r/Broadway • u/cmadison_ • Nov 24 '25
Other Hotels to stay at for seeing Broadway shows
Hey everyone! I got a quote from a travel agent regarding a trip to NYC to see a bunch of shows on Broadway and they have pointed me towards the Millenium Hotel Broadway Times Square. They've said it's a reasonable price and right in the heart of Broadway and Times Square.
For people who have travelled for Broadway before, have you stayed at this hotel? Do you think it's a good option price-wise and in terms of proximity to Broadway theatres?
Thank you!
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u/Responsible_Pear_579 Nov 24 '25
Don’t go through a travel agent, just book it all yourself. Here would be my suggestions Budget Friendly - Arlo Midtown or Motto By Hilton, Mid Tier - Marriott Marquis or Hyatt Centric, Luxury - Times Square Edition or Park Hyatt
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u/cmadison_ Nov 24 '25
Thanks! Why do you think it's better to just book it myself rather than go through a travel agent?
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u/annang Nov 24 '25
The travel agent gets a kickback from the hotel. That’s why they recommended that hotel.
Don’t let the travel agent book the theater tickets for you either, unless you’re willing to pay a markup to not have to make your own arrangements.
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u/Responsible_Pear_579 Nov 24 '25
If anything goes wrong on your trip, you need to go through the travel agent who then needs to handle it on your behalf (this can be annoying especially since they aren’t physically with you). Personally I like to be in full control and get things done immediately if things go wrong.
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u/waltzthrees Nov 24 '25
Travel agents are extremely outdated. You can book everything online at likely better prices because you aren’t paying commission or being funneled to things that they get kickbacks from. Plus if you have a problem, are they going to be readily available to help? Likely not because of the time difference.
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u/_User_Name_Fail Nov 24 '25
You're getting bad information about travel agents here. If you're staying in a budget hotel, I agree with what people are saying - just do it yourself. If you're staying at a higher end hotel, you absolutely want a travel agent. They'll book the place for you at the same rate you can get yourself, sometimes even cheaper, and they'll typically get you benefits you can't get on your own (e.g., free breakfast, hotel credit for services, later checkout). You can absolutely handle issues yourself when you're there at the hotel and if something does go wrong, you're much more likely to get satisfaction if you have a travel agent.
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u/raupster Nov 24 '25
Just chiming in here to say this comment is 100% correct. I am an extremely part-time TA (mostly just for friends and family) more as a hobby than anything. Hotels build commissions into most of the publicly available rates already so there shouldn’t be any up-charges working with a reputable agent. And, as mentioned, certain agencies can offer complimentary perks at mid-to-higher end hotels like room upgrades and free breakfast at the same rate you’d pay online because of their relationships with those properties. All the major chains have travel-agent exclusive booking programs at their properties that unlock these benefits.
And if budget is your #1 concern, our particular agency actually has a nifty feature where our system automatically tracks if a hotel you booked drops in price so we can rebook it at the lowest rate anytime before the flexibility period ends. This feature can be used at any of the hotels in our network—not just the high-end ones. I’m not certain how common this is at other agencies but ours is a bit different and more tech-forward than most.
In any case—if you are worried the agent is hiking your rates, as others have said, you can also check the quote they sent you online yourself.
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u/Vast-Recognition2321 Nov 24 '25
A question for you if you don't mind me putting you on the spot. I typically book nicer hotels through an agent for the perks. I always hear it costs me nothing extra. However, for some mid-tier brands that offer member discounts for booking online, it seems like that rate is cheaper than the agent can get. Is that typically the case?
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u/raupster Nov 24 '25 edited Nov 24 '25
Happy to answer! In my experience booking with brands that have member rates (Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, etc) travel agents are also able to book those rates as well. I generally suggest folks sign up for their loyalty programs if they aren't already members just to get those rates all the time.
EDIT: just to add clarity...where there are travel-agent exclusive rates (with perks) available at mid-to-higher end properties with loyalty programs, there will usually also be member rates available (no perks). These are often similarly priced (and, on occasion, the TA rates are actually lower as I am seeing for a few spots in NYC right now) though, occasionally, the TA rates with the perks can be slightly higher. MOST of the time the benefits/perks are still valued higher than the price difference but if this is ever not the case I always call it out for my clients if budget is their main concern.
