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Where to Stay near Times Square in NYC

By Santorini Dave

Hotel in Times Square, Midtown Manhattan.

The Marriott Marquis is smack in the heart of Times Square and Midtown Manhattan.

Hotels in Midtown New York close to Times Square.

  • My Favorite Hotels near Times Square
    Archer Hotel • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 719 4100
    Andaz 5th Avenue • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 601-1234
    Baccarat Hotel • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 790-8800
    Casablanca Hotel • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 869-1212
    Equinox Hotel Hudson Yards • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 812-9200
    The Kimberly Hotel • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 755-0400
    The Langham Fifth Avenue • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 695-4005
    Library Hotel • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 983-4500
    LUMA Times Square • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 730-0099
    Pendry Manhattan West • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 933-7000
    The Peninsula • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 956-2888
    Renaissance Midtown • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 239-0014
    Ritz-Carlton Central Park • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 308-9100
    Whitby Hotel • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 586-5656
  • Best Midrange Hotels near Times Square
    AKA Times Square Apartments • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 764-5700
    Arlo Midtown • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 343-7000
    citizenM Times Square • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 461-3638
    The Draper • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 645-0080
    Edison Times Square • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 840-5000
    EVEN Times Square South • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 356-0034
    Hilton Garden Inn Times Square Central • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 840-9600
    The Jewel Hotel • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 863-0550
    Margaritaville Times Square • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 221-3007
    Marriott Marquis • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 398-1900
    Riu Plaza Times Square • Hotel phone: +1 (646) 864-1100
    Sheraton Times Square • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 581-1000
    Staypineapple • Hotel phone: +1 (866) 866-7977
    Westin at Times Square • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 201-2700
  • Best Cheap Hotels near Times Square
    Crowne Plaza Times Square • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 977-4000
    Hotel 57 • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 753-8841
    La Quinta Times Square South • Hotel phone: +1 (718) 690-3294
    Pod 39 • Hotel phone: +1 (212) 865-5700
    Pod Times Square • Hotel phone: +1 (844) 763-7666
  • TIMES SQUARE FAQ

    1. What are the main advantages of staying in a hotel directly in Times Square?
    • Location, location, location! If staying in the heart of NYC is your goal, Times Square delivers.
    • Theater Access: You’re steps away from most Broadway theaters. Catching a show becomes incredibly easy.
    • Iconic Sights: You’ll be surrounded by the dazzling lights, giant billboards, and the general “wow” factor of Times Square itself. Many other major sights like Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, and the southern end of Central Park are a reasonable walk away.
    • Restaurant & Shopping Density: An almost overwhelming number of restaurants (from tourist traps to some decent spots if you know where to look) and flagship stores are right at your doorstep.
    • Transportation Hub: It’s a major crossroads for subway lines, making it a convenient base to explore other parts of Manhattan and beyond. You can get almost anywhere pretty easily.
    • Pure Energy: There’s an undeniable, 24/7 buzz. If you thrive on that kind of 24/7 atmosphere, you’ll love it.

    2. Is it very noisy to stay in a hotel in Times Square?
    • Let’s be honest – yes, Times Square itself is one of the loudest, most bustling parts of NYC, day and night. However, how much of that noise seeps into your hotel room can vary greatly.
    • Hotel Quality Matters: Reputable, well-built hotels in the area invest in good soundproofing. Cheaper or older establishments will not fare as well.
    • Room Location: Ask for a room on a higher floor and, if possible, one that doesn’t directly face the busiest parts of the Square. An interior courtyard room will be the quietest (but with no view).
    • Read Recent Reviews: This is key. See what actual guests are saying about noise levels for specific hotels you’re considering. This is more telling than official descriptions.
    • Bottom Line: Expect some city hum, but a good hotel can make it manageable. If you’re a very light sleeper, it’s a definite consideration.

