Contrary to its name, you won’t find The Wall Street Inn directly on Wall Street. However, this delightful boutique hotel occupies a peaceful corner within the Financial District, a stone’s throw from its namesake and the iconic New York Stock Exchange. Its low-rise architecture harmonizes beautifully with neighboring buildings, evoking the quaint ambiance of 18th-century London, a refreshing departure from the towering skyscrapers typically associated with this area of Manhattan.
Stepping into The Wall Street Inn is akin to entering a time capsule, in the most enchanting way. The wood-paneled lobby, furnished with plush tufted leather sofas and illuminated by brass chandeliers, invites you to unwind. Gaze through the lead-paned windows, and you might easily imagine yourself transported to a cozy New England retreat or even historic Old England, far removed from the bustling energy of modern New York. Despite its classic, almost antique feel, this sturdy six-story limestone building is surprisingly modern, dating back less than 20 years, having previously housed offices of Lehmann Brothers during their more prosperous era.
The inn truly embraces its identity by offering a complimentary continental breakfast served in a cheerful, albeit slightly ornate, pink breakfast room. Adjacent to this, the lobby, adorned with wildly patterned curtains depicting colonial scenes and sailing ships, reinforces the timeless atmosphere. While undeniably charming, during a recent visit, a gentle refresh of the décor seemed like it would further enhance its appeal.
Comfortable Rooms with a Classic Touch
The guest rooms at The Wall Street Inn continue the traditional theme. Words like clean, homey, and pleasant accurately describe the accommodations. Expect to find wall-mounted wood headboards, crisp white linens accented with a copper-toned throw, elegant gold bed skirts, and subtly patterned wallpaper and carpeting. The elaborate gold-framed mirror adds a touch of vintage elegance, perhaps reminiscent of a bygone era.
Queen-bed rooms offer comfortable space for two, while king-bed rooms are notably spacious, especially by New York City standards. The charming old-style lead-paned windows, fitted with both shades and patterned curtains with valences, are a distinctive feature. Bathrooms are equipped with classic white pedestal sinks and practical tub/shower combinations, maintaining the inn’s overall understated elegance.
Amenities and Convenient Dining Options
Guests at The Wall Street Inn enjoy complimentary amenities including a continental breakfast, ensuring a pleasant start to the day. Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel, catering to the needs of modern travelers. For those seeking to maintain their fitness routine, a small fitness center is located in the basement, complete with a sauna and steam room.
While the inn itself doesn’t have a full-service restaurant, the surrounding Financial District is brimming with diverse dining options. From casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, the hotel’s website provides a helpful list of neighborhood recommendations. You’ll find no shortage of places to satisfy your culinary desires just steps from the inn’s front door.
Explore the Historic Financial District and Beyond
The Wall Street Inn’s location is ideal for those interested in immersing themselves in the Financial District and exploring New York City’s rich history. Landmarks such as Fraunces Tavern Museum, the historic ships at the South Street Seaport Museum, and the poignant Ground Zero memorial are all within easy reach. The neighborhood itself is a delight to explore on foot, with its captivating architecture featuring low-rise buildings and narrow, winding streets that echo the charm of old London.
For shopping enthusiasts, upscale retailers like Tiffany and Pink are conveniently nearby. Furthermore, The Wall Street Inn provides excellent access to downtown Manhattan destinations, including SoHo, Tribeca, the Lower East Side, Greenwich Village, the Meatpacking District, and the innovative High Line Park. These vibrant areas are easily accessible by subway, bus, taxi, or even a pleasant walk for those who enjoy urban exploration. Midtown Manhattan is approximately a 20-minute subway ride away, and Brooklyn is also just a short subway trip across the river, making The Wall Street Inn a well-connected base for exploring the entire city. The Wall Street and William Street subway stations are just a short walk from the hotel, and bus stops are also easily accessible.
A Site Steeped in History
Reflecting its location in one of New York City’s oldest areas, the site of The Wall Street Inn has a long and fascinating history dating back to 1660. Over the centuries, the plot and its immediate surroundings have been home to a synagogue, residences for a butcher and a sail maker, reflecting the evolving character of the neighborhood. The structural foundations of the current building were established in the late 19th century.
In the 1920s, the building underwent a significant renovation, expanding to its current six stories and receiving its limestone facade. It then became home to William H. McGee & Co., a marine insurance underwriting firm. Later, in the mid-20th century, it served as an annex for the prominent investment bank Lehmann Brothers, whose main headquarters was located nearby. In 1999, the bankers moved out, and The Wall Street Inn opened its doors, ushering in a new chapter for this historic address.
Value Tip: Weekend Stays
Keep in mind that prices at The Wall Street Inn typically decrease considerably on weekends, making it an even more attractive option for a weekend getaway in New York City.