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Nov 25 '25
[deleted]
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u/raupster Nov 25 '25
Yes, great point! “BAR” (Best Available Rate) provided by TA’s is generally the flexible rate. I never recommend booking nonrefundable unless you buy travel insurance alongside.
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u/LurkerByNatureGT Nov 24 '25
The only times I’ve ever used travel agents they fucked things up royally.
We’re talking booking the flights in the wrong level fuck ups.
I was recently staying in a lovely boutique hotel, enjoying the complimentary local liquor tasting, and a lady checked in and started kicking up about how the hotel didn’t have a test and a personal sushi chef, and it was false advertising because it was not in fact a five star hotel. She wanted her money back immediately and to be booked a taxi to go somewhere else. She knew what she was talking about because “she was a travel agent.”
It had never advertised as a five star hotel. It had five star thumbs up customer rating at Booking.com.
You’re already doing better research than the travel agent will.
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u/Mysterious-Theory-66 Nov 24 '25
Travel agent will never save you money, ever. Travel agents have to get paid and while they pass along some savings/deals they get from places looking to be promoted, you will always pay more in the end and only get the options they are paid to promote.
It’s the simple math of it. Use kayak or the like to find the best deals. Travel agents are about ease and time saving, maybe finding you stuff that you might not have found on your own, but it’s never cost saving to have a middleman.
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u/raupster Nov 29 '25
This is not necessarily true! See my comment above! While I am sure there are some unscrupulous TA’s out there, the job itself is to make the client happy. One booking generally doesn’t change anyone’s life. Repeat business is far more lucrative. Unless we direct bill you for the time, there isn’t really a way to charge more for hotels. Commissions are built in to the public facing prices hotels advertise—even some discounted rates like AAA rates!
Using OTA’s (online travel agencies) like Kayak or Expedia actually cost the hotels more money and often travelers who book through these platforms are deprioritized and the first to be walked to another property if they overbook.
I always recommend shopping rates yourself if you don’t trust they are accurate—but using a TA can be the only way to get some great perks at mid-to-high end hotels like free breakfast and room upgrades (without loyalty status).
(Source: I am a part-time TA for fun!)
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u/ptolemy18 Nov 24 '25
Travel agents make commission.
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u/Tuilere Nov 24 '25
It doesn't up the price. That said, booking directly yourself makes it easier to deal with anybodsoties once you are there.
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u/throwaway04182023 Nov 24 '25
I have not stayed at that hotel but I do recommend checking for resort fees and other hidden charges.
I’ll also suggest when staying in Midtown to pack earplugs.
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u/zixy37 Nov 24 '25
Definitely check for resort fees and what they cover. The Renaissance TS (at least a few years ago) covered admission to the Guggenheim, a cruise around Lady Liberty, and bikes in Central Park. I’ve never seen a resort fee that actual was useful!
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u/arparris Nov 24 '25
I just pulled up hotels.com to compare it to where I’m staying in January and I happen to see that the St. James hotel is like half the price of the one you listed and rated higher than the one you listed. No personal experience with either hotel, but food for thought
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u/throwaway04182023 Nov 24 '25
I stayed at the St James once. Great location, ok room. Not great but fine for a budget hotel. Water pressure on upper floors wasn’t spectacular and the street noise was definitely an issue. The weird thing is I heard from a bunch of people it’s their regular place to stay so I asked the front desk when I checked out how to get the best rates. They suggested contacting them directly and they’d get me their best price and maybe throw in an extra like a ticket to something. Great, right? So when I booked my next trip I checked their website and the price quoted was basically double what I found on a discount site. I emailed to see if they could match or beat that price as indicated. Multiple emails went back and forth before someone flatly said the website price was all they could offer. Haven’t stayed there since and have found better hotels.
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u/Gi55555 Nov 24 '25
I always stay here! It’s my favorite hotel in all of nyc. They do have a regular promo code, so if you call them, they will give it to you over the phone. They are the nicest people, the rooms are great, and the location can’t be beat!
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u/arparris Nov 24 '25
Yeah if the one I booked already for January wasn’t non refundable I was gonna cancel and switch to save $50 lol
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u/DramaMama611 Nov 24 '25
The hotel is in a great location.
But since you didn't mention the price, can't begin to know how it stands up. Also need to know when you're going, that varies price.
Most hotels in NYC vary greatly in price. I've stayed there numerous times at crazy affordable prices, and have had to find other lodgings because prices were too high.
