Hotel Review: Moxy Downtown NYC

On a recent trip to New York City, I stayed at Moxy Downtown NYC, part of the Marriott family. This hotel markets itself as young, playful, and energetic—and that’s exactly what you get. It’s in a fantastic location, but it does come with a few caveats, especially if you’re a wheelchair user.

Location, Location, Location

If you’re looking for convenience, Moxy Downtown delivers. It’s within walking distance of the Brooklyn Bridge, the 9/11 Memorial, the Oculus, and One World Trade Center. You’ll find plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. I’d recommend grabbing sushi at Nobu or a classic New York slice at Joe’s Pizza—both within easy reach.

The Room: Compact and Clean

The room was clean and modern, but very tight. Hallways are narrow, and the room layout only really works if you use a small manual wheelchair. Turning space is limited, and maneuvering takes some effort.

The bathroom was also quite snug. There was a small ledge in the shower, and like most ADA-compliant bathrooms in the U.S., there was only one grab bar on the wall. Functional, but not ideal for everyone. On the bright side, the bed height was great for easy transfers.

The Vibe: Young, Lively, and Loud

This is not a quiet hotel. Moxy Downtown is popular with young couples, travelers, and party-goers. The overall vibe is energetic, with music and chatter as part of the background noise almost all the time.

You check in at the street-level entrance, then take an elevator up to the bar and lounge area, which includes a surprising addition—a small indoor basketball court. From the first floor, you can then take another elevator up to your room. It’s a fun, urban setup, but if you’re seeking peace and quiet, this may not be the spot for you.

Staff & Service

The staff was friendly, but not always professional. Think more casual and informal hospitality than polished hotel service. That might suit some travelers, especially if you're looking for a laid-back atmosphere.

Room With a View

A definite highlight was the view from my window—looking out over the NYC buildings gave the otherwise small room a bit of an expansive feel. It reminded me I was right in the Big Apple, the city that never sleeps.

Final Thoughts

Moxy Downtown NYC is a great option if you want a central, lively hotel and don’t mind the noise or the limited space. It works for manual wheelchair users with smaller chairs, but it’s not fully accessible by most standards. The energy is young, the location is unbeatable, and the amenities are trendy—but make sure it matches your travel style. The hotelroom is fine for a weekend but I wouldn't recommend it for a longer stay.