The Park 79 once was known as the Hayden. The current name reflects its location at 79th and Columbus Avenue, a very short walk from the American Museum of Natural History and Central Park West.
Many hotels of this type were once apartment buildings. They are older structures that sit on prime real estate, and their owners have invested money to make travelers reasonably comfortable and well-located.
Park 79 bills itself as a "boutique hotel" and is what many New Yorkers would consider a good two- or three-star property: certainly not a budget haunt, but lacking the amenities required for luxury-oriented travelers.
Hotels like the Park 79 have little quirks you can either choose to find annoying or consider charming: Bathrooms are tiny. It might take a while for hot water to reach your shower. There is just one elevator here, and it requires a full 40 seconds to go from ground level to the 7th floor.
But unlike many no-frills hotels, there is indeed an elevator. The entrance and lobby are very nice. A friendly doorman greets you. Hallways are artfully decorated.
Rates of $85-$95/night buy a standard room with shared bath. Rooms with private baths range from $119-$169/night.
As you look at room rates, remember that value lies beyond the basic rates.
Park 79 is within walking distance of scores of great little restaurants in what some consider the most desirable of Manhattan's neighborhoods. In good weather, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is 20 minutes away by foot across Central Park. The A, C and E subway trains are accessible at 81st and Columbus, a five-minute tree-lined walk from the Park 79's doorsteps.
If you're coming to Manhattan for a weekend of museum and restaurant hopping, you'll spend little time traveling and more time doing what you want to do.
If your aim is Broadway shows, find a hotel of this type in the theatre district. See how it works?
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