Beti Prosheva Gavrilovska 
Ahh, New York 🥰 There’s nothing quite like it, but with the high living costs, it’s no wonder that not everyone can afford a stay. But fear not, my dear New York lovers, as there are still options for a fab trip that fits a modest budget.
You’ll have to scratch Manhattan off the list, though, as it has the most expensive New York hotels. Still, there are amazing hotels outside of New York City in Brooklyn (the best area), Jersey City, Edgewater & Fort Lee, Weehawken & North Bergen, Bronx, and Queens where you can have a fantastic stay for much lower prices.
I stayed in Brooklyn on one of my trips to NYC, and I loved it, so join me on this journey, where I will tell you about the areas, best hotels, and top things to do, so you’ll be ready to embark.
Just don’t forget to book your accommodation right away because NYC gets so many visitors year-round that the best hotels get booked out far in advance.
Start spreading the news. We’re leaving today!
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay
- 1. Brooklyn – where to stay in NYC for first-timers
- 2. Jersey City – where to stay outside of NYC for families
- 3. Edgewater & Fort Lee – for the most convenient location
- 4. Weehawken & North Bergen – where to stay for tranquility
- 5. Bronx – where to stay in NYC for hip-hop lovers & artists
- 6. Queens – where to stay in NYC for diversity
- FAQs about hotels outside of New York City
- Conclusion
Quick Picks for Your Stay
Can’t wait to start packing? Then book any hotel outside of New York City in Brooklyn or Jersey City from the list below:
Here’s a map of the areas so you can visually see their proximity to Manhattan and learn who they are best for:
1. Brooklyn – where to stay in NYC for first-timers
With many cool neighborhoods like Sunset Park, street art, and hip places to visit, Brooklyn is a fabulous place with a fantastic location on the westernmost edge of Long Island. I stayed there on one of my trips to NYC, and I loved it. This borough has interesting architecture, chic coffee shops, parks, and fun places to go out at night.
Plus, you’ve got Coney Island for entertainment, and plenty of things to do, so you can easily spend 2 days exploring only this area, walking, biking, or drinking. 😉
Depending on your choice of transport and which area you stay in, the trip to Manhattan is from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, but there are many subway stations around, so it’s easy to go to and fro during the day.
Don’t forget to book your hotels outside of New York City in advance, as these areas are always hunted by those who want to get a better price!
Other accommodation options in Brooklyn
Things to do in Brooklyn
- Laugh your heart out at Coney Island
- Fall in love with Brooklyn Botanic Garden
- Have a picnic at Prospect Park
- Explore the fun Atlantic Avenue
- Cross the iconic Brooklyn Bridge
- Savor Brooklyn flavors on a food tour
2. Jersey City – where to stay outside of NYC for families
This not-so-small city may be in a different state, but its proximity to west Manhattan and the multitude of New Jersey Transit Trains make it the perfect neighborhood for those who want to stay outside New York but close enough to visit it daily.
I heard a lot about it from my friends living there because the city is urban, with many things happening all the time, yet much more homely than NYC and cheaper!
This is why Jersey City is considered a family-friendly spot with many fun attractions, like the Liberty Science Center or Liberty State Park. And it is also known as one of the departure points for the Statue of Liberty tours.
The car trip from Jersey City to Manhattan is about 30 minutes, and depending on whether you want to go to Lower or Upper Manhattan, it can take around 45 min to 1h 15 min by subway.
Transport solved, now let’s see where you can spend the night(s).
Other accommodation options in New Jersey
Things to do in Jersey City
- Relax at Liberty State Park
- Take a tour of Ellis Island & the Statue of Liberty
- Shop until you drop at Newport Center
- Spare a moment of silence at the Empty Sky Memorial
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3. Edgewater & Fort Lee – for the most convenient location
Home to the George Washington Bridge, which connects New Jersey to the west side of Manhattan, this area has many bars, restaurants, and things to see.
Fort Lee is a lively community located on the banks of the Hudson River with mesmerizing views of Manhattan. It is mainly a residential area with parks and local stores where you can have some peace and quiet, and if you want some action, NYC is at least a 10 min car ride.
Edgewater, NJ, is pretty much like Fort Lee. It is situated on the banks of the Hudson River, with sweeping views of Manhattan. If you decide to stay here, I recommend taking the ferry to Manhattan for an NYC trip with a twist.
Other accommodation options in Edgewater & Fort Lee
Things to do in Edgewater & Fort Lee
- Try the yummy bubble tea at Umacha
- Snap a pic of the famous George Washington Bridge
- Take a stroll at Fort Lee Historic Park
- See performing arts events at IPIC Theaters
- Take your dog to Fort Lee dog park
4. Weehawken & North Bergen – where to stay for tranquility
Weehawken & North Bergen are located on the east coast of New Jersey. Weehawken, in particular, is connected to west Manhattan via Lincoln Tunnel, which goes under the Hudson River.
