Jazz on The Park Hostel

The location is great, and they put out bagels in the morning, but I wouldn't recommend staying here. It felt like a place just to sleep for the night, and probably the worst hostel I've used. The facilities weren't clean. There was no working sink on my floor and just one shower for more than 30 people. If you're using a locker, bring your own lock. Top bunks don't have an outlet.

I was greeted warmly by the reception staff, and for a one-night stay the place was quite decent, despite the very negative reviews. My room and the bathroom were in fair condition, and the nearby metro made the location ideal. The kitchen and living area are being renovated at the moment, but that wasn't a big deal. Some work on the toilets and bedroom curtains would still be welcome.

I've stayed at Jazz on the Park around 20-30 times over the past year, and I keep being pleased with it. I really don't understand the nasty reviews I've read here. In my experience, they're completely untrue. The private bunk rooms we've used are somewhat spartan, but quiet, comfortable, and safe. Staff at the desk, the manager, and the cleaners have all been friendly, helpful, and accommodating. The rooms are clean and quiet. Once, a guest was making a lot of intrusive noise. I complained, and the staff promptly found a way to move her or have her check out, I forget which. They took my concern seriously and sorted it out toot sweet. I've never seen guests behaving obnoxiously in the lobby or shared spaces, and the other guests have always been friendly. The shared bathrooms and showers are clean. In all my 20-30 stays, I've only once had to wait for a shower, so it can feel almost like having one in your room. I can only guess that people posting bad reviews work for nearby hotels upset by Jazz on the Park's competition. Jazz is usually about $50 less than they charge. If you want a reasonably priced, clean room for yourself and a friend without paying an arm and a leg, I'd recommend it. The staff will take good care of you, and I don't think you'll be disappointed.

I came as a solo traveler and found it clean, with friendly staff. It's basically a bed and a small locker, which was enough for me. They clean the rooms around 8am, so be ready to be up by then. The location is great for walking around Manhattan, right across from Central Park, with a decent bodega down the street. If you go, I'd recommend a stop at Dublin house pub. It's a brisk walk, but worth it.