Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel

Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel Overview

When I first walked into the Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel, I’ll be honest – I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from a three-star property in this part of Manhattan. But you know what? This place completely changed my perspective on what Harlem hospitality looks like. The lobby has this really cool contemporary vibe that somehow manages to nod to the neighborhood’s rich jazz heritage without being cheesy about it, and the staff actually seem to know their stuff about the area – not just the usual tourist traps.

The location on 125th Street is honestly perfect if you want to experience the real New York energy. I mean, you’re literally steps away from the Apollo Theater (you can practically hear the music spilling out some nights), and the subway connections are actually better than a lot of Midtown hotels I’ve stayed at. The 4, 5, and 6 trains are right there, so getting downtown takes maybe 20 minutes. What I really loved though was being able to walk to places like Sylvia’s for some incredible soul food, or just strolling through Marcus Garvey Park in the morning – there’s something about this neighborhood that feels more authentic than the usual Manhattan hotel bubble. The rooms themselves are clean and modern, though not huge (this is New York, after all). I had a street-facing room and yes, 125th can get lively, but it’s more interesting urban sounds than annoying traffic noise. The beds are actually comfortable, and the bathroom had decent water pressure – honestly, that’s half the battle in older NYC buildings.

Here’s the thing about this place – it’s not trying to be the fanciest hotel in the city, but it gets the fundamentals right while giving you access to one of Manhattan’s most vibrant neighborhoods. The fitness center is small but functional, and they’ve got a business center if you need to print boarding passes or whatever. Parking is available but pricey (welcome to New York), though honestly, you probably won’t need a car here. I found myself spending way more time exploring Harlem than I expected – hitting up the weekend market on Malcolm X Boulevard, checking out the brownstone architecture, even catching some live music at a few spots the concierge recommended. It’s the kind of place where you feel like you’re staying in a neighborhood rather than just passing through a hotel district, and for a lot of travelers, that’s exactly what makes a trip memorable.

Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel Accommodations

Reviews of Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel

• Very Good – Dinorah from United States – September 11, 2025 (8/10)

  It is a nice hotel and the rooms were very clean.
  
  What could be improved: The rooms should have at least a mini fridge.

• Excellent Experience – Saqib from United Arab Emirates – September 2, 2025 (8/10)

  Spacious and very clean room. Excellent location as all big shopping outlets and stores (like Burlington, GAP, TJ Maxx, Marshall’s and Target to name a few) were at a walking distance. My children enjoyed Tex’s chicken (halal) and Domino’s pizza as both were very close to the property. Thanks to Armani, a very helpful and professional staff member at the front desk. I had few inquiries about the total bill charged and she explained everything in detail.
  We got 25 USD daily coupon for use at one internal restaurant. It was not referred anywhere while making reservation. So it was a sort of pleasant surprise too. Columbia University is just 5 to 7 min drive and very easy to get uber or taxi. Walking to the Columbia University is a bit challenging as it is at a relatively higher altitude compared to hotel, hence a slope or steps are involved.
  
  What could be improved: No refrigerator and microwave in room. Management shall seriously think about having a refrigerator in each room. It seems to be a small deficiency in otherwise an excellent and attractive property.

• Great – Emeline from United States – August 23, 2025 (9/10)

  The hotel is well located, very close to the subway and in a very active neighborhood. Staff is very friendly, room was comfortable, in overall it was a very good stay and we were all happy with it !

• Overall a great stay. Would stay there again – Melvin from France – August 23, 2025 (8/10)

  I like how the hotel used the history of the area
  
  What could be improved: I wouls have liked carpet on the floors of the roomss and tile on the floor of the bathroom. I do wish the dinning room and bar were separate. I also wish the dinning room was larger.

• The room was excellent until we went to the restaurant. – Andrea from United States – August 20, 2025 (8/10)

  It was ok until this discriminated against at the restaurant by the hostess
  
  What could be improved: Not satisfied with the hostess Sunday night due to my skin being a black woman.

• With the exception of my breakfast experience, I enjoyed this hotel verymuch. – Darlene from United States – August 14, 2025 (8/10)

  The room was very comfortable, clean, and met all my expectations.
  Breakfast was very good/
  
  What could be improved: The staff during breakfast need to better communicate. When there are seats, seat you, don’t have you wait for 15 minutes. IF the food is going to take a while, tell you. I waited 25 minutes for breakfast and there were only 5 people in the restaurant. And this has been my experience every time I stay there. I come about once every 3 months for 4-5 days

• More than a hotel; it’s an experience – Brenda from United States – August 13, 2025 (9/10)

  I loved the ambiance and vibe of the restaurant/bar. The decor represented the culture of Harlem; and, I loved that. The food, staff and music were outstanding.
  The waiters and table staff were always friendly, attentive and accommodating.
  I would like to highlight ANNIE, the hostess. She was stellar. Always a big welcoming smile, super professional and accommodating. She gave everyone that stepped to the hostess podium with the same smile and professionalism. I watched her handle multiple situations at once with calmness and professionalism. I would definitely consider a revisit based only on her work ethics. SHE’S DEFINITELY A KEEPER!!!!
  
  Bre at check-in was very good at what she does as well. She was knowledgeable and accommodating. She was friendly and professional.
  
  Overall experience was great. I would highly recommend the hotel to friends.
  
  What could be improved: Add a little ambiance to the first floor; something as simple as tall urns with vibrant (even artificial) floral arrangement and a couple colorful chairs. I stopped abruptly when I walked into the lobby. At first glance not very inviting. First impression is everything. Thank goodness for the 5th floor charm.

• One great night in Harlem! – Maryn from United States – August 10, 2025 (8/10)

  It was cool, hip and felt like a bit of luxury in Harlem. Mostly the staff was why the stay was great. Everyone was so nice and personable!
  
  What could be improved: The floors of the room were concrete without rugs, so it felt a bit cold. But really that my only feedback because everything else was great

• Very Good – Belinda from United States – August 7, 2025 (8/10)

  Friendly staff, great environment. Clean/comfortable room.

• Good decent stay except for its far from most attractions and the location isnt that nice – Muhammad from Pakistan – July 26, 2025 (8/10)

  View and ambiance
  
  What could be improved: The are it is in. Feels unsafe

Surroundings