Dcislander

Hey all, I know that this has been discussed ad nauseam, but I am down to the wire and wanted to see how folks responded to a quick poll.

Staying in NYC this Friday night with my 8 year old who likes all the things that typical 8 year olds love. My options are $175 at 48Lex, $238 at Times Square (my Elite Rate booked a few weeks back--now it's in the $300s) $240 at the Grand or $259 at Union Square.

My inclination is to bail on the TS reservation and book the cheaper room at 48Lex. Location for us is not as good though. What do you all think?

I really appreciate your advise.

md25

I personally do everything possible to avoid Times Square. I had good stay earlier this year at 48Lex and the location was perfect for me as I was visiting family, but there is not much in the way of touristic value around there except for the UN and I doubt that would pique your 8 year old's interest. I'd probably book whatever is closest to the attractions you want to see to be honest, particularly for a short stay.

Dcislander

Agree. TS is a Charlie Foxtrot. Lex is so much cheaper--may just stay there and invest the savings into a trip to the Lego store.

lawyertalk

Price difference can't be beat. Even if the location's bad for you, you can take at least 6 cabs off the savings. 48 Lex is my second-least favorite Hyatt in NY (just above the HP and below both Andaz's, Union Square, GH), and I'd still choose it given the prices above.

Dcislander

Huh. In the last hour the price went up to 208. He who snoozes loses.

JunkDiver

What happened to TS? I found that my stays there were pretty good when they first opened.

Dcislander

Nada. I meant the area in general. It's such a circus these days. Hotel is great though.

LASUA1K

I love the TS property. I don't mind the area, you can always go around it. An 8 year old will love the lights.

Dcislander

US just dropped their Elite rate to be even with TS. Now deciding between the 2.

Radiant Flyer

If cost is the issues keep in mind no matter what Hyatt you choose you can get almost anywhere in Manhattan in a matter of minutes via the subway... kids find the experience exciting.

As a frequent visitor to Manhattan, I think an 8 year old would be excited to stay in the Time Square Area, even though I despise the neighborhood, the lights, the energy and yes the crowds are overwhelming. Many of the rooms at the Hyatt TS have views of the lights, high floor facing south.

But if your kid is not into crowds, avoid the area.

PLEASE NOTE: They are renovating the pedestrian areas in Time Sq., large areas are closed off which at times make it nearly impossible to walk around.

Union Square is a great neighborhood.

Dcislander

My brothers lives down near US which was why we wanted to be downtown but ultimately I stuck with the TS Hyatt. Good location to keep a kid entertained and convenient to Penn St. Maybe we'll get lucky with a Diamond room upgrade.

Thanks to all for the advise.

neuron

I enjoyed my stays at this hotel. Friendly staff. Despite being a stone's throw from TS, the windows are excellent in noise abatement. Definitely a wonderworld for children and close walk to many things the city has to offer.

inthemix

Hyatt 48 Lex at that price is a steal. I normally pay $450 for that during the week...

Andaz Wall Street is my second choice.

PH is sweet I bet, but looks like it is going to be pricey