Where to Stay in the Center of it All: NYC’s Best 4-Star & 3-Star Hotels Ranked
There’s nothing quite like the energy of Midtown Manhattan. Whether you’re here to catch a Broadway show, marvel at the lights of Times Square, or take a morning stroll through Rockefeller Center, choosing the right “home base” can make or break your New York experience. But with hundreds of options and fluctuating prices, how do you find that perfect balance of location, comfort, and value?
In this guide, we’ve done the heavy lifting for you. We’ve ranked the top-rated four-star properties that offer premium amenities without the five-star price tag, followed by our favorite three-star “hidden gems” that provide unbeatable value. From the iconic views at the Marriott Marquis to the smart, modern vibes of Arlo Midtown, here is your curated list of the best places to stay in New York City right now.
1. New York Marriott Marquis (4-star)
New York Marriott Marquis ranks first because it combines consistently strong guest feedback with one of the most central locations for theater, dining, and transit. The hotel sits directly on Times Square, essentially 0–1 block from the main plaza, and about 5–6 blocks from Rockefeller Center, putting you within a short walk of Broadway theaters, Radio City Music Hall, and multiple subway lines.
Guests frequently emphasize the convenience of stepping out directly into Times Square, the variety of on-site dining, and large common areas that make the property feel like a hub for exploring Midtown. Over the last six months, typical average rates have often ranged from about 350 to 550 USD per night, reflecting both its location and full-service amenities; visitors often describe the price as justified by how little they need to rely on taxis or long walks at night.
2. Riu Plaza Manhattan Times Square (4-star)
Riu Plaza Manhattan Times Square earns a high ranking thanks to strong guest ratings that highlight cleanliness, efficient service, and a convenient yet slightly off-plaza location. The hotel is roughly 2–3 blocks from the core of Times Square and around 3–4 blocks from Rockefeller Center, giving you quick access to both areas while positioning the building on streets that feel a bit less congested than the main square.
Reviewers often note that rooms feel modern and well maintained, and many appreciate the included or easily accessible breakfast options as a time-saver before morning sightseeing. During the past six months, average nightly rates have commonly fallen in the 260 to 380 USD range, which places the hotel in a competitive spot for a four-star property so close to key Midtown attractions.
3. Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel (4-star)
Renaissance New York Times Square (by Marriott) rounds out the top three, particularly appealing to travelers who want a boutique-like feel close to the Theater District. The property sits at the northern edge of Times Square, generally 1–2 blocks from the central plaza and about 5–6 blocks from Rockefeller Center, making it easy to walk to shows, restaurants, and Fifth Avenue.
Guests frequently highlight comfortable beds, soundproofing that takes the edge off street noise, and upper-floor rooms or breakfast spaces with city views. Over the last six months, typical nightly rates have often ranged from roughly 320 to 450 USD, slightly under or comparable to the Marriott Marquis, which keeps it attractive on both review scores and price.
Recommended three-star hotels
Hampton Inn Manhattan / Times Square Central (3-star)
Hampton Inn Manhattan / Times Square Central stands out for first-time visitors seeking value, straightforward comfort, and a location almost on top of Times Square. The hotel is about 1–2 blocks from the heart of Times Square and roughly 6–7 blocks from Rockefeller Center, allowing easy walks to Broadway shows and Radio City Music Hall.
Guests regularly mention the included breakfast, helpful staff, and clean rooms as the main reasons for strong review scores. Over the past six months, average rates have often hovered around 250 to 350 USD per night, putting it in a favorable position for those who prize Midtown convenience without four-star pricing.
Holiday Inn Express – Times Square South (3-star)
Holiday Inn Express – Times Square South appeals to visitors who want Midtown access plus breakfast included in the rate. It typically sits around 4–5 blocks from Times Square and approximately 6–7 blocks from Rockefeller Center, balancing quick access to both with a slightly quieter block compared to the immediate theater core.
Reviewers often highlight the value of the breakfast, the friendliness of the front desk staff, and rooms that, while compact, feel comfortable and functional. Over the last six months, average nightly prices have generally ranged from about 240 to 320 USD, which contributes to its strong review-to-price balance.
Hilton Garden Inn New York / West 35th Street (3-star)
Hilton Garden Inn New York / West 35th Street offers a practical base near Herald Square with easy subway links to Times Square and Rockefeller Center. It sits about 6–7 blocks from Times Square and roughly 10–11 blocks from Rockefeller Center, making for a moderate walk or a quick subway ride north.
Guests frequently praise the professional staff, cleanliness, and views from some higher-floor rooms, with many noting that the location feels central for both Midtown and downtown outings via nearby transit. Typical average rates over the past six months have often been in the 230 to 320 USD range, which many visitors consider good value for the location and brand.
45 Times Square Hotel (3-star)
45 Times Square Hotel is a compact property that draws attention for its location steps from Times Square and close to Rockefeller Center. It sits about 1 block from Times Square’s central area and around 4–5 blocks from Rockefeller Center, putting both landmarks within a short walk.
Guests often mention the “right in the middle of it” location, friendly staff, and straightforward rooms that work well as a sightseeing base. Over the last six months, typical rates have usually fallen between about 230 and 320 USD per night, which aligns well with its three-star positioning in such a central area.
Arlo Midtown (3-star)
Arlo Midtown, while sometimes marketed between lifestyle and boutique categories, typically prices in the upper three-star to lower four-star band and earns strong reviews for design and staff. The hotel is about 6–7 blocks from Times Square and roughly 9–10 blocks from Rockefeller Center, close enough to walk while also convenient to Penn Station and several subway lines.
Guests regularly highlight the modern, compact-but-smart rooms, social lobby spaces, and a sense of good value given the quality of the interiors. Across the last six months, average nightly rates have commonly ranged from approximately 230 to 340 USD, making it an appealing option for travelers who like contemporary style without paying top-tier four-star prices.