    3. Are hotels in Times Square more expensive than other parts of NYC?
    • Generally, yes. You’re paying a premium for that prime, central, high-demand location.
    • “Tourist Tax”: It’s a global phenomenon; the most famous spots often have the highest prices.
    • Value Comparison: You might find that for the same price as a standard room in Times Square, you could get a larger or more boutique room in a neighborhood like the Upper West Side, Greenwich Village, or parts of Brooklyn. It’s a trade-off between convenience/iconic status and room size/neighborhood charm.
    • Deals Can Be Found: Don’t rule it out completely if budget is a concern. Booking well in advance, traveling during shoulder seasons (like January-March), or looking for package deals can sometimes yield more reasonable rates.

    4. Is Times Square a safe area to stay in, especially at night?
    • For the most part, yes. Times Square is one of the most heavily touristed and policed areas in New York City.
    • Crowds & Police Presence: There are almost always a lot of people around, and a visible police presence, which acts as a deterrent.
    • General City Smarts: Like any major city or crowded tourist area, you need to be aware of your surroundings. Watch out for pickpockets, avoid street scams, don’t leave valuables unattended.
    • Well-Lit & Active: The area remains very well-lit and active late into the night, which can feel safer than deserted streets.
    • Family-Friendly Vibe (Mostly): While it’s busy, it’s generally geared towards tourists and families in the main areas. Straying too far off the main drags late at night might feel different, as it would anywhere.

    5. Are there family-friendly hotels near Times Square?
    • Definitely! Many hotels in and around Times Square cater specifically to families.
    • Room Configurations: Look for hotels offering rooms with two double/queen beds, connecting rooms, or suites. Some may even have pull-out sofas.
    • Amenities: Pools are rare, but kid-friendly menus and restaurants, and concierge services that can help with family activities are common.
    • Proximity to Attractions: Being close to things like the M&M Store, Disney Store, and family-oriented Broadway shows is a big plus.
    • The Marriott Marquis and AKA Times Square are two of my favorites for families.

    6. How far are Broadway theaters from most Times Square hotels?
    • Incredibly close. This is one of THE biggest draws for staying in Times Square.
    • The Theater District IS Times Square: Most of the major Broadway theaters are located directly within the blocks that make up the greater Times Square area (roughly 41st to 54th Street, between 6th and 8th Avenues).
    • Walkable Convenience: You can easily walk from your hotel to your show in minutes, no need for taxis or subway after a late performance.

    7. What types of amenities can I expect from hotels in Times Square?
    • It’s a mixed bag, but here’s a general idea:
    • Standard in Most: Wi-Fi (check if it’s free or an extra charge), fitness centers (often 24-hour), concierge desks, business centers.
    • Common in Mid-Range to Upscale: On-site restaurants and bars (sometimes with those coveted rooftop views), room service.
    • Less Common/Premium: Swimming pools, spas, extensive meeting facilities.
    • NYC Specifics: Rooms in NYC, especially in prime locations like Times Square, can be smaller than you might be used to elsewhere. Focus on functionality and location.

    8. Is it easy to get to other parts of NYC from a Times Square hotel?
    • Yes, extremely easy. This is a major strength.
    • Subway Central: The Times Square-42nd Street subway station is one of the busiest and most connected in the city. You can catch numerous lines in Times Square (1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, W, S, 7, A, C, E) to go almost anywhere in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, or the Bronx.
    • Buses: Plenty of bus routes also pass through the area.
    • Walkability: Many Midtown attractions are within an easy walk.
    • Taxis/Rideshares: Always readily available, though can be slow in Times Square traffic. I prefer Uber over taxis.

    9. Are there hotels in Times Square suitable for business travelers?
    • Yes, many cater well to business travelers.
    • Amenities: Look for hotels with good Wi-Fi, dedicated workspaces in rooms or common areas, business centers with printing/copying, and potentially meeting rooms.
    • Location: Proximity to Midtown offices can be a plus. The excellent transport links are also beneficial for getting to meetings across the city.
    • Loyalty Programs: Many major hotel chains with strong business loyalty programs have flagship properties in or near Times Square.
    • The Westin at Times Square is a good pick for business travelers.

