Is Moxy Times Square Worth It? My Honest Stay at One of Manhattan's Most Fun Boutique Hotels

There are hotels that simply give you a place to sleep.

Then there are hotels that become part of the story you tell long after the trip is over. Moxy NYC Times Square was exactly that for me.

From rooftop happy hours and late-night walks through Midtown to thoughtful little details waiting in my room after a long day of exploring, this hotel reminded me that travel should feel exciting again. It is playful, stylish, effortlessly cool, and perfectly located for anyone wanting to experience New York City on foot.

If you're wondering whether Moxy NYC Times Square is worth booking, here's everything you should know before your stay.

The Location

If location is your top priority, this hotel delivers.

Although it carries the "Times Square" name, Moxy is actually closer to 34th Street and Penn Station, making it one of the most convenient locations in Midtown Manhattan.

During my stay, I walked almost everywhere. Madison Square Garden, Penn Station, Herald Square, Broadway, shopping, restaurants, and countless subway lines were all within easy reach. When I needed transportation, getting an Uber was effortless, with pickup taking only a few minutes right outside the hotel.

• Dinner Nearby: One evening, I had dinner at Blue Fin, and the walk back to Moxy was only about five minutes.

• Neighborhood Perks: I even squeezed in a Russian manicure at a nail salon just down the street between exploring the city.

If you're visiting New York for the first time, I genuinely think this is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in.

Location Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

First Impressions

The moment I walked inside, I understood Moxy's personality. This is not your traditional luxury hotel. It feels young, creative, social, and fun.

The staff greeted guests with genuine enthusiasm, music filled the lobby, and there was an excitement throughout the building that immediately made me smile. Check-in was quick, easy, and honestly enjoyable. You can either use the self-service kiosks or check in with one of the team members, who were warm, energetic, and incredibly welcoming throughout my stay.

Pro Tip: Take advantage of the complimentary luggage storage! If you arrive before check-in or have a late departure after checkout, you can safely leave your bags while you continue exploring New York without dragging your suitcase through the city.

The Room

Let's address the biggest question: Yes, the rooms are compact. But they are also incredibly well designed. Rather than trying to make the room feel larger than it is, Moxy embraces smart, intentional design.

Instead of a traditional closet, there are stylish wall hooks throughout the room. At first I wondered if I would miss having a closet, but surprisingly, I loved the setup. As someone with a very Type A personality, I tend to keep my suitcase packed throughout a trip anyway. Everything had its own designated place, making the room feel organized rather than cluttered.

The television was much larger than I expected and came with Netflix and other streaming services, allowing me to sign into my own accounts after a full day of sightseeing

Simple. Functional. Modern. Exactly what I needed.

The Bathroom

The bathroom continued the hotel's playful industrial aesthetic. Although compact, it never felt cramped. One feature I appreciated was the fully enclosed bathroom, which offers plenty of privacy if you're sharing the room with a friend or planning a girls' getaway.

Amenities Included:

• Rain shower with excellent water pressure

• Hair dryer

• Clothing steamer

• Makeup remover wipes

• Body lotion

• Thoughtful travel essentials

These small touches made the room feel elevated and genuinely welcoming after long days exploring the city.

The Destination Fee

Let's talk about something you'll notice during booking. Like many hotels throughout Manhattan, Moxy charges a Destination Fee. There really isn't a way around it.

The difference is that Moxy actually gives you value in return. Rather than paying a fee with little benefit, guests receive perks that can include:

• Complimentary drinks

• Dining credits

• Discounts around the neighborhood

• Access to select museums and local attractions

I actually found myself using the included benefits, making the fee feel worthwhile instead of frustrating.

Dining & Nightlife

One thing I loved was never having to leave the property if I didn't want to. The hotel offers three different dining concepts, giving guests plenty of options throughout the day. Just outside the entrance, you'll also find an excellent pizza and pasta shop that's perfect after a long day exploring Manhattan.

Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge

Of course, the real star is Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge. It's one of New York City's most popular rooftops, and after spending time there, I completely understood why.

I ended up chatting with fellow travelers during happy hour, and by the end of the evening it genuinely felt like everyone was there for the same reason: to have a great time. There was such an easygoing, welcoming atmosphere—it felt social without being overwhelming.

Note: Definitely make a reservation if you plan to visit because it fills up quickly.

The Overall Vibe

This hotel has personality. It's youthful without trying too hard, stylish without feeling pretentious, and modern without sacrificing comfort.

Every elevator ride seemed filled with people heading to Broadway shows, birthday dinners, rooftop cocktails, or weekend adventures around the city. There was an energy throughout the hotel that made every day feel like the beginning of something fun.

It reminded me that hotels don't have to feel stuffy to feel luxurious. Sometimes luxury is simply creating memorable experiences. Moxy understands that.

Pros & Cons

What I Loved

• ✔️ Unbeatable Midtown location

• ✔️ Walking distance to Penn Station & 5-minute walk to Times Square attractions

• ✔️ Friendly management and staff + fun, efficient check-in experience

• ✔️ Complimentary luggage storage

• ✔️ Thoughtful bathroom amenities

• ✔️ Large Smart TV with Netflix and streaming apps

• ✔️ Three restaurants on-site + Magic Hour Rooftop Bar

• ✔️ Destination Fee perks that actually provide value

• ✔️ Modern, playful boutique atmosphere

A Few Things to Know

• ✖️ Rooms are intentionally compact.

• ✖️ There is no traditional closet.

• ✖️ There is no microwave or mini refrigerator.

• ✖️ Reserve Magic Hour in advance if possible.

  
  

  My Final Scorecard

Category	Rating
Cleanliness	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Comfort	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
Location	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Staff	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Value	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
Wi-Fi	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Overall Experience	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Final Verdict

Would I stay here again? Without question.

This was one of the most enjoyable hotel experiences I've had in New York City. Between the unbeatable location, welcoming staff, thoughtful amenities, vibrant atmosphere, and playful personality, Moxy created an experience that felt memorable from beginning to end.

In fact, this stay impressed me so much that I'm already looking forward to visiting another Moxy property on a future trip.

Some hotels simply give you a room. Moxy NYC Times Square became part of my New York story.

Planning Your Stay?

If you're planning a trip to New York City and want a hotel that's stylish, social, and perfectly located for exploring Manhattan, I wholeheartedly recommend Moxy NYC Times Square.

Book your stay using my affiliate link here.

It does not cost you anything extra, and every booking helps support All Hail Alicia so I can continue creating thoughtful travel guides, honest reviews, and destination inspiration for people who love to explore!

Sincerely,

Alicia Sinclaire