Public Hotel
Trendy Lower East Side hotel with minimalist design, a chic rooftop bar, and vibrant nightlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy the rooftop bar's ambiance
Public Hotel
Best Time
Enjoy the rooftop bar's ambiance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Trendy Lower East Side hotel with minimalist design, a chic rooftop bar, and vibrant nightlife.
"This spot understood the assignment: boutique luxury without the chaos. 
🎯 Book a City View Room
Invest in a city view for potentially quieter stays and stunning vistas. :cityscape:
⏰ Be Prepared for Check-in
Check-in can be slow; allow extra time, especially during peak hours. :hourglass:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rooftop Bar Views
Rooftop Terrace
Sip cocktails with breathtaking city views. A perfect spot for sunset drinks and vibrant NYC nightlife.
+1Iconic Yellow Pool Table
Lobby/Bar Area
A unique and photogenic centerpiece that adds a playful touch to the hotel's sophisticated ambiance.
Chic Igloos
Rooftop Terrace
Cozy, heated igloos offering a unique winter experience with city views and specialty hot drinks.
Modern Minimalist Rooms
Guest Rooms
Stylish, clean rooms with a focus on design, offering a comfortable urban retreat.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
NYC's Trendy Hub: Public Hotel
Navigating Check-in & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book a City View Room
Invest in a city view for potentially quieter stays and stunning vistas. :cityscape:
⏰ Be Prepared for Check-in
Check-in can be slow; allow extra time, especially during peak hours. :hourglass:
🎶 Noise Awareness
The basement club can be loud; consider earplugs if you're a light sleeper. :musical_note:
💧 Water Machine Check
Confirm the water machine on your floor is working upon arrival. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book a City View Room
Invest in a city view for potentially quieter stays and stunning vistas. :cityscape:
⏰ Be Prepared for Check-in
Check-in can be slow; allow extra time, especially during peak hours. :hourglass:
🎶 Noise Awareness
The basement club can be loud; consider earplugs if you're a light sleeper. :musical_note:
💧 Water Machine Check
Confirm the water machine on your floor is working upon arrival. :droplet:
📸 Great for Photos
The hotel's design and rooftop offer many Instagrammable moments.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Public Hotel offers a stylish, minimalist experience in a prime Lower East Side location, with a highly praised rooftop bar and unique design elements. While many guests rave about the ambiance, cleanliness, and exceptional service during emergencies, some find the rooms small, the check-in process lengthy, and the noise from the downstairs club disruptive.
"The place was way smaller in person. They focused a lot on highlighting the good lighting in the photos, but it's misleading in size. The worst part was the bathroom structure. There's no complete separation between the toilet and shower. There's no microwave. Also, they stated that to get water there's another room on the floor to go to and get it, but the machine didn't even work so we had to go out and buy water on our own. They also charged me an extra $200 at the end for taxes, even though on the Airbnb receipt it states I paid taxes already!! That's insane.
There was a club that was pretty loud downstairs, which made it hard to sleep. You can hear people through the walls in the morning too.
The location is good. It's pretty walkable and there's great food and coffee spots nearby. There was also room cleaning everyday which is great.
Overall though, it wasn't worth paying almost $1800 for 4 nights."
Acar Ary
"Was a bit nervous with all of the reviews, but honestly we have no bad things to say about our stay at the PUBLIC. Check-in was easy and the staff was superb (front desk, baggage claim).
Highly recommend investing in the city view! We stayed on the 16th floor and it was perfect. Extremely quiet and accessible to a water station.
We slept with the blinds open and it was such a dream. The room was extremely clean and the hotel smelled nice (I saw in other reviews, people said differently). Always felt safe and you can’t get a better location!
10/10 - would stay here again!"
Hannah Lyons
"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Stay I’ll Never Forget – Above and Beyond in Every Way
I travel frequently for work, but nothing could have prepared me for the unexpected turn my work trip this week to New York City took. During my stay at Public Hotel, I experienced a medical emergency— a daunting situation, especially while away from home.
From the moment the staff learned of my condition late at night, they responded with extraordinary compassion and professionalism. They immediately contacted EMTs, reassured me that my room and belongings would be taken care of, and handled everything with calm and care.
But their support didn’t stop there. When I learned I’d need to remain in NYC for two additional days for emergency gallbladder removal surgery and have my sister fly in to assist me during surgery, the team went above and beyond. They graciously extended my stay, ensured my sister could stay in my room, and made sure she had access even after her last-minute, late-night arrival. Their thoughtfulness during such a stressful time was deeply moving.
What truly made this experience unforgettable were the people. Their kindness turned a frightening moment into a powerful reminder of how meaningful hospitality can be when it’s rooted in genuine care.
Angelo Boyke was especially incredible — who ensured my room was secure and ready for my sister, and checked in on my well-being as well! I also want to recognize the front desk associate working on the night of Monday, October 21st, who was calm, helpful, and compassionate amidst the chaos. I regret not catching his name, but his support made a lasting impression.
Thank you, Public Hotel, for being more than just a place to stay. You were a lifeline when I needed it most. Your warmth, professionalism, and humanity will stay with me — and I’m committed to staying with you on all future trips to New York City"
Heather Kalks
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From JFK, you can take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station and then the E train to the Spring Street subway station, which is a short walk to Public Hotel. Alternatively, a taxi or rideshare service will take approximately 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
From LaGuardia, take the Q70-SBS bus to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Avenue station and transfer to the E train towards Manhattan, exiting at Spring Street. A taxi or rideshare is also an option, typically taking 30-45 minutes.
Yes, Public Hotel is very accessible by subway. The closest stations are Spring Street (C, E trains) and Grand Street (B, D trains), both within walking distance.