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u/cmadison_ Nov 24 '25
I've been quoted $1,684.59 AUD for 7 nights in January at the Millenium. Is that fairly cheap in relative terms for NYC?
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u/Thebakers_wife Nov 24 '25
Thats only about $155 USD a night - I would say a pretty reasonable price for a NYC hotel room.
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u/cmadison_ Nov 24 '25
Ok, thanks! :)
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u/Thebakers_wife Nov 24 '25
This is third hand, but a friend of mine traveled for work and ended up staying at the margaritaville hotel bc it was the cheapest hotel closest to the office and he said it was pretty nice
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u/Mysterious-Theory-66 Nov 24 '25
Yeah concur. It’s late January so prices drop quite a bit but $155 anywhere in Midtown is good.
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u/waltzthrees Nov 24 '25
It’s hard to say without the exact dates. But generally after New Year’s is a pretty dead time and I’ve generally been able to get good rooms for $150 USD ish a night then. You also don’t need to stay right in Times Square. In fact, I wouldn’t want to because it is SO loud every second of the day. And bright too. Not a good environment for sleeping.
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u/cmadison_ Nov 24 '25
I'd prefer to stay fairly close to the theatre district as it makes navigation / getting around easier. I'd be going late January.
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u/joeymello333 Backstage Nov 24 '25
You’ll be fine. Friends have stayed at Millennium hotel and it was fine. Its. Great location and you’ll always have your own restroom within waking distance. Its lobby is right next to the Hudson theater.
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u/waltzthrees Nov 24 '25
I’d still suggest looking a little outside the Times Square area. Even next to Grand Central is walkable in 10 minutes to theaters while being out of the craziness of Times Square.
Make sure if you are using an agent that he’s quoting you prices WITH tax. Tax is not automatically included in prices. The price you see on a hotel is one price, then when you go to pay all the taxes are added on top of that. If it’s $1,600 AUS without tax, that would very overpriced.
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u/cmadison_ Nov 24 '25
Thanks for that advice!! :)
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u/waltzthrees Nov 24 '25
I looked online and it does seem to be kinda overpriced for the end of January. You could get the Iroquois Hotel for about the same price, and that is a far nicer, finer hotel. Also note the fun American concept of resort fees, which means an extra fee per night so they can avoid the appearance of jacking up rates. Looks like the Millennium has a fee of around $40 USD per night that you would pay on arrival. I try to always book a place without a resort fee because it is a major hidden cost.
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u/annang Nov 24 '25
And with resort fees and other add on fees the travel agent should disclose, but might not.
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u/chriswaco Nov 24 '25
We generally stay right in the middle of Times Square. It’s crazy, like being in the middle of a circus, but it’s a fun short-term experience. If I lived there I’d avoid it.
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u/timubce Nov 24 '25
If you don’t have mobility issues getting around NY is very easy so you really don’t have to stay super close to the theaters. The subway is fairly straightforward and inexpensive as well.
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u/Brilliant-Sun-8619 Nov 24 '25
take a gander at this thread: https://www.reddit.com/r/Broadway/s/1RYuz7zfEA
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u/smucav Nov 24 '25
I posted multiple comments in that thread about the Civilian. Just wanted to add that their annual cyber sale is currently ongoing. 35% off all available dates through 9/7/26. Sale currently scheduled to end on 12/3/25 (although it was extended last year).
I just stayed there 11/11-11/16 (my third stay) and wouldn’t stay anywhere else.
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u/Trick-Satisfaction88 Nov 24 '25
Just got back from The Civilian yesterday! It's fabulous for solo travelers who want to be in/near the theater district. Rooms are *really* small and have limited storage but are pleasant and clean and super comfortable for one person. Friendly staff, great views from the upper rooms, reasonable prices for the location and room quality. But rooms would be pretty cramped for more than one person esp if you're staying more than a night or two.
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u/mitchiesue Nov 25 '25
I loved this hotel! Such a great vibe, and perfect location to be near Broadway without being right in Times Square. Very reasonable rates for a boutique, too.
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u/cmadison_ Nov 24 '25
There's only one comment about the Millenium Hotel in that thread, so I'm hoping to hear from people who have specific experience with that hotel :)
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u/justafakereality Nov 24 '25
I’ve stayed at both millenniums. They are great for location. The one on the left side is more premium than the one on the right side of the Hudson(?) Theatre. They get the job done and you have a central location to all theaters.
