Finding a place to crash in New York that doesn't feel like a literal broom closet is a struggle. You know the drill. You find a "deal" in Midtown, only to realize your window faces a brick wall three inches away. That’s basically why TownePlace Suites New York Long Island City/Manhattan View has become such a weirdly popular pivot for people who actually want space.
Honestly, the name is a mouthful. But it tells you exactly what the draw is. You’re in Long Island City (LIC), just across the East River, looking back at the skyline everyone else is paying triple to sleep inside of. It’s a 3-star Marriott property, but it hits differently than a standard hotel because every room is a suite with a kitchen.
The Reality of Staying in Long Island City
Some people get nervous about staying outside of Manhattan. "Is it far?" "Is it safe?"
Look, LIC is industrial. It’s got that gritty, warehouse-chic vibe that parts of Brooklyn had ten years ago. The hotel is tucked into 38-42 11th Street. When you first pull up, you might think you’re in the wrong place because there’s a lot of construction and low-rise industrial buildings around. But then you see the hotel, which was built around 2019, and it’s this modern beacon.
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The 21st Street-Queensbridge subway station (F train) is about a seven-minute walk away. That’s the magic trick. You hop on that train, and two stops later, you’re at 63rd and Lexington in Manhattan. You’re literally in the heart of the city faster than someone staying way up on the Upper West Side or deep in Lower Manhattan.
Why the "Manhattan View" Part Actually Matters
The rooftop. Seriously.
Most budget-friendly hotels in NYC don’t have a view unless you’re paying for a "premium" floor. At TownePlace Suites New York Long Island City/Manhattan View, the rooftop terrace is open to everyone. It looks straight at the Queensboro Bridge and the Chrysler Building. At night, it’s arguably one of the best spots to grab a photo without a crowd of tourists hitting you with selfie sticks.
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Inside the rooms, the layout is what saves your sanity on a long trip. You get a full-size refrigerator, a dishwasher, a microwave, and a stovetop. If you’re traveling with kids or on a business trip that lasts more than three days, being able to make a sandwich or heat up leftovers from a local spot like John Brown BBQ (which is incredible, by the way) is a game changer for your wallet.
Room Types and the Pet Situation
They have a few different setups:
- Studio Suites: These usually come with one King or two Queen beds.
- Executive Suites: A bit more room to breathe, often with separate sitting areas.
And yeah, they are pet-friendly. They allow up to two pets (cats or dogs) per room, though there’s a weight limit of 25 lbs. The pet fee is usually around $150 per stay. It’s not the cheapest "dog tax" in the city, but since you have a kitchen and more floor space than a typical room, the pets actually have space to exist without you tripping over them.
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The Breakfast and the Logistics
Let’s talk about the free breakfast. It’s a Marriott buffet. You know what you’re getting: waffles, eggs, sausage, oatmeal, and coffee. It gets the job done. On weekends, it can get a bit crowded, so if you’re someone who needs peace and quiet with your caffeine, maybe head down early (it starts at 7:00 AM on weekends).
Valet parking is available, but it’s New York—it’s pricey. Expect to pay around $45 a day. If you can avoid bringing a car, do it. The subway is just too easy.
Surprising Perks Most People Miss
- The Gym: It’s a 24-hour setup. It’s not a Gold’s Gym, but for a hotel gym, it’s clean and has modern equipment.
- The Lobby Fireplace: Kinda cozy in the winter. It makes the industrial LIC wind feel a little less biting when you walk in.
- The Neighborhood Eats: Everyone talks about Manhattan food, but you’re near Casa Enrique (Michelin-starred Mexican food) and Adda Indian Canteen. You could eat better within a mile of this hotel than you would in Times Square.
Is It Worth It?
If you want to be able to walk out your front door and be in Times Square in 30 seconds, this isn't for you. But if you want a room that’s 240 to 300 square feet—which is huge for NYC—and you want to save $150 a night compared to Manhattan prices, it’s a smart play.
The biggest "risk" is the walk from the subway at night. Most travelers feel totally fine, but it is a quieter, industrial area. Just be aware of your surroundings, like you would anywhere else in New York.
Actionable Steps for Your Stay
- Request a High Floor: If you want the Manhattan view from your actual bed, you need to be on the upper levels facing west.
- Use the F Train: It’s your lifeline. It goes straight to Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, and the West Village.
- Check the LIC Flea: If you’re there on a weekend, the LIC Flea & Food is a short Uber away and has some of the coolest local finds in the city.
- Bring Your Own Coffee Pods: They provide some, but if you’re a snob about it, the in-room kitchen means you can brew your own properly.
Pack a good pair of walking shoes and a MetroCard. You’re going to need them.