
Fodor's Expert Review Refinery Hotel
63 W. 38th St., between 5th and 6th Aves., New York, New York 10018, USA See on Map Fodor's Choice
Set in a former hat factory, this stylish hotel has a year-round rooftop with exceptional Empire State Building views. Historic character and a spacious feel set this property apart from other Midtown hotels. Also, again: it's set in a former hat factory.
room
With oak floors, 12-foot loft-style ceilings, and custom writing desks inspired by early 1900s sewing machines, rooms here are comfortable and surprisingly spacious.
Some rooms have Empire State Building views; make this request in advance if you'd like your room to face the landmark.
bathroom
Roomy, sharp spaces with big glass walk-in showers, white subway tiles, and fluffy robes.
lobby
Spacious and sleek, the lobby is filled with historic touches revealing the building’s past, making it both completely unique and also just really interesting. Winnie’s, the lobby bar, is named after a New York figure who ran a bustling “tea” salon during Prohibition; expect live jazz and piano on weeknights.
YOU SHOULD KNOW The rooftop is so popular, a line often forms in the lobby; depending on size and type of people, the traffic can be bothersome to guests.
dining
On the ground floor, Parker & Quinn is a retro-inspired restaurant with Prohibition-era cocktails and hearty meals.
LOCATION
Getting Around
Midtown’s landmarks can all be easily reached on foot from this convenient location on West 38th Street. The hotel is practically on the doorstep of Bryant Park, which is particularly nice during the warm weather months. Subway access is excellent, including the B, D, F, M, and 7 trains at Bryant Park/42nd Street.
Restaurants
One classic New York dining experience is the steakhouse, and since 1885, Keens (3-minute walk) has been serving steaks and mutton chops to meat-lovers in a wood-paneled space. With Bryant Park on the doorstep of this hotel, a picnic may be in order. Stop into Maison Kayser (6-minute walk) for pastries, sandwiches on fresh baguettes, and light French-inspired fare. If a craving for spicy food hits, get to Szechuan Gourmet (4-minute walk) for an affordable, fiery meal.
WHY WE LIKE IT
The cool rooftop, genuine character, and roomy feel are all stand out aspects of The Refinery, in a neighborhood of mostly generic hotels. Both the rooms and the bathrooms are sizable, with plenty of space for luggage, getting some work done, or enjoying room service. Plus, the Empire State Building views are stellar.

QUICK FACTS
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