Family-Friendly Hotels

Lugging the kids to New York City can be a daunting experience. Finding a hotel that makes that experience, whether it is in the accommodations or in the amenities, a bit less daunting can be a huge help. Here are some of the city's best accommodations for families:

Doubletree Guest Suites Times Square (Times Sq.) -- An entire floor of childproof suites, plus a Kids Club for ages 3 to 12.

Gershwin Hotel (Flatiron District) -- High space-to-dollar ratio with the Family Room, a two-room suite.

Hotel Beacon (Upper West Side) -- In-room kitchenette, on-site laundromat, and spacious rooms in a kid-friendly neighborhood -- what more do you want?

Hotel Metro (Midtown West) -- The sitting rooms of the hotel's Family Room suites are smartly converted into second bedrooms.

Le Parker Meridien (Midtown West) -- Cartoons playing in the elevators, a great swimming pool, a kid-friendly burger joint in the lobby, and spacious rooms and suites.

The Lowell (Upper East Side) -- Total luxe, but with the feel of a residential dwelling. Most units are equipped with a kitchenette or full kitchen.

Novotel New York (Midtown West) -- Kids under 16 stay free in their parent's room and eat free at the hotel's beautiful Café Nicole.

The Regency (Midtown East) -- A big welcome by longtime kids' concierge Kaptain Kidz, with goodies for the children upon arrival.

Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park (Midtown West) -- You'll pay dearly for it, but kids love the in-room cookies and milk.

Skyline Hotel and Travel Inn (Midtown West) -- Inexpensive ($10) parking at the Skyline and free at Travel Inn, oversize rooms, and swimming pools (a rarity in affordable hotels).