Got some downtime between meetings in New York? Instead of searching in vain for a Starbucks with an open seat, why not spend some time in a chic hotel lobby? The lobbies of the hip hotels below are the perfect spaces to kick back with a drink or make some progress on a project, whether you’re guest or not. Either way, you're in for an interesting few hours of people watching.
THE ACE HOTEL
This creative space is one of the hottest laptop spots in the city. At the Ace, you’ll find funky tile floors, colorful stained-glass ceilings, unique decor around every corner, and an innovative crowd. The Ace has cozy seating, lots of coffee and food, and of course, great wifi.
Ace Hotel New York, 20 W 29th St, New York, NY 10001
THE STANDARD EAST VILLAGE
If there were a hotel version of an “it girl,” it would be this artsy space. The Standard East Village boasts great views, a charming back garden, and up-close-and-personal access to the East Village. The Cafe Standard is the ideal spot to sit down with a cocktail or cup of coffee to unwind. In the summer, the cafe has its own sunny outdoor plaza, so you and your laptop will even get to catch some rays.
The Standard East Village, 25 Cooper Sq, New York, NY 10003
THE MARLTON
The Marlton has been around for decades - it even played host to Jack Kerouac back in the day - but few New Yorkers think to drop by with their laptops. The result is a peaceful lobby where you can enjoy a bit of quiet. The space has a fireplace, plenty of tables for working, and all the coffee and cocktails you’ll ever need. It’s located in the heart of Greenwich Village, so if you need to take a break for some fresh air, there’s an idyllic walking route right outside the Marlton’s front door.
The Marlton, 5 W 8th St, New York, NY 10011
THE MARRIOTT MARQUIS
This funky, futuristic lobby looks like a scene straight out of the Jetsons. (Even the elevator looks like it was pulled from the 22nd Century.) Enjoy cocktails as you look out over midtown Manhattan and soak in the buzz of newly arrived travelers.
New York Marriott Marquis, 1535 Broadway, New York, NY 10036
DREAM MIDTOWN
The Dream Midtown’s lobby offers a vibrant cocktail lounge that attracts creative and business-minded travelers from around the world. Kick back with your laptop on a comfy couch with a free coffee and rub elbows with fellow working travelers. You can even have food from Serafina, the Dream’s restaurant, and delivered to your seat.
Dream Midtown, 1724 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
THE NOMAD HOTEL
This beautiful French-inspired hotel is like a little slice of Paris. The NoMad’s two-floor library is welcoming to guests and non-guests alike, and you’ll have plenty of access to snacks, wine, and coffee. While you’re there, don’t forget to gawk at the stunning spiral staircase that connects the library’s two floors - it was imported directly from the south of France. This low-key space can get pretty quiet, so it’s a great spot for getting lost in a book or catching up on a project that requires deep focus.
NoMad Hotel, 1170 Broadway & 28th St, New York, NY 10001
HIGH LINE HOTEL
The lobby of this hotel, located off the famous elevated park of the same name, is charming escape from the busy city. The High Line’s lobby has a cafe-like atmosphere, complete with Intelligentsia coffee and comfy couches to relax on. The space is decorated with vintage and antique furniture pieces, and business travelers from around the city love to congregate here for some quality laptop time.
The High Line Hotel, 180 10th Ave, New York, NY 10011