The Standard, High Line

"The Standard High Line is a bold architectural statement, embracing brutalism with an eye-popping structure and retro-future interiors." - Mark Fedeli

"One of New York’s most architecturally striking hotels, The Standard High Line debuted in the on-the-rise Meatpacking District in 2009, the same year as the High Line—the linear park built on disused elevated railway tracks that immediately reshaped Manhattan’s west side. The 338-room property straddles the park atop 57-foot-tall pillars, and its Le Corbusier–inspired design almost looks like an open book. Be warned: Its glass façade leaves little to the imagination if you don’t close your curtains, and the hotel has developed a reputation for its life-in-a-fish-tank exhibitionism. The 338 guest rooms are modish and sophisticated, with fluted wood panels that curve from the headboard up to the ceiling, orange tiles in the bathroom, and hooded microfiber twill robes. But the star of the show at any Standard property are its public spaces: Here, that means a great American steakhouse, a German-tinged beer garden with games, a taco joint, a lobby cocktail lounge, and a rooftop pool and nightclub that has been a reliable celebrity-sighting hotspot since it opened." - Jennifer Flowers

"The Standard High Line’s rooftop bar, Le Bain, features a dynamic atmosphere, crêperie, plenty of lounge seating, and panoramic views of the Hudson River and city skyline." - Ty Gaskins

"A mainstay of fashion week is etched into its very architecture. The Standard’s Boom (formerly known as Boom Boom Room) has witnessed iconic parties thrown by fashion designers to celebrate their latest collection that blur the lines between revelry and artistic expression. The Standard Grill, nestled below, becomes a refuge for famished fashionistas, offering a culinary symphony of flavors that dances harmoniously with the city's pulse." - Ty Gaskins

"How did it strike you on arrival?At once futuristic and retro, the hotel almost feels like a scene out of The Jetsons, with mid-century-inspired furniture and lighting, all in a blocky concrete hulk that seems to float above the High Line park. Nice. What’s the crowd like?The hotel's neighborhood, the Meatpacking District, is full of cutting-edge shops, restaurants, and (nearby) art galleries, and the Standard is full of people you'd expect to see at those places. Most importantly: Tell us about your room.The first thing you notice about the room isn't really the room itself, but the views out of the floor-to-ceiling windows (of either the Hudson River or the city), which are truly the main reason to choose this hotel. They're that good. The design is minimal, sleek and clean-lined, with white being the main color. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?The bed is great for a good night's sleep. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention?If money was no object, we'd raid the minibar to make a Grey Goose and soda while watching the sunset. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.While bathrooms and showers are just big enough, hopefully you're very comfortable with the person you're traveling with, as there's nothing between the shower and the bedroom except a clear pane of glass. Custom bath products are pleasantly fragrant. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Fast, free Wi-Fi. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Even if you aren't big on working out, check out the 17th-floor gym for sweeping Hudson River views. And if you're a night owl, head up to Le Bain, the penthouse discotheque and bar, for even better views and live DJs. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?Being able to ice skate during the winter, when the hotel sets up an ice rink right outside the entrance. Bottom line: worth it, and why?The views are perhaps the most dramatic you'll find downtown, and the location (especially if you're into art—it's walkable to the Whitney and Chelsea galleries) is ideal." - John Wogan