Standing in the shadow of one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks is an experience that defines a trip to Manhattan. The Empire State Building anchors the Midtown skyline, but the surrounding neighborhoods of Koreatown, NoMad, and Herald Square offer a dizzying array of lodging options. Choosing the right base camp is crucial because your proximity to this Art Deco masterpiece often dictates how smoothly the rest of your itinerary flows. Whether you are here to catch the sunrise from the 86th-floor observatory or simply want to be in the center of the city’s electric pulse, the right hotel makes all the difference.
The area surrounding the Empire State Building is a nexus of transportation and commerce, making it one of the most convenient places to stay in the entire city. You are within walking distance of Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal, and numerous subway lines that can whisk you to Brooklyn or the Upper West Side in minutes. However, the density of the neighborhood means that not all rooms are created equal; some offer breathtaking, uninterrupted views of the tower itself, while others provide a quiet sanctuary from the honking cabs below. Knowing what to look for—whether it is a rooftop bar with a view or a quiet room facing a courtyard—can elevate your stay from standard to spectacular.
When evaluating accommodations here, you are not just paying for a bed; you are paying for the privilege of stepping out your door and being instantly immersed in the city’s rhythm. This part of Manhattan is a food lover’s paradise, home to the sizzling grills of Koreatown and the historic bars of the old Tin Pan Alley district. A hotel near the Empire State Building saves you valuable time that would otherwise be spent commuting, allowing you to maximize your days exploring the nearby Morgan Library or shopping along Fifth Avenue.
The price point in this specific corridor can vary wildly depending on the time of year and the demand for views. While many travelers assume that staying next to a major tourist attraction means compromising on quality for location, the reality is quite the opposite. The area boasts a mix of historic Beaux-Arts buildings converted into luxury boutique properties and sleek, modern glass towers designed for the discerning business traveler. The key is to identify which property aligns with your travel style, whether you prioritize wellness amenities, historic charm, or a vibrant social scene.
We have analyzed the local hospitality landscape to bring you a curated list of the best options that offer distinct value. Our selection criteria prioritize guest experience, architectural character, soundproofing, and, of course, the magic of being just steps away from the elevators that lead to the top of the world. From properties where you can almost touch the spire from your window to hidden gems that offer a peaceful retreat from the Midtown chaos, there is a perfect fit for every type of visitor.
Below is a curated selection of the highest-rated and most strategically located properties in the vicinity. These hotels have been chosen for their ability to deliver an exceptional stay, combining the convenience of the location with the comfort and service that modern travelers expect.
The Hotel at Fifth Avenue
| Address | 17 W 32nd St, New York, NY 10001 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | (212) 736-1600 |
I was very pleased with my stay here. We arrived at Penn Station and the hotel was easy to find from there, just a few blocks up from where we exited the train station. When we checked in, Tom at the front desk was extremely friendly and welcoming. Our room was nice, very clean. The water in the shower was cold at first, but after several minutes the water got hot, hot enough that I had to turn it down. We stayed in the Empire suite so we had a nice balcony, about the size of the room, with a table and chairs so we could sit outside and relax and talk. There was a nice breeze blowing between the buildings so it wasn't too hot, and we had a great view of the Empire State Building just to our left. There's a rooftop bar on the other side of floor 14, which is convenient, but despite that, we never heard any noise from our room. It was quiet and I slept very well. We were here to see the Rush concert, so this location was perfect. Madison Square Garden is just a short walk away and we had dinner at the Carnegie Diner before the concert. The hotel had the option to check out at 11 and do a bag check at the front desk so we could spend more time in the city. Unfortunately we were only here for the concert and had to get back on the train to go home, but next time I'll definitely stay longer to take advantage of this.
For the lowest-priced hotel we could find in Manhattan, in the neighborhood of the Empire State Building and MSG, that didn't have shared bathrooms, this place was awesome!!
The doorman really set the bar from the beginning. We arrived before check-in, and they gladly held our bags free of charge.
Both elevators worked just fine. You have to keep in mind this is a 14-story building that's over 100 years old, in New York City. Every square inch is used to the max, so the elevators are not huge. The whole building was very clean and not "broken down" for a 100+ year-old building.
The rooms were very clean and relatively modern, and they seem to be well maintained.
The only negative thing we could say has absolutely nothing to do with the hotel. Once again, you're in New York City—the city that never sleeps—so there's going to be noise at night from street level. We were on the 9th floor and still heard some crazy screaming in the middle of the night, which is completely normal for NYC.
All in all, we were very happy with the hotel. We felt safe, it was clean, and the staff were all super friendly—from the front desk, to the doorman, to the cleaning staff. Everybody we crossed paths with always said hello with a smile.
To the whole team at Hotel at Fifth Avenue, we want to thank you and say keep up the good work. Don't take what the haters are saying too seriously, because you guys are doing a very good job!!!It still sounds like you, but reads a little smoother and fixes the grammar without feeling overly polished.
We had to cancel our reservation because of a genuine medical emergency, and this hotel showed absolutely no compassion. I called, emailed, and even left a voicemail explaining the situation, but received no response. Despite multiple attempts to reach them, they refused to provide any refund or make any exception.
What made the experience even worse was the attitude of the staff. They were rude, dismissive, and completely unwilling to help. Instead of showing empathy or trying to find any reasonable solution, they simply repeated their policy and made us feel like our situation didn’t matter.
The most disappointing part is that if they had worked with us and allowed a refund, we fully intended to return and stay at this hotel once the recovery was over. Instead, because of the way we were treated, we will never consider staying here again.
Customer service is about how you treat people when they are going through difficult times. Unfortunately, this hotel failed completely. I cannot recommend staying here, especially if you expect understanding or compassion during an unexpected emergency.
