Lafayette House, New York City

It's a hiding-in-plain-sight thing: If you're going to engage in untoward activity, downtown New York City is just the place. Around the corner from the nightlife of the Bowery is a fairly anonymous block of East Fourth Street that contains the Lafayette House, a 15-room hotel with an irresistible Hitchcockian draw. Built in 1845, it's the kind of house you duck into, wearing a hat and maybe those short little gloves, to rush into your lover's arms and plot your spouse's untimely death. Or, somewhat less dramatically, have a romantic weekend getaway. All the rooms are done in pre-war style with working fireplaces and andirons, hardwood floors, and carved writing desks where you can pen an early-morning note to leave on your paramour's 500-thread-count pillow. Pay particular attention to room 15, with its king-plus bed, heavy drapes, and deep soaking tub. Best of all, there's no front desk and no one to keep tabs on you or your activity—just call ahead to check in, and a hotel staffer will be there to open the door. If you arrive after-hours, your keys will be left at the very discreet bar next door.

Do not disturb:
Lafayette House
Tel: 212 505 8100
Doubles from $350

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