Don't let the "Times Square" name fool you:-)
The Residence Inn TImes Square.. is only several blocks away from the TKTS booth at Times Square and all the Broadway theaters... but it's delightfully removed FROM the hustle and hassle OF Times Square..Yes the rooms are somewhat "cozy" sized.. but this is New York and not Kansas..but they're also bigger than many in the city at twice the price. They're spotlessly clean, with a comfortable bed, a spotless bathroom, and maybe a bit of a view if you're on a high floor--but who comes to New York to stay in the room all day anyway. The 6th Ave subway is right outside the door, the 7th Ave/B'way IRT around the corner for easy access to all of the City... but a mere block away is the absolute wonder of Bryant Park--a delicious Oasis in the middle of the CIty, and maybe my favorite park in New York (although the Highline-especially the new section-- comes close). And if your strolling through or taking outside lunch in Bryant Park.. don't miss the beauty of the top floor reading room at the NY Public Library which the park backs up to if you've never been. Or just bring your final cup of morning coffee from the hotel after breakfast and come sit in the park for a few minutes before you begin your day's plunge into the joys of New York. Macy's, H&M an Herald Square are a five minute walk, and Lord&Taylor and mid 5th Ave five mins. in the other direction. Breakfast--the superb buffet and inviting warm club atmosphere of the breakfast room at this Res. Inn are only one more reason to stay here. Chelsea and Hell's Kitchen and some wonderful mid priced restaurants are ten to fifteen mins. on foot. The lobby's nothing to write home about visually, little seating (but that's the norm for many in city hotels of this type, since it discourages non-guests from making themselves too at home)--yet the front desk staff is friendly, courteous, knowledgeable and efficient. My partner and I were totally satisfied with our two night stay....I'm torn between four and five stars here since there are many true five star hotels in New York. But for the price, the value and what it is as a functional chain property, I'll go with the five--since if you were looking for a "five star" experience, this probably wouldn't be your route. But for a great New York weekend location, I couldn't ask for better. Only one shortcoming--no coffee in the bfst. room after 11 am since they're now selling Starbucks in the lobby--for your convenience of course. (although hot water and tea bags...are available. Shame on you Marriott from us coffee drinkers who expect it hot and fresh day and night..and on demand.)