It took a long time for me to figure out how to stay in New York affordably without the support of friends or family. After experimenting with a few options in the City, I realized that one of the most affordable ways to stay is at Hilton DoubleTree by Hilton Newark Penn Station in Newark and take the train in the city.
Hilton DoubleTree by Hilton Newark Penn Station
The Flight & Arrival
I book a flight into Newark Airport (EWR). Taxi or car service into the City from Newark Airport is at least $60 plus tip. So, if you’re trying to save some money, I recommend taking the airport shuttle to P4, where you’ll find the hotel courtesy vans passing through every 15 minutes. Call your hotel in advance to confirm service before your flight and be sure to tip the driver $2-$5 for each bag that he handles.
The Rooms
Rooms are between $150-$200 a night, a fair price point for a few night’s stay compared to Manhattan. The modern, traditionally elegant hotel feels expertly run. I liked that it wasn’t too crowded even during the holiday. I was greeted with a warm chocolate chip cookie upon checkin.
It was a much better deal than any hotel in Manhattan. For one thing, the managers at Hilton Newark Penn Station were friendly. My hotel room was larger than what would be available in The City for the same price point. On the first floor, there was a restaurant with an extensive breakfast buffet and free coffee or tea, another must-have option for me when I’m traveling that would cost double or triple in The City. The gym was modest.
When it was time to head to Manhattan after breakfast, I didn’t have to step outside of the hotel because it’s adjacent to the train station, which was nice because I was traveling during the winter.
How to Get to Manhattan from Newark Penn Station
At Newark Penn Station I bought a ticket into Manhattan. NJ Transit operates strain from New York Penn Station to Newark Penn Station every 30 minutes. Tickets cost $3 – $8 and the journey takes 18 min. Alternatively, the PATH is the train that has several stops within Manhattan. Many people live in Newark and travel to the City daily. You might find yourself closer to lower Manhattan than some New Yorkers living on the Upper East Side.
