When looking for a place to stay in New York City, especially if you’re trying to find something that balances style, location, and cost, Moxy Hotels offers an interesting option. I’ve been exploring what makes this brand so popular, and the Moxy NYC Times Square seems to be a prime example of their concept. It’s located a bit away from the direct chaos of Times Square itself, placing it in the Garment District, which I’ve found can be quite convenient for exploring different parts of Manhattan.
Exploring Moxy NYC Times Square
Moxy Hotels aims to be a bit different from traditional hotels. They describe their concept as a “premium neo-hostel” where common areas are more important than the rooms themselves. Think of it like a shared apartment where the bedrooms are just for sleeping, and the rest of the space is for socializing, working, or relaxing. This approach is really evident at the Moxy NYC Times Square.
Location Advantages
The hotel is situated in the Garment District, at the corner of 36th Street and 7th Avenue. While it has “Times Square” in its name, it’s conveniently located just south of the busiest tourist hub. This means you’re within walking distance to major spots like Penn Station, the Empire State Building, and Madison Square Garden. For families visiting New York for the first time, this central spot is ideal for hitting those iconic landmarks before venturing out to explore neighborhoods like Greenpoint or Jackson Heights. Being just outside the immediate Times Square madness does offer a bit of a buffer from the constant crowds.
💡 Quick Tips
- Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Consider your primary reasons for visiting NYC to choose the best location for your family.
- Familiarize yourself with the NYC subway system for efficient travel.
The reception area uses multiple check-in kiosks, which I thought was a clever way to manage busy check-in times. While it might feel a bit different from a standard hotel desk, it’s designed to speed things up when many guests are arriving at once.
Design Focused on Socializing
The Moxy brand emphasizes a playful and creative design, and the Times Square location embodies this well. It has a somewhat nightclub-esque feel that aligns with their brand identity. Upon entering, I noticed little touches like a cart with complimentary sodas and beverages, a nice welcoming gesture. The shared spaces really are the star here. There’s a large lounge area that extends from a bar, featuring various comfortable seating arrangements that make it feel more like a trendy co-working space or a chic living room.
For families like mine, having these extensive common areas is a real plus. While Emma, my six-year-old, might not always appreciate the design aesthetics of a trendy hotel, having a comfortable and casual space for everyone to gather after a day of sightseeing is invaluable. Sofia, who is thirteen, certainly enjoys spaces that feel modern and social, so these common areas work well for different age groups. It’s a place where you can relax without feeling like you need to be confined to your room. It feels like an apartment where the living room is always open.
What are the common areas like?
The common areas are designed to encourage interaction and provide flexible spaces for guests. They feature a mix of seating, from cozy nooks to larger lounge setups, making them suitable for working, relaxing, or socializing with travel companions.
These spaces are a key part of the Moxy concept, aiming to be the communal living rooms for guests, offering more than just a place to sleep.
Dining Options and Rooftop Fun
The Moxy NYC Times Square boasts five different dining options, all managed by the TAO Group, which is known for reputable establishments. While some are more upscale, like the seafood brasserie Legasea, the most talked-about spot is Magic Hour. This open-air cocktail lounge is a significant attraction. It’s Midtown’s largest all-season rooftop bar and has its own entrance, so it can feel like a destination in itself, even for those not staying at the hotel. It’s open very late, offering brunch during the day and transitioning into a late-night spot with cocktails and snacks.
The rooftop’s aesthetic is described as youthful and vibrant, with elements like astro turf and pink statues, and even a mini-golf course. I can see how this adds a unique, slightly whimsical character, perhaps reminiscent of an Alice in Wonderland theme, but it’s done in a way that still feels sophisticated. It’s an unpretentious spot for a drink and a bite, which is a nice find in the often high-pressure atmosphere of Midtown.
Good to Know: Magic Hour is the rooftop lounge at Moxy NYC Times Square, known for its lively atmosphere and late hours, serving as a popular spot for both hotel guests and locals.
