The Vibe:
Located on a quiet, leafy block of the Upper West Side, the International Student Center is a true hidden gem in the city that never sleeps. It’s simple, social, and refreshingly down-to-earth. The perfect basecamp for curious travelers who’d rather make friends in a shared kitchen than fight for Wi-Fi in a fancy lobby.
What Makes It Different:
This place was built for cultural connectors, city explorers, and subway pros.
🏙️ Prime Upper West Side location — steps from Central Park and the subway
🛏️ Clean, cozy dorms in a classic NYC brownstone
🌍 Diverse, international crowd with true hostel spirit
🍽️ Communal kitchen and lounge for home-cooked meals and heart-to-hearts
🗽 Easy access to museums, Broadway, and all five boroughs
📚 A nonprofit hostel with a mission to foster global community
Why Travelers Book Here:
Because you don’t need luxury to experience New York, all you need is connection. The International Student Center is where budget travelers can find a sense of community in one of the world’s biggest cities. Come for the super cool facility in the prefect location, stay for the late-night chats and lifelong friends.
An old brownstone with big dreams and bigger conversations.
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Secure Storage
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Kitchen
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Workspaces
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Private Rooms
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Shared Rooms
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Wifi
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Tea & Coffee
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Hot Showers
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Towels
You love exploring eclectic city neighborhoods.
You’re traveling solo or with a group.
You want to travel like a local during your trip.
You seek a traveler-focused atmosphere and excellent service.
You’ll love this hostel if:
Hostel Policies
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Our reception is open daily from 8:00AM-10:00PM.
Check-in is available at 3:00PM to 10:00PM.
You may stop by after 8:30AM to drop off luggage (free of charge).
Please note, as a small hostel we do not operate a 24-7 reception desk. In the event of a travel delay, please contact us via text or WhatsApp at (929) 637-1318. -
Is there a curfew?
No. Once checked-in, guests have 24 hour access. The front desk is staffed 8am - 10pm.
Do the rooms have lockers to store personal belongings?
Yes, all of the shared rooms have lockers to store a laptop and small personal belongings. We have additional lockers in the Common Lounge. A key for your assigned locker is provided upon check-in.
Are there any quiet hours at the hostel?
The quiet hours are from 10:00pm to 8:00am. which means that at this time we ask guests to be respectful of people who want to rest
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Please cancel or make changes to your reservation at least two days before your arrival day.
We charge the full amount of your first night’s stay as a cancellation fee for last minute cancellations.
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1) A guest must be 18 or over unless traveling with a legal guardian AND booking a private room.
2) A valid, government-issued, photo ID is required. A passport if you are an international traveler and a state ID if a U.S. traveler.
3) We are a hostel for travelers, hence, unable to accommodate residents of the NYC Metro area.
4) A credit or debit card in your name for hostel reservation payments is required. Only Credit/Debit card payment is accepted.
5) In NYC the occupancy tax is 14.75% plus a $3.50 tax per night fee. Unlike other hostels and hotels, as a nonprofit, we do not collect tax or charge any additional lodging fees.
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No parking available.
New York City: A Budget Traveler's Dream
New York City, one of the most iconic destinations in the world, offers an incredible array of experiences for budget travelers. From its bustling streets and towering skyscrapers to its world-famous museums and cultural landmarks, the city is a melting pot of sights, sounds, and activities. With careful planning and a bit of savvy, travelers can explore the Big Apple without breaking the bank.
Affordable Attractions and Activities
One of the greatest appeals of New York City for budget travelers is the abundance of affordable attractions and activities. Central Park, located just half a block from the International Student Center (ISC), is a vast urban oasis offering free outdoor concerts, theater performances, and beautiful walking trails. The city’s numerous museums, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History, offer pay-what-you-wish admission policies, making them accessible to all.
Diverse Culinary Experiences on a Budget
New York City is a culinary paradise, offering a wide variety of dining options to suit every budget. From food trucks and street vendors to affordable ethnic eateries, visitors can savor flavors from around the world without spending a fortune. Iconic dishes like New York-style pizza and bagels can be enjoyed at wallet-friendly prices, and the city's many food markets, such as Smorgasburg and Chelsea Market, offer a plethora of delicious and affordable bites.
International Student Center Youth Hostel: The Ideal Budget Accommodation
For budget-conscious travelers seeking highly recommended places to stay in New York City, the International Student Center Youth Hostel is a top choice. Located in a beautiful, residential neighborhood in Manhattan’s Upper West Side, this landmark brownstone offers charm, comfort, and convenience.
Comfort and Convenience
The International Student Center (ISC) provides a variety of room types to cater to different preferences and budgets, including mixed dorm-style rooms, small private rooms, and a family/friends private suite. The hostel’s newly refreshed common areas, such as the Reception Room, Arts for PEACE Gallery, Lounge, Dining Area, Community Kitchen, and Garden, create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for all guests.
Prime Location
ISC's prime location on the Upper West Side places guests within easy reach of New York City's most iconic attractions. Just a half-block from Central Park, guests can enjoy one of the city's most beloved green spaces. The hostel is also close to restaurants, cafes, shops, and the subway, making it easy to explore the city's diverse neighborhoods and attractions. Nearby museums, food markets, and other amenities further enhance the convenience of staying at ISC.
Community and Connection
One of the standout features of the International Student Center Youth Hostel is its emphasis on community and connection. The hostel welcomes students, lifelong learners, and world travelers from near and far, providing ample opportunities to make new friends from around the globe. Whether traveling solo or with a group, guests will find a warm and inclusive environment at ISC.
Free Amenities and Services
ISC offers a range of complimentary amenities and services to enhance the guest experience. Free Wi-Fi, a community kitchen, and cozy common areas provide the comforts of home. The hostel's staff is dedicated to ensuring guests have a memorable stay, offering helpful tips and information about the city's attractions and activities.
Guest Reviews and Recommendations
The International Student Center Youth Hostel consistently receives positive reviews from guests. Travelers appreciate the friendly staff, clean facilities, and the hostel's charming atmosphere. High ratings and word-of-mouth recommendations make ISC a top choice for budget travelers visiting New York City.
Optimized for Budget Travelers
When searching for budget-friendly accommodations in New York City, the International Student Center Youth Hostel stands out as a top contender. Keywords like "affordable NYC hostel," "budget-friendly accommodation in New York City," and "highly recommended hostel in NYC" ensure that budget and experiential travelers can easily find ISC online.
New York City offers a wealth of experiences for budget travelers, and the International Student Center Youth Hostel provides the perfect base to explore this dynamic city. With its prime location, welcoming atmosphere, and modern amenities, ISC is the ideal destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable and affordable stay in New York City.
