Top 10 NYC Hotels with View of Times Square Ball Drop (New Year’s Eve)

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New Year’s Eve in Times Square is absolutely insane, and I mean that in the best possible way. But here’s the thing: standing in those crowds for 12 hours in freezing temperatures isn’t for everyone. I’ve done it both ways, and honestly, watching the ball drop from a warm hotel room with champagne in hand while avoiding the bathroom situation down below is pretty genius.

These are the best places to stay in NYC for New Year’s Eve if you want prime views of the Times Square ball drop without the chaos. I’m talking about hotels where you can literally see the action unfold right outside your window, from the Marriott Marquis with its revolving rooftop to boutique properties with perfect sightlines. Sure, you’ll pay premium prices, but when you’re sipping cocktails while watching a million people celebrate below, it feels worth every penny for this once in a lifetime experience.

Top NYC Hotels with a View of Times Square Ball Drop

Are you ready to uncover the best hotels to see the Times Square ball drop? As highlighted in our guide, New York City boasts a range of luxurious hotels that offer unparalleled views of this grand event. Dive in to explore the top NYC hotels that promise a front-row seat to the Times Square ball drop!

1. New York Marriott Marquis

• 📍 Location: Right on Broadway in the center of Times Square
• 💰 Prices From: $800/night on New Year’s Eve
• 🌆 Best Viewpoint: Rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, The View Restaurant
• 🍸 Vibe: Classic NYC meets big-night luxury

This is the hotel people dream about when they imagine watching the ball drop in comfort. Located smack in the middle of Times Square, the New York Marriott Marquis offers some of the most direct and unobstructed views of the New Year’s Eve celebration. Choose a room with floor-to-ceiling windows and, trust me, you’ll feel like you’re floating above the crowd while still being part of the action.

One of the highlights is The View, the hotel’s revolving rooftop restaurant. As the dining room slowly rotates, you get a full 360-degree sweep of the Manhattan skyline, including a clear shot of the ball drop. The hotel also has several suites and event spaces that overlook the square, but they book up quickly, especially for December 31.

If standing for 12 hours in the cold isn’t your thing, this is a game changer. Bring a bottle of champagne, kick back in your warm room, and watch the most iconic moment of the year unfold right outside your window. 

2. The Chatwal

• 📍 Location: 44th Street, just steps from Times Square
• 💰 Prices From: $1,100/night on New Year’s Eve
• 🌆 Best Viewpoint: Select luxury suites with direct ball drop views
• 🍸 Vibe: Art Deco glam with a quiet, old-school feel

Hidden just off the bright chaos of Times Square, The Chatwal offers a softer, more refined New Year’s Eve experience. Built in the 1930s, this boutique hotel feels like a time capsule of Gatsby-era luxury. Select suites face the square directly, giving you rare front-row views without any street noise.

It’s the kind of place where everything slows down. Velvet chairs, mirrored accents, and dim lighting create a sense of calm. The saltwater lap pool and full-service spa add to the atmosphere of retreat. For dinner, the Michelin-starred restaurant is ideal for a special celebration before the countdown begins.

After midnight, step out for a quiet walk through nearby Bryant Park or past the glowing marquees of Shubert Alley. You’ll be just minutes from the energy of Broadway but wrapped in a space that feels entirely your own.

3. Doubletree by Hilton New York Times Square West

• 📍 Location: 40th Street between 8th and 9th Avenues
• 💰 Prices From: $650/night on New Year’s Eve
• 🌆 Best Viewpoint: Rooftop lounge and select upper-level rooms
• 🍸 Vibe: Modern, accessible luxury with a skyline twist

If you want to be close to the action without being swallowed by it, Doubletree Times Square West strikes the right balance. The rooms are sleek and comfortable, but it’s the rooftop lounge that steals the show on New Year’s Eve. From up there, you get a glowing view of the skyline and a front-row angle on the countdown that feels surreal.

What I love about it is the hotel’s welcoming vibe and smart design. The floor-to-ceiling windows in select rooms offer wide views of Midtown, and the higher you go, the better it gets. The rooftop bar, Castell, is where many guests gather for the countdown with craft cocktails and heaters to keep things cozy even in the winter chill.

Once you step outside, you’re within easy walking distance of the Theater District, Penn Station, and the buzzier parts of Hell’s Kitchen. For a night this iconic, it’s the kind of place that lets you lean into the energy or retreat to comfort as you please.

• Read next: Things to Do in NYC at Night

4. Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel

• 📍 Location: 7th Avenue and 48th Street, overlooking Times Square
• 💰 Prices From: $900/night on New Year’s Eve
• 🌆 Best Viewpoint: R Lounge and rooms facing Times Square
• 🍸 Vibe: Sleek, elevated, right in the heart of the celebration

From the corner rooms at the Renaissance, Times Square feels close enough to touch. Oversized windows frame the lights, crowd, and countdown in vivid detail, and the energy of the celebration pulses just below. For an unforgettable New Year’s Eve, the hotel’s R Lounge is one of the most coveted spots in the city.

