We’ve seen hotel trends all across the board from underwater hotels to beer hotels and more.
The latest trend does more than provide a warm bed – it saves space! Micro hotels are making waves by optimizing both space and efficiency.
Ready to try one out? Check out our guide to the mini marvels known as micro hotels.
What is a micro hotel?
A micro hotel is a hotel created to optimize space and efficiency by using as minimal space as possible – while maintaining a comfortable stay. Many of these hotels offer communal areas for socializing.
The idea and design of micro hotels stem from capsule hotels and “pods” popular in Japan and other parts of Asia. For example, the Koyasan Guest House features capsule-rooms that “perfectly balances spaciousness and cocoon-like coziness, for a truly unique sleeping experience,” as well as regular rooms.
Take a gander at these photos and you’ll see what we mean by saving space and feeling cozy!
Where can I find a micro hotel?
Micro hotels are gaining traction on the accommodation front – which means you can find them in tons of major cities in the U.S. and other countries as they are becoming popular.
Motto by Hilton is a micro hotel set to open early in 2020 in various locations around the globe. In addition, Microtel by Wyndham hotels are located in 347 spots across North America and Asia.
Here are a few of our favorites:
Arlo Nomad & Arlo SoHo
Arlo Nomad is a micro hotel located just north of Madison Avenue in Manhattan, less than a 10-minute walk to the Empire State Building.
This hotel offers 250 rooms of typically about 150 square feet in size with a variety of options to choose from. Each room features complimentary fiber Wifi and a mini fridge.
The Arlo Roof Top bar draws a strong crowd as well as the various events that you can partake in during your stay including yoga and live music performances.
Arlo Soho is a micro hotel located south of Houston Street in Manhattan, in a trendy fun neighborhood that’s always worth a visit.
The hotel boasts 325 efficient rooms that use “expression without excess” to create beautiful spaces for all. As in Arlo Nomad, each room comes equipped with complimentary fiber Wifi and a mini fridge.
A few upscale design elements include automatic blackout shades, oversized floor-to-ceiling windows, and rain shower heads in some spaces.
In addition to the Manhattan locations, Nautilus by Arlo, another micro hotel, is located in South Beach, Miami. The beachy spot features rooms, suites, a pool, and poolside cabanas.
Hotel Hive
Hotel Hive is all for minimalism. The hotel’s slogan is “minimal, refined, clever design.” The efficient rooms provide guests with only what they need and nothing that they don’t need.
Nestled in the middle of trendy, fun, Washington D.C., Hotel Hive is a great spot for visitors to enjoy the area and return to a comfortable, private room. Each “hive” includes a Smart TV, free WiFi, USB charging ports, personal control of heating and cooling, under-bed luggage storage, Tivoli Bluetooth music, a private bathroom, and hairdryer.
Hotel Hive includes a bar for both coffee and cocktails as well as it’s very own pizza shop.
We understand all the buzz!
Citizen M – Tower of London
Citizen M, Tower of London location is located in the lovely city of London, England.
The 370 luxury space-saving rooms are located near Tower of London and the Tower Bridge – both incredible sights and experiences to see in London.
Enjoy wall-to-wall windows, complimentary Wifi, international charging spots, king-size beds, rain showers, and incredible views of one of Europe’s bustling cities. Enjoy spare time in the lobby, where you are made to feel at home – like your own living room! Enjoy coffee, pastries, and English feats in the cafe. Plus, rent out workspaces for meetings, calls, or quiet time if you need it.
Pod DC
Pod DC is a micro hotel located in Washington D.C. offering 245 efficient, well-appointed rooms that combine style, sophistication, and space-saving.
The efficient style and taste of these rooms are not lost during your stay or in your wallet! The rates are remarkably reasonable and each room comes with a comfy bed, media outlets, USB charging ports, and personal climate control to make sure you are feeling your absolute best.
Pod DC says #podlife features “an energetic and fun alternative to the typical hotel experience, featuring 3 unique social spaces open early until late for eating, drinking and meeting new friends.”
The Jane Hotel
The Jane Hotel is located in New York City’s West Village. The hotel was originally built in 1908 as a home for sailors and was restored in 2008 to be what it is today.
A little different than your average micro hotel, The Jane Hotel was inspired by luxury ship and train cabins. It uses “thoughtful design to pack maximum convenience into minimal space.” Step into the historic grand ballroom or eat at the Old Rose.
Standard Cabins resemble luxury ship cabins including ample storage, a TV, telephone with voicemail and free local calls, an in-room safe, and complimentary wifi. In addition, The Jane Hotel provides slippers and robes so you can walk down the hall to use the restroom.
YOTEL Boston
YOTEL Boston is located in Boston’s popular seaport district. The ergonomically-designed rooms optimize the space and help you save time and money.
The tech-driven approach allows guests to check-in and out using self-service terminals – unlike some standard hotels. In addition to fun events held at the hotel, you can the Sky Bar – a rooftop terrace that opens to a 270-degree panoramic view of the city and harbor.
Relax in the common area on the ground floor or enjoy breakfast and sandwiches all day. No hidden hotel fees here, but be sure to check out 13 Hidden Hotel Fees You Might Not Know About when you book accommodation.
First Cabin
First Cabin is located in several locations in Japan. The cabins are tiny, single rooms that include a bed, TV, control panel for the lighting and air conditioner, an outlet, free Wifi, and a safety box.
Each cabin uses an accordion-style door so it may not be soundproof. Floors are separated by gender. You can enter the cabin area with a security card key provided at check-in. Just enough space for what you need to do and none of the frills you would find at regular hotels!
ZIP by Premier Inn
ZIP by Premier Inn says, “Our idea is simple. Do the essentials brilliantly, then take away everything else.” We like it!
Zip into a ZIP in Cardiff, Wales. The rooms at this tiny hotel are super flexible – which means you can morph the room into a single bed, two single beds, or you can push the beds together to make a double.
The room includes a TV, a small bathroom with a power shower, body wash, towel, overhead storage and hangers. In addition, you’ll find snacks and drinks at the bar, workstations, and free Wifi. Zip in and zip out!
Now that you’ve seen our list of micro hotels and their time and money-saving savviness, where will you stay next? Did we miss any? Leave us a comment below!
Psst! Planning a hotel stay? Don’t forget to check out 19 Free Things You Can Score From Hotels before you go!
