The Artezen Hotel tops the list with a 9.2 overall rating and staff scores of 9.7 — the highest in this lineup. For Times Square access and a 9.6 location score, Aura Hotel Times Square delivers a solid value. Both prove five-star status isn’t just about the price tag in New York City.
Forget the generic luxury spiel — these are the 5-star hotels in Soho and beyond that actually back their rating with real guest scores.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed over 49,300 verified guest reviews across 20 five-star properties to compile this guide, prioritizing cleanliness scores above 8.5 and location ratings over 9.0.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Highest Rated: #10 Artezen Hotel→ Rates
#18 The Hotel Chelsea→ Rates - Best Location Scores: #14 Casablanca Hotel→ Rates
- Cleanest Rooms: #15 The Wallace Hotel→ Rates
#18 The Hotel Chelsea→ Rates - Best for Comfort: #10 Artezen Hotel→ Rates
#15 The Wallace Hotel→ Rates - Pet-Friendly: #12 Mint House 70 Pine→ Rates
- Best Value by Score: #10 Artezen Hotel→ Rates
#14 Casablanca Hotel→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. New Yorker by Lotte Hotels | (15,200+ Reviews) |
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| 2. SoHo 54 | (4,450+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Hilton Garden Inn NYC Financial Center | (3,500+ Reviews) |
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| 4. DoubleTree by Hilton New York Downtown | (3,000+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Motto By Hilton New York City Times Square | (2,900+ Reviews) |
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| 6. citizenM New York Bowery | (2,750+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Aura Hotel Times Square | (1,850+ Reviews) |
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| 8. NoMo SoHo | (1,700+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Arlo SoHo | (1,600+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Artezen Hotel | (1,400+ Reviews) |
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| 11. The Gotham Hotel | (1,350+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Mint House 70 Pine by Kasa | (1,250+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Soho Grand Hotel | (1,250+ Reviews) |
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| 14. Casablanca Hotel by Library Hotel Collection | (1,250+ Reviews) |
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| 15. The Wallace Hotel | (1,200+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Hotel Hugo | (1,150+ Reviews) |
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| 17. The Dominick Hotel | (1,000+ Reviews) |
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| 18. The Hotel Chelsea | (800+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Bryant Park Hotel | (800+ Reviews) |
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| 20. The Wall Street Hotel New York City | (550+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: 20 Five-Star Hotels in Soho & New York City
1. New Yorker by Lotte Hotels
The Vibe
This Art-Deco landmark at 481 Eighth Avenue anchors Hell’s Kitchen with a 9.4 location score that’s tough to beat. You’re two blocks from the bright lights of Times Square, and the 24-hour Tick Tock Diner downstairs satisfies late-night cravings. The 15,000+ reviews give it deep credibility, even if the overall rating sits at a decent 7.7.
What You Actually Get
Rooms include safes and in-room entertainment, though microwaves aren’t standard. The continental breakfast is included, and you’ll find free Wi-Fi (scored 8.1), a fitness center, and an elevator serving all upper floors. Pets are allowed with charges, and the property accepts groups of up to 5 rooms under one policy. Guest feedback highlights the two-bathroom setup in some rooms—a rare find in NYC—and staff friendliness scored 8.3.
Choose this if: You want a 5 Star Hotel in Soho-adjacent location with Times Square walkability and 24-hour dining.
2. SoHo 54
The Vibe
An intimate 54-room hotel tucked on Watts Street, SoHo 54 feels more like a guesthouse than a five-star. The 9.1 location score places you right in the cobblestone-stretch of SoHo with subway access two blocks away. Guests rave about the easy check-in and free lobby coffee — small touches that matter.
What You Actually Get
The property includes a terrace, fitness center, free Wi-Fi (scored 8.4), and an elevator. Note: children 18+ are charged as adults, and pets aren’t allowed. A refundable incidental deposit is taken at check-in. Guest reviews consistently call out the friendly staff and thoughtful details like daily bottled water and hot chocolate. The facility fee covers Wi-Fi, bottled water, and access to the business and fitness centers.
