
New York/Union Square Metronome Top Hotel Picks
Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability

Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
Union Square Metronome is more than a sculpture—it’s a symbol of NYC’s heartbeat. This giant clock-like installation pulses with time, echoing the rhythm of millions living, working, and dreaming in the city.

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, this luxurious hotel blends historic charm with modern elegance. Built in 1926 with Vanderbilt Family’s legacy, it’s steps away from Fifth Avenue shopping, MoMA, and iconic spots like Central Park or Top of the Rock for skyline views. Unwind at Barclay Bar & Gril with gourmet bites while people-watching. Perfect for both leisure and business travelers, it offers spa services, a fitness center, and meeting spaces. Your ideal urban retreat!

In the heart of NYC, this hotel is a dream for both business and leisure! Perched in a 36-floor skyscraper, you'll be treated to breathtaking skyline and Hudson River views, just a block from Times Square. Rooms feature spacious work areas and cozy sofa beds - perfect after a busy day. Fitness lovers will adore the 24/7 gym stocked with premium equipment. Dining options shine with French-inspired cuisine at CA VA Brasserie and quick bites at Marketplace. Whether for work or play, it's your ideal urban getaway with flawless connectivity to subway and Central Park.


















Everything you need to know about Union Square Metronome
The Pod Hotel is a top choice near Union Square Metronome, offering sleek, modern rooms and exceptional value. Located just a 5-minute walk from the iconic Metronome sculpture, guests can enjoy its mesmerizing light and motion display at dusk. For a more upscale experience, Kimpton Hotel Eventide provides elegant accommodations, a serene indoor garden, and fine dining options—ideal for travelers seeking comfort and style. Both properties are directly accessible via the 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 subway lines, ensuring effortless access to Midtown Manhattan, Brooklyn, and beyond. The surrounding area buzzes with independent bookstores, boutique cafés, and weekend farmers’ markets, making it perfect for cultural immersion.
Union Square Park itself is one of New York’s most vibrant public spaces, hosting live performances, protests, and community events—especially lively on weekends. It’s an ideal spot to connect with local life and capture authentic urban energy.
Most hotels around Union Square Metronome, such as The Pod Hotel and Kimpton Hotel Eventide, are within a 300-meter walk of the 14th Street–Union Square Station, served by the 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 subway lines. This major transit hub connects you directly to Times Square, Grand Central Terminal, and Brooklyn. Use the MTA official app or Google Maps for real-time routing based on train schedules and crowd levels. Some hotels offer complimentary shuttle services, ideal for travelers with luggage. The station features clear signage, elevators, and accessibility features for all passengers. Always check operating hours before departure to avoid disruptions.
Union Square is not only a transit hub but also a vibrant public art showcase. The centerpiece, Metronome, a kinetic sculpture by artist Elyn R. Weiss, swings once per hour, symbolizing the passage of time—its glowing lights at night create a stunning visual spectacle. Visit during twilight to pair the installation with nearby street murals and indie galleries. Each first Saturday of the month features the Union Square Art Walk, where local artists exhibit and sell work live. For photography enthusiasts, the benches along the southern edge of the park offer ideal vantage points for capturing skyline silhouettes alongside the moving sculpture. All experiences are free and provide a deep dive into New York’s contemporary cultural heartbeat.
Yes, several hotels near Union Square cater specifically to families. Kimpton Hotel Eventide offers interconnecting rooms, baby cribs, kid-friendly toiletries, and a dedicated play area. Located steps from Union Square Park, families can enjoy open lawns, playgrounds, and safe outdoor space for kids. Nearby family-friendly restaurants like P.J. Clarke’s and Joe’s Coffee serve nutritious meals in welcoming environments. With direct access to the 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 subway lines, getting to major attractions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Central Park is effortless. Many hotels also provide family packages including breakfast and attraction tickets, enhancing overall value. The area combines safety, convenience, and entertainment—perfect for memorable family travel.
The best time to visit the Metronome sculpture is during dusk to evening hours, when its internal lighting activates and the swinging pendulum creates a dynamic, luminous display. Arrive between 6:30 PM and 8:00 PM to catch both the sunset glow and the sculpture’s full activation. Weekends often feature street performers and pop-up markets, adding vibrancy to the scene. For fewer crowds, consider visiting midweek during the afternoon. Note that the sculpture operates once per hour, lasting about 10 minutes—plan your visit accordingly to witness the full effect. Viewing is completely free and weather-independent, making it a year-round must-see attraction.
The Knickerbocker Hotel stands out for its exceptional location just a 3-minute walk from the Union Square Metronome. Its rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of the New York City skyline, blending modern art installations with classic architecture. Nearby, you'll find iconic spots like Joe's Pizza and Bouchon Bakery, perfect for authentic NYC experiences. The hotel is directly served by the 14, 15, and 16 subway lines, making access to Manhattan attractions effortless.
Guests enjoy complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, and exclusive access to weekend events at Union Square Greenmarket. Whether traveling for business or leisure, this boutique hotel combines convenience, comfort, and cultural immersion in one prime location.
Starting at the Union Square Metronome, head south along Broadway for about 8 minutes to reach Macy's Herald Square, one of the largest department stores in the U.S., spanning over 700,000 square feet. Along the way, explore charming boutiques and independent design shops in Greenwich Village, ideal for unique finds.
For more upscale shopping, turn onto 14th Street, where you'll find flagship stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Zara, and the Apple Store. The entire walk takes around 12 minutes, with clear signage and benches for rest. For added convenience, use your MetroCard to hop on the subway and save energy while maximizing your shopping experience.
The Union Square Metronome area hosts vibrant cultural events year-round, including summer outdoor concerts and improvisational theater performances held every weekend at the central stage. Additionally, the Union Square Greenmarket opens every Saturday, featuring local farmers, artisans, and food vendors offering fresh organic produce and handmade treats.
Don’t miss the NYU Student Art Exhibition hosted quarterly at the nearby Puck Building, showcasing cutting-edge works by emerging artists. Photography enthusiasts can join guided tours by the NYC Street Photography Collective, exploring street art and historic architecture surrounding the plaza—perfect for capturing the soul of New York City.
Yes, staying near Union Square provides excellent subway access to Times Square. Simply walk to the 14th Street–Union Square Station, board the 1, 2, or 3 train, and reach Times Square Station in just 10 minutes. This route passes through major hubs like Grand Central Terminal and offers frequent, reliable service.
For faster transit, consider taking the LIRR train to Penn Station, then walk to Times Square—about 15 minutes. The subway system accepts both MetroCard and mobile payments, ensuring seamless travel. Whether visiting Broadway shows, shopping, or enjoying the city lights, this connectivity makes your journey efficient and stress-free.
The Knickerbocker Hotel provides a complimentary European-style breakfast daily, featuring freshly baked pastries, premium local coffee, yogurt with seasonal fruits, and hot options such as scrambled eggs and sausages. Served at the elegant lobby restaurant, The Brasserie, the space features floor-to-ceiling windows offering scenic city views.
Some room packages also include a afternoon tea amenity with handcrafted cookies and specialty teas. The hotel accommodates dairy-free and vegetarian options, catering to diverse dietary needs. All meals are prepared in-house by a dedicated culinary team, ensuring freshness and hygiene. Guests can reserve dining seats via mobile app, minimizing wait times and enhancing overall experience.
See what other travelers say about Union Square Metronome

