Travelers often find themselves caught between two extremes when visiting the Tri-State area: stay in the heart of Manhattan and deal with astronomical prices and cramped rooms, or stay too far away and lose hours to a grueling commute. The Hub Murray Hill offers the “Goldilocks” solution—a sophisticated, tranquil retreat that serves as a high-speed gateway to both the Big Apple and the hidden gems of Northern New Jersey.
Whether you’re here for a week-long family vacation or a tactical three-day business trip, here is why The Hub is the smartest “base camp” for your 2026 travels.
1. The Manhattan Connection: NYC at Your Fingertips
The biggest misconception about staying in the suburbs is that the city is “too far.” At The Hub, you are just a 10-minute walk (or 2-minute shuttle/rideshare) from the Murray Hill Train Station.
Seamless Transit via NJ Transit
The Gladstone Branch of the Morris & Essex Line is a traveler’s best friend.
- The Route: Catch a direct train to Hoboken Terminal, where you can immediately transfer to the PATH train or the NY Waterway Ferry.
- The Destination: Within 55 to 65 minutes, you can be stepping out into the World Trade Center, Chelsea, or Midtown Manhattan.
- The “One-Seat” Perk: On weekday mornings, there are limited direct trains that run straight into New York Penn Station in about 53 minutes.
The “Ferry First” Strategy
For an unforgettable arrival, take the train to Hoboken and switch to the ferry. For a few extra dollars, you get a world-class cruise past the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline—a much better experience than a crowded subway tunnel!
2. Beyond the City: Exploring Northern New Jersey
Many visitors miss out on the incredible culture and nature of Northern NJ because they are tethered to Manhattan. Staying at The Hub puts you in the center of the action.
The Shopping Capital
We are just 5.5 miles from The Mall at Short Hills. This is not your average suburban mall; it is a luxury destination featuring brands like Hermès, Chanel, and Gucci. Best of all? New Jersey has no sales tax on clothing and shoes, making it the premier place for a wardrobe refresh.
The Nature & History Loop
From our lobby, you are less than 20 minutes from:
- Thomas Edison National Historical Park: See the invention of the lightbulb in West Orange.
- Watchung Reservation: Over 2,000 acres of hiking, riding, and history.
- Turtle Back Zoo: Consistently ranked as the best zoo in the state.
3. On-Site Amenities Built for Travelers
Unlike many city boutique hotels that lack facilities, The Hub is fully equipped to be your “home away from home.”
- Moe’s Bistro & Bar: After a long day of sightseeing, you don’t need to search for dinner. Our on-site Mediterranean restaurant offers a sophisticated menu and live piano music on select nights.
- The Fitness Center: Our 24-hour gym was recently updated with professional-grade equipment, so you don’t have to break your routine.
4. Practical Travel Tips for the “Base Camp” Strategy
Download the Apps
To navigate like a pro, make sure you have the NJ Transit App (for train tickets) and the MTA TrainTime App (for NYC subways). Buying your tickets on the app for the Murray Hill station saves you time on the platform.
Timing Your Commute
If you’re heading into NYC for a Broadway show, aim for a mid-afternoon train. You’ll avoid the “rush hour” crowd of commuters heading back to Jersey and have plenty of time for a pre-theatre dinner in Hell’s Kitchen.
The Newark Liberty (EWR) Shortcut
We are only 12 miles from Newark Airport. If you are flying in, catch an Uber or Lyft to The Hub first. Drop your bags, freshen up in our rooms, and then head into the city.
Conclusion: Your Intelligent Choice in 2026
Modern travel is about making smart choices. Staying at The Hub Murray Hill isn’t about compromising on the NYC experience; it’s about enhancing it. By choosing a base that offers more space, better value, and access to the best of both New Jersey and New York, you ensure that every moment of your trip is enjoyable, not just the time spent at landmarks.