About The William Vale
The William Vale is a landmark 22-story luxury hotel and cultural hub in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Opened in September 2016, it was one of the first large-scale modern hotels in the neighborhood (www.archpaper.com ). Its striking design – by architects Albo Liberis – uses an exposed diagonal steel “exoskeleton” motif that lifts the tower’s mass up on large trusses (www.archilovers.com ) (foresyteapp.com ). Every guestroom (a total of 183 rooms and suites) features floor-to-ceiling windows and a private balcony with sweeping views of Manhattan or Brooklyn (voyagearound.com ) (foresyteapp.com ). This was a deliberate engineering choice to maximize skyline views: in fact, nearly every room in the building has an outdoor balcony, a rarity in New York City (foresyteapp.com ). The William Vale quickly earned praise for its style: Vogue hailed it as “the most fashionable new hotel” and Harper’s Bazaar called its interiors “eye-catching” and “innovative” (www.archilovers.com ). Its modern industrial motif – warm wood, stone and metal accents – was created by Toronto’s Studio Munge in collaboration with the architects (www.archpaper.com ) (www.archilovers.com ).
Signature amenities make this venue stand out. On the roof (22nd–23rd floors) is *Westlight*, a panoramic cocktail bar and lounge by James Beard Award–winning chef Andrew Carmellini, with 360° skyline views and a menu of craft drinks and small plates (www.thewilliamvale.com ) (www.archilovers.com ). From Westlight’s terrace you can see Manhattan shimmering just a short stone’s throw away (therealdeal.com ). Adjacent is the 4,840-square-foot **Vale Pool deck**, famous as the city’s longest outdoor hotel pool (www.thewilliamvale.com ). On sunny days guests and day-pass holders lounge on chaise longues, order cocktails from a poolside bar, and enjoy Brooklyn’s waterfront vista. The rooftop also hosts *Vale Cinema*, an open-air movie series screening cult films under the stars (www.thewilliamvale.com ). Elsewhere in the building, Andrew Carmellini’s NoHo Hospitality group runs **Leuca** (a southern Italian restaurant with wood-fired pizzas and pasta), the bakery-style **Hearth and Buff** (casual Italian-American fare), and an Airstream trailer called *Mister Dips* serving hand-breaded fried chicken in a second-floor courtyard (therealdeal.com ) (voyagearound.com ). Together, these venues make The William Vale a year-round destination for dining and nightlife in Brooklyn.
The William Vale is not just a hotel; it has become a cultural touchstone in Williamsburg. It brought a “new level of sophistication” to the once-industrial neighborhood’s hospitality scene (therealdeal.com ). Tall and gleaming, it literally towers over the 4–6 story brick warehouses nearby, earning one broker’s quote: “It’s something taken out of South Beach and planted in the middle of Williamsburg” (therealdeal.com ). This modern, mixed-use complex includes not only guest rooms but 6 floors of office space and 40,000 sq ft of landscaped terraces (with green roofs and public plazas) (www.archpaper.com ) (www.archilovers.com ). Beneath the tower the lobby is relatively compact (with a sculptural painting by local artist Marela Zacarías as a focal point (voyagearound.com )), but above you’ll find a bold public plaza underneath the truss and a second-floor terrace called *Vale Park* (15,000 sq ft of outdoor lounge space, used for events and relaxation) (www.archilovers.com ). The hotel’s impeccable design and Westlight’s awards have earned it cult status; for example, Eater magazine named Westlight “Design of the Year,” and Condé Nast Traveler included the Vale among Brooklyn’s most coveted destinations (www.archilovers.com ) (foresyteapp.com ). For visitors, the combination of skyline views, artful decor, and creative programming make The William Vale as much a local institution as any concert hall or gallery in New York.
