Sheraton New York Times Square A Look Inside
I’m looking into the Sheraton New York Times Square, a hotel known for its history and location, to see if it offers a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the city. It’s right in the heart of Manhattan, which makes it a popular choice, especially for those wanting to be near the theater district and popular tourist spots.
Historic Hotel Roots
This hotel has a significant past, originally built in 1962 as The Americana of New York. It was intended to help accommodate visitors for the 1964 New York World’s Fair, alongside its neighbor, the New York Hilton. Over the years, it has been known by several names after renovations and brand changes, eventually becoming the Sheraton New York Times Square.
The building itself is quite tall, standing 51 floors high. It has been a site for filming and hosted events like the Emmy Awards. Many famous artists and musicians have stayed here, adding to its notable history. This long history means the hotel has seen many changes in what guests expect from a stay.
Good to Know: The hotel was originally constructed to support tourism for the 1964 New York World’s Fair.
Lobby and Check-In Experience
When you arrive, you can expect the lobby to be quite busy. With 1,781 rooms, it’s a large hotel that attracts many guests, including airline crews and tour groups. This can lead to a crowded atmosphere with lots of people and luggage, making it challenging to navigate, especially during peak check-in times. There is typically a dedicated queue for elite loyalty members which can offer a slightly smoother experience.
Staff at the front desk often work hard to manage the busy environment. They may offer amenities like bottled water to guests who are waiting. Finding a clear space to take photos in the lobby can be difficult due to the constant flow of people, so it might be easier to get unobstructed views later in the evening.
Guest Room Design and Amenities
The guest rooms at the Sheraton New York Times Square offer a consistent experience. They are designed in a typical Sheraton style, which means you can expect a familiar layout and decor if you have stayed at other Sheraton properties. This consistency is something many travelers look for, as it reduces surprises and provides a predictable level of comfort.
The rooms are primarily functional, providing a comfortable place to rest after a day of exploring the city. They include standard amenities. For example, you might find complimentary Starbucks coffee available, which is a nice touch for many guests. There are also minibars, though guests are advised to avoid using them for personal storage.
Good to Know: Rooms are designed for comfort and function, providing a place to sleep and refresh.
For families, considering the room size and available amenities is important. While the rooms are standard, they serve the purpose of being a home base. If you’re traveling with children like my own daughter Sofia, who is 13, or my younger one Emma, who is 6, having a reliable and comfortable place to return to is key. It’s always helpful to check room configurations when booking to ensure they meet your family’s needs.
Elevator System Challenges
A notable aspect of the hotel is its elevator system. While the hotel has implemented a modern system where you select your floor on a panel to be assigned an elevator, the execution can be inconsistent. This system is designed for efficiency, common in large buildings, but guests have reported issues with its performance.
Sometimes the elevators may not function correctly, leading to guests needing to use service elevators, which are less convenient. At other times, the elevators can exhibit peculiar behavior, like returning to the first floor after picking up passengers or getting stuck. When these issues arise, staff are aware of them, and while they are trying to manage the situation, it can add an inconvenience to your stay.
What if the elevator isn’t working properly?
If you encounter elevator problems, it’s best to check if a notice has been posted. If not, you can report the issue to the front desk. They are aware of the system’s quirks, and while there might not be an immediate fix, they can provide information on the best way to navigate the building during such times.
Executive Lounge Offerings
The Sheraton New York Times Square has an executive lounge available for eligible guests. This lounge typically offers breakfast and an evening happy hour. The breakfast is generally continental in style, featuring items like hard-boiled eggs, yogurt, fresh fruit, coffee, tea, and various bread options.
The evening happy hour is also continental-themed, with offerings such as fruits, cheese, and a salad bar. There is a cash bar available for alcoholic beverages, with options like prosecco priced per glass. Complimentary soft drinks are usually provided. The lounge can be a convenient spot for a light meal or a place to relax, though the spread may differ from those found in some international Starwood properties.
Good to Know: The executive lounge provides breakfast and evening happy hour, with a focus on continental selections.
Dining and Local Exploration
While the hotel offers its own dining options, its prime location makes it easy to explore a wide variety of restaurants in the surrounding area. The theater district is just a short walk away, offering many dining choices before or after shows. I’ve looked into places like Balthazar’s for classic French dishes such as steak frites and cod, which require a reservation but are known for quality.
For those craving Asian cuisine, Ippudo, a popular ramen spot, is also nearby and can be a great choice for a post-theater supper. Being in this part of Manhattan means you have access to diverse culinary experiences, from casual eateries to more upscale dining, catering to different tastes and budgets. Exploring these local eateries can be a highlight of a New York City visit.
What dining options are nearby?
The area around the hotel is packed with restaurants. You can find everything from quick bites to fine dining. Many restaurants are a short walk away, making it convenient to plan your meals around your activities.
When planning a trip with the family, finding restaurants that cater to different ages can be a challenge. I always look for places that are welcoming to children and offer a good variety on their menus. I’m researching options that would work well for Sofia and Emma, ensuring everyone has a pleasant dining experience.
Overall Considerations for Your Stay
The Sheraton New York Times Square offers a solid, though not exceptional, experience. The rooms are comfortable for sleeping and getting ready for the day. The staff are generally polite and helpful. Its biggest advantage is its location, putting you within easy reach of many of New York City’s famous attractions, including Central Park and numerous theaters.
However, the hotel faces challenges, particularly with its elevator system, which can cause disruptions. While it provides the expected consistency of a chain hotel, it may not offer the unique or standout features that some travelers seek. For those prioritizing location and a functional place to stay, it’s a viable option, but it’s worth comparing with other hotels in the area to find the best fit for your specific needs and preferences.
Considering all these factors, I’m evaluating how this hotel fits into a broader travel plan for a family visiting the city. Its strengths are its location and the general comfort it provides, while potential drawbacks include the elevator issues and the standard nature of its offerings.
If you’re planning a trip and want to see what else New York City has to offer for top activities, you can explore top things to do in NYC for a wider perspective on attractions and experiences available across the city.