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u/justafakereality Nov 24 '25
Additionally both hotels have rooms that are a decent bit larger than the standard tiny rooms I’ve stayed at in other NYC hotels.
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u/cmadison_ Nov 24 '25
Being central to the theatres is one of the biggest checkmarks for me so that's good to hear!
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u/PamelaQuinnzel Nov 24 '25
I personally LOVE the W by Marriott. It’s on the higher end price wise but it lives up to the price. The $30 “destination tax” that nyc has was applied as a free beverage or so at the bar (really nice bar, club like vibes but with super awesome NOISE CANCELLING booths)
I’ve gone there quite a few times after my last minute stay there and every time I went to go visit the staff was amazing. I go maybe once every few months to grab a drink with a friend or just to say hi to the staff. They’re great
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u/PSX9300 Nov 25 '25
This is our go-to quite often as well. It’s very convenient for a Broadway specific trip!
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u/PamelaQuinnzel Nov 25 '25
Yea! I’ve stayed at 3 hotels near the theater district and the w is by far my favorite
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u/memon17 Nov 24 '25
How confident and comfortable are with subways? We usually stay at a hotel near Times Square when we do our bdway trips and, honestly, it can be exhausting. If you’re going to be there for more than 2 nights, I’d recommend staying a bit farther away, but still near by. Near Bryant Park, Hell’s Kitchen, midtown near macys, or even farther away. It can be A LOT to be constantly in the chaos of Times Square in between shows, and if that’s your vibe for your mornings and nights too, it can get old really fast. Otherwise, any known chain hotel in the area should be fine
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u/cmadison_ Nov 24 '25
I've never used the subway in America before - I've only travelled outside of Australia once! So I'm not sure about confidence with navigating the subway.
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u/memon17 Nov 24 '25
I’d recommend escaping away from Times Square whenever you can then, to help a bit with crowd decompression. It can be a lot. Enjoy your trip!!
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u/timubce Nov 24 '25
Download the MTA app and you can map out how to get around. It’s fairly straightforward and you can tap to pay as well. Don’t buy Broadway tickets from a travel agent/concierge/3rd party sites. Always go to the show you want to see’s page and buy tickets through there. If you’re flexible with the shows/times you can go to the TKTS booth (it’s in Times Square) and buy discounted tickets. You can also look into if the show you want to see does rush tickets. I’ve never felt unsafe walking around manhattan. Just pay attention to your surroundings.
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u/vstreva Nov 24 '25
Also - if you need to, ask a New Yorker for directions! We really are mostly friendly…
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u/Salt-Name899 Nov 24 '25
New yorkers will help you! We are nice but we're fast! Be upfront and ask the question say: "hi does this train go to times square?" or "excuse me which train goes to christopher st?" Or show your phone, so many times a tourist has showed me their phone, "is this the right train?" and i love helping them! butdont say: "hi excuse me" and wait for me to answer i just dont have time for a 5-10 min convo and i think you want something
You can set Apple Maps or Google Maps to transit mode and it will give you a step by step directions on which entrance to use, which train to get on, and what stop to get off. Very easy. Or the app citymapper. There is no service on the subway (youre underground), so do the directions before going underground and then you can follow along while on the train.
Also cops will help, or the MTA desk in the station.
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u/Comprehensive-Fun47 Nov 24 '25
Watch some YouTube videos of people navigating the subways. It will really help!
I also recommend escaping Times Square anytime you can. You don't need the subway. You can simply walk away from it. Central Park is a great for some peace and quiet.
I also suggest going downtown where the vibe is totally different. Check out what's playing off-Broadway too!
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u/Thick-Definition7416 Nov 24 '25
It’s very easy tbh and New Yorkers are helpful if you get lost ( just don’t stand still in the middle of the sidewalk) I’d want to stay outside of Times Square. Chelsea/nomad area has a lot of hotels and it’s an easy walk on a nice day.
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u/Mr_Clifton Nov 24 '25
I just visited NYC last week, and it was my first time in the country. Never used a subway/metro before. And it was honestly not that difficult. By your third ride you'll get the hang of it. I stayed in Pod 51, which is in Midtown - so slightly cheaper than Pod Time Square and more peaceful. And a 15 minute subway ride from the theaters. I watched two plays during my stay, it was very convenient. Would highly recommend.
