Staying at the New York Marriott Marquis means you're right in the heart of Times Square—surrounded by some of the most popular shops, restaurants and Broadway shows
This Is One of the Best Hotels to Experience NYC and Times Square
Published on Nov. 28, 2024
New York City—a vibrant avenue buzzing with energy, towering skyscrapers and neon lights blazing from every corner. As a native New Yorker, I typically tune out the wonders of NYC, dodging the crowded, tourist-packed streets of Times Square and gravitating instead toward the charming, quieter spots across Manhattan, Brooklyn and beyond. But after a thrilling two-night stay at the New York Marriott Marquis, I was reminded why Times Square captivates tourists and locals alike. From the vibrant atmosphere of the Theater District to the endless dining options, it’s easy to see why both the New York Marriott Marquis and Times Square itself draw such a crowd—even for this jaded New Yorker.
If you’re booking a flight to NYC—or if you’re a fellow New Yorker on the hunt for the perfect staycation—keep reading. We spoke with Matt Pizzimenti, the director of sales and marketing at the New York Marriott Marquis to learn what the hotel has to offer, along with his advice on the best time to visit for hotel deals. I also dive into my experience staying at the New York Marriott Marquis and share exactly why this 4-star hotel is a NYC hidden gem for both visitors and locals (and yes, the elevators are an absolute must-see, but more on that below!).
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When is the best time to visit New York City?
The best time to visit New York City is during the spring and fall months. During this time, you’ll be able to explore all the city has to offer, with comfortable temperatures for walking and gorgeous autumn foliage (or blooming spring flowers). This is also the best time to book a hotel for fewer crowds and outdoor events.
When is the best time to visit the New York Marriott Marquis?
Any time is the perfect time to stay at this stunning hotel. However, Pizzimenti finds “great value in being flexible with your travel dates all through the calendar year.” Hotel Week in NYC starts in early January, and despite the name, it actually lasts longer than a week (with the New York Marriott Marquis offering discounts up to 25% off). According to Pizzimenti, you might want to “visit in early January while the Rockefeller Tree is still up and catch Elf the musical before it leaves the Marquis Theatre.”
Why should you consider staying at the New York Marriott Marquis?
Staying at the New York Marriott Marquis allows you to be in the heart of Times Square and the Broadway Theater District in Midtown Manhattan. The hotel is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking to be surrounded by theaters and plenty of nightlife and shopping options. “The hotel captures and radiates the vibrant energy of NYC, bringing the destination’s unique character inside its four walls,” says Pizzimenti.
The New York Marriott Marquis has two restaurants that serve quintessential New York cuisine and feature weekly live music from local buskers and iconic legends. In fact, this winter, the New York Marriott Marquis is hosting Mike Yung, a 40+ year NYC subway singer and two-time contestant on America’s Got Talent, as part of their seasonal programming.
If you’re traveling with family or friends, there are family connecting rooms and a stylish and spacious M Club Lounge—the first in Manhattan—available with all suite bookings. Open daily, the lounge offers an extensive breakfast buffet and evening hors d’oeuvres. During the day, it’s the perfect spot to grab a coffee, hold an impromptu meeting or recharge before your next adventure.
“The best of NYC is at our doorstep,” Pizzimenti says. “We’re just minutes away on foot from some of NYC’s most iconic attractions, including the Empire State Building, Central Park and beloved holiday destinations like the Bryant Park Christmas Market, Radio City and Rockefeller Center.” And for those looking to explore further, Times Square serves as a major transportation hub, making it easy to reach landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Freedom Tower, Madison Square Garden and the many gems in the vibrant borough.Â
And if that hasn’t convinced you, the New York Marriott Marquis is also one of the few hotels in Times Square that offers an exclusive, all-ages New Year’s Eve celebration on December 31, just for their guests. “It’s our way of creating a truly special and intimate experience for those who’ve chosen to stay with us,” Pizzimenti says. “The menu is outstanding, with international dishes, fresh shellfish, hand-rolled sushi, a lavish dessert spread and world-class entertainment, thanks to our close partnership with the vibrant Broadway community.” Younger guests can enjoy their own exclusive food station, “though it’s not uncommon to see adults sneaking a slice of artisan pizza or some gooey mac and cheese from the kids’ buffet—we fully approve!” Pizzimenti teases.Â
What is the history of the New York Marriott Marquis?
