4 brands
4 opportunities
Gifted StaysPaidHotelsResortsManhattan's hotel scene is actively recruiting creators right now. You've got Backstage.com, Now Now, Sohotel, and The Muse New York all running creator programs—and they're not just looking for massive followings. These are mostly accommodation-based deals, which means you're getting paid stays plus the chance to create content in one of the most visually interesting cities on the continent.
If you shoot travel, lifestyle, or hospitality content, this is a solid hunting ground. The brands here tend to work with creators across different follower counts, though most expect polished photography and engagement rates that prove people actually care about what you post. Compensation typically includes the room night plus some budget for content deliverables, though negotiate hard if you're bringing real reach.
One heads-up: Manhattan moves fast and brand priorities shift. These programs are active right now, but availability changes seasonally. If you see a brand you want to work with, apply sooner rather than later—hotel teams in NYC fill their calendars quickly.
Backstage is moxy NYC Downtown is a vibrant Marriott hotel located in New York C
Staynownow is now Now Noho is a new boutique hotel located in the heart of Downt
Thesohotel is sohotel is a lifestyle hotel located on the Bowery, inviting guest
Themusehotel is the Muse Hotel is a sophisticated hotel located in the heart of
Not necessarily. While the brands here appreciate solid followings, they're more focused on engagement quality and content style. If your audience is genuinely interested in hospitality and travel, you're competitive even with 10-50k followers. What matters more is your ability to produce clean, on-brand content they can actually use.
Most of these deals are room-for-content exchanges. You're getting a paid night (or multiple nights) plus sometimes a small production budget. If you're bringing significant reach or exclusive content angles, push for additional compensation. Rates vary by brand, but don't accept a deal that leaves you out of pocket for equipment or travel.
Spring and fall see higher brand activity since those seasons attract more tourists. Summer and winter get bookings too, but brands plan further ahead. Apply year-round, but know that brands often lock in creators 2-3 months before their target travel dates.
Moderately competitive. Manhattan has plenty of creators applying, but these four brands have active programs specifically designed to work with creators—it's not a closed door. Your best shot is having a clear, cohesive feed and being able to explain specifically why their hotel matters to your audience, not just that it's in Manhattan.
Expect requests for 15-30 high-quality photos, 2-5 Reels or short videos, and Stories content during your stay. Some brands want exclusivity (you can't post about competing hotels). Read the brief carefully before applying—requirements vary, and you want to make sure you can actually deliver what they're asking for.