Well, it’s been an entire week since the hotel publicly responded to my review saying that someone would contact me, and yet no one has reached out. This is extremely disappointing and only reinforces my original experience.
If the hotel genuinely intended to address the situation, I would have expected at least some follow-up. Instead, the response now feels like an empty promise made simply to appear as though they were willing to help. After everything that happened, being ignored yet again is incredibly frustrating and disappointing.
My wife and I stayed at The Hotel @ Fifth Avenue for 4 days/3 nights. This hotel is in a great location for seeing Manhattan and is among the most affordable you can book without having to share a bathroom. Our visit took place in early August and the air conditioning was a godsend during the summer heat and humidity.
Our room was small, but comfortable, and had everything we needed for our stay. Our stay was very quiet despite the noise outside on the street. The water pressure in the shower was great, as well as the water temperature. Since folks can walk right in, you can even order food delivery (Uber Eats, etc.) and they'll drop it off right outside your door. We'd definitely stay here again.
Overall, I had a good stay. The location is excellent, the hotel is clean, and the room was quiet with no noise issues. I also appreciated the luggage storage service on the check-out day, which was very convenient. Lobby good to rest.
However, the amenities are quite limited for a hotel of this standard. For example, the shower gel/ shampoo was provided in a very small all-in-one bottle, which was not very practical.
Also, the shower head is fixed and not movable, making it less comfortable, especially for taller guests.
Hilton Garden Inn New York/Midtown Park Ave
| Address | 45 E 33rd St, New York, NY 10016 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (212) 755-1108 |
Honestly, this is one of the best hotels I stayed in NYC. Everything was very clean. The room had the basics - desk, TV, ironing board, safe. However, everything was really well organized and clean. I was on the 8th floor in one of the corner rooms, and it was great.
I did hear from a friend who stayed on the 18th floor, however, that there was a problem with water pressure. So, perhaps the lower the floor the better in this case....
The staff were very kind. Overall, highly recommend!
The hotel is located down a street that looks like an alleyway for trash collection. It has a club located downstairs so if they give you a low floor get ready to be up all night. Not to mention the room I was given. The bathroom was almost bigger then the room. It felt like I was in a walking closet. The TV was so small you could not see it from the bed. This room was very disappointing. We won't visit this hotel again.
**Points that could be improved:**
* When I returned around 2:00 PM for lunch, the room cleaning had not been completed, so I had to spend about an hour waiting in the lobby.
* Although two people stayed for a week, shampoo, conditioner, and body soap were not replenished.
* Complimentary bottled water was not provided after the second day. You had to ask for it in order to receive it.
* The cleaning staff often knocked on the door early in the morning at their own convenience.
**Positive points:**
* In the morning, complimentary coffee, including decaffeinated coffee, was available in the lobby.
* Cold drinking water was available in the lobby during the daytime.
* During the World Cup, it was very noisy until midnight, but after that there were no noise issues.
* There is a 7-Eleven and a pharmacy in the same block, making it convenient to buy water and other small necessities.
I've stayed here twice and will be back next time I visit. Excellent location, extremely responsive and friendly staff and housekeeping. Best rates in NYC. Additionally, significantly better amenities and cleanliness than other hotel chains. I wish every hotel in the city measured up to this location.
Definitely recommend staying here. The rooms are amazing, they're clean and tidy and have a bunch of amenities. There was a mixup when I checked in at the front desk but the person helping me, Ramon, was super calm and helpful, and it worked out great. It's right next to a subway stop and very convenient
Best Western Premier Herald Square
| Address | 50 W 36th St., New York, NY 10018 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (212) 776-1024 |
I just completed my second stay at this property and was very happy. The service I received at the front desk was phenomenal - they offered me complementary early check in and a free room upgrade due to my rewards status with Best Western. The rooms are small, but they're very clean and use the space efficiently. The beds are incredibly comfortable. We only stayed 2 nights, and I was pleasantly surprised to discover housekeeping visited the room - you don't see daily housekeeping very much these days. The location is great and subway access is super convenient. This property has become my go-to in NYC and I'll always recommend it!
We had issues with the AC in our room on the 8th floor. The staff is the friendliest staff I've ever encountered at a hotel. They moved us to another room asap, which resolved our AC issue.
The sink wasn't draining very quickly in our new room. They offered to come fix it the instant we mentioned it, but we declined since it wasn't a big deal.
The rooms were clean, the bed was comfortable.
Basic, small NYC room with no fridge or microwave. Know what to expect and you'll be delighted. Great location 1.5 blocks from the subway and a citibike station.
My stay at the Best Western Herald Square was one of the best experiences I've had. I received a very warm welcome from the hotel staff, especially Mr. Pathile Patel, the front desk clerk — he was polite, professional, and helpful in so many ways. I was very impressed with his level of professionalism.
The hotel overall was very clean, and I'm giving it 5 stars. The location was great too — if you take the subway, like I did, it's only 2 blocks away, and it's within walking distance of Macy's and Times Square.
One tip: July was very hot, so I'd recommend visiting in September instead.
Can't wait to return. Thank you, Mr. Patel!
Celso M.
The only good thing about this hotel is the location.
We stayed for 2 nights, we first requested a room on a high floor which they said they would give us, but ended up in the 5th floor because a high floor wasn't available. Water bottles aren't free unlike other hotels I've been in. They also charge for luggage storage which is free on other hotels. As we toured NYC during the day we ended up getting to the hotel a little late, then we noticed that the AC on our room wasn't getting cold even if it was already set at 67F. We told them and maintenance came, and informed us that we would have to move to another room. As we were already tired from walking the whole day and it was already late, we don't have the energy to pack-up our stuff and move plus we have a young child so they offered us two large fans just to get through the night and promised us that THEY would move our stuff in the morning and we don't have to worry about it. So morning came and we had to go out early and we packed our stuff so it's ready for them to just move it to the new room. We came back at around 2pm and I asked the front desk if our stuff has been transferred to the new room, the receptionist said it's already done. Only to find out that it wasn't moved at all and we ended up going to the old room and transferring it ourselves. Our stay there has been mostly inconvenient considering the cost of stay so I don't think what we paid for was worth it. I'd look for other options next time.
