Hotels Near Central Park, New York: Affordable Picks

If you're one of the brave runners in the New York City Marathon, or you're traveling to cheer on friends and family, staying near the marathon finish line is a smart move.

Below I'll walk you through some alternatives to the official New York City Marathon hotels, which tend to be a little on the pricey side. Oh! And if you're coming to cheer your people on, check out the best spots to watch the runners across New York.

Hotels near the marathon finish line

My advice is to look for a place to stay near the New York City Marathon finish line along Central Park West, so you can head straight back and rest:

1. La Quinta Inn

Address: 31 West 71th Street
Subway: A, B, C lines, 72 St station
Prices: around US$200

The La Quinta Inn & Suites is just blocks from the finish line, with a subway station right around the corner. At this link you can get more information, check availability and even book.

2. West Side Ymca

From $130 per double room
Address: 15 West 63rd Street, Upper West Side
Subway: A, B, C, D lines, 59 St Columbus Circle station

The West Side YMCA is one of the best hostels in New York, and beyond the good price, it sits steps from the New York City Marathon finish line.

The private rooms cover the basics, but bathrooms are shared. Factor in the price and it's genuinely worth it.

You can also use the YMCA pool and sauna to unwind after the race.

Travelers love it for the location, just a few yards from Central Park (and the bathrooms get cleaned often, so bring a pair of flip flops and you're set =).

Here you'll find more information, availability and booking.

 3. Hotel Courtyard by Marriott

This Courtyard by Marriott is on the other side of Central Park, in the Upper East Side, right near Museum Mile and with great subway access just steps away.

It's a business hotel with a solid reputation. So if you want something more comfortable, the price is pretty reasonable.

At this link you'll find more details and can book at no cost.

4. Rent an apartment

If you're a group of runners traveling together, renting an apartment is a great idea.

Do the math and you'll see that for less than a mid-range hotel would cost you, you get the comfort and independence of an apartment where you can properly rest after the marathon.

I hope this helps, and if your package is already booked, keep these suggestions in mind for your next New York City Marathon. Have a great race =)

Map of the New York City Marathon finish line

Here's a map of the areas near the marathon finish line, so you can easily spot the nearby hotels, hostels and apartments: