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April 30, 2024updated May 01, 2024

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge: Dumbo’s Chic Waterside Retreat

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge has stayed at the top of its game, even in the city that never sleeps.

By Kim Ayling

Despite opening way back in 2017 (when it became the eco-minded hotel brand’s second New York City property), 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge still retains that coveted air of newness. 

Maybe it’s the cool, industrial-style architecture or the earthy greenery-filled finishes; or maybe even the laidback service style – whatever it is, something has kept 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge at the top of its game, even in the city that never sleeps.

Occupying a coveted stretch of waterfront real estate, just behind Brooklyn Bridge Park in a neat area that bridges the brownstones of Brooklyn Heights and the still-trendy Dumbo, the hotel offers what few in NYC can: breathing space. Instead of being hemmed in by other buildings, it’s an open stretch over the water beyond – something you’ll be grateful for after a few nights in the city.

[See also: The Best Hotels in New York City]

1 hotel brooklyn bridge exterior
1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge still retains that coveted air of newness / ©1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

Stay

By NYC standards, the 195 guest rooms and suites at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge feel spacious, with the smallest clocking in at 300 sq ft, every inch of which is smartly utilized. Most have views but not all – book carefully if you want to gaze out at that jaw-dropping skyline scene. 

In-room amenities are lovely: Bamford products pamper in the bathroom, the mini-bar feels extra premium, the jersey robes are some of the nicest I’ve come across, and the in-room yoga mat was an unexpected extra. It should be noted, though, that the bathrooms are not… discrete, to put it politely. Most people will have no qualms with this but just be sure you’re very comfortable with your bedroom companion. 

The hotel’s top key is the Riverhouse Suite, which sprawls over 2,000-sq-ft and features two king-sized bedrooms, each with its own bathroom (including a tub!). Clearly intended for socializing, the suite has an expansive living area that includes plenty of scattered seating and dining space for 10. The bridge and Statue of Liberty views framed by floor-to-ceiling windows promise to be great conversation starters, too.

[See also: Mohonk Mountain House: Hudson Valley’s Historic Retreat]

riverhouse suite 1 hotel
The hotel’s top key is the Riverhouse Suite / ©1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
riverhouse suite
The Riverhouse suite has two bedrooms / ©1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

Dine

Down on the first floor is 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge’s signature restaurant, Osprey. Helmed by Australian chef Dan Churchill, the menu is a taste of Down Under in Brooklyn – expect light, fresh plates made with low-waste principles and mostly local ingredients. Heed our warning and don’t miss the homemade Tim Tams – chef Churchill’s take on Oz’s favorite candy.

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For more casual bites, head across the lobby to Neighbors, which serves coffee, juices and snacks from a number of local Brooklyn-based purveyors.

The hotel’s real draw, however, is Harriet’s – a swanky rooftop bar with some of the city’s best views across the river and over Manhattan. Open seven days a week (but not all year round – it just re-opened for the summer season), Harriet’s serves a creative list of signature cocktails, some classics and a curated number of wines, alongside light Asian-inspired dishes.

[See also: The Most Historic Luxury Hotels in the US]

osprey 1 hotel brooklyn bridge
1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge’s signature restaurant, Osprey / ©1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

There’s even a rooftop pool (which, admittedly, is more for foot dangling than full-on paddling). When the weather is less favorable, take a seat by the window in the indoor lounge (which is open all seasons).

Relax

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is home to NYC’s first Bamford Spa, utilizing the brand’s sustainably-guided products to create a concise menu of treatments, ranging from facials and massages to men’s and women’s grooming.

There’s also a gym offering solo training space, fitness classes and personal training.

[See also: The Best Spas in New York City]

riverhouse suite living room
Social areas in the Riverhouse suite / ©1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

Explore

With every glance out of the window (did we mention the views?) you’re reminded of what an excellent spot this hotel occupies. Don’t pass up on the chance to take in iconic city views with a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge (the entrance to the bridge is about a 15-minute’ walk away).

For a fun evening close to home (and away from the mania of Manhattan), stroll over to the Time Out Market on the waterfront – it’s home to a rotating selection of chefs and vendors, with a great bar and live music.

For jaunts further afield, make use of 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge’s complimentary electric Audi service, available on a first-come, first-served basis for journeys within three miles. 

[See also: The Fifth Avenue Hotel: Inside Martin Brudnizki’s NYC Project]

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