5 Best NYC Hotels Near Times Square for Families of 5 (With Restaurants Nearby)

‍

‍

Finding NYC hotels that can comfortably accommodate a family of five is one of the biggest challenges when planning a New York City trip. The average hotel room in Manhattan is only 325 square feet—smaller than two parking spots. When you're traveling with five people plus luggage, that's a recipe for a cramped, stressful vacation.

These five hotels have rooms available that are actually big enough for your family to breathe, within walking distance of Times Square. Even better, I'm sharing the best family-friendly restaurants close to each hotel's doors.

‍

‍

Whether you're planning a family vacation, celebrating a special occasion, or coordinating a group trip, these NYC hotels give you space without blowing your budget.

‍

{{ad-three}}

‍

The 5 Best NYC Hotels for Families of 5 (Near Times Square)

‍

1. The Shelburne Sonesta (Murray Hill)

📍 Distance from Times Square: 15-minute walk (10 minutes to Empire State Building)
💰 Room Size: 450 - 950+ square feet
🛏️ Best For: Families who want apartment-style space with outdoor access
⭐ Star Rating: 4-star
📅 Last Renovated: 2022

Why The Shelburne Works for Families of 5

The Shelburne Sonesta's Terrace Suites are some of the largest family rooms you'll find in this price range in NYC hotels near Times Square. At 450 to over 950 square feet, these aren't hotel rooms—they're actual apartments.

The Pros:

• Recent renovation: The 2022 refresh means everything feels modern and clean
• Outdoor space: Many Terrace Suites include private terrace access—a massive luxury in Manhattan
• Empire State Building views: Higher floors offer spectacular views
• Residential vibe: Murray Hill is quieter than Times Square, which families appreciate after a long day of sightseeing
• Separate living areas: True one-bedroom suites with doors between sleeping and living spaces

The Cons:

• Distance to West Side attractions: You're further east, so plan for 15-20 minute walks or Ubers to reach Times Square and Broadway theaters
• Rooftop bar noise: The hotel has a popular rooftop bar that can get loud on weekends—request a higher floor if this concerns you
• Not in the tourist center: If you want to be in the middle of the action, this location feels more residential

What's Nearby The Shelburne

Attractions within walking distance:

• Empire State Building: 10 minutes
• Grand Central Terminal: 12 minutes
• Bryant Park: 15 minutes
• Times Square: 15 minutes

During the summer, Murray Hill is a great place to stay. It’s right near the ferry stop and makes it easy to get around the city on ferries. 

‍

‍

Restaurant: Vezzo Thin Crust Pizza

📍 Distance from hotel: 2 blocks
💵 Price Range: $$ (affordable for families)
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Group Size: Excellent for parties of 5-8

Why Vezzo is perfect for groups:

Most NYC pizza spots are cramped counter-service joints where half your family stands while eating. Vezzo is different. They have long communal tables specifically designed for big parties, making it one of the few pizza places in Murray Hill where your group of five can actually sit together.

What makes it good for families:

• Thin-crust pizzas designed for sharing: Order 2-3 pizzas for your group
• Dietary accommodations: Gluten-free crust and vegan cheese options mean everyone can eat
• Relaxed, warm environment: Not rushed or touristy
• Affordable: One of the most budget-friendly group dinners in Murray Hill
• Pizza is religion in NYC: Your family gets an authentic New York pizza experience without the Midtown tourist prices

Pro tip: Make a reservation for dinner on weekends. Communal tables fill up fast on weekends.

‍

‍

2. Radio City Apartments (Midtown West)

📍 Distance from Times Square: 5-minute walk (1 block from Rockefeller Center)
💰 Room Size: 450 - 850+ square feet
🛏️ Best For: Families who want full kitchens and maximum value
⭐ Star Rating: 3-star
📅 Last Renovated: 2018

Why Radio City Apartments Works for Families of 5

This is the closest property to Times Square on this list, and it offers something most NYC hotels don't: actual two-bedroom apartments with full kitchens. If saving money on food is a priority, this is your best option.