Excellent stay at Best Western Premier Herald Square! The location is perfect, the rooms were clean and comfortable, and the overall experience was fantastic.
A special thank you to Pathik Patel and Miqba for their outstanding hospitality. They were incredibly friendly, professional, and always willing to help, making my stay even more enjoyable. Their exceptional service truly stood out.
Highly recommend this hotel, and I would definitely stay here again!
31 Street Broadway Hotel
| Address | 38 W 31st St #110, New York, NY 10001 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | (516) 770-8751 |
I am leaving this review to report both an unauthorized charge and serious concerns about the condition of the property.
I stayed at a property booked through Airbnb. After my stay, the host submitted a damage claim, which Airbnb reviewed and denied, confirming in writing that I was not responsible and would not be charged. Despite that, this hotel still charged my credit card $175 without my authorization on the same day the claim was denied.
In addition, my experience at the property itself was very poor. This appears to be a hotel operated by Airbnb hosts, with little to no on-site service or support. There was no meaningful assistance available during my stay.
The bathrooms were shared and, in my experience, were not kept to an acceptable standard of cleanliness, with strong odors present. When checking out, I removed the bedding and was concerned by the condition of what I had been sleeping on underneath. The host later attempted to claim I caused damage, which I strongly dispute.
I left on time, returned the keys, and no issues were reported during my stay. The charge only appeared after the host’s claim was denied, which raises serious concerns about how my payment information was used.
I have documentation from Airbnb confirming I was not responsible, along with proof of the charge. I am currently disputing this and requesting a full refund.
I would strongly encourage others to review conditions carefully and monitor any charges closely.
The place smells bad. My room was close to the garbage room. There's a shared toilet and bath for the entire floor. (NOT INDIVIDUAL) The host Elina, doesn't listen if you have any complaints she is rude and obnoxious. I found a dirty bandaid on my bedsheet and when I reported it, she hung up the phone on me. I also haven't been refunded my security deposit. However, the front desk staff especially security are very helpful and nice people.
The worst hotel experience I’ve had in my life. Seriously, this place feels illegal — I don’t understand how it’s still operating. It’s been two months and they still haven’t returned my $175 deposit, despite saying it would take 4–5 days.
I had to leave and book another hotel the same night. I paid for a room with a private bathroom and toilet but was given one with shared facilities. The heater was also leaking water and extremely noisy, making the room unsafe and unusable.
Management was extremely unprofessional and refused a refund, even after I raised the issue in person and by phone and email.
I would never recommend this place to anyone.
Overall, this building has been pretty good for what we need. We've stayed in this building on 4 different occasions, all trips for my husband's work. The rooms are decent, we don't spend all day in them, so they serve their purpose & are kept fairly clean.
However, if you're booking using any 3rd party service, the hosts are likely to treat you as inferior. We were denied a clean set of towels during a 4 night stay because we "paid the lowest rate they offer" after using a booking site. Most rooms also do not include washcloths.
It's an apartment complex. Most rooms have shared bathrooms in the hallway. It's clean though, price is right. Management is ok, but not always at the counter. It's a good option for a family on a budget, the 6 person rooms with bunk beds are fun!
Hyatt Place New York/Midtown-South
| Address | 52 W 36th St., New York, NY 10018 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (212) 239-9100 |
We had an incredible stay at the Hyatt and couldn’t have been happier with our experience. We were able to lock in a great rate, especially during a busy stretch with Fanatics Fest, FIFA events, and so much happening throughout the city.
The views were absolutely stunning. The hotel was kind enough to provide us with a complimentary room upgrade, and we’re truly grateful for that gesture. It really set the tone for an amazing week. Falling asleep each night with a view of the Empire State Building was something we’ll never forget, and having access to the top-floor terrace for an even better view made the experience feel like a dream come true.
The room was clean, comfortable, and well maintained, and every staff member we interacted with was friendly and welcoming. While we didn’t get a chance to enjoy the hotel breakfast, there was an excellent bagel shop right next door that quickly became part of our daily routine.
Overall, this was a fantastic stay from start to finish. Between the location, the incredible views, the outstanding service, and the thoughtful room upgrade, we’d gladly stay here again on our next trip to New York.
Our stay at Hyatt Place New York Midtown South was a major disappointment. Having only 1 of 2 elevators operational for a hotel with nearly 185 rooms was a huge issue. On top of that, there was a constant, loud banging noise throughout our time there, presumably from ongoing repairs on the property. The exterior wasn't any better, with scaffolding covering the facade, making for a very unappealing arrival.
The cleanliness and condition of the room and common areas were poor. The carpets and bed skirt in our room were visibly stained, the furniture was beat up, tired, and dated, and the hallways leading to our room were dirty. Even the reception area felt cold and uninviting. To be fair, they do offer complimentary breakfast, and the breakfast dining area is probably the nicest part of the hotel, but it’s simply not worth it given the state of the rest of the property.
To their credit, management did offer to cancel our reservation and issue a full refund, which we appreciated. However, checking in at 3 PM only to deal with all these issues and have to scramble to find a new hotel by 5 PM added an immense amount of unnecessary stress to our trip. Overall, this hotel does not offer good value, and for the prices they charge, there are significantly better options in Midtown. I would strongly recommend looking elsewhere.