The atmosphere inside blends sleek design with just enough warmth to make the space feel welcoming. Modern furnishings, ambient lighting, and skyline-facing seating areas create a calm contrast to the buzz outside. R Lounge pairs that view with craft cocktails and panoramic seating, so you never miss a second of the countdown.

When the celebration winds down, you’re in the middle of Midtown’s late-night heart. Walk to Rockefeller Center, duck into a jazz bar on 52nd Street, or wander through the glow of Radio City Music Hall. It’s a front-row experience that keeps the city close without sacrificing comfort.

5. M Social Hotel Times Square New York

• 📍 Location: 52nd Street and Broadway, just above Times Square
• 💰 Prices From: $750/night on New Year’s Eve
• 🌆 Best Viewpoint: Terrace suites and rooftop lounge
• 🍸 Vibe: Modern, playful, and art-forward

Watching the ball drop from M Social feels surreal in the best way. The terrace suites offer an open-air, private view of the square that keeps you close to the energy without being overwhelmed by it. Even from indoors, the skyline surrounds you through massive windows that stretch across Midtown.

Design-wise, the hotel plays with color and light. Bold murals, sculptural lighting, and playful accents bring a younger, creative vibe to the space. Beast & Butterflies, the rooftop lounge, turns into a glass-wrapped cocoon where you can sip cocktails and watch the countdown unfold just below.

Once the celebration winds down, you’re still in a prime location. Central Park is just a few blocks north, and Broadway theaters line the surrounding streets. It’s a great pick for travelers who want a lively but comfortable night to remember.

6. The Knickerbocker

• 📍 Location: 42nd Street and Broadway, corner of Times Square
• 💰 Prices From: $1,200/night on New Year’s Eve
• 🌆 Best Viewpoint: St. Cloud rooftop bar and ball drop suites
• 🍸 Vibe: Timeless elegance with serious skyline credentials

Few hotels capture the spirit of New Year’s Eve in New York quite like The Knickerbocker. Its rooftop bar, St. Cloud, is legendary for its clear view of the ball drop and swanky rooftop parties. If you’re planning to ring in the new year with fireworks, cocktails, and serious city views, this is the place.

The hotel’s rooms feel calm and refined, with a mix of modern comfort and old-world touches that nod to its early 1900s roots. The on-site restaurant, Charlie Palmer at The Knick, offers upscale dining with warm, attentive service that’s ideal for a celebratory night in.

Located directly on Times Square, you’re surrounded by city landmarks. Bryant Park is a short walk away, and Grand Central is just a few blocks east. From the rooftop to the lobby, everything here feels festive, luxurious, and built for a once-in-a-lifetime night.

7. Hyatt Centric Times Square New York

• 📍 Location: 45th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues
• 💰 Prices From: $850/night on New Year’s Eve
• 🌆 Best Viewpoint: Bar 54 rooftop lounge and upper-level rooms
• 🍸 Vibe: Sleek skyline views with a laid-back rooftop feel

Bar 54 at Hyatt Centric delivers one of the highest rooftop perspectives in the city. From up here, the lights of Times Square sparkle in every direction, and the ball drop feels like it’s unfolding just for you. It’s festive without the frenzy, and the atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between celebration and calm.

The rooms themselves are bright and contemporary, with floor-to-ceiling glass that opens up wide views of Midtown. Some guests head up to Bar 54 for signature cocktails and an outdoor perch, while others stay in with the curtains drawn back and the skyline lighting up the night.

Once the clock strikes twelve, the neighborhood keeps buzzing. Bryant Park is just a short walk away, and the Theater District surrounds you on all sides. It’s a smart pick for travelers who want to celebrate in style while keeping things comfortable and relaxed.

8. W New York Times Square

• 📍 Location: 47th Street and Broadway, overlooking Times Square
• 💰 Prices From: $950/night on New Year’s Eve
• 🌆 Best Viewpoint: Select suites and the Living Room Lounge
• 🍸 Vibe: Trendy, colorful, and full of downtown energy

The W New York doesn’t tone it down for New Year’s Eve. With high-rise views and bold interiors, this is where the celebration feels electric. Certain suites let you watch the ball drop from your bed, while the Living Room Lounge sets the scene for a party without the sidewalk chaos.

Expect neon lighting, pulse-pounding playlists, and edgy decor around every corner. The energy stays high all night, but the rooms still offer a sleek retreat with blackout curtains, plush beds, and skyline views that never stop glowing. If you want your stay to match the moment, this place does not hold back.

When you’re ready to explore, you’re already in the middle of everything. Broadway theaters are steps away, and the buzz of Restaurant Row and Hell’s Kitchen surrounds the block. If your ideal celebration includes color, movement, and great lighting, this is your W.

9. The Times Square EDITION

• 📍 Location: 47th Street and 7th Avenue, facing Times Square
• 💰 Prices From: $1,000/night on New Year’s Eve
• 🌆 Best Viewpoint: Rooms with direct Times Square views and the rooftop bar
• 🍸 Vibe: Minimalist luxury with front-row energy

The Times Square EDITION feels refined and quiet on the inside, even while sitting right in the center of the biggest celebration in the world. Many of the rooms look directly onto Times Square, and the rooftop bar offers a sleek setting to catch the ball drop without ever needing to brave the crowds below.