The Pros:

• Unbeatable location: One block from Rockefeller Center, 5 minutes to Times Square—you're in the heart of Midtown West's most walkable area
• Full kitchens: Full-sized fridge, stove, oven, and dishwasher—cook breakfast and save $100/day
• Actual apartments: Real two-bedroom layouts with separate bedrooms (not just a divided space)
• Best value for space: You're getting 450-850 square feet in one of Manhattan's most central neighborhoods
• Privacy: Separate bedrooms with doors mean parents have their own space after kids sleep

The Cons:

• No-frills property: This is not a luxury hotel—decor is dated and functional
• Slow elevators: Guests consistently mention elevator waits during peak times (mornings and evenings)
• No gym: If fitness facilities matter to your family, this isn't included
• Basic finishes: The 2018 renovation was minimal—expect older furniture and fixtures

Who this works for: Budget-conscious families who prioritize Midtown West's central location and apartment-style space over hotel amenities. If you can live without a fancy lobby and don't need a gym, the trade-off makes perfect sense for staying in the heart of the action.

What's Nearby Radio City Apartments

Attractions within walking distance:

• Rockefeller Center: 1 block
• Times Square: 5 minutes
• Bryant Park: 7 minutes
• Theater District: 10 minutes
• Central Park: 15 minutes

This is the most central location on the list—everything in Midtown West is walkable.

‍

Restaurant: Urban Hawker

📍 Distance from hotel: 3-minute walk
💵 Price Range: $ - $$ (varies by vendor)
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Group Size: Perfect for groups with different preferences

Why Urban Hawker is perfect for groups:

This is the answer to every family's biggest dining challenge: "Everyone wants something different."

Urban Hawker is a Singaporean food hall with 17 different vendors under one roof. One person can get ramen, another can get tacos, someone else gets a rice bowl, and you all meet at the communal tables.

What makes it good for families:

• 17 vendors = 17 choices: Impossible for anyone to say "there's nothing I want to eat"
• Affordable: Most meals run $12-18 per person
• Communal seating: Large tables accommodate groups easily
• Authentic flavors: Singaporean, Malaysian, Thai, Chinese, and more
• Casual atmosphere: No pressure, no reservations needed, family-friendly

Menu highlights:

• Satay and Laksa from the Singaporean stalls
• Fresh noodle dishes
• Bubble tea and Asian desserts

Pro tip: Go during off-peak hours (2-4pm or after 8pm) to avoid the lunch and dinner rush.

‍

{{ad-two}}

3. Millennium Times Square

📍 Distance from Times Square: Right in Times Square (couldn't be closer)
💰 Room Size: 350 - 580 square feet
🛏️ Best For: Families who want to be in the center of the action
⭐ Star Rating: 4-star
📅 Last Renovated: 2021

Why Millennium Times Square Works for Families of 5

If your family wants to be in the absolute heart of Times Square, this is your option. The Millennium has massive inventory for large groups, and their older room layouts (pre-2010 construction) tend to be more spacious than newer NYC hotels.

The Pros:

• Perfect location: You're literally IN Times Square—Broadway theaters, restaurants, and attractions are steps away
• Tons of inventory: Large hotel with high availability for double-double rooms and suites
• Recent partial renovation: 2021 updates in many rooms
• High-floor views: Upper floors offer iconic Times Square views
• Older, larger rooms: Built before NYC hotels started shrinking room sizes

The Cons:

• Service can be slow: This is a big hotel (750+ rooms), so check-in and concierge services can feel impersonal
• Elevator waits: Guests frequently mention long elevator lines during peak times
• Times Square chaos: You're in the middle of the tourist epicenter—it's loud, crowded, and overwhelming
• Lower ratings: The 3.9-star rating is primarily due to service speed, not room quality

Who this works for: First-time NYC visitors who want to be steps from Broadway shows in the heart of Times Square and don't mind the tourist energy.