Staying at the InterContinental New York Barclay was one of the best decisions I made for my trip to NYC. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of the Financial District, making it super convenient for business meetings, dining, and exploring nearby attractions. The hotel itself has a sophisticated, timeless design that feels both luxurious and welcoming. From the moment I walked in, the ambiance was top-notch, and the room was spacious, clean, and well-appointed. What really stood out was the value—this place offers a high-end experience without the premium price tag. If you're looking for comfort, convenience, and a great vibe in Manhattan, this hotel is an absolute must-try. Highly recommend for both business travelers and tourists alike.

Staying right in the heart of Manhattan, just steps away from Times Square, makes this hotel an unbeatable choice for travelers who want to be at the pulse of the city. The location is perfect—everything from major attractions to restaurants and shopping is within walking distance. The room was clean and well-maintained, though it does have a bit of vintage charm with its older furnishings. Still, the overall experience was excellent for the price point. It’s a great balance of comfort, convenience, and value—especially if you’re looking for a central base without breaking the bank. Definitely recommend for anyone wanting to soak up the energy of NYC without overspending.

New York definitely comes with a high price tag—just grabbing a quick bite near the hotel can cost you $30 or more. But Even Hotel New York - Midtown East makes up for it with its unbeatable location. Walking to Times Square or Broadway takes under 15 minutes, and the city lights at night are absolutely stunning. The towering skyscrapers and iconic smokestacks lining the streets give the whole area a unique, energetic vibe. Despite the pricey surroundings, this hotel offers great value and comfort. I was genuinely impressed by the convenience and atmosphere. If I ever return to New York, I’d definitely choose this hotel again.

Located right in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, this hotel sits on the bustling corner of 8th Avenue and West 34th Street—perfect for exploring iconic spots like the Empire State Building and Macy’s just a short walk away. The neighborhood pulses with authentic New York energy: diverse crowds, street smells (yes, including some unforgettable ones), occasional sirens, but surprisingly quiet at night. By morning, the streets are spotless—almost surreal. Public transit is super convenient, with train and bus stations nearby. There’s a great little eatery called Essen right across the street—affordable and tasty. Check-in and check-out are smooth, and although the lobby is compact, it’s functional. I actually stayed there after checkout to wait for my next connection, and no one minded. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-equipped. The bed is high and very soft—excellent for a good night’s sleep. However, there are no slippers, toothbrushes, or a kettle. Just a capsule coffee machine that took me a while to figure out. No purified water available, though you can get free tap water from the 6th floor—though I didn’t go up due to the hassle, and honestly, I wasn’t sure if it was even filtered. The duvet was simply tucked between two fitted sheets instead of using a duvet cover—common practice here, apparently. Overall, the location, value, and convenience more than make up for the minor omissions. If you’re looking to live like a local in NYC, this is a solid choice.

