By Jason Heidemann for the Orbitz Travel Blog
We've never pulled a New York all nighter, but we assume that what happens in the city that never sleeps during the wee hours is mostly construction. How else can anyone explain so many new hotel openings in 2015? From the stylish to the sublime and from cheap chic to uber upscale, here are the five best new Manhattan hotels to check out now:
The Baccarat Hotel and Residences
You're looking for a hotel encrusted in crystal and with a name that's been synonymous with French luxury for several hundred years? Look no further than Baccarat, an ultra-upscale hotel and residence that was purchased for $230 million in February, instantly making it the most highly valued hotel in the U.S. This is where the one percent sleep -- rooms begin at upwards of $700/night -- and if that coveted group includes you expect luxury amenities, jaw-dropping attention to detail throughout and phenomenal service. We're most excited about restaurant Chevalier, that is if we can save up enough money to actually afford to one day eat there.
Baccarat, New York
Hotel Knickerbocker
We could stare at the Knickerbocker forever. That's because this rehabbed building from 1906 has a stunning beaux-arts facade and drips with New York history. Originally constructed by John Jacob Astor IV, the Knickerbocker was first a hotel, later the home of Newsweek magazine, also a garment showroom and once again a glorious upscale lodging in the heart of Times Square. Expect opulence including guestrooms with 12-foot ceilings, bespoke furnishings and plenty of elbow room for all. In case this luxury newcomer is out of your range, you can still use it to escape Midtown's hustle by zooming to rooftop bar St. Cloud for chic cocktails and soaring city views.
Hotel Knickerbocker, New York
Aloft Manhattan Downtown
These sibling properties to the swanky W chain exude the same style but without smashing your precious piggy bank. A playful exuberance inhabits the Aloft Manhattan Downtown including at Re:mix, a laid back gathering place where you can shoot a game of stick and at Re:fuel, a 24-hour snack bar and cafe. There's also swanky W XYZ Bar where you can cozy up to all those Gordon Gekko types so common in this part of the city. As for the guest rooms, you can get a King for under $250/night and that fact alone will make us sleep easy never mind the 9-foot ceilings, extra large windows and amenities by Bliss Spa.
The Paul
Finally, a hip hotel for young nomads in NOMAD. (That means NOrth of MADison Square Park in case you're wondering.) It also means Big Apple icons like the Empire State Building, Penn Station and the original Shake Shack are steps from your front door. But that's not all; The Paul is also -- gasp! -- affordable, including the occasional room for under $150/night (and that includes continental breakfast). Each of the 122 guestrooms have a chic, minimalist vibe enlivened by the occasional candy apple red desk chair or a piece of contemporary art. If you've got kiddies with you, book a bunk mod which can join with a queen room to become a mini suite!
The Paul, New York
EVEN HotelThis Midtown newbie is so new the sawdust is still fresh and the ribbon has yet to be cut. But when the curtain does rise -- bookings are available beginning November 19 -- guests at EVEN can expect a lifestyle hotel aimed at keeping guests on the same wellness routine they maintain back at home. Think in-room fitness zones for private workouts followed by a spa-inspired shower and a made-to-order smoothie. We've found rates as low as $300/night which is not bad for NYC and even better when you consider that Penn Station is across the street.
More from the Orbitz Travel Blog:
How to survive your first trip as a couple
Manhattan: Travel the world on one island
5 incredible mid-century modern hotels