Residence Inn by Marriott New York Manhattan/Times Square

The location is the big win here. The subway is only about 200 feet away, and the front desk staff were very helpful and friendly. Please be kind to them. Our room was spacious, which was especially nice when the weather kept us from going out. The property feels worn and needs updating. We had a broken lamp, and the bathroom mirror looked like it had been painted. The bathroom door is so big it nearly hits the toilet, which makes for an awkward layout. There was also loud banging overnight, though I don’t blame the hotel for that, so bring earplugs. The kitchen had the essentials, but you have to call downstairs to get the hot plate. I also noticed tiny bugs, maybe the tiniest ants, near the kitchen sink.

I keep coming back here. The suites aren’t huge, but there’s enough room to have some privacy, and they feel secure. Everything was very clean, including the bathroom, and the beds were comfortable with fresh linens, though I bring my own. There’s a mounted 65-inch LG TV, good Wi-Fi, a mini fridge, coffee maker with plastic cups, and an ice machine. The snack bar has a decent selection. Hallways were clean, the gym was really nice, and the elevators and service were both solid.

We had a great stay and would come back. The room gave us plenty of space to unwind after walking around all day, and the full kitchen made it feel more like a little apartment. We also had a view of the Empire State Building, a classic New York sight. The location made it easy to walk to lots of places, with restaurants, theaters, and subway lines nearby. Staff were friendly and helpful the whole time. Breakfast was free and excellent, and there was fresh fruit in the lobby throughout the day. I’d seen comments about the shower, but ours had strong pressure and plenty of hot water. Elevator waits weren’t long for us either, at most 3-4 minutes around breakfast. For the room size, location, and amenities, this was good value in Manhattan.

The staff were helpful and great, the location was central, and breakfast was top notch. But the elevator was so loud that we couldn’t sleep. We were on the fifth floor, and one elevator clattered up and down all day and night. It should’ve been turned off during normal sleeping hours.