After more than two dozen trips to New York City, I was disappointed with myself upon leaving the Hotel Hugo with my 13-year old son … disappointed that I’d been to the city so many times and had only just discovered where I wished I’d been hanging my hat all along.

Nestled quietly away, but at the same time just a short distance from the unique and energizing buzz of SoHo, the Village and Tribeca-along with the eclectic shops and restaurants in each-Hotel Hugo’s location couldn’t have been more convenient. Situated only two blocks away from the subway, we were able to take a quick trip uptown to Times Square and Central Park or downtown to the 9/11 memorial, Battery Park and jump on the ferry to Liberty Island (where, by the way, if you have designs on a view of the city from Lady Liberty’s crown, you’ll need to make reservations up to eight weeks in advance).

If you’re the type to get up and get out, the Hudson River Park runs the length of the Westside Highway just down the street from Hotel Hugo, and is great for an early morning walk or run. Families too can check out the NYC Fire Museum just around the corner or the station where the classic 80s hit Ghostbusters was filmed. All in all, the location is fantastic. Bustling, but quaint and neighborly. We walked the surrounding streets for hours; all in the shadow of the magnificent Freedom Tower, which stands 1,776 feet tall just a handful of blocks away.   

As for Hotel Hugo itself … what an exquisite experience. Tucked between SoHo and the Hudson, it’s industrial vibe and contemporary luxury flare reflect Lower Manhattan’s appeal to artists, publishers and design enthusiasts. Established in April 2014 and designed by renowned architect Marcello Pozzi, Hotel Hugo draws inspiration from the area’s art-meets-industrial atmosphere, effortlessly blending raw materials with modern finishes.

Accommodations are average-sized, though well-appointed and comfortable, and range from deluxe guest rooms to loft suites. The 122-room hotel has 104 rooms with king beds and 18 rooms with two double beds that all include a 32″ flat-screen TV, mini-refrigerator, Keurig® coffee maker and a spacious work area.

In regards to amenities, Hotel Hugo provides everything you’d expect and more: a 24-hour gym, business centre with laptops and printers, private dining room and a conference room should you need them (thankfully, for me, my stay was all pleasure … no meetings, emails or agendas outside of my teenager’s).

Lest I forget Hotel Hugo’s two rooftop bars-which are always hopping and can be booked to host private parties or events-with stunning views of the Hudson River, Freedom Tower and Statue of Liberty. Bar Hugo is a duplex bar and lounge that blends glass with concrete, chrome and luxurious leather finishes. This two-level space serves an array of hand-crafted cocktails from 5-11 p.m. Sunday-Wednesday and 5 p.m.-2 a.m. Thursday-Saturday. If you’re in town for business or need a break from sightseeing, stop in for Happy Hour from 5-7 p.m. Monday-Thursday.

If you’re feeling more of a festive vibe, Hotel Hugo’s Azul On The Rooftop channels the streets of Old Havana at this cuban cantina where you can listen to live cuban music on Sundays at 8 p.m. Enjoy stunning 360 degree views of Lower Manhattan while sipping on signature cocktails and bocaditos, “nibbles.” Be sure to try their version of a Moscow Mule dubbed The Hugo or the frozen passion fruit mojito.

Hotel Hugo is affordable, yet feels upscale and hipper than its price tag suggests. The location is top notch-convenient to all touristy stops you’ll want to make in both uptown and downtown-with a vibe all its own and unlike any other neighborhood I’ve experienced in the city. Toss in the one-of-a-kind shopping and restaurants, room to breathe just out of reach from the mobs in Times Square and you get an experience that’s sure to please.