The Standard, High Line – Hotel Review

Visiting New York for views? Skip scaling the Empire State Building and book into The Standard, High Line instead, where the glimpses of Manhattan’s Meatpacking District (and beyond) are nothing short of incredible — especially from the comfort of a deep soaking tub. Read on for the full review.

The hotel looms over Chelsea, securing a panorama of both the Hudson River and Manhattan from every one of the 338 rooms, furnished with floor-to-ceiling windows. The rooftop bar and nightclub Le Bain, is a total scene, while   

Where is The Standard, High Line? 

You can’t miss this boxy building, bolt upright on the Hudson’s banks. It’s in Manhattan’s far west — the Meatpacking District, to be exact — looped by Chelsea, Greenwich Village and West Village. By taxi, JFK Airport is about 45 minutes away, while trips to LaGuardia take around 30 minutes.

What’s near The Standard, High Line?

The High Line, an elevated walkway that stretches from Hudson Yards to Gansevoort Street, is one of New York’s most beloved public spaces. It runs right by the hotel. 

Little Island, a floating public park padded with dogwood, azalea and redbuds trees with an amphitheatre at its centre, is a mere four-minute walk away from the hotel.  Art buffs are also within reach (five minutes on foot) from The Whitney Museum of American Art and the scatter of vibrant Chelsea galleries.

Room types 

Mid-century design informs the feel of the minimalist rooms. It seems everything has a curved edge; from the exposed white pipes in the white subway-tiled bathrooms to the grey marle banquette that hugs a white oval table. Little luxuries include rainwater shower heads, fluffy robes, Davines toiletries and, of course, incredible glimpses of the city below (from windows that open to the elements, should you desire). 

The Corner King is an exceptional upgrade option, if your budget can accommodate it. The indisputable highlight is the bathtub, set in front of a wall of generous windows. 

Restaurants and bars 

The hotel’s smattering of chic eateries is impressive. There’s the pretzel-spruiking Biergarten, a street-level spot right on the High Line. It’s all stein and sausages, with a lively happy hour. There’s a smart steakhouse, The Standard Grill, where dry aged steaks and burgers are served behind a red door ringed in shaggy jasmine.

There’s also Le Bain, where nights end (and mornings begin) which is so exclusive, even hotel guests aren’t guaranteed entry.

Travel for work

Any one of the hotel’s uber cool spaces will do for impressing colleagues or clients. These aren’t your average meeting rooms, either — one is a bunker-like space, one is a vast hall with an ice rink and another is a more sober option, which peeps out over the Hudson. 

Gym

Peloton bikes, ellipticals and yoga mats aside, the 17th floor gym is worth a visit, just for another glimpse of the city from a new angle.

What you need to know

From DJ sessions to titillating talks, there’s always something happening at this hip hotel. Check their schedule before booking to join (or avoid) as the case may be.

SEE ALSO: The Hot List: The Best Hotels in Manhattan