Public Hotel is situated in the vibrant Lower East Side neighborhood of Manhattan, known for its trendy atmosphere and proximity to art galleries and nightlife.
Yes, Public Hotel offers valet parking, but it can be quite expensive, which is common for hotels in this area of NYC.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Standard check-in time is 3:00 PM, and check-out is at 12:00 PM. However, some guests have reported delays with check-in, so it's advisable to be patient or contact the hotel in advance if you have specific timing needs.
While not always strictly required, booking a table or making a reservation for the rooftop bar, especially on weekends or during peak hours, is highly recommended to guarantee entry and avoid long waits.
Yes, like most establishments in New York City, you must be 21 years or older to enter the rooftop bar and any associated clubs, and you will need to present a valid government-issued ID.
Public Hotel sometimes offers special packages or deals, especially through booking platforms or partnerships. It's worth checking their official website or third-party travel sites for current promotions.
Access to hotel amenities like the rooftop bar or restaurants is generally open to the public, though reservations may be required. Access to rooms and private hotel areas is restricted to registered guests.
🎫 🛏️ Onsite Experience
Yes, many guests find the rooms at Public Hotel to be on the smaller side, which is typical for Manhattan hotels. While they are designed with a minimalist aesthetic, some reviewers felt the photos were misleading regarding size.
Some guests have reported noise from the downstairs club and thin walls, making it difficult to sleep. Opting for a city view room on a higher floor might offer a quieter experience.
Rooms typically include a bed, bathroom, and basic furnishings. Notably, some guests have mentioned the absence of microwaves and the unique bathroom design where the toilet and shower aren't fully separated.
While not explicitly highlighted in most social media content, hotels of this caliber often have fitness facilities. It's best to check the hotel's official website or inquire directly for the most up-to-date information on gym availability.
Reliable Wi-Fi is generally expected at hotels like Public Hotel. Most guests report satisfactory internet access for browsing and staying connected.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Public Hotel features sophisticated dining options, including a restaurant and the popular rooftop bar. The hotel also has a trendy cocktail bar called 'Two Fifteen'.
While specific breakfast menus aren't detailed in social media, the hotel likely offers breakfast at its restaurant. The trendy cafe vibe mentioned by guests suggests good coffee and pastry options.
Room service availability can vary. While not a prominent feature in reviews, it's common for hotels of this caliber to offer it. Inquire with the hotel directly for current offerings.
Absolutely! Public Hotel is located in the Lower East Side, an area brimming with fantastic restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering a wide range of culinary experiences.
The rooftop bar offers a selection of cocktails, wine, and other beverages. Specialty hot drinks like hot toddies and mulled wine are available during cooler months.
📸 📸 Photography
The rooftop bar with its city views, the iconic yellow pool table in the lobby, and the stylishly designed rooms are all prime locations for memorable photos. The glowing escalators also offer a unique shot.
Yes, the rooftop bar is renowned for its sunset views, making it an ideal spot for capturing stunning golden hour photography.
The hotel's minimalist-chic design, including its distinctive lobby and the glowing escalators, provides a modern and stylish backdrop for photography.
Guests are welcome to take photos in their rooms. The clean lines and modern decor make for aesthetically pleasing shots.
Golden hour (just before sunset) is fantastic for the rooftop. Daytime offers good natural light in rooms and common areas, while evenings are perfect for capturing the ambiance of the bars.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents might appreciate the daily room cleaning service. For younger children, the unique design elements like the yellow pool table could be a point of interest. However, the hotel's focus on a sophisticated, adult-oriented atmosphere means it may not have specific child-centric amenities like play areas or dedicated kids' menus.
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
Guests have noted that the value proposition can be debated, with some feeling the price didn't fully align with the room size or amenities. However, the excellent location and the vibrant atmosphere, particularly the rooftop bar, are often cited as justifying the cost for many.
couples
+1Consider booking a room with a city view for a more intimate experience, and definitely plan an evening at the rooftop bar to enjoy cocktails as the city lights up. The hotel's location in the vibrant Lower East Side also means you're steps away from numerous romantic dinner spots and entertainment options.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Public Hotel Experience: Design & Vibe
+2Social media content frequently showcases the hotel's visual appeal, from the glowing escalators to the well-appointed rooms. While the design is a major draw, some reviews mention that rooms can feel smaller in person than depicted in photos, a common characteristic of Manhattan accommodations. The overall vibe is trendy and energetic, attracting a crowd looking for a stylish urban escape.
Despite the modern design, the hotel's location in a vibrant neighborhood means it can be a hub of activity. This contributes to its lively atmosphere but can also lead to noise concerns for some guests, particularly from the basement club. Understanding this balance between style, energy, and potential noise is key to managing expectations for a stay here.
Rooftop Revelry at Public Hotel
+2During cooler months, the rooftop transforms with chic igloos, providing a cozy and unique experience. These heated pods seat up to eight people and come equipped with fire pits and blankets, perfect for enjoying specialty hot drinks like mulled wine or hot cocoa.
This feature adds a distinct seasonal appeal to the rooftop offering.Reservations are often recommended for the rooftop, particularly on busy nights, to ensure a spot and avoid disappointment. The rooftop has also been a venue for events, including fashion week after-parties, highlighting its status as a sought-after social destination.
+1Navigating Room Size and Amenities
Beyond size, guests have noted specific aspects of the room design and amenities. The bathroom layout is sometimes described as unconventional, with less separation between the toilet and shower areas. Additionally, some reviews mention the absence of in-room microwaves and occasional issues with in-room water dispensers not functioning, requiring guests to seek water elsewhere.
Despite these points, the hotel generally provides daily room cleaning, which is appreciated by guests. For those prioritizing space, it might be beneficial to inquire about larger room categories or suites, though these will naturally come at a higher price point.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit