If you’ve ever been, you know that seeing the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York is an entirely different experience than watching it on TV. A palpable energy pulses through the air and the massive balloons and intricate floats are even more incredible in person.
The only problem...who really wants to stand outside for hours on what always seems to be the coldest and windiest day of November? Naturally, here at Oyster, we’ve got the perfect solution: a warm hotel room with an amazing view of the parade! So this year, instead of bumping elbows with strangers and shivering in your fleece, check out our favorite New York City hotels along the route.
Trump International Hotel and Tower (photo: Oyster.com)
You won’t forget your stay at Trump International Hotel and Tower -- namely because every available surface is emblazoned with the Donald’s moniker -- but the superb staff, incredible rooms, and fantastic views are also quite memorable. Most rooms overlook Central Park and lively Columbus Circle, and floor-to-ceiling windows ensure you won’t miss a beat as the parade passes by.
Mandarin Oriental, New York (photo: Oyster.com)
The incredibly luxe Mandarin Oriental, New York towers over Columbus Circle, offering guests the ultimate view of the day’s balloons and floats. Enjoy the parade from your richly designed guest room, or from the hotel’s signature restaurant, Asiate, often called one of New York’s best restaurants with a view.
JW Marriott Essex House New York (photo: Oyster.com)
Central Park’s Art Deco icon reflects the glamour of a bygone era. Rooms, while not as opulent as those at the Trump or Mandarin Oriental, have been freshly updated with modern amenities. Though the JW Marriott Essex House New York might be more family-friendly than its aforementioned neighbors, potential guests should note that not all rooms have views of Central Park South, and tiny windows in most rooms could detract from the parade viewing experience.
The Ritz-Carlton New York Central Park (photo: Oyster.com)
Everything you’d expect at a Ritz property -- prompt service, nice rooms, a great location -- you’ll find at The Ritz-Carlton New York Central Park. Park-view rooms will provide guests with outstanding views of the parade, but luxury travelers might prefer the neighboring Mandarin Oriental and those on a budget would do better at the nearby Hilton.
New York Hilton Midtown (photo: Oyster.com)
With 2,000 rooms (the most of any hotel in NYC), the New York Hilton Midtown is able to offer lower prices than most of its parade route competitors. The downside? A bustling, often crowded hotel experience than can make for less-than-personal service. About half of the Hilton’s rooms have undergone renovations, but the other half still feel worn and outdated. Rooms facing 6th Avenue have large windows and offer uninterrupted views of the spectacle below.
the Quin (photo: Oyster.com)
Mid-century modern with a stylish flair, rooms at the Quin are large and comfortable, and most offer plenty of seating options -- which means you won’t have to crowd around the windows in order to catch a glimpse of the action outside. Travelers looking for great views of the parade who don’t want to stay at “just another Midtown hotel” will appreciate the Quin’s style, personal service, and neat amenities.
Residence Inn New York Manhattan/Times Square (photo: Oyster.com)
Despite what its long-winded name implies, the Residence Inn New York Manhattan/Times Square is not actually in Times Square but across the street from Bryant Park. Though not the most luxurious option on our list, the Residence Inn does have a helpful, friendly staff and offers moderate prices around this time of year. Rooms are a bit drab, but who cares what the interior looks like when you’ll be focused on what’s going on outside anyway! (Or maybe you do care, in which case our next option may be more your style...)
The Refinery Hotel (photo: Oyster.com)
If you’re looking for a little history and style during your Thanksgiving getaway, you’ll appreciate The Refinery Hotel’s quirky, historic charm. Once a tea salon and hat factory, the property embraces its past with an industrial-chic design. Hands down, the best place to catch a glimpse of the parade would be the hotel’s amazing rooftop bar which boasts a signature cocktail list, indoor and outdoor seating, and a retractable glass roof.
Warwick New York Hotel (photo: Oyster.com)
Sitting on the corner of 54th and 6th, the Warwick New York Hotel has been attracting Thanksgiving Day guests for years. A former celebrity hangout, the Warwick boasts an upscale elegance that is completely “New York.” Unfortunately not all rooms have views of the parade, so we recommend one of the famous “On the Avenue” suites.