Events and Programming
The William Vale maintains a busy calendar of cultural and entertainment events, blending community gatherings with boutique performances. Its official description touts a “cross-disciplinary experiential calendar” featuring creativity from Brooklyn and beyond (www.thewilliamvale.com ). Indeed, weekly happenings are common: for example **Leuca Restaurant** hosts live jazz every Thursday evening (spring through fall), often packed with east-side locals and visitors enjoying cocktails to live music (www.thewilliamvale.com ). The rooftop *Vale Cinema Series* shows cult classics (like *Clueless* or *Hocus Pocus*) on the 23rd-floor Turf Club at Westlight; these open-air screenings begin after sunset with themed cocktails and snacks (www.thewilliamvale.com ). Seasonal highlights include a July Fourth party on the rooftop (complete with fireworks and panoramic views) and Pride-themed pool parties in June (www.thewilliamvale.com ) (www.thewilliamvale.com ). Every October the hotel throws a free-family “Fall Block Party” in Vale Park (with Pet Day and Kids Day activities) (www.thewilliamvale.com ). The Vale also supports the arts — for example, in 2020 the Alvin Ailey dance company filmed in the hotel suites, and the Wall Street Journal collaborated on a Frida Kahlo–inspired art-and-scent event here (www.thewilliamvale.com ) (www.thewilliamvale.com ). Business events are also frequent: the Vale Ballroom (a 4,096 sq ft multi-purpose hall) hosts weddings, conferences, and galas (it handles up to 320 standing guests or 240 seated (www.thewilliamvale.com )), and smaller meeting rooms on the lower floors accommodate panels and workshops. In short, visitors to The William Vale can often find something exciting going on — whether it’s tasting a seasonal cocktail on the sky terrace, dining al fresco with a jazz trio, attending a rooftop film showing, or enjoying one of the hotel’s pop-up events and collaborations.
Tickets and Booking
Most venue bookings at The William Vale are handled through its official website or by contacting the hotel directly. There is no general public box office on-site, but the hotel publishes an **Events Calendar** on its site where you can browse upcoming programs and “Get Tickets” for ticketed events (www.thewilliamvale.com ). For example, the Vale Cinema Series sells tickets online in advance (often via Eventbrite); these generally range around $30–$45 per person and include a reserved spot on the rooftop and movie admission (www.thewilliamvale.com ) (www.eventbrite.com ). Arts, dining or cocktail events like concerts/film shows will note pricing there. By contrast, routine experiences like visiting Westlight or Leuca do not require tickets — but **reservations** are strongly recommended, especially for outdoor sunset seating. Westlight maintains a reservation list (accessible via its website) for parties Thursday–Sunday and notes all guests must be 21+ after 6 pm (www.westlightnyc.com ). Leuca accepts reservations for its two dining rooms, and it also serves guests on a first-come bar basis. Day-passes for the pool can also be booked through the hotel (see the “Resort Pass” program below).
For popular events or holidays, plan to book well ahead. Rooms at The William Vale fill up quickly, so any associated event tickets (or dinner reservations) should be purchased as soon as they are announced. The hotel’s front desk (phone or email) can assist with bookings for private events or group rates, and sometimes holds last-minute availability for shows or restaurant seating. At the very least, sign up for the Vale’s email newsletter or follow its social media to catch event announcements. In normal operation (i.e. outside of pandemic restrictions), you typically pay for admission or food/drinks on-site (credit cards are accepted at restaurants and bars). There is no service fee or cover charge at the door — but all prices in-house are upscale (cocktails often run $15–$25 each (voyagearound.com ), and cuisine is fine-dining level). In summary: check the online calendar for any event you want to see, book early via the links provided, and for regular dining make a reservation to ensure entry.
