preloadTimes Square New York City

One of the world’s most famous cities, New York City, or the “Big Apple”, never sleeps with its iconic landmarks, towering skyscrapers and distinct neighbourhoods. This vibrant mix of culture is highlighted by innovative food, fashion and art scenes that make up just some of New York’s incredible experiences. Nestled near the centre of this concrete jungle is the bustling Times Square, known as “The Crossroads of The World”. Times Square pairs family attractions with neon billboards, street performers, designer-brand stores, top restaurants and a variety of amazing Times Square Hotels. Times Square is undoubtedly an entertainment haven, especially on New Year’s Eve when revelers from around the world watch the famous ball drop.

When is best to book Times Square Hotels?

If affordability is what you’re after, it’s easy to see that January is the best month for hotel prices. The crowds thin out after the holiday season, and New York is sure to show you a spectacular winter wonderland.

Photo| The pond in Central park Midtown Manhattan|GETTYIMAGES – ALEKS IVIC VISUALS

Come summer! The prices peak in the month of July, as New York is covered in sunshine and travellers will find an abundance of popular outdoor events. From 4th of July fireworks to lively street fairs, music festivals and rooftop parties, summertime in New York is the epitome of fun.

Photo| Brooklyn Bridge 4th of July fireworks| GETTYIMAGES – FRANCKREPORTER

November is the most expensive month of the year to book a hotel in New York, as travellers will be greeted with fantastic weather, stunning fall foliage, and the city’s holiday festivities in full swing.

Photo| New York City Central Park| GETTYIMAGES – DSZC

How to choose the best Times Square Hotel that’s most suitable for you?

With so many excellent Times Square hotels, it can be a challenge to find the best one for you. With over 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve highlighted the Best New York City hotels near all the glitz and glamour of Times Square. Read on to discover which Times Square hotel meets all your New York holiday needs.

To help your travel planning, we’ve listed New York’s largest annual events close to our top choice of the best Times Square Hotels

Times Square Hotels Under 2 Minutes’ Walk

Times Square in New York City (NYC).
Photo| Times Square| GETTYIMAGES – PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVE KELLEY ALA MUDPIG

Edison Hotel New York City

Photo| Edison Hotel New York City| Provided by LEONARDO

Located in the heart of Times Square, Edison Hotel New York City is an art deco-inspired hotel with a rich history that dates back to 1931. In a prime location to explore the best restaurants and bars that NYC has to offer. Here guests will find they are close to attractions like Broadway, Fifth Avenue, Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, and Bryant Park. Those who come to ring in the New Year will enjoy the NYE Package with a 4-course dinner, open bar, and access to The Edison Ballroom.

Here guests will find a 24-hour business centre that appeals to corporate travellers and complimentary neighbourhood walking tours that are a perfect family-friendly excursion. In this hyp Times Square hotel rooms range from the budget-friendly Classic Guestroom to 20-storey high luxury Presidential Suite. All of which have access to the hotel’s fitness centre and an extensive list of comfort amenities.

Star Rating: 3*
Price: US$45 – US$911
Guest Rating: 7.3
Address: 228 West 47th Street, New York, USA

Paramount Times Square

Photo| Paramount Times Square| Provided by LEONARDO

Open since 1928, Paramount Times Square is an iconic hotel located in NYC’s Theatre District only 2 minutes from Times Square. Dramatic, edgy, and modern, guests love Paramount for its stylish decor and central home base for exploring the city’s top theatre, music, and entertainment attractions. Guests are spoiled for choice with dining and nightlife options nearby, as the area provides an excellent mix of energy and excitement.

After walking through the impressive two-storey lobby and fireplace, guests will find rooms and suites are comfortable and contemporary in style, boasting pillow-top mattresses that are perfect for recharging for another day of adventure. Guests can start their day at Corso Coffee, dine on gourmet cuisine at the on-site Paramount Bar & Grill, or sip a cocktail at the underground Diamond Horseshoe.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: US$50 – US$732
Guest Rating: 7.0
Address: 235 West 46th Street, New York, USA

Night Hotel Times Square

Photo| Night Hotel Times Square| Provided by BOOKING.COM

Perfect for guests who want to be in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the city, Night Hotel Times Square is only footsteps away from the pulsing heartbeat of Times Square. Front and centre to all that the city has to offer, this hotel attracts young professionals that are looking for world-famous attractions at their fingertips. Boasting unique designs, from its trendy lobby and ski-lodge inspired restaurant and bar, Night Hotel Times Square also wows guests with octopus-inspired chandeliers and a towering fish tank.

