Where to Stay in Long Island City NYC: Best Hotels, Areas & Tips
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Looking for where to stay in Long Island City, NYC? LIC is one of the best places to consider if you want quick subway access to Manhattan without paying Manhattan hotel prices. Just across the East River from Midtown, this Queens neighborhood has become one of the city’s fastest-growing hotel hubs, packed with modern high-rises, waterfront parks, and skyline views that rival anything you’d get from a room in Manhattan itself.
This guide covers everything you need to plan your stay: the best neighborhoods within LIC (Court Square, Queens Plaza, Hunters Point, Dutch Kills, and Queensboro Plaza), a rundown of the top hotels for every budget and travel style, how LIC compares to Manhattan, and practical tips for booking.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor trying to stretch your budget, a couple chasing a skyline view, or a business traveler who just wants a fast subway ride into the city, you’ll find a recommendation that fits.
Let’s start with the question most people ask first.
Is Long Island City a Good Place to Stay in NYC?
Yes — for most travelers, Long Island City is a genuinely smart place to base yourself. It sits directly across the East River from Midtown Manhattan, and several subway lines (the 7, N, and W) connect LIC to Grand Central and Times Square in well under 15 minutes, so you’re never far from the action.
How it stacks up:
- Manhattan proximity: One stop on the 7 train from Grand Central puts you in the heart of LIC. You lose almost none of the convenience of staying in Manhattan.
- Subway access: Court Square, Queens Plaza, and Queensboro Plaza all function as major transit hubs, with multiple lines converging in a small area.
- Hotel prices: Rates in LIC are typically lower than comparable hotels in Midtown or Downtown Manhattan, especially for newer, higher-rated properties.
- Restaurants and nightlife: LIC has developed a genuine food and drink scene, from waterfront restaurants to craft breweries and speakeasy-style bars, without the crowds of Manhattan’s tourist zones.
- Waterfront views: Because LIC sits on the river, many hotels offer skyline views of Manhattan that you simply can’t get from most Manhattan hotel rooms.
- Safety: LIC is generally considered a safe, low-key residential and commercial neighborhood, though ordinary big-city precautions still apply (more on that below).
Who should stay in LIC: budget-conscious travelers, couples wanting a quieter home base, business travelers with meetings near Midtown or Queens, and anyone planning a longer trip who wants more room for their money.
Who might prefer Manhattan instead: travelers on a short 1–2 night trip who want to walk to everything, anyone prioritizing Broadway or late-night Manhattan nightlife, and those who dislike any amount of subway commuting.
In short: Long Island City is cheaper than Manhattan in most cases, and it’s considered safe for tourists who take normal precautions, both questions we’ll dig into further down.
Best Areas to Stay in Long Island City
LIC isn’t one uniform strip of hotels, it’s made up of several distinct micro-neighborhoods, each with a slightly different personality and set of strengths.
Court Square
Best for: First-time visitors and subway access
Court Square is the transit and civic heart of LIC, home to the Court Square subway station where the 7, E, M, and G lines all meet. That makes it arguably the single most convenient spot in the neighborhood for reaching Manhattan, and it’s a strong pick for first-timers who want a simple, low-stress commute.
Beyond the trains, Court Square has a growing cluster of restaurants and coffee shops, plus quick access to MoMA PS1, one of the country’s leading contemporary art institutions.
The mix of office towers and residential high-rises also makes it popular with business travelers who want proximity to both Midtown and Queens meetings. Overall, it’s a well-rounded, convenience-first choice.
Queens Plaza
Best for: Transportation and hotel value
Queens Plaza sits right at the foot of the Queensboro Bridge, with the N, W, E, M, R, and 7 trains all within reach, making it one of the fastest ways into Midtown Manhattan from Queens. A number of well-reviewed mid-range hotels have opened here in recent years, often at better rates than similarly rated properties in Court Square or Manhattan.
The walking environment is more industrial than charming, with wide roads and highway ramps nearby, but it’s improving as new residential and retail development fills in. Choose Queens Plaza if your top priority is minimizing your commute time and maximizing your hotel-dollar value.
