Columbia University is the oldest institution of higher education in New York and the fifth-oldest in the United States. Situated in the Upper West Side of Manhattan, Columbia University is at the center of the cultural and classical life in New York City. Whether you are a prospective student or a proud parent, visiting Columbia University always makes for an exceptional trip whether for Family Weekend, Family Days, Graduation, or just a special visit. Determining the right hotel in a city full of options is a key part of making for an unforgettable experience.
Not only does this guide cover recommendations for accommodation near the Columbia University campus, but hits on the top local attractions, top rated dining options, and the local landmarks and attractions in New York City, commonly referred to as “The Big Apple”.
Top Accommodation Options near Columbia University
At Luxurious Getaways Co., we specialize in organizing travel arrangements for your trip to Columbia University at no additional cost to you. When you book your stay through us, you can enjoy the comfort and luxury of New York’s top hotels while also receiving VIP treatment and a range of exclusive benefits at the following hotels:
Located just a short drive from the Columbia University, The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel offers a memorable stay with the following exclusive benefits:
- Complimentary daily breakfast for two people
- VIP Recognition by hotel staff and managing director and special on-property staff dedicated to you
- $100 USD Property Credit
- Early check-in/late check-out**
- Priority and complimentary room upgrade**
The iconic Plaza Hotel offers unmatched hospitality and convenience, along with some phenomenal Accor benefits through Luxurious Getaways Co:
- Complimentary daily breakfast for two people
- Hotel credit valued at $100
- Early check-in/late check-out**
- Complimentary room upgrade**
- Local welcome amenity and note
Referred to as the first luxury hotel in Times Square, The Knickerbocker is situated between the bright lights of Times Square and the calmness of Bryant Park. You’ll enjoy the following exclusive benefits when you choose the The Knickerbocker:
- Complimentary daily breakfast for two people
- Hotel credit valued at $100
- Early check-in/late check-out**
- Complimentary room upgrade**
The Peninsula New York is one of the more popular Columbia graduation hotels. When you use Luxurious Getaways Co. to book your stay, you can enjoy the following exclusive perks:
- Daily full breakfast for two people
- Complimentary 30-minute extension on any 50-minute body or face treatment
- Room upgrades*
- Early check-in and late check-out*
- Welcome note and welcome amenity
The Peninsula New York is one of the more popular Columbia graduation hotels. When you use Luxurious Getaways Co. to book your stay, you can enjoy the following exclusive perks:
- Daily full breakfast for two people
- Complimentary 30-minute extension on any 50-minute body or face treatment
- Room upgrades*
- Early check-in and late check-out*
- Welcome note and welcome amenity
One of the most high regarded and storied hotels in New York, you’ll enjoy the following exclusive benefits when you choose the St. Regis New York luxurious hotel:
- Daily full breakfast for two people in the hotel restaurant or in-room
- Hotel/Resort credit for experiences such as spa, dining, and recreation ($100)
- Room upgrades*
- Early check-in and late check-out*
- Welcome note and welcome amenity
Soaring above Times Square, the W New York Times Square offers an escape in the center of it all. You’ll enjoy the following Marriott Luminous exclusive benefits through Luxurious Getaways CO:
- Daily full breakfast for two people in the hotel restaurant or in-room
- Hotel/Resort credit for experiences such as spa, dining, and recreation ($100 per stay)
- Room upgrades*
- Early check-in and late check-out*
- Welcome note and welcome amenity
The global flagship of the Park Hyatt brand, this world renowned hotel should not be missed with some of the most spacious rooms in NYC along with some phenomenal benefits through Luxurious Getaways Co:
- Daily full breakfast for two people in the hotel restaurant or in-room
- Hotel/Resort credit for experiences such as spa, dining, and recreation ($100 per stay)
- Room upgrades*
- Early check-in and late check-out*
- Welcome note and welcome amenity
Utilizing the original home of the Museum of Modern Art museum, the Aman has pulled out all of the stops for this gorgeous hotel. You’ll enjoy the following exclusive benefits through Luxurious Getaways CO:
- Daily full breakfast for two people in the hotel restaurant or in-room
- Hotel/Resort credit for experiences such as spa, dining, and recreation ($100 per stay)
- Room upgrades*
- Early check-in and late check-out*
*Terms & Conditions apply
**Perks and upgrades may be subject to availability
Local Attractions
With no shortage of restaurants & attractions, New York offers something for everyone. If you’re a parent wondering what to do during Family Weekend, know that New York City offers plenty to see and do outside of visiting your child’s school. The city is filled with attractions for parents and families alike.