This Times Square hotel is a tourist’s dream location, the pedestrian-friendly area offers a comfortable oasis to retire in the evening after a day of sightseeing. Cosy and modern rooms boast pillow-top beds with Egyptian cotton sheets and walk-in showers. Modern amenities include complimentary toiletries, Bose Wave Radios with iPod docks, and terrycloth bathrobes. Their popular NYE package includes champagne, hangover recovery kit, and access to the Times Square party at Maple NYC.

Star Rating: 3*
Price: US$92 – US$841
Guest Rating: 7.1
Address: 157 West 47th Street, New York, USA

Hotel Location

Times Square Hotels Under 5 minutes’ Walk

A ceramic mosaic sign on the NYC subway system at the Times Square station
Photo| Times Square sign| GETTYIMAGES – MUNRO1

The Gallivant Times Square

Photo| The Gallivant Times Square| Provided by BOOKING.COM

Experience the best of New York at The Gallivant Times Square, located only a few steps away from iconic NYC attractions. Recently completing a multi-million dollar renovation, this 336-room property features spacious rooms, in addition to a fitness centre and inviting lounge. Rooms range from standard rooms to family rooms accommodating up to seven guests and fitness rooms with workout equipment, ensuring that all types of travellers will find somewhere that suits their needs.

Only 1 kilometre from the Museum of Modern Art and less than 10 minutes from the Radio City Music Hall, guests will find Gallivant a perfect base camp to exploring entertainment options nearby. Perfect for both business and leisure travellers, here guests will find famous eateries and bars on nearly every corner surrounding this property.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: US$50 – US$777
Guest Rating: 6.6
Address: 234 West 48Th Street, New York, USA

Millennium Times Square New York

Photo| Millennium Times Square New York| Provided by ICE PORTAL

Situated in one of the most coveted locations, Millennium Times Square New York has a front row seat to the action-packed corners of New York. Only a 3 minute walk away from Times Square, Millennium Broadway is a 625-room property that is ideal for travellers who want to catch a Broadway show, shop along the world-famous Fifth Avenue, or attend an event in the hotel’s 110,000-square-foot conference centre.

Rooms range from the basic Standard to a more luxurious Millennium Suite, all equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, 440-thread count Italian linens, stocked minibars, and large flat-screen TVs. An on-site fitness centre and the Restaurant Charlotte allow guests to stay refueled and rejuvenated for another day of adventure, while the hotel’s location provides easy access to top restaurants, cafes, parks, and attractions either on foot or by local transportation.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: US$65 – US$798
Guest Rating: 7.9
Address: 145 West 44th Street, New York, USA

Hotel Mela

Photo| Hotel Mela| Provided by LEONARDO

A gorgeous boutique hotel, Hotel Mela is located in the vibrant heart of New York City, but far enough to have some peace and quiet. Only minutes away from the most popular holiday events in New York, those who want to catch the Tree Lighting at Rockefeller Centre, the ball drop on NYE, or catch the Thanksgiving Day Parade will find this hotel’s location ideal.

Boasting contemporary Italian decor, here guests will find 232 quaint guest rooms and suites that include an iPod docking station, coffee maker, and luxury linens. The hotel has two on-site restaurants. The famous Saju Bistro which serves French cuisine and a funky Gastropub called The Long Room. Getting around the city from here is a breeze, as the hotel has 13 subway lines within two blocks of the front door.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: US$99 – US$619
Guest Rating: 8.2
Address:  120 West 44th Street, New York, USA

Hotel Location

Times Square Hotels Under 10 Minutes’ Walk

Times Square, New York City, New York State, Night, Taxi
Photo| Times Square night taxis| GETTYIMAGES -BATUHANOZDEL

Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel

Photo| Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel| Provided by LEONARDO

Just steps from the iconic sights of New York, Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel is a great family-friendly and business hotel with custom-made touches. Here guests will be welcomed with contemporary decor in one of the 1,750 rooms in one of the largest hotels in the city. The Sheraton is located in Midtown West, just a few blocks away from Times Square, Central Park and several subway lines that can whisk you further away in the city.

The hotel features a 4,000-square-foot fitness centre to keep travellers fit, while 43 meeting rooms and an expansive ballroom is ideal for the business savvy. Experience some of the best attractions in New York before taking advantage of the hotel’s on-site spa treatments,  relaxing in the upscale lounge with concierge services, or tasting international cuisine at the on-site Link Cafe & Bar.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: US$128 – US$859
Guest Rating: 8.0
Address: 811 7th Avenue & 53rd Street, New York, USA

Hilton Times Square

Photo| Hilton Times Square| Provided by ICE PORTAL

The ultra-chic Hilton Times Square offers guests an unrivalled view of the sparkling New York City skyline. Guests will find the hotel soars 44 storeys above the city with newly renovated upscale rooms, a 24-hour mini-market, and an unbeatable location. Most notably, the hotel’s most attractive feature is that it boasts exceptional views of the Empire State Building and Times Square, and is a quiet respite from all the crowds.

