DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South: An Honest Review of Comfort, Location, and Value in Midtown Manhattan

If you’re planning a trip to New York City and searching for a hotel that balances comfort, location, and price, DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South is likely already on your radar. Positioned just a short walk from Times Square and Penn Station, this modern Midtown hotel appeals to tourists, business travelers, and first-time NYC visitors alike.

But does it live up to the hype?

In this in-depth review, we’ll break down everything you need to know about DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South, including its location, rooms, amenities, dining options, service quality, and whether it’s truly worth the price. This isn’t a sales pitch — it’s a realistic, experience-driven look at what staying here is actually like.

Prime Location: Steps from Times Square Without the Chaos

One of the biggest advantages of DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South is its location. Situated on West 36th Street, the hotel sits just south of Times Square, offering easy access to major attractions while remaining slightly removed from the nonstop noise and crowds.

Walking Distance to Major Attractions

From the hotel, guests can easily walk to:

• Times Square (about 5 minutes)
  
  

• Madison Square Garden (3 minutes)
  
  

• Penn Station (5 minutes)
  
  

• Herald Square and Macy’s (5 minutes)
  
  

• Empire State Building (10 minutes)
  
  

This makes DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South especially appealing for travelers who want to explore Manhattan on foot or rely on public transportation rather than taxis.

Excellent Transit Access

Penn Station and several major subway lines are nearby, including the A, C, E, 1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, and W trains. Whether you’re heading downtown to Wall Street, uptown to Central Park, or across the river to Brooklyn, getting around from this hotel is fast and convenient.

First Impressions: Modern, Efficient, and Welcoming

Upon entering DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South, guests are greeted by a clean, contemporary lobby that reflects the brand’s signature style. It’s not overly luxurious, but it feels polished, well-maintained, and thoughtfully designed.

And yes — you’ll get the famous warm DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie at check-in, which remains a small but memorable touch after a long day of travel.

Check-In Experience

Check-in is generally smooth, though it can get busy during peak hours. Staff members are typically professional and courteous, efficiently managing the flow of guests even when the lobby is crowded.

Pro tip: If you arrive early, the hotel will often store your luggage so you can start exploring the city immediately.

Guest Rooms: Compact, Comfortable, and Well-Designed

Like many hotels in Manhattan, rooms at DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South are on the smaller side. However, the space is smartly laid out, making it feel functional rather than cramped.

Room Features

Standard guest rooms typically include:

• Comfortable DoubleTree Sweet Dreams® beds
  
  

• Flat-screen HDTV
  
  

• Work desk with ergonomic chair
  
  

• Mini refrigerator
  
  

• Coffee and tea maker
  
  

• In-room safe
  
  

• Iron and ironing board
  
  

The décor is modern and neutral, with clean lines and soft lighting that help the room feel relaxing after a busy day in the city.

Cleanliness and Maintenance

Cleanliness is one area where DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South consistently performs well. Rooms are generally spotless, with housekeeping maintaining high standards throughout guests’ stays.

Bathrooms are compact but modern, featuring walk-in showers, quality toiletries, and good water pressure — a small but important detail for many travelers.

Views: City Scapes Worth Requesting

Some rooms at DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South offer impressive views of Midtown Manhattan. Higher floors may provide partial skyline views, including glimpses of the Empire State Building or surrounding skyscrapers.

While views aren’t guaranteed, it’s worth requesting a higher floor when booking or checking in, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or staying multiple nights.

Dining Options: Practical and Convenient

The hotel features on-site dining options designed for convenience rather than fine dining.

Breakfast at the Hotel

Breakfast is available daily, typically offering a buffet or à la carte options depending on occupancy. Guests can expect standard American breakfast items such as eggs, pastries, fruit, coffee, and juice.

While breakfast is not always included in the room rate, Hilton Honors members may receive discounts or credits depending on their membership tier.

Nearby Restaurants

One of the perks of staying at DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South is its proximity to countless dining options. Within a few blocks, you’ll find:

• Casual diners and delis
  
  

• International cuisine (Italian, Korean, Thai, Indian, and more)
  
  

• Fast-casual chains
  
  

• Upscale restaurants in nearby Midtown neighborhoods
  
  

You’re never short on food choices, whether you want a quick bite or a sit-down meal.

Fitness Center and Amenities

Fitness Center

The hotel includes a 24-hour fitness center equipped with cardio machines, free weights, and basic workout equipment. While not massive, it’s well-maintained and perfectly adequate for travelers who want to stick to their fitness routine.

Business Services

For business travelers, DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South offers:

• Business center access
  
  

• Meeting rooms
  
  

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel
  
  

The reliable Wi-Fi is a standout feature, especially for remote workers or guests needing to attend virtual meetings.

Service and Staff: Professional and Helpful

Service quality at DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South is generally strong. Staff members are knowledgeable, responsive, and accustomed to handling the needs of international travelers.

Concierge services may be limited compared to luxury hotels, but front desk staff are usually happy to help with directions, transportation tips, and general recommendations.

Who Is This Hotel Best For?

DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South is an excellent choice for:

• First-time visitors to New York City
  
  

• Tourists who want to be near Times Square without staying directly in it
  
  

• Business travelers attending events at Madison Square Garden
  
  

• Couples looking for a comfortable, centrally located base
  
  

• Hilton Honors members seeking reliable brand standards
  
  

It may be less ideal for travelers seeking luxury amenities or large family-sized rooms, but it excels in practicality and location.

Value for Money: Is It Worth the Price?

Hotel pricing in Midtown Manhattan can fluctuate dramatically depending on season, demand, and events. Compared to nearby properties, DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South often represents solid value.

You’re paying for:

• A trusted global brand
  
  

• Excellent location
  
  

• Clean, modern rooms
  
  

• Consistent service standards
  
  

For travelers who prioritize convenience and comfort over extravagance, the value proposition is strong.

Tips for Booking the Best Stay

To get the most out of your stay at DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South, consider the following tips:

• Book early during peak seasons (spring, summer, holidays)
  
  

• Join Hilton Honors for potential perks and discounts
  
  

• Request a higher floor for better views
  
  

• Consider weekday stays for lower rates
  
  

• Use Penn Station access for easy airport transfers
  
  

Final Verdict: A Reliable Midtown Manhattan Stay

So, is DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South worth booking?

For most travelers, the answer is yes.

It delivers exactly what it promises: a clean, modern, well-located hotel with dependable service in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. While it doesn’t aim to be ultra-luxurious, it succeeds by offering comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind — three things that matter greatly when navigating a city as busy as New York.

If you’re looking for a hotel that keeps you close to the action without overwhelming you, DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South is a smart, dependable choice for your NYC stay.