The hype
Travelers love the modern aesthetic and friendly staff but are consistently shocked by how small the 170 sq ft rooms actually feel.
Arlo Midtown
$170-350/ night
Book this if You want a stylish, high-energy crash pad near Times Square but refuse to stay in a dusty tourist trap.
Why People Love It
- Rooftop bar (ART Midtown) has genuine skyline stunners
- Free Citi Bike passes included in the resort fee
- Design is sharp, modern, and actually feels like 2026
Quick Take: The rooms are microscopic and the 'closet' is a peg on the wall, but the vibe is immaculate.
Reviewed by @matchinwithmaddie: I stayed at Arlo Midtown for a girls' trip and it was perfect. The room was surprisingly huge for NYC, and I felt super safe with the key-card elevators. We loved grabbing coffee in the lobby in our PJs and the rooftop views at night were insane. Definitely coming back!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You will literally trip over your suitcase if you don't slide it under the bed immediately.
- You travel with a carry-on only
- You prioritize a cool rooftop scene over square footage
- You plan to spend 90% of your time exploring the city
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.8
- Housekeeping: Daily and efficient. They know how to turn over these tiny rooms quickly.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling. Grout is usually white and glass is streak-free.
- Maintenance: New hotel feel (opened 2021), so wear and tear is minimal.
- Linens & towels: Crisp, white, and high quality. No threadbare towels here.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells like their signature 'Arlo' scent (woodsy/fresh); rooms are neutral.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway doors slamming
- Elevator dings (if near the shaft)
- Street noise on lower floors (Garment District trucks)
Before you book
Good to know
- The 'Urban Fee' includes 2 daily waters, Citi Bike passes, and gym access.
- Luggage storage is available if you arrive early.
- There is a $100 security deposit hold on your card.
What to pack
- Earplugs (just in case of hallway noise)
- Packing cubes (to keep your explosion of clothes organized in the tiny space)
- A portable steamer (ironing boards are on request only)
Room Genie
Best picks
- King City (High Floor) for views that actually clear the neighboring buildings
- Interior-facing rooms if you prioritize silence over sunlight
Rooms to avoid
- 2nd Floor Terrace Rooms (zero privacy, noisy)
- Rooms ending in '01' or near the elevator bank
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on a high floor (15+), away from the elevators. If possible, an interior-facing room for quiet is preferred over a street view.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there coffee in the room?
No. Unless you book a Suite, you have to get dressed and go to the lobby Bodega or cafe.
Is the neighborhood safe?
Generally yes, but it's the Garment District. It gets quiet and gritty at night. Keep your wits about you near Port Authority.
Can I fit two suitcases?
Barely. You must use the under-bed storage. Two large checked bags will make the floor unnavigable.
Is there a fridge?
Yes, a small mini-cooler (not a full fridge) is tucked into the cabinetry.
Does the rooftop bar require reservations?
Highly recommended. ART Midtown gets packed with locals and after-work crowds.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, very pet-friendly with a reasonable $20/night fee.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Urban Fee' includes Citi Bike passes—ask the front desk for the code. It saves you $19/day per person.
- ✨
The elevators sometimes have a voice countdown that is audible from rooms directly adjacent to the shaft.
- ✨
There is a water bottle refill station in the gym (basement) if you don't want to pay for more bottled water.
5 things to know before you go
💡The bathroom sink is often *in* the bedroom, not the bathroom.
💡The 'closet' is literally just four pegs on the wall.
💡You can hear your neighbor's shower running if the room is quiet.
💡The fortune cookies at check-in are actually delicious.
💡The lighting is moody (read: dark). Doing makeup in the bathroom can be tricky.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Arlo Midtown is located and what's nearby.