The Central Park North

Overview

Look, I’ll be honest – when I first heard about The Central Park North, I wasn’t sure what to expect from a hotel on 111th Street in Harlem. But you know what? This three-star spot really surprised me in the best way possible. The building itself has this understated charm that fits perfectly with the neighborhood’s vibe, and honestly, the location is way more interesting than staying in some generic Midtown tower where you’re just another tourist.

What really got me about this place is how it sits right in the sweet spot between authentic New York and tourist accessibility. You’re literally a few blocks from Central Park’s northern entrance – and I mean the good part where locals actually hang out, not the overcrowded southern sections. Marcus Garvey Park is practically around the corner, and if you’ve never experienced that little gem, you’re missing out. The staff here actually knows the neighborhood, too – they’ll point you toward places like Red Rooster or send you to the Apollo Theater without that rehearsed concierge speech you get elsewhere. I mean, when’s the last time hotel staff gave you directions to the best bodega for late-night snacks?

The rooms themselves are comfortable without trying to be fancy – clean lines, decent space for New York standards, and windows that actually open (thank god). Sure, it’s not going to blow you away with marble everything, but the beds are solid and the bathrooms work properly, which honestly puts it ahead of some pricier places I’ve stayed. You might hear some street noise – it’s Harlem, not a monastery – but nothing that kept me awake. The whole building has this lived-in feel that I actually prefer to those sterile boutique places that cost twice as much. Plus, parking around here is doable if you’re driving, which is more than I can say for most Manhattan hotels. What really sealed it for me was the breakfast spot downstairs and how easy it was to hop on the subway – you’ve got multiple train options within walking distance, so getting downtown is actually faster than from some “centrally located” hotels that are surrounded by tourist chaos.