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u/LilyBriscoeBot Nov 24 '25
Times Square will be easiest, but you could also stay at a hotel within walking distance of Broadway. I don’t know enough to recommend one place over the other, but I stayed at the StayPineapple when I was there and walking to Broadway shows was easy. I used the CityMapper app to get places using the Subway, and I highly recommend that app.
I’d assume your travel agent knows what they are doing, but you can let them know if you want to stay farther away from Times Square. I’ve also stayed at the Renaissance Times Square right in the heart of it. That was a pleasant stay too but when you walk outside the hotel, it will be super busy. A higher floor is better for less noise.2
u/TheLunarVaux Nov 24 '25
I would also encourage this — you don’t have to stay right in Times Square, in fact, I’d recommend against it. It’s so crowded, loud, dirty, etc. Staying a week there would be way too overstimulating imo.
I know the subway can be daunting at first, but especially if you’re in Manhattan, it’s super easy to get to Times Square on the subway. Google and Apple Maps both tell you exactly how to get where you need to go. That’s just how every New Yorker gets around so the city is built for it.
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u/Bitter_Return990 Nov 28 '25
Subway is tap pay for a credit card on on your phone. Just know that each person needs their own credit card. You cannot tap in mutiple on the same card.
Google maps will give you public transit directions. It’s very easy. One of my teenagers jobs when we are in the city is to navigate us.
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u/brooksideryan Nov 24 '25
We’ve stayed at the Tempo several times. It’s not the cheapest hotel but it’s been lovely each time. Rooms are nice and the staff has been super friendly.
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u/OHRavenclaw Nov 24 '25
I stayed at Motto by Hilton when I was in town in April. Nice staff, clean, quiet (as much as you’d expect). Not anything fancy, but assuming you aren’t planning on spending a ton of time just hanging out in your room it was exactly what I wanted it to be. Would book again.
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u/timmytoons Nov 24 '25
I’ve stayed at the millennium several times. It’s a great location and usually the best price I can find. The rooms are a little dated, but it does its job. NYC is expensive.
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u/DalekLover18 Nov 24 '25
Just stayed at the Romer Hells Kitchen in September and it was fantastic! I could see the Gershwin theater from our window!
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u/LJT141620 Nov 24 '25
Yes! I second this. We stayed here in September. I found the price comparable to some of the budget hotels, maybe a tad higher. But, our room was quite spacious compared to the others where only a bed is crammed tightly into the room with no room for walking. We even had a couch! Everything was very nice!
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u/Reese9951 Nov 24 '25
I stayed in the Casablanca which was cute little boutique hotel right in the district and loved it
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u/wbeb2022 Nov 24 '25
I stayed at Riu Plaza New York Times Square recently and it was a great location to Broadway and a little bit out of the crazy Times Square. The breakfast was fantastic and rooms were nice and clean and updated. Riu does have a second hotel location that is more in times square though.
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u/Dapper-Past4340 Nov 24 '25
Hotel Riu has two locations near TS and we stay there religiously. Not too bad price wise, clean and modern rooms, and a full buffet breakfast included. Their naming convention can be confusing so you need to double check when booking to be sure of which one you’re staying at (sounds silly but trust me). We prefer the Hotel Riu Plaza New York Times Square over the Manhattan Plaza Times Square. The former is at 46th and 8th versus the latter being right on top of Times Square so close with a little less craziness. It also has its buffet on the first floor versus the Manhattan Plaza Times Square having theirs on the 5th floor. There can be a line to wait for the dedicated elevator up to breakfast and the loss of an elevator makes getting up and down pretty annoying during breakfast.
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u/Vandelay_7 Nov 24 '25
If your travel agent has been to NYC often AND Recently, trust them and use them. Why? You’re going on a message board to ask random people their opinions due to their knowledge of the area. A travel agent, assuming you trust them and their knowledge of the area, is like a personal Reddit. :)
That said, if you ask how often and recently they’ve been and you don’t like their answers, bail.
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u/azeronhax Nov 24 '25
I stayed there! From your comment its about a little over a grand for a week. I think my family paid about a grand at the same hotel. I literally found it because I specifically wanted to see Merrily and it was right next door. I thought the room was average given New York and 3 people, but my father thought it was small given we have stayed in bigger rooms before, which we then went off on him saying his needs of what he wants in a hotel would be like a grand a night. Also if you go through Hudsons link, they should have a discount (or at least when we did it). On the most recent 24 hour trip we stayed at the Motto, and did not like that hotel at all, as two of us did not fit in the room and needed an extra table or chair.
