Why book? Across the East River and on the fringes of Manhattan’s alluring chaos, The Arlo Williamsburg is a reasonably priced hotel in the heart of Brooklyn’s buzziest neighborhood. Lavish in convenience, the property is a short walk away to the Bedford Avenue subway stop, the vast and lively McCarren Park, and close to the border of the ever-evolving Greenpoint neighborhood. The property is the ultimate host of all things fun: just around the corner from Williamsburg’s hippest cafés, bars, as well as designer and vintage shops and boutiques. Not to mention its role as host to fabulous events from poolside DJ sets to rooftop yoga with an unmatched, unobstructed view of Manhattan’s skyline. Around every corner of the hotel is a pop of color, ready-to-assist Arlo staff, and to top it off: a comfy-cozy bed to rest after a day of hitting the city streets that, truly, never sleep.
Set the Scene The eight-story building is stylish, with a red brick facade encased in glass and steel. All guests are greeted with a swanky, industrial-chic entrance, high ceilings, and a spiral staircase that leads down to the front desk check-in. There sits the trendy Sungold cocktail bar where city locals and travelers alike can be found sipping sweet cocktails. From the first floor to the water-tower-turned-bar on the roof, Williamsburg’s lively energy sweeps through the property. This special charge balances with the sleekness of its waterside view and location—all that makes for a one-of-a-kind Brooklyn base.
The backstory Arlo Williamsburg, formerly known as The Williamsburg Hotel, officially opened its doors in September of 2023. The property is owned by Quadrum Global and was designed by London-based design firm Michaelis Boyd (of Babington House UK, Soho House Berlin, etc.)—who perfectly combined the neighborhood’s eclectic style with swift service and panache. Under its new management, Arlo Williamsburg captures its surrounding eclectic, artsy spirit, and is continuing to serve as a launchpad for all things local (especially for those who love to socialize).
The rooms Like many Arlo properties, the Williamsburg location makes the most of the tight-urban space. The 147 well-appointed guest rooms, including 8 suites, are stylish and richly tiled and textured with authentic reclaimed materials and floor-to-ceiling windows with sweeping views. Luxe follows the guests to their rooms: with tufted leather headboards, factory-style windows, and a convenient, private minibar. A sweet touch: colorfully tiled backsplash in the shower and sink in the bathroom. For more space, guests can book a studio suite, which also offers a larger soaking tub and extra seating.
Food & Beverage While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the top-notch restaurants and bars around the property. Inside, though, Arlo Williamsburg has plenty: Sungold, for one, features Mediterranean and Italian-inspired dishes helmed by Chef Michael King. Sourcing local and seasonal ingredients, the menu consists of handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, a diverse selection of small plates and shareable entrees, to stay true to the ethos of offering something for everyone. In fact, the name “Sungold” is inspired by the chef’s favorite tomatoes, offered at the Union Square Greenmarket—speaking to their seasonality and abundance of local Hudson Valley (and beyond) farms.
Exposed brick walls and eye-catching glass light fixtures of individually hung pendant lights with accents of greenery liven up the dining room space. Its neighbor, the lobby bar and lounge is also open, with floor-to-ceiling brick walls and rotating art adjacent to plush velvet banquettes. The chic outdoor patio is a unique and open space along the charming Wythe Avenue. By day, guests can enjoy a coffee and work on their computer, if needed. By night: it’s a hub for those escaping some nighttime events, or popping out of the cocktail bar for some fresh air. All in all, it’s a fun space to chat with other travelers, or locals popping in on their own accord.