What's Nearby Millennium Times Square

You're literally in Times Square, so:

• Broadway theaters: 2-5 minute walk to most shows
• Times Square: You're standing in it
• Rockefeller Center: 7 minutes
• Bryant Park: 8 minutes
• Central Park: 15 minutes

‍

Restaurant: Los Tacos No. 1

📍 Distance from hotel: 5-minute walk (inside Chelsea Market)
💵 Price Range: $ (very affordable)
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Group Size: Good for quick, casual group meals

Why Los Tacos No. 1 is perfect for groups:

Los Tacos No. 1 is widely considered the best tacos in NYC, and it's surprisingly affordable for a Times Square-adjacent location.

What makes it good for families:

• Tourist-friendly: Perfect for international visitors who want authentic Mexican flavors
• Fast and affordable: $4-6 per taco, most people eat for under $15
• Simple menu: Tacos, quesadillas, and agua frescas—easy for kids to order
• Casual atmosphere: Order at counter, grab a table, no pressure
• Quick service: Great for families who don't want a long sit-down meal

Menu highlights:

• Adobada tacos (marinated pork)
• Carne asada (grilled steak)
• Nopal (cactus) for vegetarians
• Fresh agua frescas

Pro tip: Go off-peak (2-4pm) to avoid the lunch rush. Seating is limited, so be prepared to wait for a table during busy times.

‍

4. San Carlos Hotel (Midtown East)

📍 Distance from Times Square: 15-minute walk (8 minutes to Grand Central)
💰 Room Size: 400 - 600 square feet
🛏️ Best For: Families who value quiet, modern rooms and excellent service
⭐ Star Rating: 4-star
📅 Last Renovated: 2021

Why San Carlos Hotel Works for Families of 5

The San Carlos is often overlooked because it's on the East Side, but that's exactly why it works. The rooms are double the size of typical NYC hotels near Times Square, the walls are actually soundproof, and the 2021 renovation means everything feels fresh.

The Pros:

• Massive standard rooms: At 600 square feet, their "standard" rooms are bigger than most hotel suites
• Actually quiet: Guests consistently mention thick walls—you won't hear neighbors or street noise
• Extra half-bath: Many suites include an additional half-bathroom, which is huge when five people are getting ready in the morning
• Recent renovation: The 2021 update shows—clean, modern finishes throughout
• High-end service: This property has a boutique hotel feel with attentive staff

The Cons:

• Corporate vibe: This isn't a trendy, Instagram-worthy hotel—it feels more executive/business traveler
• No on-site restaurant: You'll need to go out or order in for all meals
• East Side location: Further from Broadway theaters and Times Square (plan for walks or Ubers)
• Not a "scene": If you want a rooftop bar or lobby social space, look elsewhere

Who this works for: Families who want a quiet, comfortable base in Midtown East and don't need to be in the middle of the tourist chaos.

What's Nearby San Carlos Hotel

Attractions within walking distance:

• Grand Central Terminal: 8 minutes
• St. Patrick's Cathedral: 10 minutes
• Rockefeller Center: 12 minutes
• Times Square: 15 minutes
• Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): 12 minutes

‍

Restaurant: The Smith (Midtown)

📍 Distance from hotel: 3-minute walk
💵 Price Range: $$ - $$$
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Group Size: Excellent for groups of 6-10

Why The Smith is perfect for groups:

The Smith is a massive American brasserie with huge circular booths that seat 8+ people comfortably. This is the go-to spot when you need a restaurant that can handle a big party without splitting you up.

