The hype
Travelers universally adore the vibrant decor and the 'nothing is too much trouble' service, often calling it their favorite stay in NYC.
The Whitby Hotel
$825-1,200+/ night
Book this if You want a whimsical, design-forward British oasis that feels like a wealthy friend's townhouse in the middle of Midtown's chaos.
Why People Love It
- Kit Kemp's signature colorful, pattern-clashing interiors that banish beige
- Floor-to-ceiling windows in every room (a rarity for Midtown)
- The guest-only Drawing Room with its cozy fireplace and honesty bar
Quick Take: It's an insanely expensive, impeccably designed English fantasy that makes you forget you're two blocks from the tourist hellscape of 5th Avenue.
Reviewed by @courtneythetravelista: I checked into The Whitby and was blown away by the design—it's like sleeping in a museum. My suite had a massive terrace which is impossible to find in Midtown. The marble bathroom was the highlight of my trip, perfect for a soak after a long day.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'finance bro' crowd can dominate the breakfast scene, and the price tag (often $1k+) sets a sky-high bar that the lack of a pool might miss for some.
- You obsess over interior design and hate 'cookie-cutter' luxury
- You need a quiet, residential vibe in the heart of the city
- You are traveling with a dog (no pet fee for dogs under 40lbs!)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.7
- Housekeeping: Impeccable. Twice-daily service including turndown is standard and thorough.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling. Marble and granite surfaces are kept stain-free; grout is pristine.
- Maintenance: Excellent. The hotel is relatively new (opened 2017) and feels fresh; no peeling paint or worn carpets reported.
- Linens & towels: High thread count, crisp, and replaced generously. Robes are plush.
- Odors & scents: Signature 'Rik Rak' scent (gardenia/eucalyptus) permeates the halls; no musty or smoke smells.
Sleepability™
8.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Midtown street traffic (sirens/horns) on lower levels
- Hallway noise if near the elevators
Before you book
Good to know
- There is NO fee for dogs under 40lbs, a huge rarity in NYC luxury hotels
- The 'Honesty Bar' in the Drawing Room is a lovely perk—pour your own drink and write it down
- The hotel has a 130-seat screening room that hosts a film club on Sundays
What to pack
- Your best 'smart casual' outfits—the crowd here is polished but artsy
- Walking shoes—you are perfectly positioned for Central Park and 5th Ave
Room Genie
Best picks
- Junior Terrace Suite (high floor) for outdoor space and better light
- Corner Suites for dual-aspect views and more of that Kit Kemp design flair
Rooms to avoid
- Superior Rooms on the 2nd floor (closest to street noise, least light)
- Rooms near the elevator banks if you are a light sleeper
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love a room on a higher floor (10+) facing the back of the hotel for maximum quiet and natural light. If available, a corner unit would be a dream.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a resort fee?
Technically no 'resort fee' is advertised, but expect a 'destination fee' or similar charge of ~$35-45/night to appear on your final bill, covering wifi and gym access.
Is breakfast included?
Usually no. It's à la carte and pricey ($30 for continental buffet, $38 for cooked). Book a rate that includes it if you plan to eat there daily.
Is there a pool?
No. There is a gym, but no pool or sauna/steam room.
How close is the subway?
Extremely close. The 57th St (F line) is around the corner, and 5th Ave/53rd St (E/M lines) is a 5-minute walk.
Is it kid-friendly?
Yes, surprisingly. They offer mini bathrobes, milk and cookies at turndown, and a children's menu, though the vibe is definitely 'adult sophistication'.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes! Up to two dogs (max 40lbs) stay for FREE. They get a bed, bowl, and treats.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Honesty Bar' in the Drawing Room is often empty of people mid-afternoon—it's like having a private living room.
- ✨
Ask the concierge for the 'walking guide' to the neighborhood; it's curated better than Google Maps.
- ✨
The Rik Rak bath products (Kit Kemp's own line) smell incredible—ask housekeeping for an extra set to take home.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'finance bro' energy at breakfast is real—lots of business deals happening over $20 fruit plates.
💡The elevators can be a bit slow during peak check-out times.
💡You might spot a celebrity in the Drawing Room; it's a favorite low-key hideout.
💡The air conditioning is powerful and silent—a massive plus in NYC summers.
💡The 'Orangery' room is stunning but can get booked out for private events, so don't bank on dining there without a reservation.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Whitby Hotel is located and what's nearby.