Hello there! I’m putting together some ideas for a trip to New York City, and I wanted to share what I’ve found about staying in and around the iconic Times Square area. It’s such a famous spot, and I know it can be a bit overwhelming to figure out where to stay. I’m focusing on hotels that offer a good experience for visitors, especially those of us traveling with family or looking for a comfortable base.
Finding Your Times Square Stay
Times Square is truly the heart of the action. When you think of New York, you probably picture those bright lights and endless energy. For first-time visitors, it’s often the go-to location because it puts you right in the middle of so much. I’ve been looking at hotels near Times Square, and it’s clear there are options for different budgets and styles.
Hotels Close to the Lights
I’ve been researching hotels that are just a short walk from Times Square, which is super convenient. Some are even right there, so you can step out and be instantly surrounded by the famous sights. This is great for getting to Broadway shows or just soaking in the atmosphere without a long commute.
Hotel Edison Budget-Friendly Option
I found Hotel Edison, which has been around for almost 100 years. It’s an art deco hotel, which sounds pretty cool. They say it’s good for families and people who want to save money. The rooms are described as spacious, and some even have little terraces. They offer breakfast vouchers for nearby places, which is a nice touch for travelers on a budget. It also has a piano bar that sounds like it has a real old-school New York feel. I think this could be a good choice if you want to be close to everything without spending too much.
This hotel is located at 228 West 47th Street, New York, NY 10036. It’s just about 220 feet, or a 1-minute walk, from Times Square.
Arlo Midtown Stylish and Compact
Another hotel I looked at is Arlo Midtown. It’s a bit of a walk, about four blocks, from Times Square, but still very close to places like the Empire State Building and Broadway. The rooms are designed to be very efficient, using space wisely with things like hooks instead of big closets. The bigger rooms have outdoor terraces, which would be lovely. They also have a café bar and a rooftop bar with views of the city skyscrapers. This sounds like a good option if you like a modern, stylish place that makes good use of space. I’m thinking this would be nice for a traveler who appreciates smart design.
You can find Arlo Midtown at 351 West 38th Street, New York, NY 10018. It’s about a 12-minute walk, or 0.6 miles, to Times Square.
The Knickerbocker Prime Location
The Knickerbocker Hotel is right in the middle of Times Square, at the intersection of Broadway and 42nd Street. The building itself dates back to 1906, which is impressive. Even though it’s in such a busy spot, the rooms are described as being surprisingly quiet and calm inside. The design is minimalist, with a calm color scheme. They have a rooftop bar on the fourth floor with amazing panoramic views of the city. This sounds like a place where you can be in the heart of it all but still find a peaceful retreat. For me, being steps away from so much is a big plus when planning a trip.
The Knickerbocker Hotel is located at 6 Times Square, New York, NY 10036. It’s only about 430 feet, or a 2-minute walk, from Times Square.
Pod 51 Hotel Fun and Central
For a budget-friendly choice further afield but still conveniently located, I found Pod 51 Hotel. It’s a bit of a walk, about 20 minutes, to Times Square, but it’s also close to other major attractions like the Museum of Modern Art and Rockefeller Center. The vibe here is fun and youthful. The rooms are simple and functional; some don’t have private bathrooms, which is something to consider. They have a small rooftop terrace with colorful chairs, perfect for relaxing with a drink. This sounds like a place for travelers who prioritize a central location and a lively atmosphere over luxury.
Pod 51 Hotel is located at 230 East 51st Street, New York, NY 10022. It’s about a 23-minute walk, or 1 mile, to Times Square.
Moxy Times Square Energetic Vibe
Moxy Times Square is designed with younger travelers in mind and has a very energetic atmosphere. It’s located just south of the main Times Square action, in the Garment District. The public spaces look comfortable with sofas, and they have two bars, including one on the rooftop. The hotel has a chic-rustic feel. The rooms can be a little small, but the beds are reported to be comfortable. This sounds like a lively place to stay if you’re looking for a modern hotel with lots of social spaces and a trendy atmosphere. It’s important to me that hotels have good common areas where, for instance, Emma and Sofia could relax a bit if we’ve been out exploring all day.
Moxy Times Square is at 485 7th Avenue, New York, NY 10018. It’s about a 9-minute walk, or 0.4 miles, to Times Square.
CitizenM New York Modern Comfort
CitizenM New York offers an innovative and modern take on accommodation. It’s for people who want a comfortable, no-frills hotel with some nice perks, like large beds in compact rooms and really nice showers. It’s just a few blocks south of Times Square, making it very accessible, and Central Park is also a short distance away. The rooms are bright, clean, and have floor-to-ceiling windows for great city views. The check-in process sounds unique, with a colorful reception desk. They also have a communal living room, which is a nice space to hang out. This is definitely one I’m considering for its blend of modern design and convenience.
CitizenM New York is located at 218 West 50th Street, New York, NY 10019. It’s about a 4-minute walk, or 0.2 miles, from Times Square.
