West Side YMCA

More laid-back (and allegedly more intellectual) than its East-Side cousin, the Upper West Side is a largely residential area, filled with tall apartment buildings and stately brownstones. This area, which begins at Columbus Circle and ends at Morningside Heights, is home to Lincoln Center, the American Museum of Natural History, and Columbia University. However, one of its greatest attributes may be on its borders: it's sandwiched between the iconic Central Park and leisurely Riverside Park.

Famous Harlem, whose importance as a historically African-American neighborhood cannot be matched, begins north of Morningside Heights. Despite its dangerous reputation, Harlem has become much safer... and much more popular with tourists.

Cheap hotels in the Upper West Side and Harlem

There are many affordable hotel options in the Upper West Side and Harlem, the best of which are listed below. Staying in these neighborhoods offers tourists the chance to sleep a bit cheaper than in Midtown, and have a more residential and local experience. (The access to Central Park doesn't hurt, either!)

Even though the Upper West Side has a reputation as a very nice neighborhood, some of the most affordable places to stay are located here. One of the country's largest hostels is up near Columbia University. If you don't mind a shared dorm room or are traveling with a group, HI NYC Hostel could be for you. Farther down near Columbus Circle is the popular West Side YMCA with a mix of nicely priced private rooms (with shared bathrooms) located literally steps from Central Park. You won't find a better location!

Looking for more affordable hotels in NYC? Check out our complete list.

Other neighborhoods nearby:

• Hell's Kitchen
• Central Park South
• Midtown West / Theater District