Sure, hailing a cab or hopping on the subway are iconic New York experiences that every visitor should have. But in Manhattan, nothing beats walking the city streets. The sidewalk is arguably the best place in New York to people watch, look up at skyscrapers, and find lunch at a street cart (just be sure you step out of the pedestrian flow so you don't block the sidewalk -- New Yorkers don't like to be slowed down...). We rounded up our seven favorite hotels within a five-minute walk from their front doors to the center of Times Square, which we're calling Broadway and West 46th Street (the entire area spans several blocks). You'll be to the heart of the action in a New York minute (or 10).
If You're a Scenester…
If you want to see and be seen, The Muse – Kimpton is a good bet and only two minutes from Times Square. Kimpton hotels are known for attracting a young, hip crowd who are willing to pay extra for boutique style and perks. Free bikes, in-room spa services, and a wine reception are just some of the amenities that attract the cool kids. Zebra-print bathrobes are provided in the contemporary rooms — prime for styling silly Instagram pics. And speaking of, the front desk has a selfie-stick for guests to borrow.
If You (And Your Dog) are High Maintenance…
W New York Times Square has a supreme location just one minute’s walk from Broadway and West 46th Street. Just like any other W property, the Times Square outpost has the same service policy of wherever/whenever, meaning guests can ask for anything (within the law) at any time. The design-forward hotel has a trendy bar, The Living Room, and a seafood restaurant, Blue Fin, which are both popular with locals as well as visitors. Guests have access to a modern fitness center and pets are treated like royalty with toys, treats, and dog walking services.
If You're in Love…
With crowds of tourists, life-size Elmo characters, and enormous glowing screens, Times Square’s hectic vibe isn’t all that conducive to romance. Unless you book a room at Sanctuary, that is, which is just three minutes from the heart of Times Square. The boutique hotel has a soothing minimalist vibe and Buddha-inspired decor for a relaxing ambiance that’s completely opposite of the malay outside the front door. Peek-a-boo bathrooms and chandeliers above the beds were designed with couples in mind. Upstairs, Haven Rooftop and Restaurant has a Moroccan-style tent and turns into a cocktail hot spot in the evenings.
If You're with the Kids…
With a little prior planning and the right hotel room, New York City is a wonderful place for families. DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel New York City – Times Square has two-room suites that include two double beds and separate living rooms with pull-out couches and flat-screen TVs. An empty mini-fridge, sink, and microwave in each make it easy to warm up bottles and snacks, while a coffeemaker gives mom and dad their caffeine boost for the day. Pack n’ Plays can be provided for no extra charge. And the location? It’s just one minute from the center of Times Square and two minutes from the Toys “R” Us flagship store.
If You're on Business…
At four minutes from the center of Times Square, Hotel Mela is one of the quieter hotels on our list, which is good for business travelers who need a solid night’s sleep. This upper-middle-range hotel isn’t short on style, either; it has a fun South Beach flair and accents by Jonathan Adler. The business center and gym are open 24 hours, and an executive boardroom seats 12. Unlike at a lot of Times Square hotels, Wi-Fi is free at Hotel Mela.
If You're on a Budget…
Budget five minutes for the walk to Times Square from Amsterdam Court, a budget-friendly hotel. Standard rooms are a tiny 120 square feet, but they’re clean and nicely decorated with beige tones. Free coffee and a Japanese restaurant on-site are decent extras, but expect to pay for Wi-Fi and breakfast.
If It's New Years Eve…
Watching the ball drop in Times Square on New Years Eve from the streets is an unforgettable, but less than comfortable, experience. To stay warm and fed with the best views of the party and ball drop, buy a ticket to the super exclusive and super expensive party held at Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel. $2500 gets you access to an open bar, passed hors d’oeuvres, a five-course dinner with wine pairings, and dancing. If you feel like making the trek to the action, its three minutes on foot. Tickets go on sale in July (yes, really). Of course, you can get a room to crash in after the party, the best ones have views of Times Square.
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