The Tempo by Hilton New York Times Square, a hotel that opened in September 2023, offers a thoughtful, modern approach for travelers on the go. It aims to provide a comfortable and affordable stay right in the heart of the bustling Times Square area, making it a convenient base for exploring Midtown Manhattan’s many attractions.
A Fresh Approach to Times Square Stays
As Hilton’s latest lifestyle brand, Tempo focuses on stylish design and wallet-friendly rates. The New York Times Square location is the first of its kind, with more planned. It’s designed for what the company calls “the modern achiever,” which translates to contemporary rooms and a focus on wellness and dining that isn’t overly fussy.
This hotel is quite large, with 661 rooms spread across 36 floors. The lobby itself is on the 11th floor, offering a unique starting point for your stay. A big draw for many will be the wellness aspect, including partnerships with Peloton and a well-equipped gym. For anyone who wants to keep up with their fitness routine while traveling, this hotel seems to have you covered.
The location is undeniably a major selling point. If you’re in town for work and need a clean, reliable place to stay in Midtown, or if you’re visiting to catch a Broadway show, Tempo puts you right in the middle of the action. It’s a solid choice for those who want to be close to the energy of Times Square without paying top dollar for every aspect of their stay.
Good to Know: The mandatory daily destination charge of $34.95 includes premium internet, a daily $10 food and beverage credit (usable in all hotel outlets except the market), City Bike rentals for two, and a daily $25 parking credit.
Getting to and Around the City
Easy Access to Transportation Hubs
You’ll find Tempo by Hilton New York Times Square located in the heart of Manhattan’s Theater District. To get to the hotel from street level, you’ll take an elevator up to the 11th-floor lobby. The area is incredibly well-connected by public transport, which is a huge advantage in a city like New York.
Grand Central Station and Penn Station are both about a 15-minute walk away, and Port Authority Bus Terminal is around a 10-minute walk. For subway access, the 49th Street N/R/W station is very close, just about three minutes on foot. You’re also near the B/D/F/M station at 50th Street and Rockefeller Center, and the massive 42nd Street Times Square station, which serves nearly every subway line on the west side, is about a 10-minute walk.
If you’re flying into the city, getting to the hotel is straightforward. From JFK, you can take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station and then the E subway line to Seventh Avenue, followed by a short walk. From Newark Liberty International Airport, the Newark Airport Express bus will take you to West 42nd Street and Port Authority, where you can transfer to the M104 bus for a quick ride to Eighth Avenue and West 46th Street, followed by a six-minute walk. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, though prices can range from $50 to $100 depending on traffic and time of day.
For families, the ease of access to public transport can make navigating the city much simpler. When we’ve traveled with Emma and Sofia, finding hotels close to subway lines has always been a priority to save time and reduce stress, especially when they’re tired.
💡 Quick Tips
- Look for the Tempo logo on a large rug at the entrance and then look up at the ceiling above the wooden doors for star-like lights before heading to the elevators.
- Keep your MetroCard handy for easy subway access to explore different parts of the city.
- Consider the destination fee details when booking, as it includes several valuable amenities.
Prime Location for Entertainment
Steps Away from Broadway’s Magic
Many visitors choose Times Square for its proximity to Broadway shows, and this hotel delivers on that front. Just a short walk from the hotel’s lobby, you’ll find yourself surrounded by dozens of famous theaters. Iconic venues like the Richard Rodgers Theatre, home to “Hamilton,” the Lyric Theatre, and the Winter Garden Theatre are all within easy reach.
The Theater District itself is a large area, stretching from West 41st to West 54th Streets, between Sixth and Eighth Avenues, with over 30 different theater venues. This makes Tempo an ideal base for anyone planning to see multiple shows during their visit.
Beyond the theaters, there’s plenty of other entertainment nearby. Radio City Music Hall is just around the corner, and you can reach Central Park in about 15 minutes on foot. Rockefeller Center is also a short 10-minute walk away, offering even more to see and do.
When planning a trip with family, having easy access to this much entertainment is fantastic. It means less travel time between activities and more time to enjoy the experience, which is always a win when traveling with children.