They are small areas where you can stay on a budget, but what I particularly love is how close they are to The High Line – an elevated rail line converted to a public park with unique plants and views, perfect if you need some time for yourself, just so sit and people-watch.
Nevertheless, it’s ideal for anyone looking for a tranquil stay outside New York City and avoiding heavy commuter traffic.
Other accommodation options in Weehawken & North Bergen
Things to do in Weehawken & North Bergen
- Relax at Hamilton Park
- Take a walk at The Old Glory Park
- Visit the Weehawken World War I Memorial
- See Sopranos movie sites at Lincoln Tunnel
- Take a dinner cruise on the Hudson River
5. Bronx – where to stay in NYC for hip-hop lovers & artists
Known for the Yankee Stadium and the Zoo, but especially as the birthplace of hip hop, the Bronx (formerly part of Westchester County) may be considered controversial among people who haven’t experienced its true spirit.
It has easy access to the north side of Manhattan, and if you drop off at the first train stop, you’ll arrive at Mott Haven, one of the most vibrant Bronx communities. Explore the up-and-coming area, and feel that artistic, free-spirited vibe that you get when looking at the murals and listening to hip-hop.
The music is tightly knitted in the culture of these people, it’s their heritage, and young residents proudly show it.
For an immersive experience, start your day exploring the neighborhood, get yourself something from Bronx Native, have lunch at the Beatstro, and end your day with a drink at Rosa’s at Park.
Other accommodation options in the Bronx
Things to do in the Bronx
- Take your family to the Bronx Zoo
- Catch a match at Yankee Stadium
- Tour the Edgar Allan Poe Cottage
- Attend arts events Bronx Museum of Arts
- Try signature chocolates at Chocobar Cortés
6. Queens – where to stay in NYC for diversity
Queens is the largest of the 5 NYC boroughs and is located on Long Island, bordering Brooklyn and Nassau County by land. It’s perfect for those who want to stay near JFK Airport or LaGuardia Airport and explore Long Island.
It is also the most ethnically diverse community with a blend of cuisines with new restaurants popping up all the time. They are bound to remind you of home – something you cannot feel if you’re staying in Manhattan or the other areas on this list.
When talking about Queens, think of Bengali, Asian, or Indian food, festivals, street markets, street food, and diversity. Foodies, you need to check out Bhanchha Ghar, Sagar Chinese, and Angel Indian Restaurant, all within walking distance from one another.
Other accommodation options in Queens
Things to do in Queens
- Explore Flushing Meadows, Corona Park
- Visit the Museum of the Moving Image
- Stroll around Queens Botanical Garden
- See the New York Hall of Science
- Spend a day at Rockaway Beach
| 📍 Best area: | Brooklyn |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | DoubleTree by Hilton |
| 💵 Best mid-range hotel: | Ace Hotel, Brooklyn |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Henry Norman Hotel |
FAQs about hotels outside of New York City
🤔 Is it cheaper to stay in Jersey City when visiting NYC?
Yes, you will save money if you stay in Jersey City as the accommodations are much more affordable, and the public transport to get to New York isn’t too expensive.
🏨 Which are the best cheap hotels outside of New York City?
Hyatt Place Fort Lee and Henry Norman Hotel are some great hotels outside Manhattan and NYC that offer some great facilities and have amazing reviews.
🌆 Where do people stay when they visit New York?
It depends. Many people choose to stay inside NYC, while others who travel on a budget prefer to stay in a more suburban setting like Fort Lee or Jersey City, where the hotels are more affordable.
🚌 Which hotels outside of NYC offer a shuttle bus?
Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Queens and Best Western Premier NYC Gateway Hotel in Weehawken & North Bergen, both offer a shuttle service to other towns.
Conclusion
🎵 Now you’re in New York, these streets will make you feel brand-new… and this article hopefully inspired you to book hotels outside of New York City! We’ve explored the top areas, seen the best hotels & listed some things to do, so now you’re ready!
Hey, but you cannot leave without my 2 favorite hotels outside of NYC:
- DoubleTree by Hilton, Jersey City – Chill by the pool of this great hotel that offers rooms with views of the Brooklyn Bridge.
- Residence Inn by Marriott – Another great hotel with a modern design and free bikes to explore the area.
Whichever your pick is, I am serious, you need to book it in advance to save your spot. Visiting a city that never sleeps is a dream for many tourists, so the great hotels get booked far in advance.
Is there another area where you stayed and want to recommend to your fellow travelers? Drop in a comment below, as I am dying to find out!
Let’s hear it for New York, New York… 🎵
Beti
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