Seating and Layout
The William Vale offers a variety of indoor and outdoor seating areas, each suited to a different experience. The rooftop **Westlight Bar** (22nd floor) has a mix of cozy lounge seating and high-top tables line up along the floor-to-ceiling windows. There is no general admission stand-up area; seating is either in the main indoor lounge or on the open-air terrace (the latter preferred for sunset views). Guests often wait in line for the Westlight elevator, but Vale hotel guests can access a dedicated elevator bank to breeze past the crowd (voyagearound.com ). For the best view at Westlight, reserve a table by the windows or on the terrace. Note that Westlight is usually quite busy in the evenings, and dim lighting / lounge music create an energetic vibe. Directly above Westlight is the *Turf Club* (the projected screen area for films) on a platform with folding chairs during cinema nights (www.thewilliamvale.com ).
Downstairs, **Leuca** (lower level by Broadway) is a large restaurant with two distinct rooms: one bright and tile-lined, the other warmly paneled. It has booth tables ideal for groups and a bar area. While Leuca is mostly seated dining, it occasionally leaves a few stools at the bar for walk-in patrons. Adjacent to Leuca is *Hearth & Buff*, a casual cafe/bakery and sandwich shop, with roughly counter-order service and shared table seating. The second-floor **Vale Park** terrace has lounge chairs and firepits open to guests of Mister Dips or event attendees; seating there is first-come. The **Vale Ballroom** (lower level) has a flexible banquet layout: chairs and tables can be arranged banquet, classroom or theatre style up to 240 seats (www.thewilliamvale.com ). In this venue, a central column-free space accommodates workshops, weddings or presentations with high ceilings. Key to note: the Ballroom is partially below ground but thanks to its 27-foot height it feels voluminous (www.archpaper.com ). For general admission pop-up events (like block parties or outdoor yoga), people mingle on the pool deck (4th floor) or Vale Park. During such gatherings, standing room is informal – there are usually a few picnic tables or lounge seating, but guests also spread out on the grass turf.
Acoustically, the Vale is set up more for conversation and music than big concerts. Westlight’s speakers (for film or DJ events) are tuned for casual listening – expect ambient lounge music on weeknights and occasional live jazz. It’s best for unobstructed skyline views: indeed, the rooftop bar’s railings were engineered so pictures and sightlines aren’t blocked (foresyteapp.com ). Because of the building’s steel framing, there are no obstructed views from any window seat; you won’t find any columns or pillars cutting across a balcony. For visitors with mobility concerns, note that the hotel’s main amenities are vertically spread: the pool and Vale Park are on the 4th floor (a short elevator ride from the lobby), while restaurants are on the lower levels and the bar is up top. The lobby itself is compact, so arriving guests often head straight to the elevators after check-in. Overall, the Vale offers a mix of open-air sky decks and modern indoor lounges — you’re equally likely to find a crowd lounging by the pool or wrapped around a rooftop cocktail table.
Getting There and Parking
The William Vale is located at 111 North 12th Street (at Wythe Avenue) in north Williamsburg, Brooklyn. It sits just one block from the East River waterfront. The nearest subway station is Bedford Avenue on the L line (east-bound toward Manhattan); it is about two blocks (0.1–0.2 miles) east of the hotel. The Metropolitan Avenue exit of the L is also close by, and the later-night G train (Metropolitan Ave station) is about half a mile to the north. For subway service to Manhattan, the L provides a direct route via the 14th Street Tunnel (21 minutes to 14th St, Union Square; 30 minutes to 6th Ave/Midtown). Bus service includes the B62 (along Bedford, connecting to other Brooklyn lines and across the Williamsburg Bridge) and the B32 (on Driggs Ave/Broadway) which also heads south.
Water transit is an option: the NYC Ferry’s East River route has a stop at North Williamsburg (Northeast corner of N. 6th Street & Kent Avenue), about 0.3 miles from the hotel. This ferry connects Williamsburg with Midtown Manhattan and other East River locations. Rideshares and taxis can drop off right outside on North 12th Street; just be aware that traffic on Broadway (parallel to the hotel) can be heavy during rush hours. Walking from the hotel, you’re a 5–10 minute stroll north to Domino Park and McCarren Park, or south to Bedford Avenue’s shopping corridor and Trader Joe’s. In fair weather the Manhattan Bridge pedestrian path (at Canal Street) is also within walking distance to the south, offering another way back to Manhattan.
