canadiantransplant

I'd recommend either the Westin Grand Central (a give minute walk to the 4/5/6/7 lines) and 12,000 a night and they are pretty decent with the upgrades.

Another option is the Four Points by Sheraton in LIC for 10,000 points a night (and a five minute walk to the N line at 39th Avenue).

Hope this helps!

dcstudent

Thanks all. I'll take another look at the Westin Grand Central and the Sheraton Times Square.

Thanks for the idea for LIC, but if I'm outside of Manhattan I might as well stay at Hoboken.

I'm tempted to stick with the W if only because I've heard great things and I'm amazed that a hotel that is going for more than $500 on my nights can be had for 12,000 points. But the convenience factor of the Westin or Sheraton might win out.

canadiantransplant

The LIC property is two subway stops from 59th/Lex (Bloomingdale's) and is on the subway whereas the W is on the PATH line so would cost you more.

Personally, I'm not a fan of the Sheraton in Times Square but really do like the Westin Grand Central.

Happy Planning!

KENNECTED

I would walk to Queens Plaza, it's actually shorter and more transportation options. I have a friend who live very close to this property.

As a native, that's ridiculous consider the time and money it would take to get to Hoboken. That LIC property is perfect if you're only going to sleep there and use the room to change. If this is the case, there are some Four Points or Aloft properties that may be an option.

latony

Has anyone stayed at the Gramercy? I'm platinum, & they state they don't honor starwood status, but wondering if they do something? I'm usually staying at the W Union Square but the rooms aren't that great. Just stayed there sat night & got a room that was pretty dark w/ no upgrade

KENNECTED

They told you the right thing. Have you read the Design Hotels annoucement on this forum? Soft Launch of Design Hotels

Right from the FAQ

CLEguy

Yes. Platinum status recognized on check-in, and I have been upgraded on both stays. So while not "officially" granted, as always, YMMV. When the rates are in line, it is quickly becoming my favorite SPG property in the city.

canadiantransplant

This is a also a good option as I too live in this area.

dcstudent

Thanks, didn't realize how close LIC was to midtown (subway-wise). How's the neighborhood late at night? Also, it says parking is $25 a night, which is great as we'll drive to NYC but don't plan on driving at all in NYC. Do they have their own garage?

Thanks again. We normally stay in a family member's condo in Manhattan - this'll only be the 3rd or 4th time we've stayed in a hotel in NYC so I'm not too used to the options.

canadiantransplant

This area is fairly safe at night as it's surrounded by several new hotels. As for parking, it's not a garage but is covered.

Hope this helps.

KENNECTED

In NYC Google Maps is your friend.

latony

Thanks! Has anyone stayed at the Westin Grand Central as platinum. Reviews seem to be pretty brutal about service. How often is anyone getting upgraded on weekday work stays?

flannbarr

Taking my 14 year old son to NYC on 2/12/16 for 4 nights for a father-son trip. Planning on using my SPG points to stay in Times Square area. Yes I know I can stay for 1 more night for free but he has to get back to school. My wife and I stayed at The Chatwal several years ago and it was absolutely fabulous but I am not going to spend 35,000 points per night for this trip.

I am down to the Westin Times Square and W Times Square (both at 20,000 points per night), leaning to the W. Would also consider Le Parker Meridien.

Cash prices are decent but I would prefer to use points.

I am only Corporate Preferred Guest because we switched our credit card to Hyatt a couple of years ago so no reral SPG perks.

I am looking for your thoughts.

KENNECTED

I would also check the Sheraton. Avoid the four points properties as the rooms are tiny, even by NY standards.

flannbarr

The Sheraton is available at 12,000 points per night but reviews are iffy at best.