The Standard Highline Meatpacking District

I just returned from an invigorating week-long trip to NYC, where I flew out to see the unveiling of Lauren Halsey’s new rooftop installation commissioned by The MET (Metropolitan Museum of Art). I’m thrilled to share in the coming days a detailed account of the excitement, drama, and pleasures that transpired over the whirlwind time away from home. Accommodations for our East Coast destination were chosen by my lovely travel companion, Miss Erin Christovale. Her selection brought us to The Standard Highline, located in the lively Meatpacking District in Downtown Manhattan. It had been a full decade since I had last stayed at this designed-focused party hotel which occupies a corner on the edge of the infamous/famous Hudson River.

Why Book?

The Standard Highline remains a sexy hotel albeit it is a bit worn and in need of an update. I lovingly refer to this property as a “sex hotel” because everyone I know, including myself, has enjoyed at least one really fun night in their rooms. While sharing this cheeky fact amongst an intimate crowd of academics, I was informed that Manhattan’s last hourly motel, Liberty Inn, which once shared part of its ground floor with the legendary gay S&M club The Anvil, is currently on the market and unfortunately, closing soon. Another historical queer destination soon-to-be-no-more in the Meatpacking District. It’s less than a 3 min walk from The Standard Highline.

A significant plus in booking The Standard Highline is that every room comes equipped with a view, whether it be a fabulous cityscape or a tranquil vista of the water. The hotel is raised 57 feet above street level which allows each room a unique experience by simply pulling back the curtains and peering out, making it an ideal location for voyeurs. The higher altitude also minimizes the noise from the street level, which is abundant in the city, but be warned, at times, you can hear the loud music playing from the rooftop club. I’m still processing that I heard MGMT’s 2010 hit, “Kids” being blasted on a Friday night at the hotel. It was as if I fell into a millennial time warp.

What The Standard Highline’s Rooms Are Like

It’s NYC baby, so every inch of the space is accounted for. The rooms are minimal with an edge - neutral colors, natural woods, and a shiny black finish. The bed is comfortable and low to the ground, with pillows and bedding that keep it light and comfortable. Sleep is crucial to my good mood, especially while on vacation, and I’m grateful that The Standard knows how to deliver proper rest to their guests. It’s a solid room, albeit tiny, with good air conditioning and a view that reveals something new and beautiful each day.

Although I believe the hotel is in need of a refresh, I appreciate that they’ve stayed true to The Standard ethos of luxury meets punk rock and haven’t redesigned to fit a new mold of lifeless hotels that are designed with the influencer experience in mind. Black robes and Davines products facilitate a chill-out vibe, while the built-in couch accompanied by a large black table ensures a last-minute Zoom gets scratched off your to-do list. Unfortunately, the glass showers have been updated and the large window overlooking the bed has been replaced with adjustable wooden blinds. The sinking tub remains, which is multi-functional, and is quintessential after a day of traversing the city.

What To Do Around The Standard Highline

I spent most of my NYC trip zipping across Downtown but it was important for me to have places near the hotel that I could pop into. If you decide to stay at The Standard Highline or another property in the Meatpacking District, here are some destinations I have experienced and would recommend.

I loved enjoying a late morning at the Whitney Museum of American Art (tickets: $25). On my most recent visit, I was enthralled by Morehshin Allahyari’s installation The Laughing Snake in the exhibition entitled Refigured located on the first floor of the museum. For a cappuccino and cold-pressed juice, Banter in the West Village was a solid option. The Red Radiance Juice ($8) made with watermelon, lime, and mint was refreshing and put me in a great mood. For lunch, I enjoyed one of the most delicious slices of pizza I have ever had at Filaga Pizzeria located inside Chelsea Market. The Prosciutto, made with Prosciutto di Parma, arugula, cherry tomatoes, stracciatella cheese, and balsamic glaze is a slice of pure pleasure on a plate. For mocktails and cocktails, Hav & Mar on 11th Ave delivered on libations and interior design.