It just wouldn’t seem like New Year’s Eve in New York without watching the infamous ball drop, which descends from One Times Square, at midnight. But do you know how the tradition started? It began in 1907, to usher in 1908 and since then, it has only ever been missed two years, due to wartime blackouts.
On New Year’s Eve, Times Square lights up with festivities and it feels like every person in New York City heads down to catch a bit of the action. If you want to avoid the crowd but want to be part of one of New York’s most epic New Year festivities, then book a stay in one of these top hotels with views of the Times Square ball drop. Watch it all from the comfort of your own room.
Tips for New Year's Celebrations at Times Square
Watching the iconic ball drop in person at New York’s dazzling Times Square is not for the faint-hearted. But if you were to leave the comfort of your hotel space, here are some tips from the Times Square official website to watch this wildly popular global event.
- The entrance to the viewing areas is free and opens on a first-come, first-serve basis. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for yourself. Most people start thronging the place as early as the afternoon.
- The viewing areas don't have portable washrooms. So use the facilities before you arrive.
- Most roads are usually closed; so it's recommended to approach Times Square from 6th Avenue or 8th Avenue only.
- For people with disabilities, there is a designated viewing area at 44th Street and Broadway, which can be accessed at the southwest corner of 44th and 6th Ave. ASL interpreters are also usually present at this viewing area. Contact info@timessquarenyc.org for more information.
About the Times Square Ball Drop
The Times Square Ball Drop is an iconic celebration of the New Year, and it is perhaps the most popular among all New Year’s Eve festivities in the country. Time balls have a long history, but the New York edition started in 1907 in response to the city’s fireworks ban, according to the Time.
- If you have a special wish for the New Year, why not put it up on the NYE Wishing Wall? The custom lets people from all over the world send in their wishes in person or digitally. The wishes will be printed on the confetti released in Times Square for the New Year. I might send one in this year!
Recommended tours
Hotels with views of the Times Square Ball Drop
1. Crowne Plaza Times Square Manhattan, an IHG Hotel (from USD 639)
You’ll find this four-star hotel in Times Square, the perfect place to watch the New Year’s ball drop. Fantastic American cuisine is available from the hotel’s restaurant and a concierge service is here for all of your needs.
The rooms are spotlessly clean and spacious and you may even get to watch the the ball drop by staying at the 2 Double Standard or 1 King Standard room options. It would be best if you directly confirm with the property about rooms from which you’ll have the best views of the ball drop. You can also have dinner at the communal restaurant which overlooks Times Square, and I wouldn’t mind enjoying one of their specials while waiting for the ball drop.
Best rooms with Times Square views: 1 King Standard Times Square View, 2 Double Standard
Alternative rooms with views: Most rooms have views of the city, but here are some top picks: 1 King Standard (city views); 2 Double Standard (city views); 1 King Penthouse Suite (city views)
On-site location to check out: Broadway 49 (excellent views of Times Square)
What guests are saying about the view:
“Wow.. One of the best views I have had and a great room overall! Check in was quick and super friendly. I will definitely be going back when in NY! 46th floor corner room is amazing!” - by Google reviewer, Aaron Kellar
Hyatt Regency Times Square
Address: 1605 Broadway
Accommodates: 4
Pets allowed 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Non-smoking rooms Business centre Laundry Facilities for disabled guests Family rooms Internet services
2. Hyatt Centric Times Square New York (from USD 467)
Located on West 45th Street, Hyatt Centric Times Square New York offers complete amenities for a comfortable stay. It’s also conveniently located close to many top attractions. It’s also one of the best hotels to see the ball drop in New York City. Make advanced reservations at Bar54 because you’ll find the best views of Times Square from this incredible lounge. I’m pretty sure enjoying a cocktail here would be a highlight of your New York holiday.
As for the accommodations, you can book a Times Square Premier Suite or 1 King Times Square View Suite for exceptional views of the iconic landmark from the comfort of your room! I’m pretty sure I can spend whole afternoons just people-watching by the window.
Best rooms with Times Square views: Times Square Premier Suite; 1 King Times Square View Suite; 1 King Bed High Floor Times Square View
Alternative rooms with views: Most rooms have views of the city, but here are some top picks: Executive Suite (city views); 1 King High Floor City View; 2 Queen High Floor City View
On-site locations to check out: Bar 54 (amazing views of Times Square), fitness center (floor-to-ceiling windows with views of Times Square)
Hyatt Centric Times Square New York
Address: 135 West 45th Street
Accommodates: 4
Parking Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Non-smoking rooms
3. New York Marriott Marquis (from USD 1990)
Located right in Times Square, this Marriott hotel is perfect for watching the ball drop on New Year’s Eve. Head up to the top of the 48 floors to the View Restaurant because, on New Year’s Eve, they have an open bar, live music, and views of the midnight ball drop, and I don’t think you’ll find many places on NYE where you can party as hard. Alternatively, you can choose to stay in one of the room options that offer views of Times Square, such as the Superior Guest Room or the generic Guest Room.
The hotel itself has spacious modern rooms with Netflix, a seating area, three onsite restaurants, and two communal terraces.
If you’re planning a trip towards the end of the year, be sure to buy your passes for the Marquis New Year’s Eve Celebration and welcome the new year with entertainment, food, and drinks! Alternatively, you can even attend the VIP Balldrop.com Party or Le Petit Chef New Year’s Eve Experience.