Parking at The William Vale is on-site and valet-only. A subterranean garage is accessible via the N. 12th Street entrance (just west of the lobby). Valet service is available 24/7: **rates** are shown at the garage entrance. Typically, hotel guests pay about $50 for 24 hours of valet parking, while non-guests pay $55 (www.thewilliamvale.com ). There are also hourly and overnight non-valet (self-parking) options shown: e.g. 1 hr for $12, 3 hrs $20, up to $25–30 for 10–12 hours (www.thewilliamvale.com ). A flat $42 rate is often charged for event parking when large gatherings occur (www.thewilliamvale.com ). The garage also accommodates electric vehicles (with charging stations): Tesla owners pay $15 plus charging fees, and other EVs $25 (www.thewilliamvale.com ). Valet parking can usually be billed to your room, or paid at checkout by credit card.
If you prefer not to use the hotel garage, there are public garages and street parking nearby, but Williamsburg parking is heavily regulated (alternate-side street cleaning, 2-hour meters, and residential permits on many blocks). Streets here are mostly paid metered parking (free nights/weekends in some zones), so do watch the signs. For most visitors, the hotel valet is the simplest option. For visitors using public transit, arriving by L train or ferry is often easier than driving into North Brooklyn. For late-night trips out, rideshares are plentiful (drop-offs at the 12th St entrance). In short, The William Vale is very centrally located for Williamsburg but reserve extra time for any Manhattan-bound travel during peak hours due to potential delays.
Inside the Venue
Visitors feel the modern and open atmosphere as soon as they step through the doors. The ground-floor lobby has 24/7 reception and security; guests should have an ID and room key (or reservation) ready. After check-in, go through the doors and elevators to reach the restaurants, bar or pool. All public areas are chic and airy: the lobby’s palette of marble and wood (plus curated art pieces) gives a calm, gallery-like vibe (foresyteapp.com ). Security procedures are minimal: bag checks are not the norm, but large bags or coolers may be searched at bar entrances. During events (like movie nights or conference gatherings), expect staff and maybe metal detectors at access points to the roof or event space.
Food and Drink: The hotel’s bars and restaurants open to the public are managed by well-known chefs, so quality is high. Westlight Bar (22nd floor) serves innovative cocktails and snacks, and it accepts reservations. Leuca (below street level) is a full-service Italian restaurant with its own bar and a focus on house-made pasta and pizzas. There is also a bakery-style cafe (Hearth) and the Mister Dips chicken trailer on the second floor. In-room dining is available 7–11 am (breakfast) via Leuca’s menu (voyagearound.com ). The staff are professional and helpful – TripAdvisor reviewers often mention the personable doorman and concierge.
Security and Access: Westlight enforces an age limit (21+) after 6 pm (www.westlightnyc.com ), so be prepared to show ID if you visit in the evening. Leuca and the pool area are family-friendly (children can stay for dining and pool with guests), but no lifeguard is on duty at the pool (it’s only open May–Sept, typically 8am–8pm (www.thewilliamvale.com )). The fitness center (on the pool floor) and business center are open to hotel guests. Fire alarms throughout the hotel include both audible and visual alerts (www.thewilliamvale.com ), and evacuation routes are clearly marked. Free Wi-Fi is available in all spaces. The building is fully non-smoking inside, with only designated outdoor smoking areas (no cigarettes or vaping inside rooms or lounges). Service animals are welcomed; other pets are not allowed except for special events.
Coat and Luggage: There is no public coat check at the bar, though on winter nights staff will often offer to hang coats. The front desk can store luggage before check-in or after checkout. Many guests simply leave coats and bags in their rooms or carry them (backpacks and purses of any size are fine in public areas).
