The Empire Hotel

The Empire Hotel is a mid-range hotel at 44 West 63rd Street, directly opposite Lincoln Center on Manhattan's Upper West Side. Columbus Circle, Central Park and the Time Warner Center are a short walk south and east, and the 66th Street–Lincoln Center subway station on the 1 train, together with the Columbus Circle hub, provides access to much of the city. The hotel is well known for its rooftop bar, which offers views over Lincoln Center and the surrounding skyline, and it is a familiar landmark to many visitors who attend performances at the Metropolitan Opera, the New York Philharmonic or the New York City Ballet. The interiors are modern, and rooms are designed for comfort and convenience rather than luxury. Room types include the Superior Room, Deluxe Room and Suite, with Deluxe rooms and suites offering more space. Listed amenities include a rooftop bar, a restaurant, a fitness center and wifi. The hotel restaurant covers breakfast and dinner, and the rooftop bar is popular in warm months, while the surrounding streets of the Upper West Side and Columbus Circle offer a wide range of cafes, delis and restaurants. There is no spa or pool listed, so the hotel suits guests focusing on performances, museums and Central Park rather than on-site relaxation. Service is friendly and efficient, and the concierge can help with tickets to nearby performances. The clientele includes theatergoers, families, business travelers and visitors to the American Museum of Natural History, which is a short subway ride north. Nightly rates in the $$$ tier generally run from about $250 to $600, depending on season and events at Lincoln Center. The neighborhood is quieter and more residential than Midtown, providing a calmer evening atmosphere. Airport transfers are easiest by taxi or car service, and Penn Station is a short subway ride away.