Carlton Arms Hotel
160 E 25th St, New York, NY 10010, New York, United States
2-star hotel
Guest rating: 4.1 / 5
Carlton Arms Hotel is a 2-star, quirky, art-focused hotel in Manhattan at 160 E 25th St, positioned about a 6-minute walk from Madison Square Park and nearby subway access. The property is known for vibrant, individually decorated rooms with eclectic decor and original murals by international artists, with public corridors and a playful lobby styled like a Prohibition-era speakeasy that also showcases evolving artwork. Rooms include free Wi-Fi and come with either en suite or shared bathrooms; linens and towels are available on request. The building is older and has a distinctly vintage feel, which guests note in details like creaky floors and radiator heat, along with a more minimalist in-room setup (no TVs, phones, mini fridges, or safes are mentioned). Its Flatiron-area location puts major sights within easy reach on foot or by subway, including the Flatiron Building (604 m), Empire State Building (956 m), Bryant Park (1,488 m), Grand Central Terminal (1,547 m), and Times Square (1,996 m), with dining options nearby such as Woorijip (871 m).
Best for
This hotel is best for travelers who want an artsy, one-of-a-kind stay and prioritize character and location over modern, full-service amenities. It also suits budget-minded visitors who plan to spend most of their time exploring nearby landmarks like the Flatiron Building, Empire State Building, and Midtown attractions reachable on foot or by subway.
Travel tips
Expect a walk-up: reviews note no elevator and narrow, steep stairs, so pack light and plan accordingly. For getting around, the property is a short walk from Madison Square Park and subway access, with major Midtown sights like Grand Central Terminal, Bryant Park, and Times Square within roughly 1.5–2.0 km. The building’s older systems can affect comfort (e.g., strong radiator heat), so be prepared to adjust by using windows as needed.
What guests say
Guests consistently highlight the hotel’s quirky, art-driven character, with individually decorated rooms and mural-filled public spaces standing out as a main draw. Location is a frequent positive theme, described as convenient and safe, with many attractions and dining options nearby. Comfort is often mentioned favorably, especially beds and hot showers, and some appreciate the value for the area. Recurring drawbacks relate to the building’s age and upkeep—creaky floors, uneven surfaces, and occasional bathroom or fixture issues—as well as a sparse in-room amenity set (no TV and limited extras). Accessibility is a concern in reviews due to the lack of an elevator and steep, narrow stairs.
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