The location was ideal for us, an easy walk to Times Square & Madison Square Gardens and convenient shopping & restaurants nearby. Every staff person we encountered was polite and professional. The included breakfast was quite good. The hot/cold water machine in the lobby was wonderful to have. The dining area and lobby sitting area look renovated. The viewing deck isn't fancy but our group made good use of it to hang out. The gym was being renovated and we were not able to use it for the first couple days of our stay which was really disappointing, but it looks much better now! Our room itself was a letdown, it looks like aspects of the rooms have been updated but it still seemed kind of depressing, maybe it was the carpet and furniture. The sofa in our room (which we didn't use as a bed) was the saggiest sofa I've seen in any hotel, the seat cushions were too small and thin and we could see the sofa bed underneath through the gaps. We also got some towels that were in sad shredded shape. Our second floor room was actually pretty quiet aside from the noise of the elevator (it kind of sounds like a distant subway train) and the sound of the renovation workers who were staying on the same floor using the stairs throughout the night. But we didn't hear sounds from the floor above us or from the street since we faced the back but I would still bring a sound machine. I've read that the room size is big for NYC standards and that a room with 2 queen beds is hard to find. So if you value those and the location, then this is a decent place to stay.
Our stay was great. We loved the location, food and view from our room. The size of the room was doable and the bed was comfortable. I read reviews prior to our stay and was apprehensive, but we had absolutely no issues and would visit again. The guy at the front desk was energetic and welcoming each morning when we came down for breakfast and to head out to explore.
I will start by saying the staff, especially Pablo and Jose, are amazing. They really were helpful and made the stay extra enjoyable. However the rooms were not the greatest. When paying the prices we did I do expect the beds to be more comfortable and the sofa sleeper not to be the shape of a taco where it can’t be used as paid for.
Martinique New York on Broadway, Curio Collection by Hilton
| Address | 49 W 32nd St, New York, NY 10001 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (212) 736-3800 |
Booked our room at the Martinique as part of a Costco vacation package. My wishlist included 1) close to Madison Square Garden 2) easy access to a subway and 3) a room that would fit 3 women and all our luggage. The Martinique met or exceeded all these expectations.
Our flight put us into the city early. We walked in the doors of the hotel around 9:45am just hoping to have them hold our bags for us until check in. But luckily our room was already ready, and for a reasonable fee we were able to check-in early. Soon after check-in a staff member brought up a little gift bag with macaroon's from the sweet shop, and hand written card for my birthday!
The room itself was a fine size by NYC standards, everything was clean, the beds were comfortable, we requested extra pillows and got them quickly. The AC was STRONG - like almost too strong. I was also shocked at now quiet it was, though I'm sure being on the 11th floor helped with that.
The closest subway stop (yellow and orange lines) is literally 20ft from the front door of the hotel. It was SO NICE having that stop right there and allowed us to zip around easily and saved our feet quite a few steps.
The neighborhood was great with lots of little shops and restaurants to explore. Chelsea, NoMad and Koreatown all had cool stuff going on. I've stayed at trendier - more upscale hotels in Manhattan, but the Martinique might be my new favorite.
I had such an amazing stay at Hilton Martinique New York! Caroline and Hirenia truly went above and beyond to make my birthday extra special. Not only did they surprise me with a room upgrade, but they also helped send my parcel at the hotel’s expense, which was such a thoughtful gesture and incredibly appreciated.
From check-in to check-out, the hospitality was warm, professional, and genuinely caring. Little touches like these make all the difference and turned my trip into such a memorable experience.
A huge thank you again to Caroline and Hirenia for their kindness and exceptional service — you made our stay unforgettable! I’ll definitely be returning and highly recommend this hotel to anyone visiting NYC.
We needed a central location to see as many sites as possible in a four day trip. This hotel was perfect t for our trip. Price was great, and quiet, spacious room. Everyone greeted us every time we came and went. Jose C. Got us lined up with a great ride to the airport and fixed the price and time for us perfectly. Mario T. Took the reins to hold our bags to enjoy a show on broadway after we checked out of our room. Great group of folks working this hotel.
Imagine paying almost 500$/night in an allegedly “4 stars hotel “ and not having a mini fridge in the room! When you ask for one, depending on who is at the desk, you have to pay additional 25-50$/night to rent one.
The included Breakfast is a very limited selection and not worth it; You’re better eating elsewhere. They wouldn’t seat you at the breakfast unless everyone is present.( can’t be seated if your family member is arriving from the room shortly and you want to order for them)
You basically just pay for the location near the empire building but otherwise definitely not worth it.
The hotel is conveniently located on Broadway, just a short, direct walk from Moynihan Station. Although it is a historic property, it features digital key access via the Hilton app, which allowed for a seamless, contactless check-in.
My standard room was compact but modern and equipped with a smart TV. While the view was limited due to NYC’s building density, that was expected. I particularly appreciated the powerful air conditioning, which provided a much-needed escape from the brutal summer heat. I also felt safe and secure thanks to the personnel checking keys at the entrance.
The main downsides were the poor soundproofing, as I could hear my neighbor, though I was too exhausted from the concert to mind. Additionally, the lack of an electric kettle was inconvenient, requiring me to use the coffee maker for hot water.
Embassy Suites by Hilton New York Manhattan Times Square
| Address | 60 W 37th St, New York, NY 10018 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (212) 912-0111 |
I stayed at Embassy Suites New York Midtown Manhattan for my birthday trip to NYC, just ten days after an unexpected surgery and several days in the hospital. I arrived around 2 PM, two hours before check-in, and the receptionist Bindiya kindly checked me in early after hearing that I was still recovering. She even gave me chocolates and snacks and told me to contact her anytime if I needed assistance — such a thoughtful gesture. Since I’ve visited NYC many times before, I simply wanted a quiet place to rest and recover, and the hotel was perfect for that. The evening reception and complimentary breakfast made it easy to relax without needing to go out in the snowy weather. Thank you to Bindiya and the entire staff for making my birthday stay so comfortable and memorable.