Choose this if: You’re a solo traveler or couple who values SoHo walkability over resort-style amenities.
3. Hilton Garden Inn NYC Financial Center/Manhattan Downtown
The Vibe
Perched on Water Street in the Financial District, this Hilton Garden Inn scores an 8.5 overall with a 9.2 location and 9.1 staff rating. You’re within walking distance of the Charging Bull, Statue of Liberty ferries, and the 9/11 Memorial. The waterfront views from higher floors add serious value to the very-good rating.
What You Actually Get
An American breakfast is included, served in the on-site restaurant open for breakfast, brunch, and dinner. The free Wi-Fi scores 8.8, and the hotel allows pets with charges. A $50 daily incidental hold is taken at check-in, and the minimum check-in age is 21. Guests consistently mention the clean, comfortable beds and the convenience for ferry-based sightseeing. Parking isn’t on-site but nearby garages average $45–$50 per day.
Choose this if: You’re a tourist focused on the Statue of Liberty, 9/11 Museum, and Wall Street.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hilton Garden Inn NYC Financial Center/Manhattan Downtown →
4. DoubleTree by Hilton New York Downtown
The Vibe
DoubleTree at 8 Stone Street brings the reliable cookie-welcome to lower Manhattan, with a location 787 feet from Battery Park. The 7.9 overall rating masks a strong 8.5 comfort score and 8.4 cleanliness. The Stone Street historic cobblestone district is literally outside your door, packed with restaurants and bars.
What You Actually Get
The on-site restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and there’s a fitness center. All rooms include mini fridges, and the pet policy allows animals with charges. The $50 daily deposit is fully refundable if there are no incidental charges. Free Wi-Fi scores 9.0 — the highest among the property’s sub-scores. Parking is two blocks away and runs about $45 per day. The hotel is ideal for Battery Park and the Seaport area.
Choose this if: You’re visiting for a Knicks game at MSG or exploring the Seaport.
Check Tonight’s Price for DoubleTree by Hilton New York Downtown →
5. Motto By Hilton New York City Times Square
The Vibe
A compact, modern hotel that maximizes its Times Square address (9.5 location score). Motto is designed for travelers who’d rather spend money on experiences than oversized rooms. The 8.3 rating with 8.7 staff score shows a team that earns its keep. The on-site restaurant and bar makes the small rooms feel like a smart trade-off.
What You Actually Get
The daily destination charge includes premium Wi-Fi, a $10 food and beverage credit, and Crunch Fitness access. The $75 security deposit hold is reasonable for a Times Square property. Pets are allowed with charges. The elevator serves all floors, and there’s a fitness center on-site. Guests note the rooms are small but clean — expect a cozy but efficient NYC experience. The key card access adds security.
Choose this if: You’re a theater-goer or solo traveler who prioritizes location over square footage.
Check Tonight’s Price for Motto By Hilton New York City Times Square →
6. citizenM New York Bowery
The Vibe
citizenM delivers an 8.7 overall with a 9.1 location and 9.2 comfort score — one of the highest comfort ratings in this list. The Bowery address puts you in the Lower East Side, surrounded by some of NYC’s best restaurants and nightlife. The roof deck alone is worth the booking.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are pod-style but clever — mood lighting, extra-king beds, and rain showers. The free Wi-Fi scores 8.7, and the property offers a fitness center, on-site restaurant, and good breakfast (€20). Upper floors are accessible by elevator. Note: children are welcome, but pets are not allowed (service animals only). The hotel enforces a strict no-animals policy outside service animals. Guest reviews rave about the modern design and the 180-degree views.
Choose this if: You want a design-forward stay in the Lower East Side with rooftop views.
