Chelsea Lodge and Chelsea Lodge Suites in New York City: A Review

At first glance, the Chelsea Lodge hotel in New York City looks like just another brownstone residence. There is no sign posted. That suits me just fine. Located on a fairly quiet neighborhood street, you get the feel that you are actually living in New York City when you stay at the Chelsea Lodge hotel. You feel like you're "in the know" by staying there, which in NYC is a feat by itself. Staying at the Chelsea Lodge simply makes you feel cool.

When I go to New York, I want the whole New York City experience, and Chelsea Lodge gives that to me. Honestly, I feel like a New York City resident when I climb the stoop stairs to the hotel and open the door. Nobody but someone who lives in the neighborhood would know the difference.

When you get inside this brownstone building, the dark polished wood and European feel of the hotel reflects the history behind the Chelsea district. The owners have renovated the interior and restored the original woodwork. Even the beautiful vintage furniture has been chosen to lend a real old New York feel to the place. I have stayed in a number of rooms at the Chelsea Lodge, and here's a hint to getting the best deal.

Ask for a room downstairs if you stay in the Chelsea Lodge. All the rooms at the Chelsea Lodge are small but clean and adequate, but the rooms downstairs have their own private toilet as well as the shower and sink. There is a nominal extra charge for those rooms, but it's well worth it. All rooms at the Chelsea Lodge come with a double bed, small TV, desk and chair, maid service, and heater or air conditioning, depending on the season.

The hotel itself has that old New York charm. The rooms being small didn't bother me a bit. Who spends much time in their room when they are in the City that never sleeps anyway? I have also stayed next door at the Chelsea Lodge Suites in both of the suites. The garden suite was my favorite, hands down. If you can afford it, opt for a suite at Chelsea Lodge Suites as opposed to the Chelsea Lodge itself.

The suite had a cute kitchenette, a private shower & toilet, and plenty of space to bounce around in. Windows at the rear of the suite look out onto a small, quiet garden. What a great view to wake up to in the morning! The ambiance of this small hotel is first-rate, and the rooms are relatively cheap for NYC. I would definitely stay at the Chelsea Lodge or Chelsea Lodge Suites again.

Rates as of this writing are $119 single occupancy for Chelsea Lodge and $229 for one of the two Chelsea Lodge suites. For the money, this is one of New York's better buys. Be sure to book the suites early, because they go fast. Chelsea Lodge and Chelsea Lodge Suites are located at 318 West 20^th St. between 8^th and 9^th Ave., New York. You can reach them at 1-800-373-1116 or by email at chelsealodge@mindspring.com.