The New York Marriott Marquis isn’t just a popular spot for tourists and locals—it’s a landmark with a fascinating history. Designed by renowned architect John Portman, the hotel opened its doors in 1985, but its construction stirred up quite a bit of controversy. To make way for the new building and the Marquis Theatre, several historic theaters were demolished, including the original Helen Hayes, the Morosco, the Bijou and the Gaiety. The Marquis Theatre eventually opened in July 1986, adding a modern touch to the Broadway scene.
How many floors does the New York Marriott Marquis have?
The New York Marriott Marquis is a towering gem with a stunning 51 stories and two basement levels, reaching an impressive 574 feet in height. Inside, you’ll find a whopping 1,971 rooms, including 886 singles, 1,085 doubles and 56 luxurious suites.
“With rooms starting on the 10th floor, we’re well known for the variety of stunning views,” says Pizzimenti. “Even from midtown, select rooms catch a narrow glimpse of Lady Liberty. For something truly special, our Times Square Family Connector Rooms or Traditional Times Square View Rooms put the bright lights of Broadway front and center, making guests feel like the stars of the show.”
And guess what? I had the pleasure of staying in the Executive Suite where I had a stunning view of Times Square’s skyscrapers, billboards and magical ambiance. I enjoyed the comfort of my own space, complete with a separate living room and dining area—talk about a memorable experience!
What are the amenities at the New York Marriott Marquis?
The New York Marriott Marquis has plenty of amenities, including eateries for guests to enjoy. During my stay in October, there was even a backdrop for selfies and an Amorino gelato pop-up by the lobby.
- Broadway Lounge: The Broadway Lounge is the ultimate spot to unwind before catching a Broadway show in Times Square—which is exactly what I did before my Friday show (more on that below). With its stunning floor-to-ceiling windows, you’ll get breathtaking views of the city while you relax. It’s the perfect place to grab a light bite, enjoy a hearty meal or sip on classic cocktails and mocktails.Â
- Â Revel & Rye Bar and Restaurant: Revel & Rye Bar is the go-to spot for a sophisticated and elevated dining experience in Times Square.
- Fitness Center: The gym is located on the 23rd floor. You’ll find an array of equipment, including Peloton bikes, rowing machines and free weights. What’s more, it’s open 24 hours a day, for any morning or late night workouts.
- Marquis Theatre: Located on the third floor of the New York Marriott Marquis, the Marquis Theatre has been home to various popular shows, including “The Wiz” (2024), “Beetlejuice” (2022) and “Gypsy” (1991).
- M Club Concierge Lounge: The M Club Lounge at the New York Marriott Marquis is an exclusive retreat for Platinum Elite members and above. It’s the ideal spot to unwind or mingle in a comfortable, stylish setting. Enjoy complimentary perks like a buffet breakfast to kickstart your day and light snacks available throughout.
- The FedEx Business Center: The New York Marriott Marquis features a convenient business center located on the seventh floor, just one level below the lobby. Open daily, this space is equipped with everything you need, from photocopying and printing services to computer and laptop workstations.
- Perch Outdoor Terraces: For an unforgettable outdoor setting, head to its stunning terrace, perched eight floors above the bustling streets. It’s the perfect place to soak in the city views while enjoying a meal or hosting a special event.
- Gift Shop: Swing by the gift shop to pick up all your New York souvenirs, from iconic tees and totes to fun local goodies. You’ll even find a selection of designer bags for a little extra luxury—and don’t forget to grab a bite or a drink at the cozy café while you’re there!
Does the New York Marriott Marquis have a pool?
