Hotel Tip of the Week: Hotel Giraffe Review – Boutique Luxury in Lower Manhattan, NYC
Welcome to our Hotel Tip of the Week series. As full-time nomads with over 500 nights in hotels worldwide, we've experienced the best and worst accommodations. We recommend only those that are comfortable, clean, offer great value, and treat guests like family. Every hotel featured on Globetrottergirls.com has been personally stayed in by us.
The late afternoon summer sunlight filters over the beige couches in the lobby, casting a warm glow in this steel-surrounded Manhattan oasis. Our server diligently refills glasses of champagne as we savor cheeses, fruits, and pastries during the nightly three-hour wine and cheese reception at Hotel Giraffe. Soft music plays while families and couples unwind after sightseeing or shopping. Dani and I work on our laptops, fueled by this thoughtful touch.
Free Wi-Fi throughout allows work from anywhere, but the lobby vibe keeps us downstairs. Unlike typical luxury hotels, Hotel Giraffe (part of the 1 Hotels collection) hosts this evening reception and a full continental breakfast (bagels, cheese, yogurt, jam, honey, cereal, oatmeal, teas, coffees) in a welcoming open space where guests mingle effortlessly.
Our 10th-floor room features a long marble desk and ergonomic chair ideal for work. Yet, the 40-inch swivel flat-screen TV tempts us toward the plush queen-size bed, turning the room into our private cinema.
Striking red drapes frame 10-foot floor-to-ceiling windows with French doors opening to a Juliet balcony overlooking Park Avenue. Step out for Manhattan's sounds and scents from a safe height, or close the doors for total soundproofing. Black-and-white photos adorn platinum walls, adding glamour everywhere.
Rare outdoor space in Manhattan shines in the peaceful rooftop garden. Spot the giant giraffe—likely the hotel's namesake—in this airy spot for drinks or coffee. We didn't try Bread & Tulips Italian restaurant, but the dishes looked delectable.
Standout Feature: Generous Room Sizes
With just seven rooms per floor, Hotel Giraffe prioritizes space. Our room felt vast compared to other NYC hotels, extending seamlessly to the balcony.
The bathroom, opposite the entrance, is spacious with ample towels, soaps, a hairdryer, and thoughtful extras.
Room for Improvement: Public Spaces
Public areas are limited; printing requires a shared lobby laptop, often with waits. The reception and breakfast in the lobby felt unconventional to us, though others may disagree.
Overall, Hotel Giraffe blends glamour and practicality for a comfortable stay in prime Lower Manhattan.
Location: 365 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016
Price: Starting at $239 per night.
LGBT Friendly: Yes
Digital Nomad Friendly: Yes
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, evening hors d’oeuvres, included breakfast, free gym passes.
Website: https://hotelgiraffe.com