Hunters Point
Best for: Waterfront views and couples
Hunters Point is LIC’s most scenic pocket, anchored by Gantry Plaza State Park and its unmistakable view of the Manhattan skyline across the East River. This is where you’ll find some of the neighborhood’s most photogenic hotels, many with rooms angled toward the water.
It’s a favorite for couples and anyone looking for a date-night atmosphere: waterfront restaurants, walking paths, and one of the best sunset views in New York City. Evenings here are noticeably quieter than in Court Square or Queens Plaza, and the park itself is a popular spot for photography, whether that’s engagement shoots or just skyline snapshots for your own feed.
Dutch Kills
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers
Dutch Kills is a smaller, more residential pocket of LIC that tends to have some of the neighborhood’s more affordable hotel options. It’s a bit further from the waterfront and the big transit hubs, which is exactly why prices can be attractive here.
Subway access is still solid, with stations along the N/W and 7 lines within walking distance, even if it’s not quite as central as Court Square. Expect a quieter, more neighborhood feel with fewer restaurants and attractions immediately at your doorstep, a fair trade-off for travelers prioritizing price over polish.
Queensboro Plaza
Best for: Getting around NYC
Queensboro Plaza is essentially an extension of the Queens Plaza transit corridor, with an elevated station serving the 7, N, and W trains. Hotels here lean heavily on convenience: you’re a few minutes from Midtown by train and close to the highway if you’re arriving by car.
It’s not the most charming stretch of LIC to wander around, but if your itinerary involves a lot of back-and-forth into Manhattan (or day trips to Queens attractions like Citi Field or Flushing Meadows), the transportation access here is hard to beat.
10 Best Hotels in Long Island City NYC
Here’s a closer look at ten standout hotels across different budgets and travel styles, based on current guest ratings and reviews.
1. Boro Hotel
Best for: Best overall
Boro Hotel has built a reputation as one of LIC’s most design-forward properties, with an industrial-chic aesthetic, exposed materials, and some of the most dramatic Manhattan skyline views in the neighborhood. It’s within easy reach of the subway and close to LIC’s restaurant scene, making it a strong all-around choice whether you’re visiting for leisure or business.
Guests consistently highlight the rooftop views and distinctive design as standouts, and the location works well for both first-time visitors and repeat New York travelers.
Things to consider: As one of the more design-focused hotels in the area, rates can run higher than some of LIC’s budget options during peak season.
Best for: Travelers who want a memorable stay with skyline views and don’t mind paying a bit more for it.
Check current prices: Compare live rates and availability for Boro Hotel and similar LIC properties.
2. Hampton Inn by Hilton Long Island City New York
Best for: Best budget
The Hampton Inn offers a dependable, no-surprises stay at one of the more approachable price points in the neighborhood, which makes it a practical base for travelers watching their budget, especially during peak-season weeks when Manhattan rates spike. Its Queens Plaza-adjacent location keeps you close to multiple subway lines.
Expect the reliable Hampton Inn standard: clean, straightforward rooms, free breakfast, and consistent service, nothing flashy, but a safe bet for value-focused travelers.
Things to consider: Rooms and public spaces are functional rather than stylish, so it’s a better fit if location and price matter more to you than design.
Best for: Budget travelers who want brand consistency and easy subway access.
Check current prices: Compare live rates and availability for Hampton Inn Long Island City.
3. Holiday Inn Express Long Island City
Best for: Best budget
Holiday Inn Express is another strong budget pick, offering straightforward, comfortable rooms at rates that are frequently well below comparable Manhattan hotels. It’s a solid choice for travelers who mainly need a clean, convenient place to sleep between days of sightseeing.
The brand’s usual perks, free breakfast, familiar service standards, and predictable room layouts, make it an easy, low-risk option, particularly for first-time NYC visitors who want fewer unknowns.
Things to consider: Like most budget-tier hotels, amenities are limited compared to upscale LIC properties, and rooms tend to be compact.
Best for: First-time visitors and budget-conscious families who want reliability over frills.
Check current prices: Compare live rates and availability for Holiday Inn Express Long Island City.
4. Ravel Hotel, Trademark Collection
Best for: Best for couples
The Ravel Hotel has long been known for its rooftop bar and lounge with sweeping East River and Manhattan skyline views, making it a favorite for couples looking for a bit of romance alongside their stay.