What makes it good for families:

• Huge booths: Circular seating for 8+ means your group sits together
• Standard American menu: Burgers, pasta, salads, steaks—perfect for picky eaters
• Something for everyone: Vegetarian, gluten-free, and kid-friendly options
• Buzzing atmosphere: Loud, energetic, very New York—families blend right in
• Great for breakfast and lunch: Less crowded than dinner service

Menu highlights:

• Mac and cheese (kids love it, adults do too)
• Crispy chicken sandwich
• Kale salad (surprisingly good)
• Extensive brunch menu on weekends

Pro tip: Make a reservation, especially for weekend brunch. Walk-ins can wait 45+ minutes.

‍

5. Homewood Suites Times Square South

📍 Distance from Times Square: 8-minute walk (near Port Authority)
💰 Room Size: 350 - 550 square feet
🛏️ Best For: Budget-conscious families who want free breakfast
⭐ Star Rating: 3-star
📅 Last Renovated: 2017

Why Homewood Suites Works for Families of 5

This is the ultimate budget play for families. Every room is a suite with a kitchenette, and the free hot breakfast saves a family of four about $100 per day.

The Pros:

• Free hot breakfast: This is the #1 highlight in guest reviews—saves $500-700 over a week-long trip
• Every room is a suite: Separate living and sleeping areas in all rooms
• Kitchenettes: Mini-fridge, microwave, and coffee maker (some rooms have full kitchens)
• Hilton Honors connecting room guarantee: Use the app to guarantee connecting rooms at booking
• Good for extended stays: Weekly rates and kitchen access make longer trips affordable

The Cons:

• Gritty location: Near Port Authority Bus Terminal—the block feels less polished than other Midtown areas
• Very busy elevators: The lobby and elevators get incredibly crowded during breakfast hours (7-9am)
• Older property: The 2017 renovation helped, but it still feels more budget-focused than boutique
• Not walkable to everything: You're on the south/west edge of Times Square

Who this works for: Families on a tight budget who prioritize value over location and amenities, and don't mind being near the Port Authority area.

What's Nearby Homewood Suites Times Square South

Attractions within walking distance:

• Port Authority (subway/bus hub): 2 minutes
• Times Square: 8 minutes
• Penn Station: 10 minutes
• Madison Square Garden: 10 minutes
• Javits Center: 12 minutes

Restaurant: Tik Tok Diner

📍 Distance from hotel: 4-minute walk
💵 Price Range: $ - $$ (classic diner pricing)
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Group Size: Great for families and large groups

Why Tik Tok Diner is perfect for groups:

Tik Tok Diner is a classic NYC diner with a retro vibe, massive space, and a menu that works for everyone—especially families with young kids who want pancakes at any hour.

What makes it good for families:

• Big space: Unlike cramped Manhattan diners, Tik Tok has room for groups
• Classic American diner menu: Pancakes, burgers, omelets, sandwiches—standard comfort food
• Very retro atmosphere: 1950s-style decor that kids find fun
• Open late: Great for families who eat dinner at odd hours after shows or museums
• Affordable: Breakfast runs $10-15 per person, lunch/dinner $15-25

Menu highlights:

• Buttermilk pancakes (huge portions)
• Classic cheeseburgers
• Greek specialties (the owners are Greek-American)
• Milkshakes and egg creams

Pro tip: Breakfast is their strong suit—skip dinner unless you just want diner comfort food.

‍

{{ad-one}}

‍

How to Actually Get Connecting Rooms in NYC Hotels

One of the most common questions families ask: "How do I guarantee connecting rooms?"

