voco The Franklin New York, an IHG Hotel

First Impressions

Walking up to voco The Franklin New York, an IHG Hotel on East 87th Street, you immediately notice how it feels more like a sophisticated townhouse than your typical Manhattan hotel. This four-star property sits quietly in the Upper East Side, and honestly, that’s exactly what makes it special — you’re right in the heart of New York but away from the tourist chaos. The entrance has this understated elegance that whispers rather than shouts, which I actually prefer when I’m traveling with my dog and don’t want to deal with overly formal lobbies.

Location & Neighborhood

The Upper East Side location is genuinely fantastic, especially if you’re traveling with pets. Central Park is literally a few blocks away — I mean, you can walk there in under five minutes, which is perfect for morning dog walks or evening strolls. The neighborhood has that residential feel with tree-lined streets, and there’s something refreshing about staying somewhere that locals actually live. You know what’s great? The area has plenty of pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus the sidewalks are wide enough that you’re not constantly navigating crowds with a leash in hand.

The Room Experience

The room I stayed in had this boutique hotel charm — not huge by any means, but thoughtfully designed with enough space for pet supplies without feeling cramped. The windows actually open (rare in NYC hotels), and the soundproofing is surprisingly good considering you’re in Manhattan. What impressed me most was the attention to cleanliness and the quality of the bedding — after a long day exploring the city with my travel companion, both human and four-legged, comfort really matters. The staff mentioned they’re quite accommodating with pet-friendly rooms, though you’ll want to confirm policies when booking.

Dining & Amenities

The restaurant serves kosher breakfast, which is actually pretty unique for this area and something I hadn’t expected. While pets aren’t allowed in the dining areas (standard policy), the staff was helpful about recommending nearby pet-friendly spots for meals. The hotel doesn’t have a full spa, but honestly, the service quality makes up for it — everyone from the front desk to housekeeping seemed genuinely friendly rather than just professionally polite. There’s no on-site parking, but that’s typical for this neighborhood, and they can direct you to nearby garages.

Why Pet Owners Love It

What really sets this place apart for pet travelers is the combination of location and atmosphere. You’re close enough to Central Park that your dog gets plenty of exercise, but you’re also in a quieter part of the city where evening walks feel peaceful rather than overwhelming. The staff understands that pet owners have different needs — they’re flexible about check-in times if you mention you’re traveling with animals, and they don’t make you feel like you’re causing trouble. Plus, couples consistently rate the location highly (I can see why), so it works whether you’re on a romantic getaway or a family trip with your furry family member.

Pet friendly hotels line waterfront promenades, mountain villages, and city squares with water bowls at every corner.