The design leans boutique and stylish rather than corporate.
Its Hunters Point-adjacent location puts you close to Gantry Plaza State Park, ideal for an evening walk after dinner, and the on-site nightlife scene means you don’t always need to venture into Manhattan for a good night out.
Things to consider: The rooftop scene can get lively and crowded on weekends, which may not suit travelers wanting a quieter stay.
Best for: Couples and travelers who want nightlife and views without leaving the hotel.
Check current prices: Compare live rates and availability for Ravel Hotel.
5. Home2 Suites by Hilton New York Long Island City/Manhattan View
Best for: Best for families
Home2 Suites specializes in extended-stay-style rooms with kitchenettes, separate living areas, and more space than a typical hotel room, which makes it especially practical for families traveling with kids. The Manhattan-view branding reflects genuine skyline sightlines from many rooms.
Having a small kitchen on hand can be a real budget-saver for families looking to skip a few restaurant meals, and the suite layouts give everyone a bit more breathing room than a standard double-queen setup.
Things to consider: Suite-style hotels can book up quickly during summer and holiday travel seasons, so it’s worth reserving well ahead.
Best for: Families who want extra space and light self-catering options.
Check current prices: Compare live rates and availability for Home2 Suites Long Island City.
6. Residence Inn by Marriott New York Queens
Best for: Best for longer stays
For trips of five nights or longer, Residence Inn’s apartment-style suites, complete with full kitchens and separate sleeping and living areas,make an extended stay far more comfortable than a standard hotel room. It’s designed with longer visits in mind, from business travelers on multi-week assignments to families on extended vacations.
The ability to cook some meals, do laundry, and spread out over a larger footprint adds up to meaningful savings and comfort the longer you stay.
Things to consider: Nightly rates may be less competitive than standard hotels if you’re only staying a night or two, since the pricing model favors longer bookings.
Best for: Travelers staying five or more nights who want apartment-style comfort.
Check current prices: Compare live rates and availability for Residence Inn New York Queens.
7. Courtyard Long Island City/New York Manhattan View
Best for: Best for Manhattan sightseeing
Courtyard by Marriott positions itself as a launchpad for Manhattan sightseeing, sitting close to Queens Plaza and Queensboro Plaza with fast access to nearly all five boroughs by subway. It’s roughly a 10-minute ride to Midtown, making it easy to pack a lot into each day.
The hotel also has its own restaurant and bar on-site, plus a 24-hour fitness center, so you have flexibility on evenings when you’d rather not go back out.
Things to consider: As one of the more popular business-friendly hotels in the area, it can feel busy with corporate travelers on weekdays.
Best for: Travelers prioritizing fast, easy access to Manhattan attractions.
Check current prices: Compare live rates and availability for Courtyard Long Island City.
8. EVEN Hotel Long Island City – New York
Best for: Best for skyline views
EVEN Hotel sits near the Queensboro Bridge and Queensboro Plaza subway station, with a design built around wellness and comfort. Many rooms and common areas capitalize on the neighborhood’s signature asset: unobstructed Manhattan skyline views across the East River.
Beyond the views, the hotel leans into an active-lifestyle concept, with fitness-forward room layouts and easy access to Gantry Plaza State Park and the LIC waterfront for a run or walk with a skyline backdrop.
Things to consider: Not every room category includes a full skyline view, it’s worth confirming your exact room type before booking if that’s the priority.
Best for: View-focused travelers who also want a wellness-oriented stay.
Check current prices: Compare live rates and availability for EVEN Hotel Long Island City.
9. Hyatt Place Long Island City/New York City
Best for: Best near subway
Hyatt Place offers a dependable mid-range stay with quick access to LIC’s core transit hubs, making it a strong pick for anyone whose top priority is minimizing time spent getting to and from Manhattan. Rooms tend to be roomier than the typical New York hotel standard.
The brand’s usual conveniences, a 24-hour grab-and-go market, free Wi-Fi, and flexible workspaces, make it a comfortable option for both leisure and business travelers.
Things to consider: As with most hotels near major subway hubs, expect some ambient street and train noise, particularly in lower-floor rooms.
Best for: Travelers who want to minimize commute time above all else.