Most people assume if they request it in the booking notes, they'll get it. Wrong. Here's what actually works:

The Hilton Hack (Homewood Suites)

If you're booking Homewood Suites or any Hilton property:

1. Use the Hilton app or website (not third-party sites)
2. Check the "Connecting Rooms" box during booking
3. This is a technology-backed guarantee—the system won't let you book unless connecting rooms are actually available
4. You'll get confirmation immediately

The Marriott Hack

For Marriott properties:

1. Look for the "Family Connection" rate when searching
2. Use promotional code ZE2 when booking
3. This often locks in two rooms with a guaranteed door between them
4. Confirm in your booking confirmation email

The "Direct Call" Method (All Other Hotels)

For hotels like The Shelburne, Radio City Apartments, San Carlos, and Millennium:

1. Do NOT use Expedia or third-party booking sites
2. Call the hotel's direct reservation line (not the 1-800 number)
3. Ask to speak with the "In-House Reservations Manager"
4. Tell them: "I need two rooms that are hard-blocked as connecting in your system"
5. Ask them to email you written confirmation that the rooms are hard-blocked

Important: If they say "I'll put a note on your reservation," that's NOT guaranteed. Push for a hard-block in their system.

‍

{{ad-three}}

How to Spot a Real Family Suite (Before You Book)

Not all "suites" are created equal. Here's how to tell if you're getting actual space or just a marketing gimmick:

Suite Types Explained

Junior Suite:

• One large room with a sitting area
• No wall or door between bed and sofa
• Usually 350-450 square feet
• Verdict: Not enough space for a family of 5

One-Bedroom Suite:

• Separate bedroom with a door
• Living room with pullout sofa
• Usually 450-600 square feet
• Verdict: This is what you want

Master Suite / Two-Bedroom Suite:

• Two separate bedrooms with doors
• Living room area
• Usually 600-950+ square feet
• Verdict: Ideal but rare and expensive in NYC

The Photo Analysis Test

When looking at hotel photos online, check for these visual cues:

1. The Door Test

• Look for a door between sleeping and living areas
• If you see a door in the photo, it's a true suite
• No door = just a big room

2. Window Count

• One window = 350 square feet or less (too small)
• Two windows = 400-500 square feet (minimum for families)
• Three windows = 500+ square feet (ideal)

3. Sofa-to-TV Distance

• If the sofa is touching the bed, it's too cramped
• Look for at least 5 feet of space between sofa and bed
• This gap indicates actual living space

The Booking.com Square Footage Trick

New York City hotels are legally required to list square footage (though many find loopholes). The easiest place to find actual square footage:

1. Go to Booking.com
2. Search for your hotel
3. Click on the room type
4. Scroll to room details—square footage is usually listed

Pro tip: Even if you're booking elsewhere, use Booking.com to verify room size before committing.

The Kitchenette Filter Hack

When searching on Google Hotels, Expedia, or Booking.com:

1. Use the "Kitchenette" or "Kitchen" filter
2. Rooms with kitchenettes are almost always larger than standard rooms
3. They're usually part of suite inventory or extended-stay properties

Walking Distance from Times Square: What "Near Times Square" Really Means

NYC hotels love to say they're "near Times Square," but that can mean wildly different things. Here's the reality:

Hotel

Actual Walking Time to Times Square

What This Means

Radio City Apartments

5 minutes

You're in the middle of it—can walk to Broadway shows

Millennium Times Square

0 minutes

You're literally IN Times Square

Homewood Suites

8 minutes

Close enough for shows, far enough to escape the chaos

The Shelburne Sonesta

15 minutes

Residential area—quieter but you'll walk or Uber to theaters

San Carlos Hotel

15 minutes

East Side location—great for Grand Central, further from Broadway

Pro tip: If your family plans to see multiple Broadway shows, prioritize Radio City Apartments or Millennium Times Square. If you want quiet after sightseeing, choose The Shelburne or San Carlos.

Plan Your NYC Days with Our Free Trip Planner

Once you've booked your hotel, the next challenge is organizing your days by neighborhood so you're not zigzagging across Manhattan with five people.

Our free NYC Day Planner lets you:

• Map all the attractions you want to visit
• See what's actually close to your hotel
• Organize days by neighborhood for efficient touring
• Save time and energy (especially with kids)

This is where most families make mistakes—they create a list of 20 places they want to see but don't realize half of them require crossing the entire island multiple times.

‍

‍