- Central Park: Arguably one of the most famous parks in the world, Central is the first public park built in America. With recreational facilities to a zoo, Central Park is a great destination to visit while visiting Columbia University.
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art: For art enthusiasts, a visit to The Met is a must stop. The Met is the largest art museum in America and be ready to spend countless hours wandering the museum's fine artwork. A tour is always recommended and you can even do self guided tours.
- Apollo Theater: The Apollo, known as “The Soul Of American Culture” has played a major role in the emergence of jazz, swing, bebop, R&B, gospel, blues, and soul — all quintessentially American music genres. Read more about the history here.
Riverside Park: Riverside Park stretches four miles from 72nd to 158th streets along the Hudson River, Riverside Park is widely regarded as Manhattan's most spectacular waterfront park where all New Yorkers and visitors can get some fresh air.
College Landmarks
Columbia’s campus is rich in history and architectural beauty. Don't miss these iconic landmarks at one of most established Ivy League institutions:
- Outdoor Sculpture: At the heart of the campus, Columbia’s sculpture of the Scholars’ Lion by Greg Wyatt stands on a large granite pedestal and faces East. It is a larger-than-life walking lion made in bronze.
- The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Art Gallery: One of the most popular art galleries on the campus of Columbia University, the gallery hosts a variety of different works and is a must visit!
- Columbia Greenmarket: Open on Thursdays and Sundays, this market serves a diverse population offering everything from dairy products (milk, yogurt, eggs, and cheese) to delectable baked items (breads, donuts, and something to cure that sweet tooth) .
Dining Options near Columbia University
New York is a culinary hotspot and destination and the culinary scene near Columbia University is no exception. With so many varieties of dishes and cuisines, you will have no shortage of options.
Student Favorites: Living in a city always on the move, Columbia students have plenty of quick food options and here are some Columbia Student Favorites: JJ’s Place for delicious American fare, Mama's Too for Italian food, Jerusalem Restaurant for middle eastern food, and Tom's Restaurant (made popular by Friends).
Must-Visit Restaurants: Explore restaurants like Jacob's Pickles for their famous southern comfort food, Tartina for some delicious Italian food, and Le Monde for an unbelievable French food experience.
Foodie Experiences: From extremely popular pizza tours to neighborhood specific food tours taking you to all the popular spots, New York City is a foodie destination. Reach out to booking@luxuioursgetawaysco.com for any recommendations on a perfect itinerary for your trip.
Events around Family Weekend
During Family Weekend, Columbia University organizes a variety of special events and gatherings that provide a deeper insight into campus life. Ranging from meet and greets with the faculty to special lectures, don’t miss out on a guided tour of the campus. Be sure to check the official Family Weekend schedule to make the most of your visit.
Travel Tips
Getting Around
Traveling to Columbia University will provide you with the choice for several options:
By Air: Getting to Columbia University by air is quick and easy, with the 4 airport options being Newark Liberty (EWR), John F Kennedy (JFK), Laguardia (LGA), and Westchester County (HPN) ranging from 30-60 minutes away by car or public transportation. Speak to our advisor by calling (833) 217-7427 who will be able to advise with the best airport and routing for your trip.
By Public Transportation: New York City boasts one of the most connected and easy to understand public transportation systems, which includes trains, buses, and the subway. New York city recently rolled out Contactless Pay, allowing you to tap and go for the Subway. Learn more about it here.
By Car: Given the limited parking in New York City, we recommend you take an Uber, Lyft, Revel, or a NYC Taxi to make your trip as stress free as possible.
Other Things to Note
Weather Considerations: Be sure to look into the weather forecast for New York City as weather conditions can change somewhat quickly. Be sure to pack accordingly and don’t worry if you forget something as New York offers some of the best shopping in the world!
Travel Times: Depending on the method of travel and time of day, travel times can vary. Be sure to research directions beforehand and sometimes walking and the subway can be your fastest predictable method of transportation.
Visiting a cherished friend or a loved family member at Columbia University allows for you to embrace all that New York has to offer from its rich history to vibrant culture. Be sure to book a perfect hotel near Columbia University, allow you to take full advantage of nearby attractions, iconic college landmarks, diverse dining venues, and weekend happenings will undoubtedly create a remarkable and unforgettable visit.
Do you have more questions? Check our FAQs to get them answered. Don’t see what you are looking for, email us at booking@luxuriousgetawaysco.com