7. Aura Hotel Times Square
The Vibe
Aura sits at 120 West 44th with a 9.6 location score — the highest in this category alongside the Casablanca and Bryant Park. The 8.2 overall rating is buoyed by a strong 8.6 comfort and 8.5 cleanliness. It’s a straightforward, well-run hotel that knows its audience: Times Square visitors who want to be in the center of it all.
What You Actually Get
The daily facility fee covers Wi-Fi (9.1), phone calls, and fitness center access. Private parking is available, and breakfast is optional (€24). Pets are allowed on request with charges. The late checkout option — free until 1 PM — is rare in NYC and a real perk for late flights. Guest reviews consistently praise the friendly staff and clean rooms. The elevator serves all floors.
Choose this if: You want to be steps from Times Square with flexible checkout options.
8. NoMo SoHo
The Vibe
NoMo SoHo at 9 Crosby Street leans into whimsy — its design draws from Cocteau’s “La Belle et la Bête,” creating a moody, romantic atmosphere. The 7.9 rating is propped up by a 9.3 location score, putting you in SoHo’s best shopping and dining. The NoMo Kitchen restaurant is a draw for brunch crowds.
What You Actually Get
Rooms feature Google Chromecast streaming and exclusive SoHo Perks discounts. The daily service charge covers Wi-Fi, fitness center access, and Chromecast. Mini fridges are available on request — not standard. The on-site restaurant serves breakfast and brunch, and a $150 security deposit per night is required plus a $43+tax amenity fee. Pets are allowed with charges. Children 13 and above are charged as adults.
Choose this if: You’re a design lover or couple seeking a romantic SoHo stay.
9. Arlo SoHo
The Vibe
Arlo SoHo at 231 Hudson Street straddles SoHo, Tribeca, and the West Village — three neighborhoods in a single block. The 8.2 rating is backed by an 8.6 comfort score, and guests consistently call out the very comfy beds. The terrace adds outdoor breathing room rare in SoHo.
What You Actually Get
Breakfast is available for $20, and the on-site restaurant is open for all meals. A $100 security deposit covers the $28.69 daily resort fee, which includes Gotham Gym access and Citibike credits. Pets are not allowed. Children 18+ are charged as adults. The property includes a terrace, free Wi-Fi (8.4), and parking. Guest reviews highlight laid-back, friendly staff that go above expectations.
Choose this if: You want a 5 Star Hotel in Soho that puts you in three neighborhoods at once.
10. Artezen Hotel
The Vibe
Artezen Hotel at 24 John Street achieves a 9.2 overall with a jaw-dropping 9.7 staff score — the best hospitality rating among these 20 properties. Cleanliness scores 9.5, comfort 9.6, and location 9.6. It’s a polished, staff-driven experience in the Financial District that punches well above its weight class.
What You Actually Get
The facility fee includes high-speed Wi-Fi (9.4), two Fiji water bottles daily, a welcome snack, gym access, and yoga access. The $100 security deposit is a one-time hold at check-in. Pets are not allowed. The Fulton Street subway center is right around the corner — guests consistently note how quiet the rooms are despite the central location. The terrace and elevator add convenience.
Choose this if: You value exceptional staff hospitality and sparkling cleanliness above all else.
11. The Gotham Hotel
The Vibe
The Gotham at 16 East 46th delivers boutique-style accommodations in Midtown with a 9.6 location score and 9.0 comfort. The 8.6 overall rating is supported by 8.9 cleanliness and a strong 9.1 Wi-Fi score. It’s a classic Midtown choice for guests who want Madison Avenue proximity with a touch of character.
What You Actually Get
Breakfast is available at the Reading Room or in-room for additional charges (€22). The on-site restaurant serves breakfast and dinner. Pets are allowed on request with charges. The hotel has no age restriction — a plus for younger travelers. Guests praise the room size (generous for NYC), the plentiful bottled water during heat waves, and the city views. The Reading Room is open 7–11 AM.
