wandering around this area, and I can see why the location gets such high marks from guests.

The Room Experience

The rooms at Penny Williamsburg strike this nice balance between Brooklyn cool and actual comfort. You know what I appreciate? They didn’t go overboard with the industrial theme — there are exposed brick elements and modern fixtures, but it doesn’t feel like you’re sleeping in a warehouse. The beds are genuinely comfortable (not just Instagram-worthy), and the bathrooms have good water pressure, which honestly matters more than most people admit. The windows are large enough that you get plenty of natural light, and some rooms have those coveted city views that make you feel like you’re in a movie.

Dining & Social Spaces

The hotel’s restaurant and bar area feels more like a neighborhood hangout than a typical hotel dining room, which works perfectly for this location. The food is solid — not groundbreaking, but definitely above average hotel fare with a local Brooklyn twist. What I really like is that locals actually come here too, so you’re not stuck in a tourist bubble. The coffee is legitimately good (this is Williamsburg, after all), and the evening atmosphere has this relaxed energy where you might end up chatting with other guests or neighborhood regulars.

Why Guests Love It

There’s something about Penny Williamsburg that just works — it captures that Brooklyn spirit without being gimmicky about it. You’re getting a genuine neighborhood experience while still having all the amenities you’d expect from a quality hotel. The staff seems to actually know the area and can point you toward the good stuff, not just the obvious tourist spots. For couples especially, this place offers that perfect mix of urban adventure and cozy retreat. It’s the kind of hotel where you might extend your stay just because you’re enjoying being part of the neighborhood, even temporarily.

Best hotels in New York blend rooftop terraces, chef-driven tasting menus, and skyline spa sanctuaries.

Penny Williamsburg Accommodations

Reviews of Penny Williamsburg

• Sylwia from Poland (9/10)

  Design, location, soundproof windows, art in the hotel, roof top bar with great view – we loved it! We definitely come back! Thank you!

• Tara from United States (9/10)

  Location, price, convenience, cleanliness, thoughtfulness of all amenities and it was super quiet, quaint and cozy!

• Howard from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Great vibe to the room, spacious and very good location for Williamsburg. Top value for money for New York.

• Vered from Israel (9/10)

  Lovely boutique hotel, nice design, nice rooftop, comfortable bed, good size room, the kitchenette was convenient. Staff friendly and helpful. Close to the subway. The guidebook to the neighborhood was a nice touch.

• Patricia from United States (9/10)

  The room was very well appointed, the people at the desk were very friendly, and it was very conveniently located for my activities. I also enjoy a handheld shower option.

• Marten from Germany (9/10)

  The location was perfect and close to the subway station. The room had a good interior, and the hotel was very quiet. The staff was always friendly and helpful. The rooftop bar was a plus we didn't anticipate.

• Francisca from Chile (9/10)

  Great hotel, nice staff, excellent location in Williamsburg, very close to Bedford station (1 stop form manhattan)
  Rooms were comfortable, large and cleaned everyday. Fresh coffee everyday to brew in your room or ready at reception and cold water available at all times. Did not get a chance to try out “Eñ Nico” restaurant on the top floor, but the view was amazing. Would absolutely recommend.

• Mercedes from Argentina (8/10)

  The staff is extremely helpful. The room is comfortable and has a kitchenette and a fridge that comes very handy.

• Joan from United Kingdom (9/10)

  This is the first time I have stayed at this hotel, having stayed at neighbouring hotels in recent years. The staff were extremely friendly, they made me feel very welcome and for this reason I will certainly choose this hotel again for my next visit. The rooftop bar was lovely with amazing views across to Manhattan.

• Becky from United States (9/10)

  Conveniently located near all the best shops and train stops in Williamsburg. The room I booked was the perfect size and spacious enough for 2 with all the essentials ended for a comfortable stay. Love that there was a water refill station right outside our room and directions and info clearly displayed on the cork board when you enter. We arrived early in the morning and didn’t have to wait a crazy long time for our room to be ready. They also have pastries, coffee and water in the lobby and a terrace to sit and enjoy as well.

Surroundings

Facilities