Choose Times Square for theatres and instant energy
If you are seeing several Broadway shows, arriving late or taking a short first trip, a Times Square or Hell's Kitchen hotel can save time and decisions.
Choose wider Midtown for better balance
Midtown West, Bryant Park, Midtown East and NoMad can still be central while feeling less frantic. These areas often suit couples and repeat visitors better.
Watch the marketing labels
Hotels sometimes use Times Square, Central Park or Fifth Avenue labels loosely. Always map the exact address and nearest subway, not only the neighbourhood name.
Hotel mini reviews
Shortlist these hotels first.
The Fifth Avenue Hotel
- Best for
- Design-led luxury, couples, special occasions
- Avoid if
- You want the cheapest central room or a pure Times Square theatre base.
- Nearest subway
- 23 St / 28 St area, depending on line
- Booking notes
- Compare refundable rates and breakfast-inclusive options; this is a hotel where room category matters.
The Plaza
- Best for
- Classic luxury, Central Park, once-in-a-lifetime trips
- Avoid if
- You prefer modern boutique energy or need strong value for a long stay.
- Nearest subway
- 5 Av/59 St and 57 St nearby
- Booking notes
- Check taxes, breakfast and cancellation carefully; the headline rate is only part of the decision.
Riu Plaza New York Times Square
- Best for
- Broadway, first trips, simple sightseeing logistics
- Avoid if
- You want quiet residential streets or boutique character.
- Nearest subway
- Times Square-42 St / 50 St area
- Booking notes
- Useful for theatre-heavy trips; compare final totals because central hotels can add fees and deposits.
Fast answers
Questions UK travellers ask before booking.
Is Times Square actually in Midtown?
Yes. Times Square is a small, very busy part of Midtown Manhattan. A hotel can be in Midtown without being in Times Square.
Is Times Square too noisy?
It can be. Check recent guest comments about street noise, room height and window insulation if you are a light sleeper.
Where is better for restaurants?
For destination restaurants and neighbourhood atmosphere, NoMad, Flatiron, SoHo and the Upper West Side often feel better than the immediate Times Square blocks.
Sources and update notes
Last updated: 17 August 2026. Hotel rates, fees, rules and transport details can change.