Check current prices: Compare live rates and availability for Hyatt Place Long Island City.
10. The Box House Hotel
Best for: Best value
The Box House Hotel consistently earns strong guest ratings for combining a boutique, converted-warehouse feel with genuinely competitive rates. Rooms tend to be a bit larger than average, some with private balconies, and the hotel offers family-friendly touches like complimentary cribs and high chairs.
Its location keeps you close to subway links as well as a strip of independent bars and affordable restaurants, giving you a taste of local LIC life rather than a purely tourist-oriented strip.
Things to consider: Being a converted industrial building, the layout and room shapes can be less standardized than at newer chain hotels.
Best for: Travelers who want boutique character and strong value in one package.
Check current prices: Compare live rates and availability for The Box House Hotel.
Best Hotels in Long Island City for First-Time Visitors
If this is your first trip to New York, a few priorities matter more than anything else: staying close to a major subway line, keeping your nightly rate reasonable, and having restaurants within walking distance so you’re not scrambling late at night in an unfamiliar area.
For first-timers, prioritize:
- Subway proximity — ideally within a 5-minute walk of Court Square, Queens Plaza, or Queensboro Plaza
- Reasonable room price — LIC’s value is one of its biggest draws, so there’s no need to overspend
- Easy Manhattan access — a one-seat ride on the 7, N, or W train
- Restaurants nearby — so you have options without needing to plan far ahead
- Late-night transportation — confirm your subway line runs late, or that rideshare pickup is easy near your hotel
- Comfortable rooms — after a full day of walking NYC, a good bed matters more than you’d think
Top picks for first-time visitors:
- Courtyard Long Island City/New York Manhattan View — best balance of location and comfort
- Holiday Inn Express Long Island City — reliable, budget-friendly, easy to book
- The Box House Hotel — boutique character without a boutique price tag
- Hyatt Place Long Island City/New York City — minimal commute, roomy layouts
- Boro Hotel — a bit more of a splurge, but a memorable introduction to the neighborhood’s skyline views
Best Cheap Hotels in Long Island City NYC
One of the biggest reasons travelers search for where to stay in Long Island City is price. Manhattan hotel rates frequently climb past $400 a night during peak season, while LIC properties tend to advertise a much wider range, including genuinely affordable options that still come with strong reviews.
That said, “cheap” doesn’t always mean better value. Before booking the lowest-priced result, weigh a few factors:
- Subway distance: A cheaper hotel that’s a 20-minute walk from the nearest station may cost you more in time and rideshare fees than you’d save on the room.
- Resort or destination fees: Some properties tack on daily fees that aren’t reflected in the headline price — always check before booking.
- Taxes and additional charges: New York City hotel taxes add up; compare total price, not just the nightly rate.
- Cancellation policies: Especially important for NYC trips, where plans can shift. Free cancellation is worth paying a little more for in many cases.
Keyword-relevant picks:
- Hampton Inn by Hilton Long Island City — dependable budget standard near Queens Plaza
- Holiday Inn Express Long Island City — one of the most consistently affordable branded options
- The Box House Hotel — budget-adjacent pricing with boutique character
- Dutch Kills-area hotels — generally the most affordable pocket of the neighborhood, with solid (if slightly longer) subway access
Best Long Island City Hotels Near the Subway
Staying close to the subway is arguably the single most important factor in a smooth LIC stay, since it determines how quickly and easily you can reach Manhattan.
The three hubs to know:
- Court Square — serves the 7, E, M, and G trains; the most connected single point in the neighborhood
- Queens Plaza — serves the E, M, R, N, W, and 7 trains; excellent for reaching both Midtown and other parts of Queens
- Queensboro Plaza — serves the 7, N, and W trains; elevated station with fast Midtown access
Hotels clustered around these three stations benefit the most: business travelers who need a predictable commute, first-time visitors who want a simple, low-stress route into Manhattan, and anyone visiting multiple boroughs during their trip who wants to avoid long walks or transfers.
If subway convenience is your top priority, look first at hotels in Court Square, Queens Plaza, and Queensboro Plaza before considering Hunters Point or Dutch Kills.