Choose this if: You want a boutique Midtown stay with balcony access and strong value scores.
12. Mint House 70 Pine by Kasa
The Vibe
Mint House 70 Pine operates in a historic landmark building near Battery Park, achieving a 9.2 overall with 9.4 across staff, cleanliness, comfort, and location. The property feels more like an upscale apartment than a hotel, making it ideal for longer stays. The 8.8 value score is the highest in the top tier.
What You Actually Get
The real selling point: two-bedroom, two-bath units include in-unit washer/dryer, and there’s a 6th-floor card-operated laundry room for all guests. Pets are free — no extra charges at all. The same credit card used for booking must be presented at check-in, and cash isn’t accepted. Wi-Fi scores 9.3, and there’s a fitness center. Children 5 and above are charged as adults.
Choose this if: You’re traveling with your dog or staying 5+ nights and need kitchen/laundry facilities.
13. Soho Grand Hotel
The Vibe
Soho Grand at 310 West Broadway is the original SoHo luxury hotel, with an 8.5 overall and a 9.5 location score. The 8.8 staff rating and 8.9 cleanliness reflect consistent quality. It’s the go-to for repeat SoHo visitors who want gallery and designer shop access right outside.
What You Actually Get
Pets stay free — no charges at all. The on-site restaurant serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Select suites have terraces (book directly with the hotel for those). Rooms include 65” Samsung Smart TVs, Nespresso machines, and Tivoli clock radios. Extra beds are only available for Grand Corner King rooms. Parking is available. Guests love the skyline views including the Empire State Building.
Choose this if: You want a luxury SoHo base with free pet policy and full dining.
14. Casablanca Hotel by Library Hotel Collection
The Vibe
The Casablanca at 147 West 43rd achieves a near-perfect 9.9 location score, parking guests directly in the Theater District footsteps from Times Square. The 9.2 overall rating is backed by a 9.4 comfort score, 9.3 cleanliness, and an 8.8 value — strong across the board. Rick’s Café on the second floor adds Moroccan-inspired charm.
What You Actually Get
Good breakfast is included, served on a lovely terrace. The property offers free Wi-Fi (9.4), a restaurant, and a fitness center. Pets are not allowed. Children 18+ are charged as adults. Stair access is available for guests who prefer not to use elevators. Guest reviews consistently call out the large rooms (rare for this area) and the warm, welcoming staff. The hotel’s boutique feel stands out against corporate neighbors.
Choose this if: You want a boutique Theater District stay with the best location in NYC.
Check Tonight’s Price for Casablanca Hotel by Library Hotel Collection →
15. The Wallace Hotel
The Vibe
The Wallace at 242 West 76th is the highest-rated property here overall (tied with The Hotel Chelsea at 9.3), with a staggering 9.7 comfort score. The Upper West Side location near Strawberry Fields and Central Park offers a quieter, more residential feel than Midtown. The 9.5 staff and 9.6 cleanliness scores confirm the quality.
What You Actually Get
Select suites (Executive King 1-Bedroom, Deluxe Queen 1-Bedroom, Hudson Penthouse) include microwaves and refrigerators. A $100 damage deposit is required. The hotel has a fitness center, free Wi-Fi (9.4), and private parking. Pets are allowed with charges. The bar/lounge is slated to open mid-autumn. Guests call this “the best part of the stay” referencing the incredibly accommodating staff.
Choose this if: Comfort is your #1 priority — this has the highest comfort score in NYC.
16. Hotel Hugo
The Vibe
Hotel Hugo at 525 Greenwich sits in Hudson Square, a quiet pocket between SoHo and the Hudson River. The 7.9 rating is anchored by an 8.6 comfort score — guests consistently say the beds are great and rooms are spacious. It’s an understated option that focuses on comfort over frills.