Connectivity and Tech: The venue feels up-to-date: there are power outlets in most seating areas (especially in guest rooms), and USB charging cubes in many drawers. The lobby has digital service stations if you need to print or fax documents. The rooftop bar has its own audio equipment for events; for general visitors the music is background lounge music. Cell coverage on the roof can be spotty due to the height, but Wi-Fi often extends up from the lobby through Westlight. Moderately loud conversation is fine anywhere, and you will find charging stations (and even Tesla EV chargers) in the parking level (www.thewilliamvale.com ) if you’re staying.
Atmosphere: The ambience edge varies by area. Westlight is lively after dark, with dim lighting and DJs or bands on select nights. It can get breezy on the outdoor terrace in evenings; the website even recommends dressing in layers for rooftop events (www.eventbrite.com ). Leuca has a relaxed, trattoria feel suitable for casual dinners or business lunches. The pool deck (called Vale Pool) has a festive, resort-like air in summer, with lounge music and bartenders taking orders on loungers. Positive reviews emphasize that service throughout the property – from the front desk to the rooftop staff – is “friendly, relaxed, and attentive” (voyagearound.com ). Expect a warm Brooklyn welcome with a high level of personal service.
Nearby Amenities
Williamsburg is known for its vibrant dining and nightlife scene, and many of the best spots lie within a short walk of the Vale. Across the street is the **Wythe Hotel**, another boutique landmark with bars (Time Out Market Brooklyn) and restaurants. Nearby eateries include Lilia (James Beard–winner Missy Robbins’s acclaimed Italian at 567 Union Avenue), Maison Premiere (oysters and absinthe at 298 Bedford Ave), and Roberta’s (famous pizza at 261 Moore St) – all within a mile. For tacos and burritos, locals recommend Los Mariscos or Casa Publica a few blocks west; for breakfast or brunch, Katz’s Deli on Bedford Ave (a Williamsburg outpost of the classic) and Cafe Colette are popular. If your group loves brewpubs, **Brooklyn Brewery** (79 N 11th St) is just one block north, offering tours and local beer. Domino Park – an 11-acre waterfront park – is only two blocks east, with a boardwalk, playgrounds, and farmer’s market (seasonal). McCarren Park pool and fields lie to the north at Driggs/Berry, and the Bedford Avenue shopping corridor (with boutiques, record stores and cafes) runs a few blocks south.
Hotels in the vicinity for friends or overflow: apart from The William Vale and Wythe, there’s the Pod Brooklyn (Hampton Inn–style, a few blocks east) and boutique rooms along Bedford. For overnight parking or alternative stays, check Bedford Avenue garages (Impark at 101 Bedford), or Airbnbs in Williamsburg and nearby Greenpoint. There are also plenty of cabanas in the neighborhood: the NYC Ferry, buses and the L-train make Midtown/Lower Manhattan easily reachable (and late-night subway service has resumed to Manhattan). For pre-show drinks or late-night snacks, Bedford Ave is lined with bars and taquerias that stay open late. Taxis and ride-shares are plentiful here, but if you plan to stay late make sure to arrange your pick-up point (e.g. N. 12th St curbside). Overall, you won’t find yourself at a loss for food or lodging: the hotel staff can recommend nearby restaurants in any style – from laid-back to Michelin-starred – or suggest local pubs if you want a beer.
What Makes This Venue Special
The William Vale stands out because it combines cutting-edge design with urban Brooklyn culture. Architecturally, it’s a bold modern statement – the first of its size in Williamsburg – and it literally transformed the skyline. Its use of high-quality materials and unique features (like the giant sculpted trusses and wraparound balconies) make it an eye-catcher on Google Street View or Instagram photos. Inside, every detail is intentional: Vogue and other outlets noted the polished marble-and-wood lobby and glowing LED-lit staircases as refreshing in a borough known for gritty brick. The rooftop is a major draw: Westlight is repeatedly listed among New York’s top skybars for its unparalleled 360° panorama (www.archilovers.com ) (voyagearound.com ). Few hotels let you attach a movie screen under the stars on the same deck where you sip craft cocktails. Likewise, Vale Pool is special – touted as Brooklyn’s largest outdoor pool deck (foresyteapp.com ) – offering a South Beach–style sun deck with a Manhattan skyline backdrop. The juxtaposition of an Airstream food trailer (Mister Dips) in a second-floor courtyard gives the place a playful, Instagrammable vibe (therealdeal.com ).