This hotel is absolutely incredible! The rooms are spacious and impeccably clean, but what truly stands out is the location—perfectly situated for exploring the city while still enjoying a peaceful atmosphere. I don’t usually leave reviews, but I had to this time because my stay was nothing short of amazing. I walked everywhere I needed to go, yet the neighborhood remained calm and relaxing—just what I was looking for. Even without booking a specific room type, I was treated to stunning views of the Empire State Building from my large windows. The staff went above and beyond with their warm hospitality, and I loved the complimentary wine hour in the evening and morning tea service. It’s rare to find such a perfect balance of convenience, comfort, and charm. 10/10 would recommend to anyone visiting New York—this is a must-stay.

Staying at this hotel was a real highlight of my trip to New York! While the room isn’t large, it’s incredibly well-designed and spotlessly clean—everything feels brand new and thoughtfully maintained. I especially appreciated how quiet it was despite being right in the heart of Times Square South; it truly offers a peaceful retreat from the city buzz. The location is perfect—just steps away from the subway station, making travel around Manhattan super convenient. Whether you’re heading out for dinner, shopping, or catching a show, everything is within easy walking distance. In a city where prices can get steep, this place stands out for offering great value without compromising on comfort or cleanliness. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a smart, central base in NYC.

Staying at Hotel Indigo Lower East Side was an absolute delight from start to finish. The room was immaculate—spotless, well-maintained, and beautifully designed with a modern yet cozy touch. The bedding was incredibly comfortable, and the bathroom felt like a mini retreat with high-quality amenities. Staff went above and beyond; they were friendly, attentive, and always ready to help with recommendations or local tips. Location-wise, it’s perfect for exploring New York—just steps from subway access, restaurants, shops, and vibrant street life. I didn’t need a car at all. Whether you’re here for business or leisure, this hotel delivers an authentic neighborhood vibe with luxury comfort. Highly recommend for travelers who want convenience without compromising on style or warmth.

Staying at Hotel Indigo NYC Downtown - Wall Street was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—right on Wall Street, with everything you need just a short walk away. I loved how close I was to financial district sights, local cafes, and great shopping spots. Public transit access is super convenient, making it easy to explore other parts of the city. The room itself had a stylish, vintage-inspired design with modern touches—comfortable bed, excellent lighting, and a nice little workspace. The lobby vibe is warm and inviting, like a cozy gathering space rather than a hotel front desk. Staff were friendly and helpful, going the extra mile to assist with my travel plans. Overall, this place offers incredible value for the quality and location. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this is definitely a top pick.

The staff at the front desk and the bellman were incredibly friendly and attentive—truly made our stay feel special. The room was cleaned daily and always left spotless and neat, which we really appreciated. Our only minor suggestion is that towels and linens were changed a bit too frequently. We’d love to see a more eco-conscious approach, like offering linen changes only upon request, which would be both sustainable and respectful of guest preferences. Overall, the hotel exceeded our expectations in comfort, cleanliness, and service. It’s a great location with excellent value, and we’d definitely return.

Staying at the Holiday Inn NYC - Lower East Side was an absolute highlight of my trip to New York! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from major attractions and surrounded by great dining options. The hotel itself is clean, modern, and well-maintained, with comfortable beds that made for a restful night’s sleep. Staff were friendly and helpful throughout my stay, making check-in and check-out smooth and stress-free. I especially appreciated the thoughtful touches in the room and the overall vibe—urban yet welcoming. For the price, the value is outstanding. If you're looking for a reliable, centrally located hotel in a vibrant neighborhood, this one deserves every single star. 10/10 without hesitation!

Staying at The Manhattan at Times Square was an absolute highlight of my trip to New York City. Located right on Seventh Avenue in the heart of Times Square, it's just a 4-minute walk from the subway station—making every part of the city easily accessible. I was only a short stroll away from Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Broadway theaters, and the Hudson River waterfront. The location alone makes this hotel a top choice for travelers who want convenience without breaking the bank. While the building does feel a bit dated in terms of decor, the cleanliness, staff service, and overall value more than make up for it. It’s clear that comfort and practicality are prioritized here. If you're looking for a no-fuss, well-located, and affordable stay in NYC with easy access to everything, this is definitely worth considering. I’d happily book again.

Staying at the voco Times Square South New York was a fantastic experience overall. The room isn’t overly large, but the bathroom is surprisingly spacious and well-designed—very comfortable to use. What stood out most was how close it is to the exhibition venue; it’s just a 10-15 minute walk, which made everything so convenient. The hotel offers airport transfers, though they come at an additional cost—but still worth considering for peace of mind. I also loved the little touches in the lobby: free hot cocoa and popcorn! It’s such a nice way to unwind after a long day. The atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, and with its prime location and thoughtful amenities, this place offers great value. Definitely would book again if I’m visiting New York, especially for business or event travelers.
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