<p>It looks like I'll be travelling to NYC to move my freshman daughter into the dorms on August 27. Any suggestions for hotels in the area to stay at?</p>
<p>First of all, there aren't really any hotels in Morningside. You should stay somewhere on the west side (midtown west / upper west side) where you'll be a 15 minute subway ride / 10 min cab ride from Columbia.</p>
<p>Are you looking for the cheapest no-frills hotel? If so, go on travelocity or one of those websites and try to find a cheap hotel room.</p>
<p>If you want a decent hotel, pick whatever chain you like (Hyatt, Hilton, etc.) and book whatever property they have on the west side.</p>
<p>Our favorite Manhattan hotel is the Excelsior, on W. 81st between Central Park West and Columbus, right near the Museum of Natural History. Also near the #1 subway line to Columbia.</p>
<p>It's sometimes possible (with a little luck!) to get a room under $200.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.thelucernehotel.com/%5B/url%5D">http://www.thelucernehotel.com/</a>
<a href="http://www.excelsiorhotelny.com/%5B/url%5D">http://www.excelsiorhotelny.com/</a></p>
<p>Both are nice hotels and not too far from Columbia.</p>
<p>You can't beat Hotel Newton for Columbia parents looking for convenience and price. The Hotel is located at 2528 Broadway between 94th and 95th Street. They do not have a website. Their phone number is 212) 678-6500. You can use subway 1 or bus 104 to Columbia. There is also a Days Inn on 94th and Broadway. Book far in advance. If you know you are coming for parents weekend in October you should already have reservations becasue the Hotel Newton books up fast. Columbia also offers accomodations on campus for parents but it is not available during orientation. Also go to the Columbia and Barnard website and go to the vistors link and there are a list of recommended hotels.</p>
<p>The Beacon around 72nd and Broadway is fairly decent as well.</p>