    10. What’s the best way to find good deals on hotels in Times Square?
    • It takes a bit of strategy:
    • Book Ahead: Especially for popular times, booking several months in advance can lock in better rates.
    • Be Flexible with Dates: If you can, traveling during NYC’s “off-season” (typically January-early March) or mid-week can be cheaper than weekends or holidays.
    • Compare Across Platforms: Check the hotel’s direct website, but also compare with major booking sites. Sometimes one has a better deal than the other.
    • Look for Package Deals: Some sites offer hotel + flight or hotel + show packages that can save money.
    • Sign Up for Loyalty Programs/Newsletters: Hotels often send out exclusive deals to their members.

    11. Do hotels near Times Square offer good views?
    • Some do, but it’s not guaranteed and will cost more.
    • “Times Square View” Rooms: These will directly overlook the lights and action – exciting, but potentially noisier and always pricier.
    • “City View” Rooms: Might offer broader skyline views, which can be cool.
    • Higher Floors = Better Views (Usually): I would request a high floor if a view is important.
    • Check Hotel Photos & Reviews: See what kind of views past guests have experienced from specific room types. Some hotels have fantastic rooftop bars accessible to all guests, which can be a great way to get the view without paying for it.

    12. Are there quieter hotels just off Times Square that still offer easy access?
    • Yes, and this is often a smart strategy.
    • The “Fringe” Benefits: Hotels located a few blocks east or west of the absolute center of Times Square (e.g., closer to 6th Ave or 9th Ave, or in the lower/upper 50s streets) can offer a significant reduction in noise and crowds while still being a very easy 5-10 minute walk to all the main attractions and theaters.
    • Better Value Potential: You will find slightly better room rates or larger rooms for your money.
    • Neighborhood Feel: These areas can feel a bit more like “real” New York, with more local businesses and fewer chain restaurants.

    13. What is the atmosphere like around Times Square hotels?
    • Think sensory overload, in mostly a good way.
    • Bright & Dazzling: The billboards and lights are iconic and run 24/7.
    • Crowded: Expect throngs of people – tourists, costumed characters, ticket sellers, commuters – especially from late morning through late evening.
    • High Energy: There’s a constant buzz and a feeling of being at the “center of the universe.”
    • Commercial: It’s very tourist-focused with lots of big chain stores and restaurants. If you’re looking for quaint, local, or quiet, this isn’t it (though those neighborhoods are just a subway ride away).

    14. Are there dining options within Times Square hotels, or should I explore nearby?
    • Both!
    • Hotel Restaurants: Most of the larger, full-service hotels in Times Square will have at least one restaurant and a bar. These can range from casual cafes to more upscale dining. They offer convenience, especially for breakfast or a late-night drink.
    • Endless Nearby Options: The real culinary adventure is stepping outside. Times Square and the surrounding Theater District are packed with everything from fast food chains and delis to themed restaurants, classic steakhouses, and international cuisine. Hell’s Kitchen, just to the west, is particularly known for a diverse and excellent food scene, often with better value than right in the Square.
    • Tip: Some of the best food is nearby but just outside of the immediate Times Square area.

    15. If I stay in Times Square, will I need to use a lot of public transport to see sights?
    • It depends on your itinerary, but Times Square is a great starting point.
    • Walkable Midtown Sights: Many major Midtown attractions are within a 15-30 minute walk: Broadway theaters (seconds away), Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Fifth Avenue shopping, Bryant Park, New York Public Library, Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and the southern edge of Central Park.
    • Subway for Further Afield: For Downtown sights (Financial District, 9/11 Memorial, Statue of Liberty ferry), Uptown museums (Met, Natural History), or exploring Brooklyn/Queens, the subway from Times Square is your quick and efficient best friend.
    • Balance is Key: You’ll likely do a mix of walking and subway use. The convenience of Times Square’s transit access is a big plus for efficient sightseeing.

About Santorini Dave

Santorini Dave Santorini Dave was started in 2011 when I posted a short guide to visiting Santorini with kids. Now, my small team and I provide guides to Santorini, Naxos, Paros, Mykonos, Crete, Athens, and all of Greece - as well as best places to stay in some of my favorite cities - like London, Paris, Barcelona, Rome, Venice, and Florence.

Questions? Email me at dave@santorinidave.com.