Sadly, the New York Marriott Marquis does not have a pool. However, we hope this doesn’t stop you from enjoying the luxe feel of the hotel’s interior and the many amenities inside!
What’s new with the New York Marriott Marquis ?
Fast forward to 2022, the New York Marriott Marquis underwent a stunning $135 million renovation. This revamp included a complete redesign of its three restaurants, thanks to a partnership with the Union Square Hospitality Group. The makeover introduced exciting new spaces like the Broadway Lounge—a gorgeous space with floor-to-ceiling windows and stunning views of Times Square—and the Revel & Rye Bar and Restaurant, adding even more allure to this iconic destination.
Fun facts about the New York Marriott Marquis
- The New York Marriott Marquis features one of the world’s largest atriums, soaring 37 stories high.
- The New York Marriott Marquis has some of the fastest elevators in the city, traveling up to 1,000 feet per minute.
- The first show at the Marquis Theatre was a series of concerts by Shirley Bassey on July 9, 1986.
- Me and My Girl was the first musical to play at the Marquis Theatre in August of 1986.
- The New York Marriott Marquis is home to New York’s first revolving restaurant The View. It’s temporarily closed but set to reopen this winter.
How do you get to the New York Marriott Marquis?
If you’re flying in, you can commute from one of New York City’s nearby airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia and Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey (which isn’t as convenient as the first two). In average traffic conditions, taking a taxi or car service to the New York Marriott Marquis from JFK can take around an hour. From LaGuardia, a ride to Midtown Manhattan can take 30 minutes to an hour or more depending on traffic. Rides from Newark can take more than 90 minutes.
What I loved about my trip
I stayed at the New York Marriott Marquis for two nights, a Thursday to Saturday. Being fully immersed in the heart of New York City was electric! Even though I’m a native New Yorker, I hadn’t been to Times Square in a while—it’s always packed, and I tend to avoid the intensity of it. But staying at the New York Marriott Marquis brought it all back, reminding me of how truly magical this city is. The glow of the billboards, the pulse of the crowd and the way NYC lights up at night—it all felt surreal.
On Friday, I had the perfect opportunity to explore the city with Devour Food Tours, enjoying a smooth and easy commute to the Lower East Side. It was an intimate experience with a small group, where I got to dive into the rich history of some of New York’s most iconic food spots. We hit up the legendary Economy Candy Shop, the vibrant Essex Market and the famous Katz’s Deli (a popular pick for pastrami lovers), all while learning fascinating stories behind these beloved local gems!
This trip really made me fall in love with my city again, especially as a Broadway fan. I finally got to indulge in Moulin Rouge!—and let me tell you, it’s now in my top 10, right up there with Wicked and Aladdin. Plus, my suite’s city view was incredible. Day or night, I had this sweeping panorama of skyscrapers and the bustling energy below. It was the perfect backdrop to rediscover the magic of New York City.
What surprised me
I was surprised to realize that the New York Marriott Marquis is right in the heart of the Broadway District! I couldn’t believe how close the theaters were to one another, and even as the night got late, the area still felt vibrant and alive.
Plus, the hotel was grander than I expected. Walking in, I was almost lost trying to find the elevators, but the journey made it worth it. When I finally got to the lobby, it felt like stepping into a world of its own. The elevators were stunning, with this intricate design that I’d never seen at any hotel. Honestly, the Marriott Marquis felt like a mini city, complete with restaurants, amenities and everything I could possibly need for a perfect extended stay.
What I would do differently
Looking back, I wish I’d taken more time to soak in the city at night. Aside from grabbing a quick slice of pizza and heading to my 7 p.m. Broadway show, I didn’t venture out much afterward. But even close to midnight, the area was buzzing and beautiful. If you’re visiting, I highly recommend exploring New York in the evening—it has an energy and charm that’s entirely its own!
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Source:
- Â Matt Pizzimenti, director of sales & marketing at the New York Marriott Marquis; email interview, Oct. 18, 2024
- Spotlight on Broadway: “Inside the Marquis Theatre”