Culturally, the Vale mattered too: it marked Williamsburg’s arrival on the luxury hospitality map (therealdeal.com ). Its presence spurred more activity along the waterfront (the adjacent Domino Park and residential towers followed soon after) and it regularly hosts events celebrating local creativity. The William Vale has also won design accolades (for example, Westlight took an Eater Design award), and it’s a hit with visiting artists and musicians who enjoy its swag and views. Local visitors often cite the Vale as Brooklyn’s answer to the midtown luxury experience: there’s an instant “wow” factor as you step off the street and ascend to a breezy rooftop lounge overlooking Manhattan lights. Simply put, The William Vale is special because it feels like a high-design urban resort, yet deeply rooted in its Williamsburg setting. It manages to be at once a glamorous party spot and a laid-back neighborhood hangout. Both artists and executives find it appealing – whether they’re celebrating a wedding in the Vale Ballroom, attending a jazz night at Leuca, or lounging by the pool on a summer day.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The William Vale is fully ADA-compliant (www.thewilliamvale.com ). It has ramps from North 12th Street to the lobby, wide accessible entrances, elevators with Braille buttons, and visual/audible alarms (www.thewilliamvale.com ). All public spaces (restaurants, Westlight, meeting rooms) are wheelchair-accessible via elevator (www.thewilliamvale.com ). Accessible guest rooms (with roll-in showers, grab bars, etc.) are available – ask when booking. If you have mobility needs, you can verify details with the front desk; staff will be happy to assist with accessible routes to any part of the hotel (www.thewilliamvale.com ).
What to Bring/Not Bring: ID and credit card are recommended for all guests (to check IDs for bars and to hold incidentals). Outside food/drinks and large coolers are prohibited. There is a no-smoking policy inside (only breathe easy outside). The rooftop gets cool after sunset, so bring a light jacket or shawl (www.eventbrite.com ). Because rooftop events are weather-dependent, check event emails or call ahead to confirm that an open-air evening program is still on. Guests who plan to visit the pool should bring swimwear and sunscreen – note that pool access is seasonal (May–September) and may require a reservation or day-pass for non-guests. Electricity and internet are plentiful, but you might still want a portable charger for devices, as outlets in Westlight’s outdoor seating are scarce.
Age Restrictions and Dress Code: There is no formal dress code at The William Vale, but smart-casual attire is recommended (many patrons dress up a bit for Westlight and Leuca). No flip-flops or sportswear are enforced, but observers note that Westlight skews fashionable and men are typically in long pants or jeans. Families with children are welcome during the day (and are often seen at Leuca or the Pool), but Westlight enforces a strict 21+ policy after 6 pm (www.westlightnyc.com ). Many visitors bring a camera or smartphone – photography is allowed (and even encouraged at the scenic viewpoints) – just be courteous if professional equipment is large, and know that tripods or press passes would require prior approval.
Timing and Lines: Westlight can get very busy at sunset on weekends. If you want an outdoor table with the best view, arrive 45 minutes before sunset and get in the reservation queue early (voyagearound.com ). The hotel has separate elevators for guests vs. public bar visitors, but waits can still reach 10–15 minutes during peak. Because of this, many local patrons treat Westlight more like a bar/lounge than a nightclub – expect a friendly but brisk service pace and rotating seating. In contrast, Leuca is huge and usually easier to get a table (especially for breakfast/lunch). The pool deck is laid-back in summer; lounges are first-come, so weeknights are quietest.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t underestimate the size of the building – it has several elevator banks. If you find yourself queued up at the lobby elevator and you’re a hotel guest, ask staff if you can use the private bank to avoid the crowd (voyagearound.com ). Also, do not assume kids can join an evening drink event at Westlight – you will be turned away if they are under 21. If attending an event, be mindful that late arrivals may not get in if capacity is reached. And remember that outside addresses in North Brooklyn can be confusing; if driving, double-check GPS carefully (the hotel entrance is on North 12th Street). Finally, tipping is customary in US restaurants and bars: tips of 15–20% for good service are expected.