For something more convenient within the hotel, the Moxy Bar offers a good alternative for a nightcap or a casual meal without needing to venture to the rooftop or one of the other dining venues.
What dining options are available?
The hotel features five distinct dining venues operated by the TAO Group, offering a range of culinary experiences from upscale dining to casual bars.
Magic Hour, the rooftop lounge, is a highlight, offering brunch and late-night bites with a unique ambiance.
Understanding the Rooms
Despite being a large hotel with 612 rooms, Moxy NYC Times Square manages to feel quite boutique. The building itself is over 110 years old, and the rooms are designed with the brand’s core philosophy: to encourage guests to use the common areas. The rooms are intentionally designed to be functional spaces for sleeping and basic activities, rather than the primary focus of the stay.
I looked into the King Room, which is about 18 square meters. It’s not the largest room, but the design language is consistent with other Moxy hotels I’ve seen. The rooms feature modular furniture that can be hung on pegs along a feature wall, allowing for some customization. Mostly, this means you have tables and chairs, but the space is tight enough that you can only really use one piece of furniture at a time. For a family, this might feel a bit cramped if you’re spending significant time in the room.
When considering accommodation for Emma and Sofia, space is always a factor. I’d likely opt for a larger room category or plan to spend most of our time in the common areas. The beds are comfortable, which is always a priority for me. While the pillows are on the smaller side, the quality of the linens is good, making for a restful sleep. Even though it’s not the plush luxury of hotels like The Plaza or The Pierre, it’s perfectly adequate for a good night’s rest.
A notable upside is the quietness at night. For a hotel located near Times Square, the lack of noise is a significant advantage, especially for lighter sleepers or children. Views from the room are generally not a selling point here, often looking out onto office buildings. However, there’s a thoughtful detail with the window sill, which is deep enough to function like a small bedside table.
The bathrooms are a fun element. They have a distinct mossy green tile and an open-plan design with playful “swimming club” graphics, like “No Diving” and “2.5 ft deep.” Despite the overall tight space, the shower area is surprisingly generous.
📊 Key Details at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Room Size (King Room Example) | Approx. 18 square meters |
| Key Design Element | Focus on modular furniture and functional spaces |
| Bathroom Style | Open-plan with playful graphics and generous shower |
| Noise Level | Very quiet at night |
Are the rooms suitable for families?
The rooms are designed for functionality and rest rather than extensive living space. While comfortable for couples or solo travelers, families might find them compact, with the common areas serving as the primary gathering spots.
For families, booking a larger room category or planning to utilize the hotel’s communal spaces extensively would be a good strategy.
Service and Overall Value
The service at Moxy NYC Times Square is described as cool and friendly, but largely hands-off. This aligns with the brand’s modern, unpretentious approach. If you’re accustomed to the more traditional, highly proactive service found at classic luxury hotels, you might find it different. However, help is available if you ask for it. For travelers who prefer a more independent experience with a focus on self-service and comfortable amenities, this style of service works well.
When it comes to value, the average rate around AU$379 per night can seem high, but within the context of New York City’s current hotel prices, it’s considered quite affordable, especially for the location. The convenience of being close to multiple subway lines is a significant advantage for exploring the city.
I think this hotel is best suited for younger travelers or those who appreciate a stylish, functional, and comfortable base without the frills and expense of luxury accommodations. It makes the most sense in a city as dynamic as New York, where you’ll likely be out exploring for most of the day anyway. The Moxy brand truly shines in urban environments that encourage guests to experience the city rather than stay confined to their rooms.
Is the Moxy NYC Times Square a good value?
Given the high hotel costs in New York City, the Moxy NYC Times Square offers competitive pricing for its location and modern amenities. It’s particularly valuable for travelers seeking a stylish and convenient base.
Travelers should be aware that the hotel’s concept centers on communal spaces, making it an ideal choice for those who plan to explore the city extensively.
For families looking for family-friendly options in New York City, exploring attractions and knowing where to stay is key. You can find more information on places to stay and top things to do to help plan your visit.
