The Best Hotels Near Ellis Island, New York

Tuck into dim sum or spaghetti alla carbonara ahead of your trip to Ellis Island – Hotel 50 Bowery is foodie heaven. The hotel sits among the delights of Chinatown, Little Italy and fashionable SoHo. The diversity of the area is fused into the design. Take the Chinese dragon emblazoned on the bathrobes, and the original artwork from local studio Exhibition A. The hotel is a 15-minute subway ride to the Ellis Island ferry.

It couldn’t be easier to reach Ellis Island from the Frederick – it sits above Chambers Street station, so take the 1 to South Ferry station. The hotel itself is a Tribeca legend, built in 1844 in the gothic-revival style. Inside you’ll discover a blend of vintage, art nouveau and midcentury decor combined in an industrial setting – expect exposed brick walls and slender velvet sofas. The thin-crust pizza at the acclaimed Serafina Tribeca restaurant is worth sampling.

This plush boutique hotel is a flashback to the golden era of Manhattan glamour. Built in 1883, it was home to several culturally significant establishments before becoming a hotel. Every inch of the architectural beauty is filled with lavish decor and thought-provoking art. Upstairs, rooms are light-filled with craft cocktail tables and oversized rain showers as standard. Best of all, it’s an eight-minute ride on the MTA to Battery Park where the Ellis Island ferry awaits.

The best way to describe 11 Howard is casual luxury. Here, Danish minimalism meets New York realism. Rooms carry Scandanivian-style furniture, light oak floors and sculptures by New York-based artist Katie Yang. A popular hangout for fashionistas due to its close proximity to Spring Street, it’s also a 10-minute subway ride to Battery Park. Reserve a table at the Blond bar for artisan cocktails and nightly DJ sets.

The Walker Hotel draws on the neighborhood’s quirky character infused with design-forward style. The 171 rooms are compact but smart; they and the suites carry minimalist furnishings, accented with herringbone wood floors and crisp white linen. Don’t miss 5pm negronis at the Happy Be rooftop bar. Take the subway to Battery Park, or jump in a cab for a 15-minute ride.

Want to avoid NYC prices but stay close to the action? Jersey City is a short PATH train away from the World Trade Center subway station, plus you can reach Ellis Island easily via Warren Street. This Canopy hotel is a great base to discover the growing creative scene in the Powerhouse Arts District, as well as the wonders of Manhattan. Pet-friendly rooms are an added perk.

Rich wood, leather furnishings and brass accents in each room give a gentleman’s club vibe to this Financial District hotel. Social spots include an onsite Italian restaurant, Felice, and La Soffitta library lounge, where you’ll rub shoulders with Wall Street movers and shakers. Battery Park is walking distance (or a six-minute taxi ride) from here.

You couldn’t be closer to the Battery Park ferry terminal at this Conrad outpost, overlooking the Hudson River. Its waterfront location is one of the key highlights. Head to the Loopy Doopy rooftop bar to admire the view with a raspberry Moscow mule in hand. Inside, rooms are minimal and spacious – upgrade for a king bed with a river view.