Editorial take
Who should book LIC Hotel?
If this is your first New York trip, shortlist LIC Hotel for a practical reason: Value, transport connections, short stays, LaGuardia arrivals. The name, star rating and lobby photos matter, but the real test is whether the location helps your days feel easier.
It is less compelling if you want atmosphere, luxury or to walk to manhattan sights. Before booking from the UK, compare the final price after taxes and property fees, check the exact room setup and make sure your airport arrival route is not needlessly awkward.
Location and map
Where is LIC Hotel?
21st Street sits in the middle of Long Island City with the subway a couple of minutes away and LaGuardia around four miles north, which makes arrivals straightforward.
Nearby
Court Square, MoMA PS1, Gantry Plaza State Park, the Queensboro Bridge and Astoria.
Closest subway
Court Sq and 21 St-Queensbridge
Hotel facts
What to know before booking.
First-timer context
Why LIC Hotel might feel special.
What it is known for
- The subway is around two minutes' walk, which puts Midtown roughly fifteen minutes away and Central Park about twenty.
- Breakfast is included in the rate, which is unusual at this price anywhere within reach of Manhattan.
- The hotel has its own terrace with city views, plus a bar and fitness centre.
New York moments
- It is one of the smaller independent hotels in Long Island City, a district otherwise dominated by chains and new towers.
On screen
- A working budget hotel with no screen history.
Review questions
What travellers keep asking.
How far is Manhattan really?
Around fifteen minutes to Midtown by subway, with the station about two minutes from the hotel. Long Island City is one of the quickest places outside Manhattan to reach the centre.
Is it a good choice for a LaGuardia arrival?
Yes. LaGuardia is roughly four miles away, which makes for a short and inexpensive taxi after a flight, rather than a long run in from JFK or Newark.
Booking checklist
Check these before you reserve.
Total price
Look beyond the nightly rate. Check taxes, destination fees, breakfast and cancellation.
Room layout
For New York, room size, bathroom privacy, bed type and storage can matter more than star rating.
Arrival route
Match the hotel to your airport, luggage and arrival time, especially after an overnight UK flight.
Sources and update notes
Last updated: 17 August 2026. Hotel rates, fees, rules and transport details can change.