Age and ID: Anyone 21 or older should keep a government ID handy for all bar areas after 6 pm. Children and babies are allowed in restaurants and the pool area (when accompanied by parents), but they can’t enter Westlight or attend 21+ events. The hotel’s concierge recommends any young families arriving by 5 pm to consider having dinner earlier to avoid the dinner rush.
Connectivity & Apps: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout. Many guests find it helpful to download rideshare or city-transit apps (like Uber, Lyft or Citymapper) on their phones – the Vale’s central location makes rideshares easy to book, but local regulations may affect surge pricing during events. The William Vale does not use paper tickets for events (they are emailed or mobile-based), so make sure you have the digital ticket or confirmation on your phone.
Special Amenities: Don’t forget the smaller perks: the Vale provides beach towels at the pool and hair dryers in rooms. There is no in-house gift shop selling souvenirs, but the concierge can direct you to nearby shops for clothing or gifts. A minibar is stocked in each room with snacks and drinks; residents often grab a bottle of Brooklyn craft beer or a local whiskey from these mini-fridges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of performances or events take place at The William Vale?
The William Vale hosts a variety of events: weekly live music (jazz nights at its Leuca restaurant), seasonal rooftop movie screenings (the Vale Cinema Series), holiday parties (like July Fourth fireworks and Pride pool parties), wellness and art pop-ups, and corporate functions. Its 4,096 sq ft ballroom and meeting rooms also accommodate weddings, conferences, and private galas. Check the hotel’s events calendar for details on upcoming shows.
How do I purchase tickets or make reservations for Vale events?
Most public events at The William Vale require advance purchase of tickets or booking. The hotel’s website (or affiliated platforms) lists upcoming events with links to buy tickets online. Leuca and Westlight you should reserve directly (via their reservation system) if you want a table. For private or corporate events, you can contact the events team via the hotel’s website to inquire about availability.
Can I visit the rooftop bar and pool if I’m not staying at the hotel?
Yes, The William Vale’s rooftop bar (Westlight) and pool (Vale Pool) are open to non-guests, but there are conditions. Westlight enforces a 21+ age policy after 6 pm and operates on a first-come basis (though you can make a reservation for peak times). Ansatz: The pool operates seasonally from May–September; locals can buy day passes or memberships, but pool access is typically first-come for all. However, the pool is only open to registered hotel guests and day-pass holders, not the general public on weekdays or outside summer months.
What is the dress code at Westlight?
There is no formal uniform dress code, but smart-casual attire is recommended. Patrons typically dress neatly (jeans or slacks, nice shirts; dresses or neat tops). Principal doormen rarely turn people away for casual attire, but avoid athletic wear or flip-flops in the evenings. In short, upscale-casual looks fit the chic atmosphere at Westlight.
Is there a coat check or bag storage at The William Vale?
The William Vale does not generally offer public coat check in its bars/restaurants. During colder months, staff can hold coats briefly, but there is no formal coat check office. For luggage or large bags, the concierge at the front desk will store items for guests and visitors while attending events or dining. Smaller bags and purses are allowed throughout the venue.
How far is The William Vale from the nearest subway?
The nearest subway is the Bedford Avenue station on the L train, about 0.1–0.2 miles (roughly a 3–5 minute walk) east of the hotel. This provides direct access to Manhattan via 14th Street. Other nearby lines include the G train at Metropolitan Avenue (about 0.5 miles north) and various bus routes on Bedford and Driggs. American public transit is highly recommended for avoiding traffic.
