Life Hotel Nomad

Opened in 2017, Life Hotel is the latest incarnation of the 19th-century building that once held the offices and staff living quarters for “Life" magazine. The boutique atmosphere that the hotel offers makes it a welcome alternative to the many characterless hotel options in this part of Midtown.

The surroundings of the hotel aren't the most exciting or picturesque. The hotel is located on a lackluster block with neighboring vape shops, liquor stores, jewelry and cellphone accessory wholesalers, and empty storefronts. Despite the unattractive surroundings and scenery, the hotel is central to many downtown and Midtown destinations. Koreatown, Herald Square, home to Macy's flagship store, Empire State Building, and Madison Square Park are short walks away. Central Park, SoHo, the 9/11 Memorial, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art are short drives away.

Life Hotel's on-site features are slim, which is typical for a boutique hotel. The cozy-casual Henry at Life Hotel bistro offer staples like oysters, pastas, and roasted fish. Across from the restaurant is Life's lobby bar, which serves draft beer, wine, and cocktails, and acts as a work space during the day. The rooftop Chef’s Garden off the second floor can be booked for cocktail events or private dinners for up to 16 people. Guests have access to this outdoor space when it’s not occupied with events. A secret staircase behind the elevator leads guests to Gibson + Luce is Henry's subterranean cocktail bar. The hotel's mini fitness center has one of everything and a small business center offer the necessities.

Accommodations include a variety of styles and sizes, but all are charming and retro. Amenities are extremely modern, with every room featuring large 60-inch flat-screen TVs with Google Chromecast and Wi-Fi hot spots.