We booked a junior long suite with an empire skyview and a pullout sofa. The photos online showed a lot of windows. The room we were initially checked into had one tiny window. The staff was great about moving us into another room with more windows and said the website photos were incorrect. We had to give up our pullout sofa. I love embassy suites for their great breakfast but this locations breakfast was terrible every day of our stay. Everything has been cold. No options. Very sad. The hotel is also very small. Probably my least favorite embassy with the least amenities and lowest quality breakfast. Will definitely reconsider starting at embassy suites next time.
If I could give this experience zero stars, I would. I accidentally booked this hotel while traveling and realized immediately that it was not near my intended destination. I contacted the hotel right away, hoping for understanding and assistance, especially since this was my first time booking a hotel on my own. Unfortunately, I was met with a complete lack of compassion and was told nothing could be done.
I understand that hotels have policies, but customer service should also include common sense and empathy, especially when a genuine mistake is addressed immediately. Being charged $364 for a room I never used, along with additional fees, feels unfair and disappointing.
My family has been loyal Hilton customers for many years, and my mother has worked for Hampton for over 12 years, so this experience was especially surprising. What is most upsetting is not just the charge itself, but the unwillingness to show any flexibility or understanding.
This experience has left a very negative impression, and I hope management takes a closer look at how situations like this are handled in the future, because customer loyalty is earned through service, not policies alone.
I cannot say enough wonderful things about Embassy Suites by Hilton New York Manhattan Times Square. From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel so special. Ms. Jamela at the front desk went above and beyond to accommodate us—we had the most amazing suite with a terrace facing the Empire State Building. I called in advance to let them know it was a special night for our honeymoon, and she made it a dream come true. Also, Ksenia at check-in was incredibly welcoming, courteous, and even congratulated us. The entire hotel staff was top-notch. The rooms were very comfortable, the bed was amazing, and the food and drinks were exceptional. I highly recommend this hotel and will definitely be returning for a longer stay!
I always stay here for business trips - the rooms are clean and quiet. There are some rooms that are bigger than others, but at least for a solo traveler, the small rooms are still good. Love the two complimentary waters you get and the baggage holding/taxi service to the airports. The staff have all been very nice and professional as well! Haven't been to the complimentary breakfast or reception but like that that is an option. Elevators are pretty quick and location is great
Life Hotel New York
| Address | 19 W 31st St, New York, NY 10001 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | (212) 615-9900 |
I stayed here for 3 nights and the experience was unfortunately quite negative. I travel a lot and have stayed in many budget hotels but this one really stands out. I don't understand how this hotel has such high reviews, especially when it comes to room cleanliness. This is my experience:
Lobby: 3/5. The hotel's ground floor is also a bar(?) and aside from the noise (which stops around midnight), there are always strangers in the lobby. The hotel lobby itself is actually tucked away in a corner at the back between two elevators. It was an awkward experience but it isn't the worst.
Rooms: 2.5/5. I got the standard King room and the room is a decent size for NYC but the space is inefficiently utilized. There are almost no storage areas, side "tables" are small bar tables with no drawers, the work desk is also tiny and has 1 drawer, the bathroom and room has no shelving etc. I've stayed in smaller rooms that had much more storage. You won't be able to store more than 1 carry on suitcase here, even in the King Room.
Cleanliness: 1.5/5. The rooms in this hotel are very awkward. The floors are just... exposed concrete(?) They'll give you slippers but the floors look gross. Our room's shower rod was broken and held together by duct tape (which broke apart during our stay). The showerhead is musty. There was a dark brown spot on our bedsheet which we had to swap out the next day. The A/C is very dusty (which is the case everywhere but it is especially bad here since the A/C is directly above the bed). This experience is downright gross and awkward.
Elevators: 2/5. I've never reviewed a hotel elevator specifically but both elevators in this hotel are awful. The elevators are incredibly slow (waiting for the eleavtors will easily take you an additional 10 minutes). The elevators are also very old and feel unstable to stand inside.
Service: 4/5. The staff members and room service (especially Nancy) are very helpful and sweet.
Location: 5/5. Easily the best part of this hotel, it's close to everything and is also tucked away behind K-Town so sound isn't a huge issue.
There is a lot of potential for this hotel but unfortunately this potential is not realized.
We stayed here for a family trip (2 adults with a teenage son). Amazing location with access to both the up and downtown neighborhoods/Central Park/ etc. It’s also walking distance to many big sights, close to a universal subway stop (and Penn station) and our room was large, clean, quiet and comfortable for NYC. Staff were all great with special shout outs to the cleaning staff, Francisco, Rick and Emanie! The only minor nuisance was the early morning coffee lady at the bar was rude. Would definitely recommend to friends and family. Thank you for a nice stay!
Cons:
The room i had on the second floor had a view from one window of an internal hallway where employees stored their belongings and cleaning supplies, and a view from the other window of a ladder in a dark hallway. No natural light. Very depressing. The heater/ac was loud and turned on and off frequently. The bar below was very audible at night. Difficult to rest with all the noise. The shower was about 6 inches higher than the rest of the bathroom, creating a kind of scary slippery step down.
Pros:
Everyone was super nice and helpful. The restaurant had interesting offerings. The bathroom was otherwise spacious. The bed was comfortable. There were outlets everywhere for charging things. The heater/ac did keep the room at a nice temperature. The location truly can't be beat.
