There are very few times you’d want to book a hotel in the Times Square area of Midtown Manhattan.
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The area is renowned for being congested, noisy, and filthy. It’s not known for its affordability, good eats, or friendliness, either. In fact, the only allure is that square block that’s rimmed with massive displays with colorful ads dancing across them.
There are only two reasons a visitor would end up lodging in or around Times Square. The first is business; Midtown is home to high-profile companies and their offices. The second is pure, unadulterated tourism. And when it comes to spectacles in Times Square, there’s nothing like the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop.
Just like you can book a room with views of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, you can also look for hotels with views of the Times Square Ball Drop. They won’t come cheap, and you’ll need to book far ahead of time to land a room with a great view. But it’s guaranteed to give you a front-row seat to one of the world’s most famous NYE celebrations.
If you want to explore hotels with views of the Times Square ball drop, start with the options listed below. Each has an NYE program that includes views of the ball drop. Just know that you might need to call ahead to book your package—and well ahead of time, too.
7 hotels with views of the Times Square ball drop
M Social Hotel Times Square
Formerly the Millennium Hotel, M Social is renowned for having the best views and one of the most accessible parties. While not all rooms offer a view of the Times Square ball drop, you can easily book a table or general admission to its world-famous terrace, which overlooks Times Square. If you book a room, you get added perks for the big night, including a 10% discount on your room rate.
Residence Inn by Marriott New York Times Square
While the Residence Inn by Marriott doesn’t have direct views of the ball drop, you’ll be able to see the gathering from some rooms. You’ll also be in prime walking distance if you want to nab a spot to watch the ball drop live. As a perk, room rates come with a complimentary bottle of champagne.
Casablanca Hotel
Casablanca Hotel has rooftop views overlooking the Times Square ball drop. They offer a NYE package that includes dinner at the on-site Tony’s Di Napoli, along with after-dinner drinks at Rick’s Café. When the time is right, guests are brought to the rooftop and treated to a glass of champagne. Back in the room, a bottle is waiting for when the festivities die down.
Knickerbocker Hotel
Welcome to one of the most austere hotels with views of the Times Square ball drop. The Knickerbocker Hotel is ringing in its 120th birthday in style this year by offering various packages for revelers. You can book a room with a view, reserve your place on the terrace, or in a sky pod, and more. Though the tickets are (unsurprisingly) pricey, you can save between 15-30% on room rates when booking around the holiday.
New York Marriott Marquis
If you’re traveling in a group, and especially with young ones, consider this your best bet. The hotel lets you book a range of room packages, including those with views of the ball drop, or access to the Broadway Lounge, The View (on the rooftop), or a separate All Ages NYE Celebration. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly party, fine dining, a rooftop soiree, or a private room with a view, you’ve got it at the Marriott Marquis.
Tempo by Hilton Times Square
Tempo by Hilton Times Square offers a King Corner Suite Times Square Panoramic room with views of the ball drop. If you want to book their NYE package, you can reserve a ticket to celebrate at Highball. This is a newer property that opened its doors in 2023, known for its unique, swanky design.
Hyatt Centric Times Square
The Hyatt Centric Times Square throws a popular rooftop party at its on-site Bar 54, the city’s highest cocktail bar. It’s a sleek, sexy spot to watch the ball drop with friends and loved ones. The event includes a five-hour open bar, three hours of appetizers, and insane views of Manhattan.
