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The POD Hotels Group Hotels Near The Sphere
Pod 51
Pod 39
Pod Times Square
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about The Sphere
W Hotel New York Times Square is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from The Sphere. Its modern architecture and breathtaking city views perfectly complement the massive spherical installation. The rooftop bar offers panoramic vistas of the Times Square lights and The Sphere's dynamic light shows. With subway access just 2 minutes away, it’s ideal for catching evening art displays and spontaneous performances. Many rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, letting guests experience the urban energy from within.
Take the subway to 42nd St – Bryant Park Station, then walk 7 minutes along Broadway to reach The Sphere. This route leads directly into the heart of Times Square, where you’ll pass vibrant billboards and street performers. Alternatively, MTA buses like M101 and M102 stop nearby, ideal for those avoiding walking. Use Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time transit updates to ensure punctuality. Located at the epicenter of Manhattan’s main tourist corridor, this spot serves as a perfect starting point for exploring downtown NYC.
The Sphere itself is an immersive interactive art installation, featuring nightly digital light shows that use projection technology to create dynamic visuals and soundscapes. Arrive by 6 PM to explore the outdoor exhibition zones around Times Square, often hosting resident multimedia artists. Weekends frequently include spontaneous performance festivals with dance, music, and live audiovisual acts. Nearby, guided Street Art Walks reveal hidden graffiti masterpieces tucked in alleyways. These experiences blend technology and culture, offering visitors a deep dive into New York’s creative spirit.
Yes, the Times Square Public Plaza offers a family-friendly environment with play areas for children and outdoor seating perfect for relaxed moments. Nearby, the New York Public Library’s branch provides free Wi-Fi and a dedicated children’s reading corner—quiet and welcoming. Additionally, Madison Square Garden hosts family-friendly events like sports games and children’s theater performances. In the evenings, enjoy diverse street food at Smith Street Food Hall, offering a lively yet safe atmosphere. The area is well-lit, accessible, and equipped with amenities ideal for families exploring Manhattan.
The Sphere features nightly holographic light shows with 360-degree immersive projections displaying flowing colors and abstract patterns synced with ambient sound. Shows typically begin after sunset and last about 20 minutes, with content updated hourly—so staying for at least 30 minutes ensures full immersion. Its central location in Times Square provides excellent viewing angles, even from a distance. Many visitors arrive early to secure prime spots for photos. More than just an exhibit, it’s a cultural nighttime ritual in the heart of Manhattan—undoubtedly worth a dedicated visit.
Try Joe Coffee Company for artisanal coffee and European-style breakfasts—its industrial-chic design with lush greenery makes it ideal for a morning pause. For classic American fare, visit Shake Shack’s Times Square branch, known for its signature cheeseburger and fries, offering fast, fun service. For dinner, head to The Modern Restaurant inside JPMorgan Chase Tower, serving elevated French cuisine with breathtaking skyline views—perfect for romantic evenings. All are within a 5-minute walk, making them convenient options for every meal type.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about The Sphere
Pod 51
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.
Pod 39
Staying at Pod 39 was a great experience overall. The air conditioning unit in the room is a bit noisy, cycling on and off frequently to maintain temperature, which can be noticeable. That said, I always travel with earplugs, so it wasn’t an issue for me. The room is small—perfectly sized for solo travelers looking for a no-frills, budget-friendly stay. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable: central, walkable, and just steps away from subway access. Plus, the city view from the 10th floor is surprisingly nice, especially during sunset. For a convenient, affordable base in Manhattan, this place delivers.
Pod Times Square
I was looking for a more budget-friendly option for my trip to New York, but ended up booking the wrong Korean homestay—chaos started right from arrival. Thankfully, I switched last minute to Pod Times Square, and it turned out to be an absolute lifesaver! The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Manhattan, steps away from everything. Yes, hotel prices here are high and rooms tend to be small, but the bunk bed room we booked with my friend was surprisingly great. It felt just like having queen-sized beds—each of us had our own space, and having outlets right beside the bed made charging devices super convenient. The room itself wasn’t big, but spotless and well-maintained, and we were lucky enough to get a higher floor with a nice view. Even though we arrived late, the front desk was very accommodating and let us check in early to drop off our bags. Plus, they offered free luggage storage after checkout, which was perfect since we had a late evening flight. Everything about this stay—from safety and cleanliness to service and location—was top-notch. A truly reliable choice in a city where every detail matters. Would definitely stay here again.
Embassy Suites by Hilton New York Manhattan Times Square
Staying at this hotel was a highlight of my trip to New York City. The room was spacious and comfortably furnished, with a cozy bed that made for a great night's sleep. While the elevator can get busy during peak hours, it’s a minor inconvenience considering everything else. The breakfast was absolutely outstanding—better than most hotels I’ve stayed at in the U.S. I especially loved the fresh-made omelets, cooked to order with perfect texture and flavor. There were plenty of options, so everyone in my group found something they liked. Located right in the heart of Times Square, everything is within walking distance—shopping, dining, entertainment, and even the subway. The location alone makes it worth it. It’s a fantastic value, and I’d definitely book again. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Manhattan.
Staypineapple, An Artful Hotel, Midtown New York
Absolutely loved my stay at Staypineapple, An Artful Hotel in Midtown New York! The location couldn’t be better—just a short walk from everything I wanted to see and do. There’s a great selection of restaurants nearby, and even a laundromat within walking distance, which was super convenient. The hotel itself has such a unique, artistic vibe with thoughtful touches throughout. It’s stylish, comfortable, and feels like a true home away from home. If you see a good rate, don’t hesitate—this place is worth every penny.
5th & 55th Residence Club
This hotel is absolutely stunning and perfectly located just steps away from parks, dining spots, Broadway theaters, and shopping areas. Our room was beautifully appointed with classic, comfortable furnishings and excellent lighting that created a warm, inviting atmosphere. The bathroom stood out with a separate tub and shower setup, and the water pressure was fantastic—perfect for a relaxing soak or refreshing shower. The housekeeping staff were prompt, professional, and thorough in their cleaning. From start to finish, the service and attention to detail made our stay unforgettable. We truly loved every moment here and can’t wait to come back again.
The Lombardy Hotel
The Lombardy Hotel truly exceeded my expectations—especially the spacious layout. The one-bedroom suite was perfect for our family of four, offering plenty of room to move around and relax comfortably. Having a small kitchenette was a game-changer—it allowed us to prepare simple meals, saving money and avoiding the hassle of dining out every night. Located in a convenient part of New York, it's close to subway lines and all the essentials: shops, restaurants, and attractions are just a short walk away. In a city where hotel prices can be sky-high, this place delivers outstanding value without compromising on comfort or quality. It’s rare to find such a well-located, practical, and cozy stay in Manhattan. I’d absolutely book again and highly recommend it to any traveler looking for a smart, comfortable base in NYC.
SoHo 54 Hotel
Staying at SoHo 54 Hotel was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from trendy shops, great restaurants, and subway access makes exploring NYC effortless. The room was immaculate, spotless and thoughtfully designed with modern touches. One standout feature? Unlimited complimentary bottled water available at the front desk—such a thoughtful and convenient perk. It’s clear the team here truly values guest comfort and convenience. If you're looking for a stylish, clean, and well-located stay in Manhattan, this hotel is an absolute must-try.
The Mayfair Hotel Times Square, an Ascend Collection Hotel
I was genuinely surprised by how great this hotel turned out to be—especially for the price. Located just steps away from Times Square, it’s incredibly convenient for exploring NYC on foot or via subway. The lobby is welcoming with a cozy free tea and coffee station—a nice little touch. The room, as expected in Manhattan, was compact but spotlessly clean and well-equipped with everything we needed. Despite its size, it felt comfortable and thoughtfully designed. Overall, this was a fantastic stay—great value, excellent location, and warm hospitality. I’d definitely recommend it and return without hesitation.
Kixby
Staying at Kixby Hotel was an absolute delight from the moment I walked in. The design is so stylish and modern—definitely not what I expected for a city hotel. I was worried the room might feel cramped, but it’s actually quite spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room to move around even with luggage. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to Times Square and Bryant Park, making it easy to explore all the highlights without needing transport. Everything you need is within reach: great restaurants, shopping, and iconic sights are just steps away. It’s rare to find such a perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience in New York. This stay exceeded my expectations, and I’d definitely book here again on my next visit.
The Frederick Hotel Tribeca
Staying at The Frederick Hotel Tribeca was a delightful experience from start to finish. This boutique gem offers a sleek, modern vibe with thoughtful touches throughout. The fitness center is well-equipped, featuring a Paleton machine that made my workout sessions both effective and enjoyable. I especially loved the on-site bar—stylish, cozy, and perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Breakfast was a highlight: fresh, varied, and served with care, offering everything from avocado toast to hot pastries. Best of all, the hotel’s location is unbeatable—just steps away from SoHo, surrounded by incredible restaurants, trendy cafés, and vibrant street life. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this place delivers comfort, convenience, and charm in equal measure.
The Plaza - A Fairmont Managed Hotel
We stayed here with our family, and the hotel was spotless and spacious—perfect for a relaxing getaway. It’s easily the best hotel we’ve ever stayed at in the U.S., with top-notch service and attention to detail. From the moment we arrived to the time we checked out, everything felt premium and welcoming. We’re already planning our next trip to New York and know exactly where we’ll be staying—this one’s a must-book for us again. Highly recommend it!
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