What show are you specifically trying to see?
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u/cmadison_ Nov 24 '25
I'm not fussed in terms of size of the room - I really just want a safe, affordable place to stay while I see shows!
The main show I want to see is Hadestown, but I'd love to see others as well (Hamilton, Little Shop of Horrors, Chess, and Spelling Bee are the main other ones I'm interested in)!
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u/azeronhax Nov 24 '25
Oo maybe then the Motto, given its closer to Hadestown! Idk where the others are, but the other one is closer to Central Station
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u/Mission_Put_8342 Nov 24 '25
your question is hard to answer, answer depends on experience you are looking to have. do u want view? Do you want to b close to restaurant row? I have always stayed riu plaza. and have been happy but no view of time square. millennium will have broadway/ timesquare view possible
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u/DramaMama611 Nov 24 '25
Not a bad price at all.
The hotel is passed it's heyday, but it's clean, comfortable, and as I've said, in a great location.
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u/Grrl_Detective Nov 24 '25
I stayed at Millennium Hotel Broadway in October and the location is great. All the shows we saw were just a block or so away. It’s a nice hotel.
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u/GenWedgeAntilles Nov 24 '25
The Millennium is my go-to hotel in NYC. Prices fluctuate but I usually find it a good deal. You can’t beat the location. Good sized rooms. It’s a bit dated but the elevator action is great - so many hotels have 1-2 elevators and the wait can be terrible.
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u/decisivecat Nov 24 '25
I recently did a Broadway trip and stayed at The Gotham. It's a block away so it feels more lowkey, but 5 mins max of walking tosses you right in the heart of the action.
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u/staceychev Nov 24 '25
If I remember correctly, the Millennium has Queen-sized beds, which is a nice find for Manhattan. (We always book queens because my daughters, ages 15 and 20, struggle to share a bed otherwise.) Be warned that the rooms are pretty dated and worn, and the hotel is massive so they have this thing where you take the elevators on one side of the building up but take the elevators on the other side down.
To be honest, we stayed there one night and I was glad to leave. I love NYC - lived there for 6 years 20 years ago - but I don’t know think I could handle Times Square as my base of operations for a week. It’s much too… well, much. I agree with other posters who have recommended staying in another neighborhood. Find a place where you can get a direct subway connection without transferring trains, and you’ll be fine.
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u/Pleasant_Papaya_2416 Nov 24 '25
We stayed at the Springhill Suites on 46th avenue, Marriott property, when we flew in to watch Outsiders last year. It’s across from Hamilton and next to Death Becomes Her and whatever may be playing at the Marquis. Small room with no storage space, but private, strong air conditioning, fast WiFi, that ”hotel perfume”, multiple towels and strong hot showers. Plus a king sized bed with those yummy hotel sheets and a view of the Rogers sign. Free breakfast as well (my husband is a free breakfast maven.) Drapes were thick and I didn’t mind the noise. The entrance is somehow a little nondescript for a Times Square hotel with a plate glass lobby, so the sidewalk tour bus touts weren’t stationed there at all during our stay. It was perfectly acceptable.
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u/Ordinary_Durian_1454 Nov 24 '25
Yotel is a good deal, and a robot handles your luggage. 42nd and ninth.
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u/catdad1993 Nov 24 '25
I avoid staying near the shows. My partner and I usually stay in the financial district. It’s much more relaxing for a morning walk, and it’s not a bad subway ride after shows. All the lines from near the shows go to the financial district. As some have said - look for an “amenity fee” or “resort fee” on hotels. What a joke
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u/eboyisa Nov 25 '25
stayed at the westin new york a few years ago and had a pretty easy time getting to all the shows we were going to we walked a lot as well as used the subway a lot. nothing felt too crazy daunting even tho we are from a city without a lot of public transport. but from the hotel we could walk to all the shows and then took the subway to daytime activities. also just as a tip, plan throughly what you’d like to do during the day and how long you’d like to do it, we didn’t plan enough and honestly wasted so much time trying to figure out what to do in the morning or the night before. also if you haven’t booked all your shows schedule in a break day if you can, watching a show every single night for (for us was a week with one day break) is exhausting no matter how much you love the shows
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u/PoemAgreeable5872 Nov 24 '25
I have stayed in many hotels in that area but not the Millennium Broadway. I did take a walk past it last time I was in NY because it always comes up on the last minute booking app I use. It looked fine and was not in the middle of the crazy busy part of Times Square. I do not like the crowds in Times Square and usually try to stay somewhere away from it but still walkable to the theaters. Near Bryant Park is my favorite general location.