What You Actually Get
Rooms include nice extras: great showers, slippers, Prosecco, quality shampoo/conditioner, and earplugs. The facility fee covers Wi-Fi, unlimited devices, daily water, Keurig coffee, and 24-hour fitness access. Deluxe King rooms offer city or river views; suites overlook the river. Breakfast is available for £18. Pets are allowed with charges. Guests note the large rooms — a genuine find in NYC.
Choose this if: You want a spacious, well-priced room between SoHo and the Hudson.
17. The Dominick Hotel
The Vibe
The Dominick at 246 Spring Street brings a rare SoHo amenity: a seasonal outdoor swimming pool. The 8.5 overall rating includes a 9.0 comfort and 9.0 cleanliness, plus a 9.4 location. It’s a favorite for wedding prep and celebrations — guests book suites for group events.
What You Actually Get
All rooms have deep soaking tubs. Hudson view rooms are floors 9–15, Skyline views from floors 16–26. The pool is exclusive to hotel guests. Exceptional breakfast is included, and there’s private parking. Pets are allowed with charges. Children 6+ are charged as adults. The hotel accepts up to 3 guests per room for free when using existing beds. Group reservations of 4+ rooms follow separate policies.
Choose this if: You want a SoHo hotel with a pool, deep soaking tubs, and skyline views.
18. The Hotel Chelsea
The Vibe
The Hotel Chelsea at 222 West 23rd is an NYC institution — the legendary 1880s building reimagined for modern travelers with a 9.3 overall rating. It matches The Wallace with a 9.7 comfort score, plus 9.6 cleanliness and 9.4 location. The history is palpable without feeling dated.
What You Actually Get
Rooms feature one queen or king bed (no two-bed options), but Premier rooms and larger can accommodate rollaway beds for $35/night plus tax. The fitness center and restaurant are on-site, and Wi-Fi scores 9.6. Pets are allowed with charges. Smoking is permitted on balconies and outside the entrance — not in rooms. Guests rave about how the hotel preserves history while delivering modern expectations.
Choose this if: You want historic Chelsea charm with top-tier comfort and service.
19. Bryant Park Hotel
The Vibe
The Bryant Park Hotel faces Bryant Park directly at 40 West 40th, earning a 9.9 location score alongside the Casablanca. The 9.1 overall rating is supported by 9.6 staff, 9.6 cleanliness, and 9.6 comfort. It’s a polished Midtown option that feels more boutique than chain.
What You Actually Get
The hotel offers private parking, a fitness center, an on-site restaurant, and free Wi-Fi (9.1). A $200 daily authorization is required on a valid credit card for incidentals. Guests under 21 need a parent or guardian to check in. Tea kettles are available on request. Pets are not allowed. Children 12+ are charged as adults. No connecting rooms are available, but limited two-bed rooms exist.
Choose this if: You want a park-facing hotel with 9.9 location and stellar staff.
20. The Wall Street Hotel New York City
The Vibe
The Wall Street Hotel at 88 Wall Street is the newest addition to the Financial District scene, with a 9.2 overall and 9.6 comfort. The 9.3 facilities and 9.5 cleanliness signal a property that takes quality seriously. Free bikes let you explore lower Manhattan without subway fares.
What You Actually Get
Exceptional breakfast is available for €44 — pricey but guests call it worth it. In-room breakfast service is a popular option. Sedan parking is $45/night, SUV $55/night. Baby cribs are provided on request, and interconnecting rooms are available. Pets are allowed with charges. The property includes a fitness center, terrace, and restaurant. Guests highlight the superb service and well-appointed rooms.
Choose this if: You want a polished Wall Street hotel with free bikes and family-friendly interconnecting rooms.
Check Tonight’s Price for The Wall Street Hotel New York City →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#10 Artezen Hotel
Strongest all-around performer with a 9.2 rating, 9.7 staff score, and 9.6 comfort — plus lower price point than its 9.0+ competitors.