Perfect location and easy to get to the subway and even picked up by car. Beautiful hotel!! I am glad I found this place and I will be back. Everything was clean and nice in my room. Super cute! I loved how there was a cafe, restaurant and even speakeasy down below. Chris the night staff member was so awesome! He did everything he could to make sure we were happy. Above and beyond. Super friendly with great energy. He might just be who really makes the full experience complete.
My stay at Life Hotel was phenomenal! The charm and individual style of each room was an unexpected treat. The front desk staff member, Emanie, was so SO friendly, helpful and made the visit even better. She shared insightful on hotel history, amenities, assisted with booking transportation for our visit and it was so immersive and helpful. I definitely plan to revisit this and explore and enjot the unique, retro-chic vibe and splendid history of this gem. Highly recommended!
Wingate by Wyndham New York Midtown South/5th Ave
| Address | 11 W 37th St, New York, NY 10018 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | (917) 983-7897 |
We stayed for four nights while visiting New York. The rooms are very clean and keep cool. We had a king size bed that was true to description, and the view was very nice. The front of house was extremely warm and inviting, and I'd like to give a special shout out to Tenzing, who made our stay special.
The only knock I have is that the site isn't well advertised on the street, and we had to stop several times to try and find it. Other than, it was a perfect stay!
Lovely stay! This hotel had all the facilities in the room one could ask for despite being small, but ok considering manhattan hotels. There were multiple towels, a coffee machine, locker and very comfortable and clean beds. It was great to come to a clean and organised room after an exhausting day. Peaceful rooms and the staff was very kind. They also had breakfast from 6-9 a.m. , the only suggestion I have is to add at least one hot breakfast option for vegetarians. 10/10 recommended!
Thanks for a great experience!
An excellent hotel, despite the room being small. The bed was comfortable and the room was clean. The space to breakfast is small, but the time limit of the 30 minutes per guest works really well. The breakfast options are varied and meet one's needs.The location is incredible—you can do everything on foot. Fausto is amazing. His sensitivity in noticing our exhaustion after many hours of flying, and granting us an early check-in, was an act of boundless generosity.
We initially stayed at Springhill suites down the street and left after 1 night because the AC stopped working and the room was bad. This hotel, although basic and slightly lower rated, impressed us very much! The rooms are small but very very functional. The bed was comfortable, the AC worked great, the shower had good pressure and a nice design. The sink is in the bedroom but if you are sharing as a couple/staying alone this is a good set up. We skipped the free breakfast but it seemed to be very popular with basic items. All the staff were very friendly. Some of the complaints in this hotel is about hearing the elevator beeps at night. The elevator beeps are very very loud when you are inside the elevator. We were actually thinking it is an error because it is unreasonable loud. You can hear the elevator beeps from inside your room. We were staying on the top floor, with only 4 rooms per a floor, we didn’t have the elevator come up to our floor much. So we only would start hearing the elevator in the morning which was fine. Would recommend to request a higher floor.
The rooms were clean, modern, small, functional. Would recommend.
I really liked the location of the hotel. It’s very close to most tourist attractions, especially Times Square and Summit ONE, which are the main reason I chose to stay here. As a Platinum Wyndham member and someone working in the hospitality industry, I found the price to be reasonable. I also appreciated that they offered me early check-in as a member, which made my stay even more convenient. The room was clean, and the bed was very comfortable. I also liked that they have a microwave available for guest use in the breakfast area. The only downside is that the room is quite small and doesn’t have much space. However, if you’re organized, it can still work out fine. The staff were very accommodating. I believe one of them was named Fausto (apologies if I misspelled it), and the night shift staff were also very helpful.
There were a couple of minor issues; the sockets near the lamp and TV were not working, but the maintenance employee was very kind and quickly provided us with an extension cord so we could still watch TV. They also offer complimentary slippers and toothbrushes upon request, which was a nice touch since I prefer to travel light and not bring too many items. Overall, I still had a great experience and would definitely come back on my next visit to New York City.
Hyatt Herald Square New York
| Address | 30 W 31st St, New York, NY 10001 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (212) 330-1234 |
I booked this hotel because of its proximity to MSG, but next time I would rather stay in time square. The area that this hotel is in is awful. The streets were very dirty, covered not just in litter but actual human waste. Our room wasn’t ready when we got there but we were told we would get a text or email when it was. We never did and finally just checked the app and saw that we were assigned a room number, though nobody ever contacted us even knowing we were waiting. The room was small but cute, however the walls were thin. After a check out, the room next to us was being cleaned and the woman was watching a soccer game on her phone while cleaning with the door open and we could hear every word from in our room. The breakfast was ok, but service was lacking. We had two different servers and both times had to ask them for water, and then ask for a refill of water (once had to ask multiple times!). The highlight is the rooftop. The food and drink, as well as just the atmosphere up there, was really nice. The staff up there, Daryl and Jenelle, were both fantastic and were a highlight on our trip! However, I still wouldn’t stay here again or recommend it.
First time staying here, sixth time in NYC.
My normal hotel skyrocketed in price and I was pretty nervous finding somewhere else because my "normal" was known for being very quiet and accommodating.
The countless reviews on all the common sites had me freaked out that I'd get a noisy room, but worse, one with failing AC and an unhelpful front desk. We've recently come off a severe heatwave and I definitely did not want to swelter in a room with two grumpy kids.
After days of searching I came across the Hyatt Herald and it checked off all the boxes.
1. Two queen beds instead of two full. Important for this specific trip because two adults, two kids.
2. Very, very few poor reviews. In fact, the most 5-star reviews I've found yet, outside of the bougie $1500/night hotels.
3. Decent price.
4. No keyword hits for "nonworking" or "poor" AC, etc.
Rolled the dice and booked.
I couldn't be more pleased.
1. The room was typical NYC small, but we weren't in it much. It was also plain inside, but I don't care about either of those things. The only things important to me are comfort and quiet, even if it's a prison cell.