Times Square EDITION Luxury Experience
If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, the Times Square Edition hotel seems like a top choice. It’s described as a fashionable five-star destination. The lobby is monochrome and sets a soothing, sophisticated tone. The rooms are decorated in calming colors and vary in size, with some offering balcony suites that have skyscraper views. Each room reportedly features artwork reflecting a glamorous past. This hotel sounds like a great option for those seeking a high-end stay right in the heart of the excitement, offering a refined atmosphere amidst the vibrant energy of Times Square.
The Times Square EDITION is located at 710 7th Avenue, New York, NY 10036. It’s just 157 feet, or a 1-minute walk, from Times Square.
Bryant Park Hotel Sophisticated Choice
The Bryant Park Hotel is a luxurious and sophisticated hotel situated close to the vibrant city attractions and also offers proximity to green space. It’s described as a Midtown escape with sleek lines and classic furnishings. The rooms are bright, spacious, and minimally decorated in white, featuring luxurious linens and fresh flowers. The bathrooms are equipped with high-end products. If you book a room with park views, you can wake up to delightful scenes of Bryant Park. Times Square and the New York Public Library are just steps away from the hotel. It also has popular on-site dining and a cocktail bar, which are reportedly favorites with the after-work crowd. This combination of elegance, location, and amenities makes it a compelling option for a comfortable visit.
The Bryant Park Hotel is located at 40 West 40th Street, New York, NY 10018. It’s about a 8-minute walk, or 0.4 miles, to Times Square.
The Langham New York Fifth Avenue Distinguished Stay
The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue is presented as a lavish, decadent, and sophisticated choice. It’s situated in the prestigious Fifth Avenue shopping district, conveniently located between the Empire State Building and Bryant Park. The hotel is described as a peaceful oasis, mirroring the elegance of its London counterpart. The rooms feature marble bathrooms and floor-to-ceiling windows. They also have a highly-regarded restaurant that is a favorite among locals. This hotel seems ideal for those seeking an upscale and refined experience in a prime Manhattan location, offering both luxury and tranquility.
The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue is located at 400 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10018. It’s about a 13-minute walk, or 0.6 miles, to Times Square.
The Pearl Hotel Classic New York
The Pearl hotel offers a more traditional New York hotel experience, with larger-than-average rooms, good quality amenities, and an on-site steakhouse. The rooms have cozy decor and comfortable beds, with desks if you need to catch up on work. The suites provide separate living areas, and the marble bathrooms are stocked with robes and nice products. If you want to feel the buzz of the city as soon as you wake up, or even enjoy a nice view from your own space, booking a room with a balcony or a view is something to consider. This sounds like a great choice for travelers who appreciate classic hotel comforts and a sense of genuine New York hospitality.
The Pearl hotel is located at 233 West 49th Street, New York, NY 10019. It’s about a 4-minute walk, or 0.2 miles, from Times Square.
Planning Your Visit
When planning a trip, I always think about the best time to visit and how to get around. For New York City, especially the Times Square area, it seems like spring and early autumn offer a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. September and October sound particularly nice for exploring. Of course, December is magical if you’re looking for a festive atmosphere and Christmas shopping.
Best Times to Visit and Save
If budget is a big concern, I’ve learned that January and February are generally the cheapest months for hotels and flights. It’s something to keep in mind if you’re flexible with your travel dates. For families like mine, with Emma and Sofia, finding that sweet spot between good weather and reasonable prices is key. I find that looking into deals and planning ahead always helps make the trip more enjoyable and affordable.
Where to Get Amazing City Views
For incredible city views, I’ve noted that there are several observation decks. Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center, One World Observatory, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, and the Empire State Building are all popular choices. If you prefer seeing the skyline from a park, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Sunset Park, and Randall’s Island Park offer fantastic panoramic vistas. It’s always wonderful to see the cityscape from different perspectives.
Getting Around the City
Navigating New York City is usually easiest using the subway, which runs 24/7. Buses are also readily available, and ferries can take you across the rivers. For convenience, especially with shopping bags or tired little ones, the iconic yellow taxis are always an option. For deeper insights into navigating the city, you might find our guide to getting around New York City helpful.
Is New York City Expensive?
Yes, New York City is known for being one of the more expensive cities in the world. To help with this, I’m also looking for tips on how to do New York on a budget. It seems like with careful planning and smart choices, you can still have an amazing time without overspending.
Getting the Best Hotel Deals
Staying in or around Times Square is fantastic for its central location, but it can mean higher hotel prices. I usually start by comparing prices on sites like Skyscanner and Trivago. Then, I always check the hotel’s own website or give them a call directly, as sometimes you can get a better rate by booking straight with them. Loyalty programs, like Booking.com’s Genius program, can also offer exclusive discounts. I also found that some online travel agents, which have stays at hotels like Arlo Midtown and Hotel Edison, offer good deals if you sign up for their newsletters.
Overall, planning a trip to Times Square involves looking at location, budget, and the kind of experience you’re after. Whether you’re looking for lively energy or a quiet retreat, there are definitely great hotel options to make your New York City visit memorable.