Best Long Island City Hotels With Manhattan Skyline Views
LIC’s waterfront position along the East River gives it a visual advantage very few Manhattan hotels can match: a full, uninterrupted view of the Manhattan skyline, especially around Hunters Point and Gantry Plaza State Park.
What to look for:
- East River-facing rooms, which typically offer the clearest skyline sightlines
- Sunrise and sunset timing — Manhattan-facing rooms can deliver dramatic light at both ends of the day
- Higher floors, which generally clear obstructions from surrounding buildings
- Waterfront hotels near Gantry Plaza, which tend to have the most reliably unobstructed views
Important booking tip: Don’t assume every room in a waterfront hotel automatically comes with a skyline view. Many properties have a mix of city-facing, courtyard-facing, and river-facing rooms at different price points. Always check the specific room category, not just the hotel’s overall location, before you book if a view is a priority.
Long Island City vs Manhattan: Where Should You Stay?
| Long Island City | Manhattan |
|---|---|
| Often better hotel value | Usually more expensive |
| Excellent subway connections | More attractions within walking distance |
| Skyline views | Central location |
| Quieter in many areas | More energetic |
| Good for longer stays | Great for first-time convenience |
| Short subway ride to Midtown | Less commuting |
Stay in LIC if:
- You want to save on hotels
- You don’t mind using the subway
- You want skyline views
- You prefer quieter evenings
- You want more room for your money
Stay in Manhattan if:
- You want to walk to attractions
- You hate commuting
- You’re visiting for only 1–2 nights
- Broadway is a major priority
- You want a classic Manhattan experience
How Far Is Long Island City From Manhattan?
LIC’s biggest selling point is how close it actually is to Manhattan’s major landmarks by subway. Approximate travel times by train (always double-check current routes and service changes before your trip, since subway service can shift):
- LIC to Times Square: roughly 15–20 minutes via the 7 train with a transfer
- LIC to Central Park: roughly 20–25 minutes depending on your entry point
- LIC to Rockefeller Center: roughly 15 minutes via the 7 train to Grand Central, then a short walk or transfer
- LIC to Empire State Building: roughly 20 minutes via the 7 train to Grand Central, then a short walk
- LIC to Grand Central Terminal: roughly 10–12 minutes, one of the fastest connections from LIC
- LIC to Wall Street: roughly 30–35 minutes, typically requiring a transfer
Grand Central is consistently the fastest connection, which is a big part of why Court Square and Queens Plaza hotels are so popular — you’re often closer to Midtown than some Manhattan hotels further uptown or downtown.
Things to Do Near Your Long Island City Hotel
This waterfront park is LIC’s signature attraction, great for skyline photographs, sunset watching, easy walking paths, and picnics with a view of the East River.
MoMA PS1
A major contemporary art institution and an affiliate of Manhattan’s Museum of Modern Art, MoMA PS1 is a great stop for travelers interested in contemporary and experimental art.
Hunter’s Point South Park
Another strong waterfront location, ideal for walking and photography, with expansive green space and river views.
Beyond the named parks, the broader LIC waterfront offers a scenic, less crowded alternative to Manhattan’s busier riverside paths, good for a quiet morning walk or run.
5 Pointz area
This site has a well-known history as an outdoor street-art destination. Its appearance has changed significantly over the years with new development, so it’s worth checking current conditions rather than expecting the graffiti-covered warehouse look it was once known for.
Local restaurants and cafés
LIC’s dining scene has grown substantially, from casual coffee shops to waterfront restaurants and craft breweries. Rather than sticking to one list, it’s worth simply exploring the streets around Court Square and Hunters Point, where new spots open regularly.
Is Long Island City Safe for Tourists?
Generally, yes but the honest answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. Long Island City is a well-populated, mixed residential and commercial neighborhood, and most visitors have no safety issues at all. That said, ordinary big-city precautions still apply:
- Stay aware of your surroundings, especially late at night
- Choose hotels close to major subway stations, which tend to be well-trafficked and well-lit
- Stick to well-lit streets when walking after dark
- Keep valuables secured and avoid displaying expensive electronics or jewelry unnecessarily
- Check recent hotel-area reviews before booking, since conditions on specific blocks can shift over time
- Consider your own comfort level with late-night walks, and use a rideshare if you’d feel safer
None of this is unique to LIC, it’s the same baseline awareness you’d want anywhere in New York City. Choosing a hotel near a busy subway hub, as most of the picks in this guide are, is one of the simplest ways to maximize your comfort and safety.
