N.Y.C. Hotels to Lay Your Head

MIDTOWN

There's no dearth of hotels to choose from in Manhattan; the only problem is rates that can defy all reason. We had great luck at the recently-opened 6 Columbus, a hip, super-friendly little place on Columbus Circle within easy walking distance to MOMA, Lincoln Center, Central Park and subways. Its 88 rooms tend to the small side, but the modernist décor is a gas, the service fantastic, and we were able to snag an off-season rate of $199 a night -- a steal by any standard. There's a Japanese restaurant on the first floor called The Blue Ribbon (212 397-0404) which also provides room service, and for breakfast there's a Starbuck's next door -- or try Le Pain Quotidien a block away (58th St. at 7th Ave).

6 Columbus

6 Columbus Circle, NY NY 10019

212 204-3000

www.sixcolumbus.com

UPPER EAST SIDE

If you prefer to be in walking distance to the Guggenheim, the Metropolitan and the Whitney, expect to pay for it. A reliable bet is The Carlyle, where advertised rates start at $700 a night -- and are reportedly worth it.

The Carlyle (a Rosewood Hotel)

35 E 76th. 10021

www.thecarlyle.com

212 744 1600

CHELSEA

The heart of New York's art scene is Chelsea, and the heart of Chelsea is the famous/notorious Hotel Chelsea. It's a bit run down now and has lost some of its character, but everyone from Frida Kahlo to Claes Oldenburg has passed through there at some point. Go if you're interested in the scene, but it may not be ideal for families (depending, of course, on your family). Advertised rates start at $189 a night.

The Hotel Chelsea