The Washington by LuxUrban it comes to blending modern comfort with prime location, The Washington by LuxUrban stands out as a unique hospitality offering that appeals to both leisure and business travelers. Despite its name, this hotel is not located in Washington, D.C., but rather in the heart of Lower Manhattan, New York City. As part of the Trademark Collection by Wyndham, The Washington by LuxUrban carries both the luxury branding and urban sophistication that make it a convenient and stylish choice for visitors.
This article provides a complete breakdown of The Washington by LuxUrban, including its origins, amenities, customer experience, pricing transparency, controversies, and travel tips. Whether you’re planning a stay or just researching your options, here’s everything you need to know.
The Origins and Location of The Washington by LuxUrban
The Washington by LuxUrban has a rather interesting backstory. It originally opened under the W Hotels brand by Marriott, which gave it a high-end identity with trendy interiors and sleek urban styling. In 2021, the hotel transitioned to a new brand—The Washington by LuxUrban, under Wyndham’s Trademark Collection—which focuses on unique properties with strong identities.
Despite its name, The Washington is located at 8 Albany Street in Lower Manhattan, just steps from the World Trade Center, Wall Street, and Battery Park. The name often confuses travelers expecting a D.C. destination, but in truth, this location places the hotel at the very heart of New York’s financial and historical district. From a location perspective, it’s a big win. Guests can walk to One World Trade Center, take a short subway ride to Times Square, or catch the Staten Island Ferry for a free glimpse of the Statue of Liberty.
Design and Aesthetic: Modern, Minimalist, and Functional
One of the lasting impressions of The Washington is its modern design. When it transitioned from W Hotels, it retained much of the sleek, minimalistic styling that guests appreciated. Think neutral tones, large mirrors, modern lighting, and open spaces that prioritize both form and function.
Rooms are known for being spacious compared to Manhattan standards. They come equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, which offer panoramic views of the skyline or nearby landmarks. Interior touches like plush bedding, large flat-screen TVs, rainfall showers, and curated art pieces contribute to the sense of upscale comfort.
There’s also a subtle elegance to the hotel’s branding. The Washington doesn’t try too hard to impress with opulence; instead, it leans into a boutique hotel atmosphere—clean, calm, and intelligently designed for today’s traveler.
Rooms and Suites: What to Expect
The Washington by LuxUrban offers 217 guest rooms, including standard rooms, deluxe rooms, and select suites. Here’s a general idea of what each category includes:
- Standard Rooms: Great for solo travelers or couples. Includes a queen or king bed, desk, modern bathroom, and city views.
- Deluxe Rooms: More space and better views. Features seating areas and enhanced amenities like espresso machines.
- Suites: Ideal for longer stays or business travelers needing extra space. Suites include living areas, larger bathrooms, and often corner views for greater privacy and perspective.
All rooms come with standard features such as free Wi-Fi, climate control, smart TVs, luxury bath amenities, and mini-bars. Housekeeping is available, though some reviews have mentioned inconsistencies in service timing.
Amenities and Features: From Fitness to Food
While The Washington by LuxUrban is not a full-fledged resort, it does include a variety of useful and comfortable amenities:
- 24-Hour Fitness Center: Well-equipped with treadmills, weights, and cardio machines.
- On-Site Restaurant (Skinos): Serving Mediterranean and international fare in a cozy, urban setting.
- Bar & Lounge: A relaxed spot for cocktails and networking.
- Business Services: Free Wi-Fi, printing, and meeting spaces upon request.
- Concierge & 24-Hour Reception: Friendly staff available to help with bookings, directions, and requests.
- Pet-Friendly Rooms: Pets under 25 lbs are welcome, with some restrictions and fees.
Notably, there’s no pool or spa on the premises. The hotel clearly focuses more on providing a comfortable urban retreat than being a luxury resort.
Guest Reviews and Ratings: Mixed But Promising
Like many hotels in transition, guest reviews of The Washington by LuxUrban are mixed—and this is important to address honestly.
⭐ Positive Feedback:
- Location: Virtually every guest praises its convenient location near the subway, major landmarks, and business districts.
