Renaissance New York Times Square by Marriott

First Impressions

Walking into the Renaissance New York Times Square by Marriott, you immediately feel the energy of New York buzzing around you. This four-star hotel sits right on Seventh Avenue, and I mean right in the thick of everything — you can practically hear the Broadway shows from the lobby. The entrance has this modern, sleek vibe that feels distinctly Manhattan without being pretentious about it. What struck me most was how they’ve managed to create a sense of calm despite being literally surrounded by the city’s most chaotic neighborhood.

The Perfect Times Square Location

Honestly, the location here is pretty much unbeatable if you want to be in the heart of the action. You’re steps away from multiple Broadway theaters, and Times Square is right outside your door — which sounds overwhelming, but it’s actually thrilling when you’re staying here. The subway access is incredibly easy, with multiple lines within a couple blocks, so getting anywhere in the city is straightforward. I noticed couples seem to particularly love this spot (apparently they rate the location 9.5 out of 10), and I get why — there’s something romantic about having all of New York at your fingertips.

Room Experience

The room I stayed in was well-designed for a Manhattan hotel, meaning they’ve maximized every inch of space without making it feel cramped. The windows offer great city views — some rooms look out over the Times Square madness, while others face the slightly quieter side streets. The beds are comfortable, and you know what really impressed me? The soundproofing is surprisingly effective given where you are. I was expecting to hear every taxi horn and street performer, but the rooms stay relatively peaceful even with all that chaos below.

Dining and Amenities

The breakfast setup here is solid — they do both American classics and a buffet spread that covers most bases. It’s not groundbreaking, but when you’re rushing to catch a morning Broadway show or heading out for a day of sightseeing, having a reliable breakfast option in the hotel saves time. The restaurant area has floor-to-ceiling windows that give you great people-watching opportunities while you eat. There’s also a fitness center that’s better equipped than I expected, which is nice when you need to work off all those New York meals.

Why Guests Love It

What really sets this place apart is how it balances being right in the center of everything with actually providing a comfortable retreat. You can step outside and be immediately immersed in the Times Square experience, then come back to a space that feels like a proper hotel, not just a place to crash. The staff seems to understand that most guests are here for the location but still want quality service and comfort. With an 8.4 rating, it’s clear they’re doing something right — it’s that sweet spot where you get the full New York experience without sacrificing the basics you need for a good stay.