How Many Days Should You Stay in Long Island City?
1–2 nights: Workable for a short NYC trip, especially if you’re mainly using LIC as a low-cost home base while spending most of your time in Manhattan.
3–4 nights: Probably the sweet spot for most tourists — enough time to settle into the neighborhood, explore both LIC and Manhattan, and take advantage of the lower hotel rates without feeling rushed.
5–7 nights: LIC becomes especially attractive for longer stays, since the accumulated savings versus a Manhattan hotel can be significant, and you’ll have time to enjoy LIC’s own restaurants and waterfront parks, not just use it as a place to sleep.
1+ week: For extended stays, look specifically at hotels with kitchenettes or apartment-style rooms (like Residence Inn or Home2 Suites), which make cooking, laundry, and simply living more comfortably possible over a longer trip.
Tips for Booking a Hotel in Long Island City
- Check the subway distance. Don’t just look at “Long Island City” on the hotel listing — confirm the actual walking distance to Court Square, Queens Plaza, or Queensboro Plaza.
- Compare the total price. Factor in taxes and any additional fees, not just the advertised nightly rate.
- Check cancellation terms. Especially important for pricier NYC stays, where plans can change.
- Read recent reviews. Prioritize reviews from the last few months over older ones, since hotels (and neighborhoods) can change.
- Check the room size. NYC hotel rooms can vary significantly in square footage, even within the same price range.
- Look at the exact room category. Particularly important if a skyline view is a priority — not every room in a “Manhattan view” hotel actually has one.
- Compare several booking options. Rates and availability can vary across sites, so it’s worth checking more than one before you commit.
Before booking, compare the latest Long Island City hotel prices and room options so you can find the best deal for your dates.
Where Should You Stay in Long Island City?
A quick decision guide based on what matters most to you:
- For first-time visitors: Court Square
- For subway access: Queens Plaza / Queensboro Plaza
- For skyline views: Hunters Point
- For couples: Hunters Point
- For budget travelers: Dutch Kills / Queens Plaza
- For longer stays: Look for suite-style or apartment-style hotels
- For Manhattan sightseeing: Court Square
Before booking, compare the latest Long Island City hotel prices and room options so you can find the best deal for your dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Long Island City a good place to stay in NYC? Yes. It offers fast subway access to Manhattan, generally lower hotel rates, skyline views, and a growing restaurant scene, making it a strong option for most types of travelers.
Is Long Island City cheaper than Manhattan? In most cases, yes. Comparable hotels in LIC typically cost less than similarly rated properties in Manhattan, especially during peak travel seasons.
Is Long Island City safe for tourists? Generally yes, with the same common-sense precautions you’d use anywhere in New York City, staying aware at night, sticking to well-lit streets, and choosing a hotel near a major subway station.
How far is Long Island City from Times Square? Roughly 15–20 minutes by subway, typically via the 7 train with one transfer, though it’s worth checking current service before you travel.
What is the best area to stay in Long Island City? Court Square is the best all-around choice for most visitors thanks to its central subway access; Hunters Point is best for skyline views and a quieter atmosphere.
What are the best hotels in Long Island City? Standouts include Boro Hotel for an overall top pick, The Box House Hotel for value, Ravel Hotel for couples, and Residence Inn or Home2 Suites for longer stays or families.
Where should I stay in LIC for easy subway access? Queens Plaza and Queensboro Plaza offer the fastest, most direct connections to Manhattan, with multiple subway lines converging in both areas.
Is Long Island City good for first-time visitors to NYC? Yes. Its combination of affordability, subway access, and walkable restaurants makes it an easy, low-stress base for a first NYC trip.
Can you see the Manhattan skyline from Long Island City? Yes, especially from Hunters Point and along Gantry Plaza State Park, where many hotels offer direct East River-facing views of Manhattan.
How many days should I stay in Long Island City? Most tourists find 3–4 nights to be the sweet spot, though even a 1–2 night stay works well as a budget-friendly base for a short trip.