What are the parking options and costs at The William Vale?
The William Vale offers on-site 24/7 valet parking. Rates are posted at the entrance: typically $50 for 24 hours (hotel guests) and $55 for 24 hours (non-guests) (www.thewilliamvale.com ). The garage also has hourly rates (for example, 3 hrs for $20, up to $30 for 12 hrs (www.thewilliamvale.com )) and special event rates around $42 when applicable. Electric vehicle charging is available (Tesla $15, other EVs $25 surcharge (www.thewilliamvale.com )). Valet is the easiest option; street parking in Williamsburg is metered/permit-controlled and can be challenging.
Are outside cameras or filming equipment allowed at The William Vale?
Casual photography and smartphones are welcome — many visitors take photos of the views. Professional cameras and tripods are restricted for safety and guest privacy. If you wish to film a commercial or large-production video on site, you must obtain permission from the hotel in advance. Otherwise, small personal video recording is tolerated in public spaces.
Is The William Vale pet-friendly?
Service animals are welcome at The William Vale (with no extra charge). Other pets are not allowed inside the hotel (except for special events or in rooms during certain promotions) due to health regulations. However, the nearby Williamsburg waterfront and parks are very dog-friendly, and the hotel occasionally hosts “dog day” outdoor events in Vale Park, where pets are invited for a day of fun (www.thewilliamvale.com ).
What are the hotel’s check-in and check-out times?
Standard check-in time at The William Vale is 4:00 PM, and check-out is 11:00 AM (these are typical times but can be confirmed on your reservation). The front desk is staffed 24 hours, so early arrivals may store luggage if your room isn’t ready. Guests often find the lobby quiet; immediately after check-in you’ll use the elevators to reach rooms or venues (rooms begin on the 11th floor to maximize views).
Is seating reserved at Westlight or is it first-come?
Standing room at Westlight is limited; however, the venue accepts reservations for tables. If you reserve online, you will have a guaranteed table (indoors or outdoors) at your arrival time. For walk-up guests, access is generally first-come, and you may need to wait for an available spot, especially on weekends. At sunset the outdoor terrace fills quickly, so reservations or early arrival is recommended.
Does The William Vale have free Wi-Fi?
Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi covers the entire property, including guest rooms and public areas. Simply connect to the hotel’s network and enter the room number or provided access credentials. Wireless signal on the rooftop can be spotty, but generally you’ll have connectivity in the indoor lounges and restaurants.
Are children allowed in Leuca restaurant or on the rooftop early in the day?
Leuca is family-friendly; children are welcome at any time, and the restaurant even serves a children’s menu on request. The rooftop bar Westlight also allows kids before 6:00 PM (when the 21+ policy kicks in), so families can enjoy the view earlier in the day. Just check the height of seats and the outdoor railings if you bring a stroller or very young children.
What is Vale Park at The William Vale?
“Vale Park” is a landscaped terrace on the 2nd floor by the Mister Dips and Hearth areas. It features outdoor lounge seating, artificial turf, and firepits. The hotel uses Vale Park for outdoor events, parties, and as a casual hangout space for hotel guests. It’s a large open-air plaza (about 15,000 sq ft) that gives guests a garden setting in the sky.
Does The William Vale have a fitness center or spa?
Yes, there is a fitness center on the 4th floor (by the pool). It offers cardio and weight equipment accessible via key card (24/7 access for registered guests). The gym is modest but modern; typically open to all guests. There is no full-service spa on-site, but there are massage rooms in the conference area for event groups (and external spa services can be arranged on request).
What is the best way to experience Westlight’s famous views?
For iconic scenes, try to visit at sunset. Arrive a little early to secure an outdoor table on the Westlight terrace, which offers unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline. If that fills up, even the indoor window seats at Westlight have great panoramas. When it’s clear, you can literally see from the Empire State and Chrysler Buildings up to the Freedom Tower across the river. In good weather, those golden-hour views are breathtaking.