💰 Best Value
#14 Casablanca Hotel by Library Hotel Collection
A 9.2 rating with a 9.9 location score and 8.8 value rating — unmatched bang for buck in the Theater District.
Check Tonight’s Price for Casablanca Hotel by Library Hotel Collection →
🏖️ Best for SoHo Vibe
#13 Soho Grand Hotel
The original SoHo luxury stay with a 9.5 location, free pets, and full dining — pure downtown energy.
How We Ranked These New York Hotels
We analyzed 20 five-star properties across New York City, prioritizing the SoHo area while including standout performers from Manhattan. Over 49,300 verified guest reviews were cross-referenced against amenity data, cancellation policies, and location scores.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 7.5+ overall and 500+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, comfort, and location — the categories that drive repeat bookings in NYC
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities (pools, pet policies, kitchens) against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Distance to Times Square, SoHo shopping corridors, and subway access
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at these 5-star hotels in New York?
Policies vary significantly. Mint House 70 Pine (#12) and Soho Grand Hotel (#13) allow pets completely free — no extra charges. The New Yorker by Lotte Hotels (#1), Motto By Hilton (#5), and The Dominick Hotel (#17) allow pets with applicable fees. SoHo 54 (#2), citizenM (#6), Arlo SoHo (#9), Artezen Hotel (#10), Casablanca Hotel (#14), and Bryant Park Hotel (#19) do not permit pets. Always confirm the property’s specific policy before booking.
Which hotels offer free cancellation?
Most properties listed, including the New Yorker by Lotte Hotels (#1), SoHo 54 (#2), The Gotham Hotel (#11), and The Hotel Chelsea (#18), have cancellation policies that vary by room type and booking date. The Wallace Hotel (#15) and Bryant Park Hotel (#19) require checking specific conditions for each option. For the best flexibility, always filter by “free cancellation” when searching and review the policy before confirming your reservation.
What’s the best time to visit New York City?
April to June and September to November offer the best combination of mild weather and manageable crowds. September through November brings comfortable temperatures and vibrant fall foliage in Central Park. December is magical for holiday decorations but brings high prices and heavy crowds. January and February offer lower rates but cold weather. For these 5-star properties, booking 3-4 weeks ahead typically secures the best rates across the board.
Can I check in late at any of these properties?
Most hotels have standard check-in windows: Hilton Garden Inn (#3), The Gotham (#11), and The Dominick (#17) check in from 3:00 PM. New Yorker by Lotte (#1), DoubleTree (#4), and Motto (#5) start at 4:00 PM. citizenM (#6) offers the earliest check-in at 2:00 PM — a rare perk. Artezen (#10), Casablanca (#14), and The Wallace (#15) allow late check-in until 12:00 AM. Most properties offer bag storage if you arrive before check-in time.
How do I get from JFK Airport to SoHo or Times Square hotels?
The AirTrain to Jamaica Station ($7.75) connects to the E subway line heading directly to Times Square (Motto, Aura, New Yorker). For SoHo hotels (SoHo 54, NoMo SoHo, Arlo SoHo), take the A train from Howard Beach station. Taxis from JFK to Manhattan run a flat $52-70 plus tolls and tip. Newark Airport taxis cost $80-$120 depending on traffic, as noted by the Hilton Garden Inn (#3). LaGuardia is closest at 6 miles from most properties — a $30-45 taxi ride.
What’s the most walkable area for these 5-star hotels?
Times Square properties top the walkability charts: the Casablanca Hotel (#14) and Bryant Park Hotel (#19) both score a 9.9 location, putting you within walking distance of Broadway shows, Fifth Avenue shopping, and Rockefeller Center. Aura Hotel (#7) scores 9.6 with Times Square 531 feet away. For SoHo walkability, Soho Grand (#13) and SoHo 54 (#2) score 9.5 and 9.1 respectively, placing you steps from designer boutiques, art galleries, and the best downtown restaurants.