The New Hyatt Hotel: An Urban Oasis in Times Square
The 54-story Hyatt Times Square officially opened its doors to a bustling New York City Theater District on December 3, 2013. A brand-new build from the ground up, the hotel is the largest Hyatt to open in Manhattan in more than 30 years, and it offers a modern sanctuary in the heart of the city.
Location, Location, Location
Being smack in the middle of the Theater District has its perks. Some of Broadway’s biggest productions are neighbors, and Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Center, the Museum of Modern Art, and Saks Fifth Avenue are all within walking distance.
The challenge: capture the energy of the city in a space that’s inviting, stylish, and unique. Recognizing the idiosyncrasies of building a hotel in Manhattan, Hyatt set out to create an urban oasis—a haven within the city. As soon as I walked through the glass doors into a lobby with comfortable couches, floor-to-ceiling windows, wood paneling, and soaring ceilings, I saw that the challenge was met.
Shots of color balance a neutral palette to create an ambiance that’s homey yet modern. Technology isn’t obtrusive or overused; instead, it’s thoughtfully placed to enhance convenience and atmosphere. Self check-in kiosks are located to the right of the front desk, and staffers are always on-hand to check you in with an iPad if there’s a line. Head to the elevator banks on the right, and there’s a ceiling covered with blue LED lights for a calming effect. Take a left, and you’re in T45 Midtown Diner, a retro-inspired restaurant that toes the line with heartwarming nostalgia and current culinary trends.
Room and Board
There are 487 rooms at the Hyatt Times Square, but you wouldn’t know it. There are only 11 rooms per floor, which means each one feels more like a private residence than a large hotel. The rooms’ interiors (by George Wong Design) reflect this intimate vibe, too; as I moved around one, I felt as if the space was tailor-made for me. From the carefully placed coat hooks, lighting panels, gadget charging stations, and wall art to the safe actually big enough for a laptop, the spacious room addressed every want I could think of for a hotel, all while being comfortably minimalistic. The floor-to-ceiling windows are a fantastic focal point; they let natural light in and block the noise, but they do open for those who want to let in the city sounds. What’s a night in NYC without a little car honking?
When guests order room service, it comes from T45. With an entrance on 45th street, the restaurant is a destination within itself and a welcome addition to the Theater District. Executive chef Nicholas Pelliccione describes the cuisine as “traditional American diner food but with a healthy, modern style.” This means you’ll find shakes, floats, sundaes, omelets, and burgers sharing a menu with tofu scramble, sautéed Brussels sprouts, mussels, and affogato. Throw in an ambiance that’s tastefully playful, and it’s a wonderful addition to the area.
A Lounge With a View
Atop the Hyatt tower sits Bar 54. Once it opens in mid-February the chic rooftop bar, which will serve specialty cocktails, fine wine, and small plates, will be the highest in New York City. An impressive outdoor deck boasts two fireplaces and expansive views of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline, including uninhibited views of the Chrysler Building and the Freedom Tower. The deck is also a prime viewing spot to watch the ball drop in Times Square on New Year’s Eve (make your reservations now!).
More Reasons to Book:
No one likes to work out in the basement. The second-floor fitness center has state-of-the-art equipment and floor-to-ceiling windows.
Hyatt Times Square has the only full-service hotel spa in the neighborhood. When it opens at the end of January, the spa will feature a blow out bar, private treatment rooms, and more than 4,200 square feet of space—all there to cater to your relaxation.
In the City That Never Sleeps, food must be available 24/7. The Grab & Go Market offers pastries, coffee, and other snacks 24 hours a day.
You might have a celebrity sighting. Rumor has it Scarlett Johansson was spotted there….
