Aliz Hotel Times Square

Aliz Hotel Times Square opened in the heart of midtown Manhattan in the fall of 2018. This 287-room, 41-story property was built from the ground-up and features panoramic views on its top floors, as well as an eccentric rooftop bar, and an on-site restaurant that serves up fantastic burgers and Instagram-worthy shakes. This boutique property is within easy walking distance of the new Hudson Yards development, as well as Times Square, many Broadway theaters, and a host of subway lines to carry you throughout the city. Here's what we thought of this stylish new property.

The Basics

Budget: Upscale to Luxe (rates from $140 to $345 per night)

Lodging Type: Large Hotel (287 guest rooms)

What You Need to Know

The Look

It's modern, edgy, and chic. As soon as you step inside, you’ll notice a dramatic black chandelier in the center of the space. The lobby space also features black snakeskin-patterned elevators and a tucked-away seating area (which looks more like a cocktail bar) that has think mirrored tables, elegant lighting fixtures, cushioned seating, and black marble floors.

The hotel offers two types of guest rooms, standard and deluxe, that feature high-end décor, all-white marble bathrooms, cushioned headboards, hardwood flooring, and metallic wallpaper. The difference between them is the view: deluxe rooms feature city skyline views, while standard rooms don’t. Guest rooms are small but are surprisingly quiet, which is great if you’re seeking solace from all the hustle and bustle of the city. All in all, the sleek aesthetic translates through all aspects of the property.

The Vibe

It's lively, to say the least. You’ll see mostly hotel guests hanging out in the lobby, but once you arrive at the swanky rooftop bar, you’ll notice a mix of business and leisure travelers and locals, including lots of couples in their 30s and 40s. The sit-down burger restaurant, Farm to Burger, was fairly quiet on our Friday night visit. Stop in for a quick, affordable bite in a low-key setting (burgers from $13).

Who Will Love It

Travelers who enjoy style and design will enjoy this property, as will anyone who's in search of an an unbeatable central location in Manhattan.

Who Might Not

Families with younger children may be unable to appreciate the hotel's key experiences, like the rooftop bar, and rooms may feel a bit cramped if you need lots of space and storage.

Best Amenity

Without a doubt, the best amenity at the property is its rooftop bar, Dear Irving on Hudson, which spans the 40th and 41st floors. Here, expect refreshing cocktails, sweeping skyline views, art-deco-style décor, cozy nooks, and James Bond-inspired accents (think memorabilia, books, and framed photos). The 41st floor recently opened and reservations for this space are required. Here, you can enjoy light bites like shrimp tempura, avocado toast, and sliders; it's a great spot for a special occasion. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a simple nightcap, just take the elevator to the 40th floor, order your drink, and admire the skyline. If it's not too cold, we recommend heading out on the balcony. (Cocktails cost $18; small plates start at $9.)

Another tip: during your stay, be sure to take advantage of the plush bathrobe that you'll find in your guest room.

Money Matters

What's Included

Wifi is included.

Fees and Extra Costs You Should Know About

The property charges a $30 (plus tax) nightly "destination fee." This charge covers in-room coffee, two bottles of water per day, use of the business center, access to the 24-hour Peloton cycling studio, a 20 percent discount at Farm to Burger for lunch and dinner, chocolates on your pillow upon arrival, and a 10 percent discount on seasonally-curated items including signature scents, welcome beverages, and other products.

How to Get a Deal

For maximum savings, consider planning your trip during the city’s slow season, from January through March. We found rates as low as $141 per night for a standard guest room during this time. Alternatively, if you’re feeling spontaneous, reserve your room at the last minute (for example, the hotel website listed rates for $131 per night for rooms just a few days out).

Getting There

In the Neighborhood

The hotel is a 2-minute walk from Port Authority Bus Terminal. Penn Station is an 8-minute walk, and so is Times Square. If you’re looking to explore the brand-new Hudson Yards, you won’t have to go far: Either walk 18 minutes, or hop on the 7 train at Times Square (about a 15-minute commute total).

Nearest Airport:

Thanks to the hotel's central location, you're close to Newark, JFK, and LaGuardia airports. Expect about a one-hour transfer to the hotel (using public transportation), which will cost you around $20 total for both a subway and train ticket. However, if you end up taking a car service, expect to pay a higher price — and sit in traffic (though you won't have to lug your bag or rely on the city's notoriously delayed and slow public transportation).

Nearest Public Transit:

You’ll find the A, C, and E trains at Port Authority; while the N, Q, R, S, W, 1, 2, 3, and 7 trains all stop at Times Square. All in all, the hotel’s prime locale allows guests to be at the center of all the hustle-and-bustle of the city.

The Bottom Line:

If you enjoy high-style accommodations and amenities — and don’t mind small spaces — you’ll love Aliz Hotel Times Square.