These 6 micro hotels prove less is more

When traveling for business or pleasure, many of us don’t “hang out” in our hotel rooms. For culture vultures and adventure seekers, rooms are just a place to sleep and shower. Some innovative hoteliers have taken notice of such travelers and are now offering small, functional, economical rooms with character, and a large socially attractive communal space conducive to getting to know other travelers. Here are six micro hotels we love.

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Marriott Moxy Hotel, Seattle

With an urban-meets-industrial vibe, guests at the Marriott Moxy can socialize in the lobby on the teeter-totter or challenge each other to a fierce game of foosball. The minimalistic rooms have just enough space for a king-sized bed and a luggage rack. Meanwhile, business travelers can get down to work by utilizing the writing wall and projector with monitor.

Pod 39 Hotel, New York

Located in midtown Manhattan, the Pod 39 Hotel is close to the action, while offering an easy escape from fast-paced city life. When you’re not sleeping in your bunk bed, head down to the Playroom Lounge to pick up a game of ping pong, people watch with your pooch, or plug in and dive into work. Over 21? Head to the rooftop for tacos and tequila with a view.

Freehand, Los Angeles

Save some dough at the Freehand in Los Angeles by bunking with up to eight friends (and your dog), or be adventurous and lodge with strangers (women-only rooms available) in a shared room at this hostel-hotel hybrid in downtown LA. Take in the views from the rooftop pool or with a signature cocktail at the Broken Shaker.

Yotel, Boston

Surrounded by the Boston Harbor, the YOTEL Boston in the Seaport District offers luxury “cabins”  featuring mood lighting, robot room service delivery and rain showers. Guests can mix and mingle at the 12th floor Sky Lounge or book a business meeting at the ground floor’s Club Lounge.

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Hotel Hive, Washington, D.C.

The small, but innovative “hives” at the Hotel Hive are the perfect home base from which to explore nearby sights. The one- to two-person rooms are 125 to 250 square feet, but can be adjoined to create a bigger hive for family and friends traveling together. Save even more money by booking a windowless basement room. Fuel up on a breakfast, salads or sweet pizza at &pizza or create your own cocktail made with locally-sourced spirits at &bar.

Rolling Huts, Washington

For a unique camping experience, the Rollings Huts in Washington are comfy and have more amenities than you’ll find in a tent (including Wi-Fi). You’ll still have to deal with a port-o-potty and outdoor faucet, but the mountain views are worth it. Embrace the outdoors with floor-to-ceiling windows, a shower in a barn and a barbecue for grilling your favorite meal.

citizenM, New York

What the citizenM hotel in New York’s Times Square lacks in room size, it makes up for in expansive social spaces that are comfortable and inviting. From the 21st-floor bar overlooking the city to the lobby featuring couches made for lounging, communal tables for working or playing cards, and self check in/check out, this hotel has a modern twist on traditional hotel amenities.

Tagged: Boston, California, Los Angeles, New York, Seattle, Washington DC