Annually, Memorial Day kicks off the poolside menu at ART is a great plus—and technically, a playground. With the tastiest fruity drink, hotel guests can book chairs, take a dip in the 40-foot swimming pool, and enjoy an al fresco bite. Highly recommended: the spicy tuna dip, or even a mouthwatering lobster roll (freshly-sourced from Maine). Everyone can enjoy the sun and 360-degree city views here, away from the bustling streets and confined traffic of NYC. The hotel found a way to offer a spacious, dreamy, urban getaway. For more cocktails, the Water Tower Bar is unforgettable. Adjacent to the pool and up a set of stairs, the brilliant, elusive, and unusual space offers an even better view of the city skyline, and becomes dimly-lit as the night comes. It’s moody—and hosts a trendy crowd and groovy DJ sets alongside the work of internationally recognized artist and painter Ryan Wilson (aka ThankYouX). Debuting his first graffiti art piece since 2021, the LA-based artist scaled the brick wall below the Water Tower to create the 20-by-23-foot mural, “Subtle Reminders,” featuring his signature geometric cubes and vibrant abstract color tones to illuminate the hotel pool and NYC skyline. The piece draws inspiration from the panoramic views atop the hotel: a breathtaking, all-encompassing sunset and extensive rooftops blending into the horizon.
The neighborhood/area On the corner of Wythe and North 10th, the boutique hotel is in the hustle-and-bustle of Williamburg’s northside. Whether rest and restoration or flirty liaisons, day or night, all things great are at guests’ fingertips. Just around the corner from Kent Ale House, Dolly’s Swing and Dive Bar, and Café Mogador, this is one of those rare experiences where I will genuinely say: sticking around your hotel is neither a bad nor constricting idea. Not an average city stay— as much as the hotel has a party scene, around hot dive and cocktail bars—there is also green space all around the property’s location. Walk through historic Marsha P. Johnson State Park (also home to Smorgasburg) for a stroll directly along the river and an even closer view of the skyline. Along the waterfront, less than a 15 minute walk away is a mini golf putting green for all ages. It’s a great family outing and eco-forward learning experience, made as a collaborative community project with all recycled materials, showcasing climate change problems and solutions. From there, stroll south along the waterfront to secure a spot, or play some “beach” volleyball at Domino Park. For a way more scenic option than the subway, the hotel is less than 10 minutes away from the NYC East River Ferry, where you can catch a ride to upper or lower east Manhattan and Dumbo.
The service Whether at the front desk or poolside concierge, the service at the Arlo Williamsburg is readily available and accommodating. Swift yet thorough, the room cleaning service was lovely. During my stay, all Arlo Williasmburg staff were helpful and rocked a smile on their face. Especially those (hardworkers) lucky enough to catch a tan when working on the ART rooftop.
Spa/ Wellness While there is no spa at the hotel, the renowned, five-star wellness hub Bathhouse is just one block away. On the property, though, Arlo Williamsburg offers a gym for its guests, and features on-demand fitness videos in partnership with Alo Moves (the online fitness arm of Alo Yoga). The hotel also grants access to the local Brooklyn Athletic Club and complimentary bike rentals, upon availability, for guests seeking to explore the city on two wheels.
Eco Efforts There’s recycling bins and the use of non-plastic straws throughout the property as well as canned (recycled aluminum) water cans in the guest rooms. Sungold, the on-site restaurant, also sources locally and seasonal grown ingredients for their menu offerings.
Accessibility Up to two dogs or cats are permitted per guest room, each under 35 lbs may stay with their owners during a stay. There is a fee of $20 pre-tax per pet, per night charged in addition to the standard room rate. All animals must be registered with the front desk upon arrival—and they do not permit animals other than dogs or cats in any capacity. Ping the desk in writing about your pet-plus one prior to your arrival in writing. There, they can accommodate you on a pet-friendly floor. There are also ADA-compliant rooms available upon request.
Anything left to mention? The property also offers heaps of event space, including The Mirror Bar, a swanky, self-contained “ornate jewel box of space.” Here, they have also hosted the most fabulous Drag Brunches, which they sometimes host on weekends. Sundown Sundays are summer fun-days (and ideal to combat any Sunday Scaries) with a growing crowd through dusk. In these cases, be sure to check their event page to gauge interest in the events at the desired travel dates—especially when traveling with younger children or in constant need of an elevator. There might be a line, as music-lovers and dance-seekers fill the space and head to the roof. If this is your scene, you’re in luck, as hotel guests can reserve pool seats and join the DJ sets free of charge. It’s almost like VIP access, there’s space to play—and take a dip—away from the visiting crowds.