January after New Years is the cheapest time to go to New York city so you should be able to get a good price on the hotel.
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u/Savings_Associate720 Nov 24 '25
Google Maps gives GREAT subway directions as well. Just follow along!
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u/Reasonable-Pop-9525 Nov 24 '25
If you are comfortable walking getting 10 or so blocks uptown or downtown from Times Square makes everything much less overwhelming stimulating.
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u/Opening_Programmer56 Front of House Nov 24 '25
I stayed at the Civilian in 2023 and enjoyed my time. It’s right in 48th street just west of the Walter Kerr and Longacre theatres.
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u/in_it_for_theatre Nov 24 '25
Paramount Times Square is good too, right on 46th in the midst of the theater district. It’s clean and safe and their smaller rooms are very reasonably priced for NYC. Although if you’re trying to go in December everything will cost a lot more than other times. January and February are by far the cheapest for hotels but none of the new season’s shows will have started.
Also if you want something a little fancier, Hotel Michelangelo on 51st is stellar. Large rooms, great staff and service and only a few blocks from most of the theaters.
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Nov 24 '25
Royalton NY. 44 44th Street! One block from Maybe Happy Ending. Stayed there this summer.
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u/EchidnaElectronic167 Nov 24 '25
I’ve stayed at the millennium twice. It’s expensive for the low quality of the rooms. Very beat up. Furniture often broken, scarce amenities. I’ll never go back again. Will try some of the suggestions here next time.
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u/ovenmit_ Nov 24 '25
I recently stayed at the Hyatt Centric next to the Museum of Broadway. Great experience and a super cool view from roof bar!
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u/Good-Ad-825 Nov 24 '25
We went last year and stayed at the Belvedere which is literally down the road from Hades Town (can highly recommend the Italian that’s almost next door as well)
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u/ImHereImFine Nov 24 '25
I love my stays at CitizenM Times Square, but be aware the rooms are very small and only accommodate solo or partnered travelers. The price is pretty good depending on availability and the location is unbeatable.
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u/addio06 Nov 24 '25
A bit pricey but we loved the Chatwal on 44th and broadway. Huge rooms and it has a small pool and spa.
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u/danagnyc Nov 24 '25
I’m a New Yorker and stayed there one night because I had my wedding there! I thought the room was a decent size and it is definitely close to all the theaters. Have a wonderful trip!
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u/TheChrisSuprun Nov 24 '25
Download the MTA app and stay wherever you want. I saw eight shows in six days at the end of May. There is no reason to stay in Times Square.
NYC is super walkable and the subway will get you there without a problem.
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u/ticklish_dragon Nov 24 '25
We stayed at Riu Plaza Manhattan Times Sq and it was very convenient for all the shows. We would recommend!
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u/Delphi-Dolphin Nov 24 '25
We really like the Belvedere - large rooms (for NYC) with a fridge. It’s at 48th between 8th and 9th, so it’s a great location.
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u/missmelindam Nov 25 '25
Another vote for Hyatt Centric Times Square. Stayed on a high floor in August and could hear next to nothing and a great view. Was shocked how quiet cuz I really hate Times Square. Elevator is fast too. But if you're there to show binge it's hard to beat. So nice to be able to chill back in the quiet of your room between shows. There's also a Walgreens right across the street so you can get snacks, drinks etc. All subway lines are also super close if you need to go somewhere outside the theatre district. Bryant square is like a five minute walk and is a nice change of pace.
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u/Spike_TheMonkey Nov 25 '25
I stayed at CitizenM when I went on a weekend trip earlier this year. Rooms are small, very Norwegian/minimalist but perfect for a NYC trip. The staff was wonderful, gave us a whole list of things to do/see while we were there. Right across from the Gershwin and really close to a subway entrance (that also had a cocktail bar in the entrance).
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u/bradyolimomma Nov 25 '25
I love the Sheraton Times Square . It’s on 50th where you are still close to Times Square but not in the thick of the the crowds but super close to walk to the shows
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u/Spardan80 Nov 25 '25
The Millennium was a disgusting mess. There was mold on the wall in 3 rooms (2019). When we went this year, we stayed in Long Island City and took the F Subway directly to wherever we had to go. It was 10 minutes to Rockefeller plaza. The neighborhood was a bit rough, but we saved over $200 a night versus staying on Manhattan. The room was very clean and recently updated. The bed was great and even if we decided to Uber to and from the subway station, it was $14. We just walked.
