Step into Lafayette Square, where New York comes alive in a living canvas—surrounded by historic buildings, every stone whispers stories of the city’s soul. Whether it’s a morning coffee moment or golden-hour magic, this spot radiates effortless romance, and every snapshot feels like a movie still—impossible to put your phone down!




















Everything you need to know about Lafayette Square
The Peninsula New York is a top choice, located just a 3-minute walk from Lafayette Square on its southern side. This luxury five-star hotel offers exceptional convenience, with easy access to the New York Public Library and the Broadway Theater District. Many rooms provide stunning views of Central Park and the lush greenery of the square. The property features world-class amenities including 24-hour concierge service and an award-winning spa.
Another excellent option is The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel, renowned for its distinctive 19th-century architecture and elegant interior design. Situated just a 5-minute stroll from Lafayette Square, it’s surrounded by upscale boutiques and fine dining restaurants, making it ideal for travelers who value both history and urban sophistication.
The most convenient way to reach Lafayette Square from Downtown Manhattan is via the subway: take the 4, 5, or 6 train to Grand Central–42nd Street Station, then walk about 10 minutes north along Park Avenue. For a more comfortable journey, Uber or Lyft takes approximately 15 minutes and costs $25–$35, offering scenic views of Grand Central Terminal and Times Square along the way.
Alternatively, MTA buses such as M101, M102, and M103 serve the area, though they run less frequently and may be slower during peak hours. Notably, Lafayette Square lies at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street, so walking north from Park Avenue provides a culturally rich route past the New York Public Library, blending history and urban charm.
Lafayette Square hosts vibrant weekend events including outdoor markets and live music performances, especially during summer when jazz, classical, and indie bands take the stage. The central statue group, featuring former President James K. Polk, is a popular photo spot for visitors.
Surrounding the square, the New York Public Library offers free literary lectures, art exhibitions, and children’s storytime daily—ideal for families. In winter, the square transforms into a mini Christmas market with festive lights, craft stalls, and hot chocolate stands, creating a cozy holiday atmosphere. During spring, seasonal flower exhibitions combine horticulture and public art, showcasing NYC’s commitment to urban green spaces and community engagement.
Lafayette Square is centrally located in Midtown Manhattan, offering exceptional transit access. Multiple subway lines—including the 4, 5, 6, and 7 trains—converge at Grand Central–42nd Street Station, providing seamless connections across Manhattan and to Brooklyn and Queens. The PATH train also stops nearby, enabling quick travel to New Jersey.
Bike-sharing stations for Citi Bike are abundant around the square, ideal for short trips. Pedestrian-friendly streets like Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street feature dedicated crosswalks and signals. For drivers, Grand Central Terminal’s underground parking offers multi-level options, though rates are high—making public transit the preferred choice to avoid congestion in the city core.
See what other travelers say about Lafayette Square

I booked a standard twin room at The Belvedere Hotel, and the experience exceeded my expectations. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to Broadway and Times Square, making it super convenient for dining, shopping, or catching a show. Despite being in the heart of Manhattan, the hotel itself is surprisingly quiet, with excellent soundproofing in the rooms. I could relax without any noise from the street. One big plus was the small microwave in the room—it made preparing quick meals super easy, especially during longer stays. Also, having a water dispenser on the lobby floor was incredibly helpful for staying hydrated without needing to buy bottled water. Clean, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed, this hotel offers great value and a peaceful retreat right in the middle of the city hustle. I’d definitely stay here again.

The hotel is perfectly located just a 3-minute walk from the subway, making it incredibly convenient for exploring Times Square and the rest of Midtown Manhattan. The room was spotless, spacious, and well-maintained—definitely one of the most comfortable stays I’ve had in New York. Breakfast was a highlight: fresh fruits, yogurt, milk, juice, and a rotating selection of items each day. I especially appreciated that they offered to pack leftovers, which came in handy for a quick grab-and-go breakfast on busy mornings. The lobby has 24-hour coffee and hot cocoa—perfect for late-night cravings or early-morning starts. Overall, the value for money is outstanding, and the service feels genuinely welcoming. If you're visiting NYC and want a reliable, comfortable base with great amenities and location, this is a top pick. I’d stay here again without hesitation.

This stay was absolutely fantastic—truly one of the best options near Manhattan. The location is unbeatable: just a short walk to the subway, making it super easy to explore Midtown and downtown. The views of the city skyline are stunning, especially at night. The room was clean, spacious, and well-equipped with a full kitchenette—perfect for self-catering and saving money on meals. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the overall atmosphere felt modern yet welcoming. I was impressed by how quiet and comfortable the rooms were despite being close to the city buzz. For anyone looking for a convenient, stylish, and affordable base in NYC without breaking the bank, this hotel is an excellent choice. Would definitely come back.

