Situated on the South Shore of Long Island, less than 20 miles from bustling Manhattan, lies the charming village of Garden City. The serene suburban oasis happens to be home to one of Long Island’s most distinguished properties: The historic Garden City Hotel, which has roots dating back to the 19th century and has remained a local icon thanks to its exceptional service, elegant rooms, and fantastic food and drink offerings. Check out our full review of this upscale hotel below.
The Look of The Garden City Hotel
The property exudes elegance, from its Victorian-style architecture to its now-iconic clock tower. Upon pulling up to the porte-cochère, you’ll be greeted by a doorman, who will usher you into a lavish lobby that features large marble check-in counters and dazzling gold accents. A few feet away from the reception desk is a secluded seating area anchored by a crackling fireplace. Adjacent to that is the buzzy King Bar by David Burke and the hotel’s flagship restaurant, The Red Salt Room steakhouse (which is also helmed by Burke — but more on that in a bit).
As you make your way to the elevators heading up to your room or suite, you’ll find even more cozy nooks, along with a grab-and-go coffee shop. The lower level, accessible via a flight of stairs, is home to the on-site Red Hots Spa, as well as a pool and fitness center.
While the lobby, ballroom, event spaces, and common areas have an opulent, Old World feel, rooms and suites are more contemporary with sleek tufted headboards, dark wood furnishings, crisp linens, and plush, tan-colored couches.
The Vibe at The Garden City Hotel
If we had to describe the hotel in two words, it’d be timeless and elegant. The bar and restaurant are beloved among guests and well-off locals, as is the tranquil spa. Meanwhile, the hotel itself serves as an excellent home base for well-heeled business or leisure travelers looking for a classic, tried-and-tested place to rest their heads that doesn’t feel too trendy or in-your-face. Also, given the hotel’s 30,000 square feet of event space, it’s also a popular spot for corporate gatherings, banquets, weddings, parties, and the like.
Who Will Love The Garden City Hotel
Leisure travelers — couples and families alike — and business travelers with an affinity for food, wellness, and opulent accommodations will love this charming, time-honored hotel.
Who Might Not Love The Garden City Hotel
The Garden City Hotel is one of Long Island’s most luxurious hotels, and the nightly rates reflect that, with prices rarely dropping below $200. With this in mind, budget-conscious travelers might want to look for alternate accommodations.
Best Amenity at The Garden City Hotel
The Red Salt Room is, in a word, fantastic. Helmed by celebrity chef David Burke, the restaurant is famous for its use of Himalayan salt to dry-age steaks, and the ribeye is phenomenal. Do yourself a favor and order the clothesline bacon, which features a maple black pepper glaze that the waiter lights on fire in front of you so that it turns into a sweet syrup.
The hotel also has a (somewhat) hidden speakeasy, called Rose Room, which is accessible via golf cart. The rock-n-roll-themed whiskey bar is only open in the winter — and solely on Fridays and Saturdays — and serves some of the best margaritas we’ve ever tasted.
What’s Included at The Garden City Hotel
Your stay includes Wi-Fi, access to the indoor pool and fitness center, and valet parking.
Fees & Costs You Should Know About at The Garden City Hotel
The facilities fee ($30 per night, excluding tax) includes all of the above. Spa treatments also cost extra.
How to Get a Deal at The Garden City Hotel
Check the offers tab to view themed packages and promotions. Additionally, since the property is part of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, I Prefer members can score discounted rates. AAA members are also privy to lower rates.
The Sweet Season
Book a midweek trip in the wintertime for the lowest rates on lodging. While the weather will be cold, you can warm up inside one of Garden City’s many shops and restaurants, but more on that below.
In the Neighborhood of The Garden City Hotel
The hotel is located right on Seventh Street, Garden City’s main thoroughfare. It’s lined with charming shops and restaurants, including local-loved staples like the French Workshop, the aptly named Seventh Street Cafe, Madison's Niche, and Joseph & Joseph. The massive Roosevelt Field Mall is also a quick five-minute drive away, while dozens of other eateries are within easy walking distance.
Nearest Airport to The Garden City Hotel
JFK is 12.5 miles away while LGA is 16 miles from the hotel.
Closest Public Transportation to The Garden City Hotel
Garden City is quite walkable; however, those looking to explore the rest of Long Island will need to rent a car. Travelers looking to head into the city can take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) directly into Manhattan (approx. 40 minutes); the station is right across the street from the hotel.
For a luxury stay on Long Island complete with incredible food and drink offerings, look no further than The Garden City Hotel.