Room Design and Features
Compact Spaces with Smart Design
The hotel offers a variety of room types, including options with one king bed, two queen beds, and connecting rooms. There are also 18 suites available, some of which are quite spacious. However, like many hotels in Midtown Manhattan, the standard guest rooms are on the smaller side, with a king bed room measuring around 235 square feet.
What makes these rooms clever is the concept of “zones” designed to fit different parts of a traveler’s day. You’ll also notice some midcentury modern-inspired design elements throughout, which is a signature look for the Tempo brand. These touches add a bit of style to the efficient use of space.
For those who prioritize fitness, some rooms even feature a Peloton bike. Imagine getting in a workout with a view of Times Square’s bright lights; it’s certainly a unique experience you don’t find everywhere. The large floor-to-ceiling windows in these rooms also help them feel more open and airy, even with their compact footprints. You might even catch a glimpse of the Hudson River or New Jersey in the distance on a clear day.
💡 Quick Tips
- Consider a Peloton room if you’re a fitness enthusiast looking for a unique workout experience.
- The window views can make even a standard room feel larger and more pleasant.
- When booking, look at the different room types to find the best fit for your needs and luggage.
The Power Down Zone
The bed area is designed to help you relax and sleep well. It features a comfortable Sealy mattress, crisp white linens, and plenty of pillows. You’ll find soft lighting from bedside lamps, and importantly, convenient access to power outlets, including USB and USB-C ports, right next to the bed. There are also smart control units for lights and drapes, which can be helpful for creating a peaceful atmosphere.
Blackout drapes are a key feature here, effectively blocking out the intense light from Times Square for a restful sleep. While you can still hear faint city sounds like distant music or car horns, the noise from outside the room and hotel is generally well-muted. The hallways are also noted as being quiet, contributing to a peaceful stay.
For families, having reliable blackout curtains is essential for younger children who might be sensitive to light. Ensuring everyone gets good sleep is always a priority when traveling, which makes these thoughtful room features very appealing.
The Get Ready Zone
This area essentially combines the workspace and storage. You’ll find a desk with a lamp, ample power outlets, a phone, and a pod-style coffee maker. A small minifridge is also tucked away. For entertainment, there’s a 65-inch TV with streaming capabilities, which can be great for downtime after a long day of sightseeing.
The open-concept storage space is quite compact. For a short stay, like a weekend trip, it’s likely sufficient. However, if you tend to travel with a lot of luggage or are staying for an extended period, you might find it a bit limited. It includes hangers, a hairdryer, and a small safe located in a drawer.
The Bathroom Features
The bathrooms are bright and functional, featuring white tiling and chrome fixtures. A neat touch is the Bluetooth speaker and digital clock integrated into the mirror, perfect for listening to music or podcasts while getting ready. The shower offers both a rainfall showerhead and a handheld wand, though there is no bathtub.
The hotel uses bath amenities from Brooklyn-based Apotheke, with a pleasant white vetiver scent. The sink area has a marble countertop with wooden slat detailing, offering a bit of midcentury modern flair. Plenty of soft, fluffy towels are provided. One detail that adds to the feeling of space is a large mirror on the sliding door that separates the bathroom from the bedroom.
Good to Know: The bathrooms are well-lit and equipped with essentials, but are designed to be efficient rather than spacious.
Dining at Highball
A Moody Atmosphere and Varied Menu
Highball is the hotel’s restaurant and bar, located just off the lobby. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In the evening, the atmosphere transforms into something moodier and more atmospheric, almost like a modern speakeasy, which can be quite inviting after a day exploring the city.
There’s an outdoor terrace connected to the restaurant, offering potential for great views of Manhattan, though it was closed during the reviewer’s visit. Inside, you’ll find a mix of seating options, including booths and high-top tables. The bar area is lively, and a more intimate seating area with velvet couches is available for enjoying drinks and appetizers. The decor has a retro feel with Art Deco and midcentury modern influences.
