When planning your next trip, one of the first decisions you’ll face is where to stay. For many travelers, the age-old debate of hostel vs hotel comes into play. While hotels offer comfort and privacy, hostels provide affordability, community, and a more immersive travel experience.
Whether you’re a backpacker, solo adventurer, digital nomad, or just someone who loves to meet new people, hostels are an underrated gem worth considering—especially in the United States, where they’re evolving rapidly.
To help you discover your next budget-friendly adventure, we’ve compiled a list of the best hostels in the U.S., covering iconic cities and hidden gems. We’ll also explore how hostels compare to cheap hotels and why they might be the better option depending on your travel style.
Freehand Los Angeles – California
Located in the heart of downtown L.A., Freehand Los Angeles is a stylish hostel-meets-boutique-hotel hybrid that offers the best of both worlds. Housed in a historic 1920s building, this hostel is not only affordable but also impeccably designed with handcrafted interiors and local artwork.
Why it’s great:
- Rooftop pool and bar with skyline views.
- Shared and private rooms available.
- Award-winning restaurant on-site.
Hostel vs Hotel? At Freehand, you get luxury-level amenities for a fraction of the price, something rarely found in cheap hotels in the same area.
The Drifter – New Orleans, Louisiana
If you’re craving culture, music, and good vibes, The Drifter in New Orleans offers a funky, retro aesthetic and an inclusive, laid-back atmosphere. Located along the iconic Tulane Avenue, this hostel is designed for social travelers.
Why it’s great:
- Pool parties and a tropical courtyard.
- Eclectic décor and art installations.
- On-site coffee bar and food trucks.
Hostel vs Hotel? Most cheap hotels in New Orleans don’t come close to matching the community energy and design-focused ambiance that The Drifter offers.
HI Boston – Massachusetts
Boston can be expensive, but HI Boston keeps it budget-friendly while still offering proximity to key landmarks like Boston Common and the Freedom Trail. It’s part of the Hostelling International network, known for high standards and social responsibility.
Why it’s great:
- Daily activities and walking tours.
- Clean, modern, and centrally located.
- Environmentally sustainable practices.
Hostel vs Hotel? You’d be hard-pressed to find a cheap hotel in Boston that offers this level of service, especially with daily social activities built in.
Selina Chelsea – New York City, New York
NYC and budget travel don’t often go together, but Selina Chelsea breaks the mold. Positioned in the art-forward Chelsea neighborhood, this hostel blends coworking, wellness, and art into a creative hub for travelers.
Why it’s great:
- Ideal for digital nomads with coworking spaces.
- Rooftop terrace with skyline views.
- Wellness and fitness programs.
Hostel vs Hotel? With private room options and on-site wellness offerings, Selina competes with boutique hotels at a fraction of the cost.
The Wayfaring Buckeye Hostel – Columbus, Ohio
For Midwestern charm and a true community vibe, The Wayfaring Buckeye Hostel is a hidden gem. Popular with cyclists, students, and indie travelers, this spot is perfect for exploring the underrated city of Columbus.
Why it’s great:
- Outdoor hot tub and free bike rentals.
- Homey vibe with a community kitchen.
- Movie theater room and hammocks.
Hostel vs Hotel? The personality and amenities offered here far exceed what you’d get from a standard cheap hotel in Columbus.
NotSo Hostel – Charleston, South Carolina
Historic Charleston is filled with Southern charm, and NotSo Hostel lets you enjoy it on a budget. This cozy, independently-owned hostel is set in a historic house and fosters an eco-friendly, community-centric environment.
Why it’s great:
- Complimentary breakfast and tea/coffee.
- Bike rentals and group dinners.
- Charming neighborhood setting.
Hostel vs Hotel? A stay here feels more like visiting a friend’s home than checking into a cheap hotel—complete with Southern hospitality.
Gram’s Place – Tampa, Florida
Yes, there’s even a unique and affordable hostel in Tampa worth shouting about. Gram’s Place is a music-themed hostel inspired by legendary folk artist Gram Parsons. It’s an artsy, eccentric haven for free spirits.
Why it’s great:
- Treehouse-style rooms and rooftop decks.
- Live music and communal instruments.
- Memorable décor.
Hostel vs Hotel? If you’re considering cheap hotels in Tampa, Gram’s Place offers a cultural and artistic experience that you simply won’t get elsewhere.
Why Hostels Might Be the Better Option for You
Community and Connection
One of the biggest differences between a hostel vs hotel is the sense of community. Hostels often have shared kitchens, common rooms, and social events that encourage guest interaction. If you’re traveling solo, it’s a great way to meet people.
Cost Efficiency
Hostels are generally more budget-friendly than hotels, especially in popular tourist destinations. Whether you’re searching for a hostel in Tampa or a spot in Manhattan, you’ll typically pay significantly less than even the cheapest hotels.
Local Experience
Hostels often reflect the culture of their location. From the jazz-infused vibes of The Drifter to the folk-art flair of Gram’s Place, hostels give you a deeper, more localized travel experience.
Flexibility
Many hostels offer mixed-use spaces like coworking areas, yoga rooms, and even art galleries. If you’re a remote worker or creative, a hostel might be a more inspiring place to stay than a sterile hotel room.
Tips for Choosing the Right Hostel
- Read reviews carefully. Look beyond the star rating and read what travelers actually say.
- Check the amenities. Some hostels rival boutique hotels when it comes to perks.
- Location matters. Proximity to public transit or attractions can save you both time and money.
- Consider your vibe. Want peace and quiet? Look for smaller, independent hostels. Want to party? Go for hostels with bars and social events.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to choosing between a hostel vs hotel, the right choice depends on your travel style, budget, and what kind of experience you’re after. For those who value adventure, culture, and connection—not to mention saving a buck or two—hostels are a fantastic option.
From the buzzing streets of New York to the laid-back charm of Tampa, these hostels prove that the U.S. has a vibrant and diverse hostel scene worth exploring. Whether you’re looking for a hostel in Tampa, seeking alternatives to cheap hotels, or just want a new way to travel, the world of hostels is open, welcoming, and ready to surprise you.
So why not try something different on your next trip? You might just find that a hostel offers everything you need—and more.
Safe travels and happy hosteling!