Destination NYC: Family Travel: Hyatt Times Square by Robin Gorman Newman

My son and I enjoy New York City, and in the past have done staycations in various part of town.  This school break, we decided to stay for the first time in Times Square since we had a couple of shows on our agenda, and did an overnight at the Hyatt Times Square New York located on 45th street between 6-7th Avenues.

A sleek highrise that was built just over a year ago, the Hyatt is a convenient choice for theatre lovers, also within easy walking distance to Rockefeller Center, Radio City, and public transportation to get up or downtown.

The hotel has 54 floors and 487 rooms, including 49 suites.  They boast that there are just 11 rooms per floor.  Given the huge number of rooms — it was sold out when we were there — there is sometimes a line/wait for the elevator, but once you’re in, the ride is ear-poppingly speedy.  And, the rooms are well-appointed and sized.

If you’re looking for some downtime or socialization, the hotel has the highest rooftop bar and lounge in NYC offering outstanding views.  It opens starting 4pm, and I’m told they are exploring the possibility of serving breakfast there come summer, which would be lovely.

For the business traveler or local executive, they have ample meeting space for professional and other gatherings.

The hotel has an ultra modern, sleek decor.  My son loved turning all the lights on and off in the room (using the high tech mode), and took a particular liking to the heated bathroom floor.  The shower was spacious and spa-like, and the bathroom was a very good size.

The hotel offers a ton of items you may request…..more than I have seen at any hotel.  Items range from hairspray to deodorant to a lint roller.  There is a light-up magnifier makeup mirror, and a coffee/tea maker, plus a small refrigerator.

The mattress was a tad firmer than I would have liked (I’m a picky sleeper), but you can request a bed topper.  They also have available foam pillows, upon request.  Despite the bustle of the Times Square area, our corner room, with large windows and a city view, was quiet, and the hotel proved a nice respite.

If you’re in the mood for some pampering, the Timeless – Marilyn Monroe Spa on premises is happy to accommodate.  They offer an array of services, from makeup application to facials to manicures to massages and more, including a unique product line.  While I didn’t go for a reflexology massage (my favorite) this time, I’d love to should the occasion arise in the future. 

And, if you haven’t gotten in your exercise as you explore NYC, the hotel has a large, impressive, state-of-the-art fitness center.

Seth at T45 — the restaurant

Loving the cookies and milk!

While the hotel doesn’t serve continental breakfast, just off the lobby is a restaurant called T45, and the food was terrific.  The vibe is part retro (with bar stools), part colorful modern, and the menu has both healthy and comfort food choices.  The vegan chili was the best I have ever had….truly!  And, my son is addicted to their home baked chocolate chip cookies (and whole milk).

I have to say that the hospitality at this hotel was really wonderful.  Staffers were always friendly and ready to be helpful, and check-in and checkout was easy and quick — you can do it in-person, online or at a station in the hotel lobby.

 Visit http://timessquare.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html.

Note: Thanks to T45 for providing dinner.

Tags: broadway, family travel, hyatt, staycation, theatre, time square ny