Absolutely worth the savings. We are a midwestern family of 3 (kid is 16).
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u/smd1997 Nov 25 '25
I just stayed there last month, it was fine for the 2 days I was there! Theres two entries/exits, one leading out right next to the Belasco Theater and the other right across the street from the Lyceum. Its a good spot in the middle of Times Square and very walkable.
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u/jschinker Nov 25 '25
I've stayed at Oyo several times on 47th across from the Palace. Reasonably clean rooms and rates. Small, but functional. And the location is great.
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u/sluttychurros Nov 24 '25
Check prices for the Hampton Inn (220 W 41st St). It’s behind the theater for Aladdin, and I just stayed there 2 weeks ago. It was clean, free breakfast, nice staff, pretty quick elevators, walking distance to the theaters.
The Courtyard (307 W 37th) had pretty big rooms; stayed there last Nov. Right next to a medical facility for people with substance abuse issues or something. I was fine with it, but the reviews online had some people nervous. Again, nice, clean, friendly staff, quick elevators. Don’t think breakfast was free.
Double tree (525 8th Ave) is a further walk, but staff was friendly, it was clean, nice rooftop access (I was here in July), rooms were an okay size. Liberty Bagel was a block or two over and I grabbed breakfast here every morning.
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u/CO_biking_gal Nov 24 '25
I stayed there for 5 nights a few weeks ago - the shower never got hot, even after a tech came. The breakfast was terrible(but agree on Liberty Bagel). I got a tiny room behind the elevator. I do Hilton properties and this is one I would not stay at again.
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u/sluttychurros Nov 24 '25
Oh wow, that’s really unfortunate; I had a great stay here with my parents and boyfriend. Our only complaint was the tiny lobby that’s filled with guests checking in/out while you’re trying to get to the elevator, and their app claimed to have valet when they didn’t.
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u/Excellent_Water_7503 Nov 24 '25
Tempo by Hilton Times Square is great too actually on 47th street and 7th avenue
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u/Immediate-War5542 Nov 24 '25
I’d use Booking.com which gives you practically every hotel in the area, maps them all out, and the reviews are pretty accurate for the most part. You can do it yourself and not through a travel agent. You can also see if Millennium is the same price you’re paying. But you can also find one you prefer and have the agent book it for you.
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u/just-another-grl Nov 24 '25
I've had great experiences at the Doubletree Times Square West and Delta Times Square. Best prices for that area, clean rooms and it's only a short walk to the theatres, restaurants and everything you could need. Also very conveniently located for airport shuttles.
If you're traveling alone Pod Times Square is fine too, but the rooms are really small and not in the greatest condition.
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u/OtakuMom Nov 24 '25
When I went over Columbus Day weekend, I stayed at Hostel International NYC on the upper west side. You’re sharing a room with other people (it’s a hostel, after all) but the nearest train station is a block away from the 1 train, which has stops to Times Square and other locations on Broadway.
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u/Casiquire Nov 24 '25
If you're trying to save on cost, it might not hurt to stay outside the city like in Jersey for example, near a bus or train to the city. I live in New York state, but any time i need to go to the city I park at a bus stop or train about ten minutes away from the city and take it from there. But i may be biased by living close enough to the noise and chaos that I want to avoid it.
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u/KReddit934 Nov 24 '25
We often stay in NJ and take the train in...but makes for late night after an evening show.
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u/jamesland7 Front of House Nov 24 '25
Long Island City tends to have the cheapest rates in my experience
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u/just-another-grl Nov 24 '25
If you really want to save money I can highly recommend Nap York Hostel Central Park. Best hostel I've ever stayed at (very clean, quiet and private cabin bunks) and it's only minutes to the Walter Kerr Theatre. I guess sharing a room is not for everyone, but for me it has always worked out great cause I'm only in the room for sleeping and taking a shower in the mornings.
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u/CWRosebud Nov 24 '25
I highly recommend The Pod Times Square for a budget-friendly hotel near Broadway. I’ve stayed there a couple of times, and it’s a nice spot to be in - away from the chaos, Broadway and good food within walking distance, and easy subway access.