With this, those interested in celebrating NYE in style are in walking distance to the biggest celebration in the world, and even boast a few rooms with direct views of the ball drop and a VIP Rooftop Package to soak in the famous fireworks display. Those not visiting during the holidays might enjoy the NYC Sightseeing Package full of discounts on the main attractions.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: US$131 – US$941
Guest Rating: 8.9
Address: 234 West 42nd Street, New York, USA

Wellington Hotel New York City

Photo| Wellington Hotel New York City| Provided by BOOKING.COM

A historical haven, Wellington Hotel New York City dates back to 1910 and is located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan West, making it an easy walk to Carnegie Hall, Theatre District, MoMA, and Times Square. Guests will be greeted with well-maintained and spacious suites adorned with classic decor in addition to bath amenities, flat-screen TVs, and movies-on-demand.

Foodies will appreciate the easy access to Molyvos, one of New York’s finest award-winning Greek restaurants situated next door. Those interested in more casual fare can visit Park Cafe Restaurant, serving late night after-theatre snacks until 2am every day. The hotel offers unique features such as the U.S. Open Tennis, Thanksgiving, Holiday Lights, and New Year’s packages where guests are treated to complimentary sightseeing discounts, meals, and drinks.

Star Rating: 3*
Price: US$69 – US$1003
Guest Rating: 7.2
Address: 871 7th Avenue at 55th Street, New York, USA

New York Hilton Midtown

Photo| New York Hilton Midtown| Provided by ICE PORTAL

With upscale rooms and premier location, New York Hilton Midtown is a popular accommodation choice for travellers who want to explore New York attractions on foot. Whether you want to shop all day on 5th Avenue or catch the buzzing atmosphere of Times Square, stylish suites await guests with express check-in and check-out, plush bathrobes, and several on-site restaurants and bars.

An 8,000-square-foot gym is perfect for active travellers. The in-room spa services are ideal for travellers who need to take a respite from the excitement of the city with a pampering massage or beauty treatment. Located next to the city’s major attractions and right on the parade route for the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the hotel also offers premium parade-view rooms to watch the festivities from the comfort of your room.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: US$47 – US$4039
Guest Rating: 7.8
Address: 1335 Avenue of the Americas, New York, USA

Hotel Location

Times Square Hotels Under 15 Minutes’ Walk

A Broadway and 43rd street sign in Times Square.
Photo| Times Square street sign| GETTYIMAGES – 400TMAX

Hotel Pennsylvania New York

Photo| Hotel Pennsylvania New York| Provided by BOOKING.COM

Right across the street from the famous New York Penn Station, Hotel Pennsylvania New York is a pet-friendly hotel that offers comfort and conveniences perfect for exploring the most iconic landmark attractions the city has to offer. Guests are pampered with 5,000 newly renovated rooms, a well-equipped fitness centre, a 24-hour coffee shop, and a travel reservation desk. The on-site Statler Grill offers fine dining with New York steaks and fresh seafood, while a spacious bar treats guests with a long list of delicious cocktails.

Just a short stroll from Madison Square Garden, Empire State Building, Times Square, and Hell’s Kitchen, guests are spoiled for choice in how they want to spend their days. When it comes to big events, Hotel Pennsylvania is also minutes away from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and offers a fantastic vantage point for New York Fashion Week.

Star Rating: 2*
Price: US$44 – US$706
Guest Rating: 5.3
Address: 401 7th Avenue at 33rd Street, New York, USA

YOTEL New York at Times Square West

Photo| Yotel New York at Times Square West| Provided by LEONARDO

Trendy and ultra-chic, YOTEL New York at Times Square West is a new kind of hotel that appeals to modern travellers. Here, the guestrooms are called “Cabins” and the front desk is a “Mission Control”, featuring self-service check-in kiosks, a mobile concierge app, an innovative luggage-storing robot. Ideal for all types of budgets, rooms range from the standard Premium Queen Cabin to a First King Cabin, all equipped with flat-screen TVs, work desks, monsoon showers, and access to purified water.

Only two blocks from Times Square and walking distance from Central Park and Broadway theatres, YOTEL is a great home base for exploring the culture of New York City. Before a day of attractions, dine at the on-site Terrace & Club Lounge where you’ll find the largest hotel terrace serving casual fare throughout the day.