2. And, indeed, it was dead quiet in 602. I never once heard traffic or pedestrians outside or people in other rooms. No elevator sounds, either.
3. The AC was almost too strong because, when in bed, I ended up right underneath the vent. But, you can set the temp and it goes there. And quickly.
4. Central location to everything. I don't know NYC well enough to know if Midtown doesn't have the best food, but surrounding food was pretty hit or miss. Local friends told me to hit Chinatown and Downtown for better food, and they were right.
5. Elevators were working and fast. Never a wait more than 60 seconds.
6. Price was fair for NYC with a $250 security deposit that was returned to me before I had made it home.
7. Staff were friendly and let us check our bags after we checked-out for the remainder of the day. They were kept secure in a back room.
One of the Worst Hotel Check-In Experiences I’ve Ever Had
Our arrival at the Hyatt Herald Square was an absolutely terrible introduction to both this hotel and our first trip to New York City.
Earlier that day, a front desk employee had no problem locating our multi-room reservation using our confirmation number and simply told us to return after 3 PM. When we came back, we unfortunately dealt with a manager named Taion, and the experience completely changed.
Taion refused to use our confirmation number even after we explained that it had worked perfectly earlier. Because several rooms were involved and some may have been under different guest names, we repeatedly tried to provide the confirmation number. Instead of making any real effort to help us, his attitude became confrontational, dismissive, and extremely condescending.
What made the situation even worse was watching a manager seem more interested in proving a guest wrong than solving the problem. At one point, he actually turned his computer screen around to show us that only one room appeared under my name. The entire interaction felt unnecessarily hostile and humiliating, especially with my friends and family standing there watching.
I own an employment agency and work with clients constantly. If one of my managers treated a client the way we were treated, I would consider it a serious customer-service failure. A manager should know how to de-escalate a situation, communicate respectfully, and find solutions. We experienced the exact opposite.
We were tired after traveling and needed somewhere to rest. That is the only reason we didn’t cancel our entire reservation and leave. Had we not been exhausted, Hyatt would have lost our business immediately.
For someone in a management position to make paying guests feel this unwelcome is unacceptable. Hyatt should seriously review how this situation was handled and whether this represents the level of service they expect from their managers.
Our first trip to New York should have started with excitement. Instead, our first impression of the Hyatt Herald Square was hostility, disrespect, embarrassment, and some of the poorest customer service we have experienced at a hotel.
I would strongly recommend that management address this.
A central Midtown location is what makes Hyatt Herald Square New York such a convenient base for exploring the city. We booked a room for three people through Expedia and stayed for three nights. Check-in was smooth, and since our room was already available, we were able to check in early, which was a nice bonus.
The hotel is within walking distance of Macy’s, the Empire State Building, Times Square, and several subway stations, making it easy to get around Manhattan. The room was clean and stocked with essentials such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, body lotion, soap, and a vanity kit.
The hotel also features a lobby bar and restaurant where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or evening drinks, a rooftop bar that opens in good weather, and the unique Le Petit Chef dining experience.
One thing to note is that the hotel provides only two complimentary bottles of water per room each day, regardless of the number of guests. We also learned on the second day that housekeeping is available only if requested, something that wasn’t explained during check-in.
While the hotel was clean and comfortable overall, a little more communication at check-in and amenities based on room occupancy would make the experience even better.
Still, the excellent location and comfortable stay make it a solid choice for visitors exploring New York City.
Even though the hotel was under renovation still an enjoyable stay! The staff was okay but Taion was AMAZING!!! He was extremely friendly and welcoming. He was so patient and answered all of many questions! He told us how to use the subway which saved us a lot in transportation! There should be a Taion at every hotel. I can’t praise him enough!!! He made the stay AMAZING!!
Hilton Garden Inn New York/West 35th Street
| Address | 63 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (212) 594-3310 |
We stayed at this hotel for one week and had a very comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout our visit. From the moment we arrived, the front desk staff made us feel very welcome. They were friendly, helpful, and always ready to assist with any questions or needs we had during our stay. Special mention goes to Tony, who stood out for his politeness, kindness, and professional attitude. He always greeted us with a warm smile and made us feel truly valued as guests.
The room was consistently neat, clean, and well-maintained every day. Housekeeping and room service staff did an excellent job keeping everything in perfect condition. Fresh towels, clean linens, and a tidy environment were provided regularly, which made our stay even more comfortable and relaxing. We really appreciated their attention to detail and dedication to cleanliness.
Another great advantage of this hotel is its convenient location. It has easy access to the subway, which made traveling around the city very simple and stress-free. We were able to reach different attractions and areas quickly, which added a lot of convenience to our trip.
Overall, we had a very positive experience and would definitely consider staying here again in the future. The combination of friendly staff, excellent service, clean rooms, and great location made our stay truly enjoyable.
Loved every minute staying at this hotel. The location can not be beat! It was in a perfect spot right by major attractions and in the middle of downtown and uptown. So happy with this location. The hotel is super clean in both the lobby and the rooms. Service was top notch! Desk staff was friendly and accommodating. Bell men were very helpful and nice. They offer luggage storage both before check in and after check out. They do have an onsite cafe open in the am which is nice for a quick grab and go breakfast before you leave for the day. Rooms had some space in them and were very clean. Daily room service was an added bonus. If I and ever back in NYC i will be staying here !
The hotel staff were all very friendly and welcoming. Candace is ewonderful—she is such a kind and genuine person, and I really enjoyed talking with her. Everyone made us feel comfortable and well taken care of. It truly felt like a home away from home. We really enjoyed our stay and would definitely come back!
Our night at The Hilton Garden Inn on West 35th street was perfect. Zero complaints from check-in to check-out. Staff were welcoming, friendly, polite, and treated us as if we were family visiting their home. The front desk staff were wonderful! The rooms were spotless. And the air conditioning was crisp!
