Riff Chelsea

Did you roll into Penn Station to rock out at Madison Square Garden? The RIFF Chelsea offers affordable accommodations a mere block from both. Long an artists' haven, the Chelsea area is home to more than 350 galleries. (An easy 10-minute walk east to 11th Street puts you at the tip of a 12-block stretch of spaces showing artists' work.) And even a brief walk around the neighborhood will take you to numerous theaters. Join the bustle of Times Square and the spectacle of Broadway in about a 3-minute train ride; just catch the subway at the 28th Street stop, a 5-minute walk away.

This eclectic hotel is designed to appeal to the young at heart, from the larger-than-life Betty Boop statue that greets arriving guests, to a series of themed guestrooms such as the Coney Island and the Esther Williams. The staff can direct you to a stash of NYC and subway-system maps, or, you can ask for concierge assistance in finding all the area's must-see attractions. (Here in the heart of Midtown, there are tons!) Prefer to research on your own? Wireless Internet access is complimentary throughout the hotel, and you can also check your email at the computer kiosk in the lobby. Guests have access to complimentary retro board games and video-game console for rental (based on availability). During the months of May-September guests can enjoy music bingo on the rooftop garden terrace Monday-Friday at 5 PM.

Unique, air-conditioned guestrooms have either a modern hotel style or a funky theme. Some accommodations come with private bathrooms. Beds in dormitory rooms offer bed linens and include shared bathrooms. Pets are welcome in specific rooms (surcharge). Housekeeping services all rooms daily and you can breathe easy-the entire hotel is smoke-free.