Do be aware that may Manhattan Marriott hotels notoriously charge "urban destination fees," and Starwood is starting to do it too. I think that includes points stays, so do be aware of that when you're evaluating the prices of your stay. I find that staying in Midtown East isn't a bad option - it's not too long a walk to places like Rockefeller, Times Square, etc but you're away from the crowds of Times Square itself. Off the top of my head, in that area there's the W, Sheraton Grand central, East Side Marriott, The Lexington. There's also the Algonquin near Bryant Park, which is a great location for subway lines, 5th Avenue shopping, and walking to the locations your'e interested in. (plus, they have a hotel cat if you like that sort of thing)