Holiday Inn Express New York Manhattan West Side by IHG: A Complete Honest Review for Smart Travelers

Finding the right hotel in New York City can feel overwhelming. With thousands of options, wildly different price points, and neighborhoods that can change block by block, choosing the “right” place to stay matters more than almost anywhere else in the world. That’s where Holiday Inn Express New York Manhattan West Side by IHG quietly stands out.

This hotel doesn’t try to be flashy or over-the-top. Instead, it focuses on what most travelers actually want in Manhattan: a clean, comfortable room, a reliable brand, a good location, and solid value for money. After staying here (or researching it closely if you’re planning a trip), it becomes clear why this property is a popular choice for first-time visitors, business travelers, and families alike.

In this detailed review, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Holiday Inn Express New York Manhattan West Side by IHG, including location, rooms, amenities, breakfast, nearby attractions, pros and cons, and who this hotel is best for.

Overview of Holiday Inn Express New York Manhattan West Side by IHG

Holiday Inn Express New York Manhattan West Side by IHG is part of the trusted IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) portfolio, which already sets a baseline expectation for quality and consistency. Located on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, the hotel offers a quieter, more residential feel compared to Times Square hotels—while still keeping you close to major attractions.

This hotel is designed for travelers who want a reliable stay without paying luxury hotel prices. It’s practical, well-maintained, and efficient, which is exactly what many New York visitors are looking for.

Location: Why the Manhattan West Side Matters

One of the biggest advantages of Holiday Inn Express New York Manhattan West Side by IHG is its location.

Upper West Side Convenience

The hotel sits on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, a neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets, classic brownstones, and relaxed atmosphere. Unlike Midtown, which can feel chaotic 24/7, this area offers a more authentic New York experience.

Easy Subway Access

Several subway lines are within walking distance, making it easy to reach:

• Times Square
  
  

• Midtown Manhattan
  
  

• Central Park
  
  

• Wall Street
  
  

• Brooklyn
  
  

Whether you’re commuting for business or sightseeing all day, transportation from this hotel is simple and efficient.

Close to Iconic Attractions

Staying at Holiday Inn Express New York Manhattan West Side by IHG puts you near:

• Central Park (perfect for morning walks)
  
  

• Lincoln Center
  
  

• American Museum of Natural History
  
  

• Riverside Park along the Hudson River
  
  

For travelers who want culture, green space, and city access all in one place, this location works extremely well.

First Impressions and Check-In Experience

Check-in at Holiday Inn Express New York Manhattan West Side by IHG is typically smooth and efficient, which is exactly what you want after a long flight or train ride. The front desk staff is known for being friendly, professional, and helpful with directions or local recommendations.

The lobby is clean and modern, with a functional design rather than luxury décor. It sets the tone for the rest of the hotel: comfortable, straightforward, and well organized.

Guest Rooms: Comfortable, Clean, and Practical

Let’s talk about the rooms—because in New York City, room comfort matters a lot after long days of walking.

Room Size and Layout

Like most Manhattan hotels, rooms at Holiday Inn Express New York Manhattan West Side by IHG are compact. However, the space is smartly designed so it never feels cramped. Everything has a purpose, and storage is well thought out.

Beds and Sleep Quality

The beds are one of the strongest points. Comfortable mattresses, quality linens, and blackout curtains make it easy to get a good night’s sleep—even in a city that never sleeps.

In-Room Amenities

Standard room features include:

• Flat-screen TV
  
  

• Work desk and chair
  
  

• Free Wi-Fi
  
  

• Coffee maker
  
  

• Climate control
  
  

• Safe
  
  

For business travelers, the desk and Wi-Fi are especially useful. For tourists, having a comfortable place to recharge between outings is invaluable.

Cleanliness

Cleanliness is consistently mentioned in guest reviews, and Holiday Inn Express New York Manhattan West Side by IHG maintains IHG’s reputation well in this area. Housekeeping is reliable, and rooms are kept tidy throughout the stay.

Bathroom Experience

Bathrooms are modern, clean, and functional. Expect:

• Walk-in showers
  
  

• Good water pressure
  
  

• Fresh towels
  
  

• Complimentary toiletries
  
  

While the bathrooms aren’t oversized, they’re well designed and feel fresh, which is more important than size in a city hotel.

Free Breakfast: A Big Plus in NYC

One of the biggest advantages of staying at Holiday Inn Express New York Manhattan West Side by IHG is the complimentary breakfast.

In New York City, breakfast can easily cost $15–$25 per person. Having it included can save travelers a surprising amount of money over several days.

What’s Included

The breakfast typically offers:

• Eggs
  
  

• Breakfast meats
  
  

• Pastries and bagels
  
  

• Cereal and yogurt
  
  

• Fresh fruit
  
  

• Coffee, tea, and juice
  
  

It’s not a gourmet spread, but it’s filling, reliable, and perfect for starting a busy day of sightseeing or meetings.

Amenities and Hotel Facilities

While Holiday Inn Express New York Manhattan West Side by IHG isn’t a full-service luxury hotel, it offers everything most travelers actually use.

Fitness Center

A small but functional fitness center is available, ideal for maintaining your routine while traveling.

Business Services

Business travelers will appreciate:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel
  
  

• Workspaces in rooms
  
  

• Printing and front desk assistance
  
  

Accessibility

The hotel is accessible and accommodates guests with mobility needs, which is an important consideration for many travelers.

Who Should Stay at Holiday Inn Express New York Manhattan West Side by IHG?

This hotel isn’t for everyone—but for the right traveler, it’s a fantastic choice.

Ideal For:

• First-time NYC visitors
  
  

• Budget-conscious travelers
  
  

• Business travelers
  
  

• Families
  
  

• Solo travelers
  
  

Not Ideal For:

• Luxury travelers seeking high-end amenities
  
  

• Travelers wanting nightlife directly outside the hotel
  
  

• Guests looking for large suites or extended-stay kitchens
  
  

If your goal is a comfortable, reliable base for exploring New York City, Holiday Inn Express New York Manhattan West Side by IHG checks all the right boxes.

Value for Money

Manhattan hotels are expensive—there’s no way around it. That’s why value matters so much.

Compared to similar hotels in Midtown or near Times Square, Holiday Inn Express New York Manhattan West Side by IHG often offers better pricing, more space for the money, and a calmer environment. When you factor in free breakfast and dependable service, the value becomes even clearer.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Pros

• Excellent Upper West Side location
  
  

• Reliable IHG quality
  
  

• Free breakfast
  
  

• Clean, comfortable rooms
  
  

• Easy subway access
  
  

Cons

• Rooms are compact
  
  

• Limited on-site dining options
  
  

• Not a luxury experience
  
  

Final Verdict: Is Holiday Inn Express New York Manhattan West Side by IHG Worth It?

If you’re looking for a dependable, well-located hotel that delivers comfort without unnecessary extras, Holiday Inn Express New York Manhattan West Side by IHG is absolutely worth considering.

It’s not trying to be the trendiest or most luxurious hotel in New York City—and that’s exactly why it works. Instead, it focuses on consistency, comfort, and value, which is what most travelers actually need.

For visitors who plan to spend their days exploring Manhattan and want a quiet, comfortable place to return to at night, this hotel is a smart and practical choice.