Star Rating: 3.5*
Price: US$63 – US$716
Guest Rating: 8.6
Address: 570 Tenth Avenue, New York, USA

Hotel Location

New York Annual Events: January–June

New Year’s Day

Diverse group of young people celebrating new year's day at the beach. Young people having fun with sparklers outdoors at the sea shore.; Shutterstock ID 1177933477
Photo| Young people celebrating New Year at the beach| SHUTTERSTOCK – JACOB LUND

The ball has dropped in Times Square, and the champagne has been drunk from the NYE celebrations, but NYC still offers plenty of activities no matter the day. Start the new year off with a bang by taking a dip in the Atlantic with the Polar Bear Club, take one last twirl on an ice-skating rink, stroll through the winter wonderland of Central Park, or cure your hangover with one of New York’s legendary brunch festivities.

Chinese New Year Parade

Chinese New Year Ornaments--Traditional Dancing Dragon,Money Red Packet; Shutterstock ID 94097227
Photo| Chinese New years ornaments| SHUTTERSTOCK – ASHARKYU

Chinese New Year is a cultural explosion to honour household and heavenly deities and a time to come together as a family. Colourful and dazzling, the Chinese New Year Parade is a lively scene filled with dragons, performers, and firecrackers. Taste authentic Chinese food as you catch a glimpse of elaborate floats that are led by marching bands and a stunning visual mix of magicians, acrobats, and martial artists.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Young tourist taking a selfie with her smartphone during the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade on 5th Avenue in New York City
Photo| Woman celebrating St. Partick’s Day| GETTYIMAGES – MAXIMKABB

St. Patrick’s Day is a big deal in New York City. Whether you’re Irish or not, the city sees the entire city turn into a sea of green, from the beer to the bagels. The New York City St. Patrick’s Parade is the oldest and largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade in the world, first held on March 17th, 1772, featuring bands, bagpipes, and over 150,000 marchers that starts near Times Square and ends in the Upper East Side.

New York City’s Pride Parade

Young beautiful people celebrating the pride event, hugging, waving rainbow pride flags and having fun
Photo| Young People celebrating at the pride parade| GETTYIMAGES – MIXMIKE

Home to one of the biggest and best Pride celebrations around the globe, New York’s Pride Parade is a high-energy parade where millions take to the streets to celebrate lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender freedom, rights, and culture. Highlighting the city’s rich history with the LGBTQ community with a wide range of events, neighbourhoods come alive with influential protests, vibrant displays of colourful costumes, and tonnes of partying.

New York Annual Events: JuneAugust

Museum Mile

First launched in 1978, Museum Mile is a cultural event that allows visitors to take advantage of New York’s most influential museums, including The Guggenheim, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and much more. What started as an initiative to increase museum attendance and support for the arts in the 70’s has evolved into the city’s most popular block party.

Macy’s Firework Spectacular

Crowd watching fireworks and celebrating; Shutterstock ID 309048455
Photo| Crowd watching fireworks| SHUTTERSTOCK – ND3000

A popular event for over 40 years, Macy’s Firework Spectacular is one of the world’s largest fireworks display to celebrate Independence Day on July 4th. Dressed in their best red, white, and blue, both visitors and locals alike flock to balconies, rooftops, and the East River to catch a glimpse of this spectacle illuminate the skies of New York City.

U.S. Open

Tennis court at Pacific Life Open; Shutterstock ID 1091576
Photo| Tennis court at US Open| SHUTTERSTOCK – GALINA BARSKAYA

The U.S. Open is an exciting two-week event that takes place at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. A legendary tournament that dates back 135 years ago, both celebrities and tennis fans from around the world flock to the city to catch a glimpse of the world’s best players fight on the courts for the coveted trophy.

New York Caribbean Carnival

Cropped shot of beautiful samba dancers performing in a carnival with their band
Photo| Woman at carnival parade| GETTYIMAGES – PEOPLEIMAGES

Merging culture and celebration, the New York Caribbean Carnival is overwhelming to the senses. A massive parade that highlights the culture of NYC’s Caribbean community, a variety of vibrant costumes, elaborate floats, and authentic cuisine, which attracts millions of spectators every year. Representing various Caribbean nations, revelers dance to the beat of the traditional music while celebrating the unification of the city’s diversity.

New York Annual Events: September–October

Fashion Week

Photo| Fashion week| GETTYIMAGES – PATRICK GIARDINO

One of the world’s greatest fashion capitals, New York City is host to Fashion Week. A glamorous week of marathon fashion events where famous models, stylists, photographers and the uber stylish hit the streets, from Times Square to Bryant Park, attending a myriad of runway shows and after-parties. In addition to celebrity sightings, visitors can attend the city’s variety of special public events related to Fashion Week, such as beauty events, art exhibitions, and shopping opportunities.

