MileHacker Logo
Where to Stay in Queens

Where to Stay in Queens

Queens New York, USA Travel Guide

Accommodation Types in Queens

Diverse Lodging Choices

  • Hostels

    Limited options, mainly in Long Island City, for budget-friendly dorm beds or private rooms.

  • Economy Hotels

    Chain motels and independent budget hotels near airports and commercial corridors, offering basic amenities.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    Numerous options in Long Island City, Astoria, and transit hubs, balancing comfort and value.

  • Luxury Hotels

    A growing number of upscale properties in Long Island City, with modern amenities and skyline views.

Beyond Traditional Stays

  • Vacation Rentals

    Apartments or homes via platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, suitable for families or longer stays.

  • Homestay Options

    Less formalized, but vacation rentals can mimic this experience, allowing local interaction.

  • Camping & Outdoor Lodging

    No designated camping locations inside Queens' urban environment.

  • Unique Local Styles

    Queens mainly features standard urban lodging; its uniqueness stems from varied districts.

Neighborhood Insights

Each area provides a unique character, guiding your stay based on your travel style.

Long Island City LIC

Pros:
  • Stunning Manhattan skyline views
  • Quick subway access to Midtown
  • Contemporary hotels, diverse dining, and nightlife
Cons:
  • May feel less "authentic"
  • Generally pricier accommodation
  • Lacks historical charm

Astoria

Pros:
  • Great food scene and lively nightlife
  • Good subway access to Manhattan
  • Diverse and welcoming atmosphere
Cons:
  • Can be noisy in commercial areas
  • Some areas are a longer subway ride
  • Parking is difficult

Flushing

Pros:
  • Incredible authentic Asian food
  • Unique cultural experience
  • Close to major parks
Cons:
  • Further from Manhattan (30-40 min)
  • English less widely spoken in some areas
  • Might feel overwhelming due to bustling nature

More Neighborhood Details

Safety & Access

All listed neighborhoods are generally safe. Standard urban precautions apply. LIC and Astoria provide great proximity to Manhattan (10-25 min subway), while Flushing, Jackson Heights, and Forest Hills are 20-40 min away.

Noise & Vibe

LIC and Astoria can be lively near commercial areas. Forest Hills is generally quiet and residential, offering a tranquil getaway.

Booking Your Stay

Smart booking strategies help you secure the best accommodation for your Queens trip, particularly during busy travel periods.

When to Book

  • High Season (Summer, Major Holidays): Book 3-6 months in advance.
  • Shoulder Season (Spring, Autumn): Book 1-3 months in advance.
  • Low Season (Winter, excluding early January): Book a few weeks to 1 month in advance.
  • Early booking yields better selection and favorable prices.

Platforms & Policies

  • Trusted OTAs like Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, and Kayak for comparison.
  • Vacation rentals via Airbnb and Vrbo are popular and reliable.
  • Always check both OTAs and direct hotel websites for price comparisons.
  • Negotiating walk-in rates is generally not common in New York City hotels.

Important Considerations

Deposit & Cancellation
  • Review policies thoroughly before confirming.
  • Non-refundable rates are cheaper but offer no flexibility.
  • Flexible rates allow cancellations, usually up to 24-48 hours before check-in.
  • Understand the terms to avoid unexpected charges.
Seasonal Price Changes
  • Accommodation prices are highest in summer and major holidays.
  • Prices are lowest during winter (January-March, after New Year's).
  • Shoulder seasons typically present moderate pricing.
  • Factor these fluctuations into your budget planning.

Walk-in Rates

Direct Negotiation

Negotiating walk-in rates is generally not common or successful in New York City hotels.

Fixed Pricing

Hotels typically operate with fixed pricing, especially major chains or popular properties.

Limited Flexibility

Small, independent motels in not as touristy areas might offer slight flexibility, but do not expect it.

Recommended Stays

This section offers recommendations across different categories to match your travel needs.

Budget & Mid-Range

Budget-Friendly

For minimizing costs, hostels in Long Island City or Astoria provide dorm beds or basic private rooms.

  • Independent motels near airports (JFK, LGA) also offer economical options.
  • These options suit solo travelers or those seeking to minimize costs.
Mid-Range Options

Numerous branded hotels (e.g., Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt brands) in LIC, Astoria, Flushing, and Jamaica.

  • These offer comfortable stays with modern amenities.
  • Chic hotels in Long Island City also provide stylish choices.

Luxury & Family Travel

Luxury Stays

Select high-end hotels in Long Island City deliver luxury amenities and premium services.

  • Often feature spectacular Manhattan skyline views.
  • Cater to travelers seeking an indulgent experience.
Family-Friendly Choices

Consider hotels with suites or connecting rooms for more space.

  • Vacation rentals (apartments) are often a good choice, with multiple bedrooms and kitchen facilities.
  • Look for properties near parks or family-friendly attractions.

Solo & Extended Trips

  • Solo Traveler

    Hostels provide a social atmosphere. Hotels in well-connected neighborhoods like LIC or Astoria offer safety and convenience.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Vacation rentals (Airbnb, VRBO) or extended-stay hotels (with kitchenettes) suit longer trips.

  • Extended Comfort

    These options offer greater comfort, amenities for self-sufficiency, and often better weekly/monthly rates.

  • Prioritize Location

    For solo travelers, choose locations with excellent public transportation links.

Cultural Significance

  • Historic Lodging

    Queens has fewer lodging properties with exceptional cultural or historical significance compared to Manhattan.

  • Modern Focus

    The emphasis in Queens generally rests on modern amenities, convenient locations, or proximity to diverse cultural institutions.

  • Neighborhood Immersion

    For cultural immersion, staying in a neighborhood like Astoria or Flushing helps experience local character, even if the hotel is contemporary.

  • Local Experience

    The uniqueness of a Queens stay often stems from its diverse neighborhoods rather than specific historic lodging styles.

Booking Resources

Affiliate Booking Options

Find the perfect place to stay for your Queens trip using these trusted platforms.

Optimize Your Search

Use these assets to compare prices, read reviews, and filter by your specific needs to find the most economical choice and experience in Queens.

  • Check multiple sites for the same property.
  • Read recent guest reviews for insights.
  • Filter by amenities, location, and price.
  • Consider booking directly with hotels for loyalty points.

Accommodation Planning

Types of Stays

Consider hostels, budget hotels, mid-range options, luxury hotels, or vacation rentals based on your budget and preference.

Neighborhood Choice

Long Island City for skyline views, Astoria for food/nightlife, Flushing for cultural immersion, or Forest Hills for peaceful appeal.

Booking Strategies

Book in advance, understand cancellation policies, and compare prices across different platforms for the best deals.