Staying at Hyatt Place Long Island/New York City was a delightful experience from start to finish. The hotel is bright, clean, and well-maintained—immediately creating a welcoming atmosphere. I arrived late, but the front desk staff were incredibly helpful and friendly, guiding me through check-in with clear and warm communication, which made the whole process stress-free. It was the perfect time of year—springtime with blossoming flowers outside—adding to the peaceful, refreshing vibe. What stood out most was how thoughtfully designed the rooms are, especially for elderly guests. Spacious layout, easy access to all amenities, and smooth walkways made it comfortable and safe. If you're traveling with seniors or value comfort and practicality, this is an excellent choice. The location is convenient, the service is attentive, and the overall feel is homely yet modern. Definitely a top pick for future stays in the area.

This is my second stay at this hotel, and I can confidently say it’s one of the best choices in Manhattan. Located in a quiet yet central spot, it’s just a short walk to Times Square and Central Park—perfect for exploring the city without the hassle of long commutes. The subway access is excellent, making it easy to get around. The neighborhood feels safe, even late at night. While room sizes are typical for NYC, the bedding is surprisingly comfortable and made for a good night’s sleep. Clean, well-maintained, and great value—this place truly delivers. I’ll definitely be coming back next time I visit New York.

Staying at the Residence Inn by Marriott New York Manhattan/Central Park was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to Central Park, Times Square, MOMA, and Broadway, making it perfect for sightseeing and nightlife. The neighborhood is bustling with great restaurants and shops, and I felt safe even walking around at night. Public transit options like subway and bus stops are literally right outside the door, so getting around the city is super easy. The room itself isn’t huge, but the views are spectacular—especially from the windows facing the city skyline. Daily housekeeping kept everything fresh and tidy, and the breakfast spread was generous and varied. I also appreciated having access to a 24-hour fitness center and an in-house laundry facility, which made my extended stay much more convenient. Overall, this place offers comfort, convenience, and value—all in one. Definitely recommend for travelers who want to be in the heart of Manhattan without sacrificing comfort.

Staying at the Courtyard Long Island City/New York Manhattan View was an excellent experience from start to finish. The hotel offers free drinking water on the basement level—a small but thoughtful touch. Its location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the subway station, making it super easy to get into Manhattan for work or sightseeing. The neighborhood feels safe and well-maintained, even late at night. Plus, there are plenty of authentic Chinese restaurants nearby, which made dining out a real treat. The room itself was spotless, with excellent soundproofing—no noise from the hallway or outside, so I slept like a baby. Cleanliness, convenience, and quiet comfort all in one. Definitely a top choice for anyone visiting NYC, whether for business or leisure.

Staying at Made Hotel was an absolute delight! The location is fantastic—just steps away from the subway, making it super easy to explore Manhattan. The room design is modern and thoughtfully laid out, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night's sleep. Everything was spotlessly clean, including the bathroom, which felt fresh and well-maintained. Perfect for solo travelers like me—private, safe, and full of character. The front desk staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, offering great local tips and going the extra mile to make my stay enjoyable. From the moment I arrived until check-out, every detail felt intentional and welcoming. I’ll definitely be returning to this gem on my next trip to New York.

Staying at the Aloft New York Chelsea was an absolute highlight of my trip. The location is fantastic—right in the heart of Chelsea, with a row of hotels and vibrant nightlife just steps away. The ground floor is packed with trendy bars, attracting a young, energetic crowd that really captures the essence of NYC life. It's only about a 20-minute walk to Times Square, making it easy to explore the city without relying on public transit. The hotel itself is sleek, modern, and impeccably clean, with friendly staff who go the extra mile. I loved how central and convenient everything felt—perfect for travelers who want to experience the real pulse of New York, whether it’s late-night drinks or day trips around town. Highly recommend this spot for its unbeatable mix of location, vibe, and value.

Staying at this Courtyard hotel in Manhattan/Chelsea was a fantastic experience. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from Penn Station, making it super easy to catch the next train to Boston. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with friendly and helpful staff throughout our stay. One major plus: free luggage storage after check-out, which made our travel day so much smoother. Even though the hotel faces a police station and you’ll see plenty of patrol cars on the street, it actually adds a sense of security—feeling safe and well-protected. Overall, the value for money is outstanding, and I’d definitely recommend this hotel to anyone visiting New York.

Staying at Pod 51 was an absolute delight—located just steps away from major attractions, I found myself walking to everything I wanted to see without needing a single ride. The neighborhood is packed with great restaurants, from casual eats to upscale dining, all within a 5-minute stroll. The hotel itself is clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed, making it feel both cozy and stylish. It’s the perfect base for exploring New York City on foot. Highly recommend for travelers who value convenience and a vibrant urban vibe.

The hotel is incredibly convenient, just a short walk from the main train station—perfect for an early morning departure to the airport. Located right on the main street, it's easy to spot and navigate to. The room was spotlessly clean, spacious for a city stay, and very comfortable. The bed was cozy, the bathroom had all the essentials with strong water pressure, and the overall ambiance was quiet and welcoming. Great value for money, and I’d definitely stay here again if I’m back in New York. Highly recommend for travelers looking for a reliable, central base.
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