Designed with a minimalist touch, the space uses soft lighting and muted tones to draw focus to the skyline outside. Rooms are calm and modern, and the service is as polished as the space itself. Dining here is a highlight, with a signature restaurant and curated cocktails to match the tone of the night.

Step out of the elevator and you’re already on 7th Avenue, surrounded by the glow of the billboards and the buzz of the celebration. From the rooftop to the sidewalk, the EDITION gives you full access to the spectacle in a way that still feels elevated and personal.

10. Tempo by Hilton New York Times Square

• 📍 Location: 47th Street and Broadway, just steps from Times Square
• 💰 Prices From: $780/night on New Year’s Eve
• 🌆 Best Viewpoint: Sky Lounge and select skyline-view rooms
• 🍸 Vibe: Bright, modern, and built for the big moment

One of Times Square’s newest hotels, Tempo by Hilton offers modern design and wide-open views of the city’s most iconic countdown. The Sky Lounge is the place to be on New Year’s Eve, with wraparound windows and a comfortable space to settle in as the night builds.

Clean lines, smart features, and warm lighting give the rooms a polished, modern feel without going over the top. Panoramic windows stretch over the skyline, giving you a private perch to watch the ball drop from your own room if you prefer to stay in. The fitness center and wellness-forward touches make it a solid choice for travelers who want to reset after the celebrations.

You’re within walking distance of Broadway, Rockefeller Center, and late-night eats in Hell’s Kitchen. Tempo brings you right to the edge of Times Square and offers a modern perch for watching the city light up at midnight.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Top NYC Hotels with View of Times Square Ball Drop

Are you looking for more information about where to stay in NYC for the best views of the Times Square ball drop? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about New York’s best hotels with a view.

What hotel is best to see the ball drop in Times Square?

Choosing the perfect hotel to witness the iconic ball drop in Times Square can elevate your New Year’s Eve experience. Here are some top picks that offer a fantastic view of this once-in-a-lifetime event:

1. New York Marriott Marquis: Located right in the heart of Times Square, this hotel offers rooms with panoramic views. This ensures you don’t miss a second of the action.
2. The Chatwal: A luxury hotel that combines opulence with a prime location, The Chatwal offers select rooms and suites with direct views of the ball drop.
3. Hyatt Centric Times Square New York: With its Bar 54, one of the city’s highest rooftop lounges, guests can enjoy an unobstructed view of the celebrations below.
4. The Knickerbocker: Steeped in history, this hotel’s rooftop is a prime spot to witness the ball drop amidst an ambiance of luxury and elegance.
5. W New York Times Square: This chic hotel not only offers rooms with great views but also has vibrant lounges that provide a front-row seat to the festivities.

What do you wear to the ball drop in NYC?

Dressing for the ball drop in NYC is all about striking a balance between style and comfort. Given the cold December weather, it’s essential to layer up. Consider wearing thermal innerwear, a stylish sweater or top, and a heavy coat. Waterproof boots, gloves, and a hat are also recommended. If you’re attending a more formal event or party, consider dressing up, but always prioritize warmth. Remember, you’ll be outside for extended periods!

Do you have to buy tickets to see the ball drop in New York?

No, you don’t need to buy tickets to see the Ball drop in New York from the streets of Times Square. The event is free and open to the public. However, it’s essential to know that the area gets crowded early, so if you want a good spot, it’s advisable to arrive well in advance. Some venues or parties around Times Square may require tickets or reservations. It’s a good idea to plan ahead if you’re considering one of those options.

Is it worth it to go to Times Square on New Year’s Eve?

Experiencing the ball drop in Times Square on New Year’s Eve is a bucket-list event for many. The electric atmosphere, the sea of people all celebrating together, and the iconic ball drop make it a unique experience. However, it’s essential to be prepared for large crowds, cold weather, and long wait times. If you thrive in high-energy environments and want to be part of a global celebration, it’s absolutely worth it. But if you prefer a more relaxed or intimate celebration, you might consider other options in the city or watching the event on TV.

Concluding Thoughts on Where to Stay in Times Square for New Year’s Eve

New York City, with its iconic skyline and pulsating energy, is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences. And when it comes to celebrating New Year’s Eve, the city truly outdoes itself. Amidst the sea of celebrations, the ball drop in Times Square stands out as a New York gem and a spectacle like no other. But the magic isn’t just in the event; it’s in witnessing it from the perfect vantage point.

The hotels we’ve explored offer not just luxury and comfort but also a front-row seat to this global celebration. From the historic charm of The Knickerbocker to the modern allure of Tempo by Hilton, each hotel provides a unique perspective of the ball drop, ensuring memories that last a lifetime. As the clock ticks closer to midnight and the anticipation builds, being in one of these hotels, with the city’s lights twinkling below and the ball drop unfolding right before your eyes, is an experience unparalleled.

As you plan your next New Year’s Eve in the Big Apple, remember: the right hotel can turn a memorable night into an unforgettable one.