Breakfast Options
Breakfast is a casual affair. You can order from a counter with a simple menu, featuring items like avocado toast and breakfast burritos. There’s also a shelf with pre-made breakfast sandwiches and a small market-style area with fresh fruit, juices, and soft drinks.
The coffee is from Bluestone Lane, and reportedly quite good. However, the food from the counter might be a bit hit-or-miss. One reviewer found an acai bowl to be just okay, tasting like it was recently frozen.
Evening Vibes and Dinner
During happy hour, Highball seems to be a popular spot for both hotel guests and locals, creating a lively, party-like atmosphere. The dinner menu features items that are ideal for sharing, such as roasted beets with goat cheese, burrata, and mini hot dogs. A Waldorf salad was enjoyed, as was a “Lady in Rouge” cocktail.
It’s worth noting that the restaurant can occasionally be closed for private events, so you might want to check in advance if dining there is a priority for your stay.
💡 Quick Tips
- For breakfast, consider grabbing a coffee and a pastry if you’re short on time.
- The dinner menu and cocktails are good options for a relaxed evening in the hotel.
- Always check if the restaurant is open for guests, especially if you’re planning a specific meal there.
Fitness Facilities
A Gym with a View
Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the hotel’s gym, located on the 18th floor. It’s a spacious area with large windows on both ends and mirrors along one wall, offering dynamic views of Manhattan while you work out. The gym is well-equipped with free weights, weight machines, cardio equipment, and of course, Peloton bikes.
There’s also a hydration station with water, cups, and towels provided. Multiple TVs are available above the windows, typically playing news channels. An inspirational neon sign adds a New York touch to the space.
For families, having a modern gym with good equipment can be a real benefit. While Sofia might not be using the weights, Emma could potentially enjoy a supervised session on a stationary bike, or you could get in a quick workout while the kids are napping or resting in the room. It’s a great way to maintain your routine while away from home.
Hotel Lobby and Staff
A Hub of Activity
The lobby area can be quite busy at any time of day, not unlike Times Square itself. You’ll find elevator banks, check-in and concierge desks, a grab-and-go convenience closet, and a small seating area. The space is designed to feel light and airy, with plants and windows contributing to its openness, even when crowded.
The staff, particularly the doormen by the elevators, are described as attentive and helpful, assisting with luggage and pressing buttons with a smile. The elevators to the guest rooms are large and generally do not have long waits.
While the lobby can be a bit hectic, the staff’s friendliness and efficiency help manage the flow. It’s good to know that there are people ready to assist you, especially when you’re navigating a new city with family.
Who Might This Hotel Not Be For
If you are looking for expansive rooms, the standard accommodations at Tempo might feel a bit small. While the suites are large, they come with a significant price tag. The dining experience at Highball can be inconsistent, with some dishes being better than others.
Despite being a brand focused on wellness, there isn’t a spa on-site. The wait times at the concierge and check-in desks can sometimes be lengthy, potentially causing delays. Occasionally, the restaurant might be closed for private events, which could be inconvenient if you were planning to dine there.
There isn’t an abundance of communal lounge space for guests to relax outside their rooms. While room service isn’t offered, you can use delivery apps for food. For families who prioritize a quiet, secluded lobby experience or a wide variety of on-site dining and relaxation facilities, other options might be more suitable.
Accessibility Features
Tempo by Hilton New York Times Square is designed with accessibility in mind. Elevators are the primary way to navigate the property, and they are spacious enough to accommodate wheelchairs and feature handrails. The elevator buttons are placed at an accessible height.
Hallways are wide, providing ample space for wheelchairs. The Highball restaurant has a ramp at its entrance, and all public areas are wheelchair accessible. For guest rooms, there are 71 accessible rooms available, offering features like visual alarms for those with hearing impairments, and transfer showers or roll-in showers for mobility needs. Braille signage is used throughout the property.
Overall, Tempo by Hilton New York Times Square offers a contemporary and well-located option for travelers exploring New York City. While the rooms are on the smaller side, the smart design, wellness focus, and prime location near Broadway and other Midtown attractions make it a compelling choice for many, particularly for those who appreciate convenience and modern amenities.