- Room Size: Visitors often express surprise and delight at how spacious the rooms are for New York.
- Design and Views: The modern design and expansive city views are frequently mentioned as standout features.
⚠️ Criticism and Complaints:
- Service Issues: Some guests have noted long wait times at the front desk or a lack of consistent housekeeping.
- Refund and Billing Problems: Multiple reviews warn of canceled bookings, hidden fees, and unresolved refund disputes.
- Amenity Access: The bar or fitness room may be closed unexpectedly, leaving some guests feeling misled by the advertised amenities.
The hotel has responded to several complaints online, often promising to review cases and improve systems. However, it’s clear that management has room for improvement, especially in customer service and transparency.
Booking and Pricing: Affordable Luxury or Hidden Costs?
On the surface, The Washington by LuxUrban offers competitive rates for such a prime location in Manhattan. Prices often range from $180 to $350 per night, depending on season, room type, and booking channel. However, it’s crucial to be aware of additional costs:
- Facility Fee: Around $20–30 per night, covering Wi-Fi, gym access, and other services.
- Security Deposit: Typically $150–$200, held at check-in and released after checkout.
- Mini-Bar Charges: As expected, mini-bar items are not complimentary.
- Pet Fees: Extra charges apply for guests with pets.
To avoid unexpected charges, it’s highly recommended to book directly through reputable platforms or the Wyndham website and to confirm policies in writing before arriving.
Nearby Attractions: What’s Within Walking Distance
One of the best things about The Washington is its unbeatable location in Lower Manhattan. Within a 10-minute walk, you can reach:
- One World Trade Center / 9/11 Memorial
- Wall Street / New York Stock Exchange
- Battery Park and Staten Island Ferry
- Brooklyn Bridge pedestrian entrance
- Stone Street (bars and restaurants)
- South Street Seaport
Additionally, the nearby subway stations (Rector Street and Wall Street) connect you to the rest of Manhattan, making it easy to explore Midtown, SoHo, and beyond.
Who Should Stay at The Washington by LuxUrban?
The Washington by LuxUrban is a great choice for:
- Business Travelers: Especially those with meetings in Lower Manhattan or attending financial conferences.
- Couples on City Getaways: Modern rooms, sleek décor, and easy access to nightlife make it ideal for couples.
- Solo Travelers: Safe location and straightforward service for independent visitors.
- Pet Owners: Small pets are welcome, which can be rare in NYC hotels.
However, it may not be the best choice for:
- Families with young children: Limited entertainment space and amenities for kids.
- Luxury Seekers: Those expecting five-star service and white-glove hospitality may be disappointed.
- Guests with strict budgets: Hidden fees can add up, and inconsistent service could affect your experience.
Tips for a Smooth Stay
To ensure your stay at The Washington by LuxUrban goes smoothly, here are a few expert travel tips:
- Book Directly – Use official or reputable sites to avoid miscommunication or fraudulent listings.
- Call Ahead – Confirm your reservation and ask about current facility hours (restaurant, gym, etc.).
- Inspect Upon Arrival – Check your room and amenities when you arrive. Report issues immediately.
- Document Everything – Take screenshots of your booking details and email correspondence.
- Ask for a High Floor Room – The views from higher levels are stunning and quieter.
Conclusion: A Boutique Experience With Room for Improvement
The Washington by LuxUrban offers an attractive package: stylish rooms, a strategic location, and reasonable rates—especially for New York City. Its minimalist aesthetic, pet-friendly policy, and Wyndham affiliation give it mainstream credibility and modern appeal.
However, potential service gaps, inconsistent customer experiences, and fee-related concerns mean that travelers should do their homework before booking. If you’re an independent traveler who prioritizes design and location, this hotel could work well for you. But if customer service, luxury touches, or reliability are top priorities, consider reviewing other options in the area.
Ultimately, The Washington by LuxUrban is a property in transition. With the right improvements, it has the potential to be a standout city-center hotel. Until then, proceed with cautious optimism—and enjoy everything Manhattan has to offer from your base in the heart of downtown.