The parking garage right down the street was easy in and out.
We had a wonderful stay! Our room was clean, the hotel was quiet (which I always appreciate as a light sleeper) and the bed was very comfortable.
One of my biggest priorities when traveling especially during a summer heatwave—is good air conditioning, and this hotel absolutely delivered. The A/C worked amazingly well and made our stay so much more comfortable! 🤗
The location couldn't have been better. It was just steps from the nearest subway station, about a 5-minute walk to delicious breakfast spots like Andrews Diner NYC and Carnegie Diner, and only a 6-minute walk to Penn Station. We were also lucky enough to have an incredible view of the Empire State Building from our room, which was such a nice bonus.
My only downside was the pillows—they just weren't comfortable for me and left my neck feeling sore. 😟
Overall, we had a great experience and would definitely stay here again!
Holiday Inn Express Manhattan Times Square South by IHG
| Address | 60 W 36th St., New York, NY 10018 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (212) 897-3388 |
My sister and I stayed here for one night. Every staff member that we encountered was very friendly! Our room was clean and well stocked and we both loved the city view! The free breakfast was better than a lot of continental breakfasts I’ve experienced AND the front desk will hold your luggage before and after check-in! The location was great as far as safety, subway/train access, and nearby restaurants! I would definitely stay again! Thanks for the great experience!
Location was great! The front desk was very helpful, especially Stephen who went above and beyond to make our stay as great as it could be!
Hotel workers should be more like him, what a great employee and was always there on the front desk when we needed something.
Thanks again.
The hotel provided a pleasant experience overall. The room was spacious and reasonably quiet, and the staff were helpful whenever assistance was needed. There were a few minor signs of wear in some areas, but nothing that affected my stay. Good value for the price and a convenient option for travelers.
My aunt and I stayed here from July 25th-July 27th. On Sunday, July 26th, my aunt woke up with bite marks on her leg. After we researched it, we discovered that she got bitten by bed bugs. When we lifted my aunt's bed up we discovered that it was gross underneath. We went down to the front desk and explained to them the situation. We got a new room, and I was told that a member of management would contact me. It's been a week since we have stayed there, and no one has contacted me regarding the incident. Unfortunately, I will not be staying at this hotel again. I will be staying at either a Hilton property or a Marriott property from now on.
The location of this hotel is perfect with great walkability and subway access. Somehow, the rooms also managed to be extremely quiet. The hotel service was great and I appreciated the luggage storage on our last day. Breakfast options were standard (no complaints-most hotels in NYC don't have free breakfast) and we loved having coffee available at all hours. The rooms were small, but typical for Manhattan, with the added surprise of daily housekeeping service. My only complaint was that our king-sized bed was really short. I'm only 5'8" and my feet hung well off the end. In previous reviews I read complaints about long waits for the elevator, but that was never a concern during our visit. We would definitely stay here again.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Hotel in Midtown
Selecting a hotel in the heart of Midtown requires a bit of strategy to ensure you get the best value and comfort. The neighborhood surrounding the Empire State Building is densely packed, and the quality of your stay can hinge on small details that are easy to overlook during the booking process. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned New York traveler, keeping a few key principles in mind will help you navigate the options and avoid common pitfalls like noisy rooms or unexpected fees.
1. Verify the "View" Before You Pay
Many hotels advertise "city views," but not all views include the Empire State Building. If waking up to the sight of the illuminated tower is a priority, call the front desk before booking to ask for a "north-facing" or "south-facing" room, depending on the hotel’s location. Requesting a higher floor is essential, as lower floors in Midtown often face brick walls or obstructed sightlines.
2. Consider the Subway Proximity for Late Nights
While the Empire State Building is central, the walk from the subway can feel long after a late Broadway show or a night out. Look at the cross-streets of the hotel, not just the distance to the landmark. Being close to the 34th Street-Herald Square station (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W) or the 33rd Street station (6 train) will save your feet and your patience, especially if you are traveling with children or in inclement weather.
3. Beware of Hidden Resort and Destination Fees
Manhattan hotels are notorious for tacking on "facility fees" that are not included in the initial advertised rate. These can range from $25 to $50 per night and often cover amenities you may not use, like Wi-Fi or gym access. Always read the fine print and compare the "all-in" price, not just the nightly rate, to avoid a shock at checkout.
4. Prioritize Soundproofing and Interior Rooms
Midtown is the city that never sleeps, and that includes garbage trucks at 5 a.m. and constant horn honking. If you are a light sleeper, opt for a hotel known for modern, double-paned windows or specifically request a room facing an interior courtyard. Trading a view for a silent night is often the best decision for ensuring you are well-rested for a day of sightseeing.
5. Leverage the Koreatown Dining Scene
Staying near the Empire State Building puts you on the doorstep of one of the best late-night dining districts in the city. Rather than paying for expensive hotel breakfasts, look for properties within a two-block radius of West 32nd Street. This allows you to step out for authentic Korean BBQ, ramen, or dessert cafes at almost any hour, providing incredible value and a more authentic local experience than room service.
The magic of staying near the Empire State Building is the sense of being at the center of the universe. You can wander back to your room in the afternoon for a quick rest before heading out again, a luxury that is often impossible when staying in more peripheral boroughs or districts. The ability to see the building lit up in different colors at night, signifying various holidays and events, becomes a personal light show just for you.
Ultimately, the best hotel is the one that aligns with the pace of your trip. Whether you choose a sprawling luxury suite with a spa or a minimalist micro-room designed for the traveler who is never inside, staying in this historic district ensures that the best of New York City is quite literally on your doorstep. With the right planning, your visit to the Empire State Building can begin the moment you check in.