New York Film Festival

Joyful young friends eating popcorn in the cinema
Photo| Couple at a cinema| GETTYIMAGES – RGSTUDIO

Home to some of the leading names in the film industry, New York Film Festival is New York’s most preeminent film event. Sponsored by the Film Society of Lincoln Center, here, a handful of highly regarded films from both renowned directors and up-and-comers are selected by film critics and screened in front of spectators. The film festival spans across three days and also includes a red carpet event, panel discussions, and directors’ dialogues.

New York City Wine & Food Festival

Chef making beef burgers outdoor on open kitchen international food festival event. Street food ready to serve on a food stall.
Photo| Burgers at an open kitchen| GETTYIMAGES – KASTO80

Regarded as the largest food and wine festival in the city, the New York City Wine & Food Festival boasts more than 100 events. Here passionate food aficionados can rub shoulders with high-profile celebrity chefs while contributing to the 100% proceeds that go to anti-hunger charity organisations. A four-day event, Food Network stars and culinary personalities host intimate dinners, workshops, and educational seminars serving up a range of delicious cuisines.

Village Halloween Parade

Photo| Halloween pumpkins for the Halloween parade| GETTYIMAGES – HAMISH GRANT PHOTOGRAPHY

Grab your favourite costume and head to New York’s spookiest procession at the Village Halloween Parade, where thousands of ghouls, goblins, and other one-of-a-kind creative creatures hit the streets for the annual parade. What started in 1974 by a mask maker has turned into the of the world’s largest Halloween parades where thousands march up Sixth Avenue in addition to a lineup of live music, dancers, and artists.

New York Annual Events: November–December

New York City Marathon

Runners on First Avenue. The New York City Marathon attracts 29,000 runners on a 26.2 mile course that begins on Staten Island at the Verrazano Narrows Toll plaza. It ends in Central Park.
Photo| New York City marathon| GETTYIMAGES – DAVID MADISON

Recognised by the International Association of Athlete’s Federation as the world’s most famous marathons, New York City Marathon is also the biggest in the USA with over 50,000 finishers. Originally planned as a one-time event, this 42.195-kilometre race course dates back 45 years and now attracts millions of viewers. Winding through all five New York boroughs, dedicated athletes hit the pavement from Brooklyn to the Upper East Side while onlookers cheer them on.

Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Photo| Macy’s thanksgiving Parade| GETTYIMAGES – DAVID JAY ZIMMERMAN

The official start of the holiday season in New York, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is one of America’s most beloved events. A tradition that dates back decades, visitors will see towering balloons from pop culture make an appearance on the streets of New York in addition to colourful floats and dancers entertaining onlookers. Attracting over 2 million spectators, the parade runs along Central Park and skirts Times Square, 6th Avenue, and 34th Street.

Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting

Photo| Rockefeller Christmas tree| GETTYIMAGES- NYCLA

A hallmark tradition in New York City, the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting signifies the start of the Christmas season. A tradition since 1933, this symbol of the festive period and beacon of light is a picture-perfect NYC sight. A famous Norway spruce that towers above the ice rink below, thousands gather to watch the 30,000 dazzling LED lights turn on and illuminate this breathtaking display. In addition to the live entertainment from celebrity performers.

New Year’s Eve In Times Square

Happy New Year hat with colorful decoration in Times Square New York City; Shutterstock ID 240163873
Photo| New Years eve hat decoration at Times Square| SHUTTERSTOCK – ZYLLAMA

First organised in 1907, the ball drop on New Year’s Eve in Times Square is a world-famous celebration that has been popular for over a 100 years. The iconic technicolour plaza runs high with anticipation as over a million spectators watch live musical performances and gear up to the premiere event. Come midnight, and partygoers can witness the famous crystal ball drop and make its anticipated descent towards the final seconds of the year.

What is our favourite time of year to visit Times Square?

Let us know if you’ve stayed in New York and which season you consider the best when visiting the Big Apple.

References

  1. Times Square Alliance
  2. NYC & Company
  3. I LOVE NY
  4. NYC.com
  5. Time Out – New York

About the author

Charity De Souza Born and raised in Orlando, Florida, I have been travelling with my battered backpack full-time for over a decade. My favourite travel memories include skydiving in Switzerland, wine tasting in Portugal, road tripping through Iceland, snorkelling in Indonesia and watching a sunset in the Sahara Desert.

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