Hi Socialites! As you know, I recently attended New York Fashion Week for the first time! What you may not know is that this trip was also my first visit to New York City. Ever. Yes, I know! I’m totally behind the curve ?. In expectation of my trip, I immediately started researching accommodations and was instantly drawn to the Crowne Plaza HY36 Midtown.

If you’re a Yelper, I’m sure you know how horrible NY hotel reviews can be. Before I booked this gorgeous property, I was astonished (and unnerved) at how even the 5 star luxury chain hotels had complaints about bed bugs, dirty rooms, and cramped quarters. I chose the Crowne Plaza HY36 Midtown mainly due to its’ convenient location, the minimalistic chic vibe showcased in traveler’s photos, and a majority of good to great reviews. Now that my stay is complete, I can say that this hotel definitely lived up to all my expectations. I was very impressed with the rooms, the amenities, and the customer service!

The Rooms

The moment I walked into the room, I knew we made the right choice in booking this hotel! The room was large enough to accommodate me, my mom, and my sisters (as well as our luggage) and we had plenty of room to move around. We were on the 16th floor, and we had a terrific view. The window treatments allow for lots of light: there is a heavy drape for privacy and to block light, but there are filmy sheers underneath that let the perfect amount of sun shine through! The room was extremely clean, and the decor was chic and modern. We all felt that the beds were very comfy, and they weren’t stingy with the pillows! The amenities were standard, but there was a Keurig and K-pods, USB ports at the nightstand for easy charging, and large flat screen TV.

The bathroom was super nice and super clean! The rainfall shower is soooo big y’all, and the water pressure was on point! Being there for NY Fashion Week meant that my sisters and I had a ton of makeup, and the vanity was big enough for all of us to spread our junk out for glam sessions. They also have a built-in retractable makeup mirror that makes close ups a breeze!

This mirror made lash application a breeze!

Dining

We were on the go for the entire weekend, and I’m sad to say that my NY dining experience outside of the hotel was pretty lackluster. By the time I got back from shows, we just stumbled into various bars and had sliders and other bar food. (Sad right? I gotta get back to NY just to finally try the pizza!)

With that said, we did have complementary breakfast passes for TGA NYC, which is the hotel restaurant that serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. There is also a fully stocked bar. We thought the breakfast was terrific! I had the French Toast, and you would have thought Julia Child herself made it! The toast was so light and fluffy, and they even had fresh cream! I’m a foodie (can’t you tell?!!) and I have to give the Crowne Plaza HY36 Midtown high marks for the food at TGA!

The dining area (photo courtesy of IHG) The bar (photo courtesy of IHG)

Service

Being from the South, I simply expect good customer service and for people to be friendly. The Crowne Plaza HY36 Midtown did not disappoint, and the service was top notch! We were greeted by Leonor, who checked us in quickly and efficiently, and made sure we understood the layout of the hotel, how to use the card keys, location of the fitness center, and how to use the in room amenities.

Outside of our smooth and easy check in process, the rest of the service was impeccable! Every time we exited or entered the hotel, the doors were held open for us by gentleman on the staff. The staff volunteered to take group photos for us, assisted us with directions, and pointed us to the hotel pantry for late night snacking. I often find the service questionable in boutique hotels, so I was really glad to find that the Crowne Plaza HY36 Midtown was an exception!

Grounds/Property

The Crown Plaza HY36 Midtown is located on a somewhat busy street in Midtown, where there appeared to be some construction/scaffolding. The inside of the hotel is truly modern and chic, and gave me that NY vibe I wanted to feel!

On the main level, the hotel has a really cute indoor nook with a couch and conversation seating, AND a separate outdoor terrace bar. The property has free WIFI (that actually works and is speedy!), and a fitness center with all the essentials!

The lounge area (photo courtesy of IHG) The bar (photo courtesy of IHG)

This is random, but I couldn’t finish this review without mentioning how good this hotel smells! I am not sure of what scent is used in the lobby/main level, but it is such a great floral smell that is noticeable, but not overpowering. Every time my family and I got off the elevator, we immediately noticed and loved the fragrance!

Light installation in main lobby

Socialite Rating: 5/5. I would definitely stay at the Crowne Plaza HY36 Midtown again! The rooms, staff/service, and location make this hotel a great choice if you’re looking to stay in Midtown Manhattan!

• 4 Stars
• Internet / WiFi Included
• 26 floors
• On Site Dining
• On Site Fitness Center
• Airport: JFK (75 mins) and/or LGA (50 mins)
• Pets allowed / Pet Deposit $75 USD
• Property Address: 320 West 36th St. New York, NY 10018
• Reservations: (646) 928-3800