Best room with Times Square views: Guest room, 2 Double
Alternative rooms with views: All rooms have views of the city, but here are some top picks: Premier (views of the city); King Suite (views of the city); Executive Suite (views of the city)
On-site locations to check out: Broadway Lounge (direct views of the Ball Drop), Perch Outdoor Terraces (Times Square views)
What guests are saying about the view:
“I went here for dinner while visiting the city. The view from the restaurant is spectacular!!! They have floor to ceiling windows overlooking Times Square. It’s really a cool place to have dinner or drinks. It is a bit pricey but everything in the city is. I felt it was worth the money just for the view. It’s cool to look down at Times Square. It’s a different view from higher up. If you want to table right in front of the window I would suggest making reservations. We weren’t able to sit right at the window but you have a decent view from most places in the restaurant.” - by Google reviewer, Laura G.
New York Marriott Marquis
Address: 1535 Broadway
Accommodates: 7
Parking Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Terrace
4. Millennium Hotel Broadway Times Square
If you’re looking for the best hotel to watch the ball drop in Times Square, here’s a great option. Choose from a Superior King room or the Ball Drop View Room, as they both have views of Times Square. This is a great choice if you’re planning to spend New Year’s Eve in New York City.
The hotel even hosts a party to celebrate the end of the year. Granted, the admission fee is a bit high, but I’m pretty sure you’ll have a grand time.
Best room with Times Square Ball Drop views: Ball Drop View Room
Alternative rooms with views: All rooms have views of the city, but here are some top picks: Millennium Suite; Junior Suite; Superior Room Times Square View
On-site locations to check out: Meeting and event facilities (offers great skyline views)
Millennium Times Square New York
Address: 145 West 44th Street
5. Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel (from USD 285)
The Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel is one of the top hotels with a view of the ball drop in NYC. It is located in the Theatre District and features 312 soundproof rooms but by far, our favourite rooms come with a balcony from where you can enjoy the view. All of the bedrooms are decorated with beautiful wooden furniture, featuring gold and blue accents.
The best place to see the ball drop is from R Lounge where you can also get drinks to see in the New Year. Alternatively, you can book Guest Room, 1 King, Times Square View, Terrace to enjoy uninterrupted vistas. Moreover, this property also hosts the VIP New Year’s Eve Gala at the lounge, and I think it might be a great occasion for an upscale date!
Best room with Times Square views: Suite, Times Square Terrace Room with King Bed and Balcony
Alternative rooms with views: Corner King Room (city views); Room with Two Double Beds - City View
On-site locations to check out: R Lounge (views of Times Square), Glass Patio (Times Square views)
Awards: AAA Four-Diamond rating
Renaissance New York Times Square by Marriott
Address: 714 Seventh Avenue
Accommodates: 4
Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Non-smoking rooms
6. Residence Inn by Marriott New York Manhattan, Central Park (from USD 351)
Situated just a stone’s throw from the beautiful fountains in Central Park, this stylish and elegant four-star hotel offers rooms with a kitchenette, fantastic views in all directions, and a wellness center. I think it would be a great hotel to stay in to easily explore the city.
The best view of the ball drop in Times Square is from a room overlooking the intersection - preferably on the 65th floor or higher. Book Studio 1 King, Times Square view to enjoy the event from the comfort of your room!
Other amenities of this pet-friendly property include Wi-Fi and paid parking.
Best rooms with Times Square views: King Studio with Times Square View, Deluxe Studio with Times Square View, Standard Studio with Times Square View
Alternative rooms with views: King Studio with Partial Park View; Deluxe Studio with City View, Studio with View
On-site location to check out: Fitness center (city views)
Residence Inn by Marriott New York Manhattan/Central Park
Address: 1717 Broadway
Accommodates: 4
Parking Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Non-smoking rooms Business centre Laundry
7. The Knickerbocker (from USD 313)
This hotel’s best view of the New Year’s Eve ball drop has to be from the rooftop terrace and bar area of St. Cloud. There are different packages you can purchase for your New Year’s Eve trip, so have a look whilst booking your room. With a fabled history (it’s said that the martini was invented here, and I might just have a drink just to savor some history), excellent customer service, and beautifully decorated rooms, The Knickerbocker guarantees a 5-star experience. It also offers New Year’s Eve packages such as the New Year’s Eve Platinum Rooftop Celebration Package.
The capacious rooms have Turkish-branded towels and bath amenities from Diptyque for ultimate luxury.
Best rooms with Times Square views: Deluxe Two Queen Rooms, Corner Junior Suite
Alternative rooms with views: Most rooms have views of the city, but here are some top picks: Premier City Two Queen Beds (views of the city); Premier City View King Bed; Caruso Suite (city views); Junior Suite Two Queen Beds (city views)
On-site location to check out: St. Cloud Rooftop (city views)
The Knickerbocker
Address: 6 Times Square
8. Tempo By Hilton New York Times Square (from USD 735)
Tempo By Hilton New York Times Square is a sleek modern hotel located in Times Square. If you’re planning on celebrating NYE here, be sure to book King Bed Ball Drop View Corner Room, King Bed Ball Drop View High Fl Corner, or the Presidential Suite for a spectacular view right from your private abode. For guests with disabilities, there are also two accessible room options with a view of the square and lavish king beds. Fancy a cocktail while you watch the festivities? The on-site Highball has you covered with light bites, drinks, and views of Times Square.
During the day, you can explore amazing restaurants and iconic landmarks such as Central Park, Radio City Music Hall, and Rockefeller Center nearby.
Best rooms with Times Square Ball Drop views: King Bed Ball Drop View Corner Room; King Bed Ball Drop View High Fl Corner; Ball Drop View Corner 1 Bedroom Suite; Presidential Suite Balldrop Vw Acc R I Shower; King Bed Ball Drop High Fl Corner Rm Hear Acc
Alternative rooms with views: Most rooms have views of the city, but here are some top picks: One Bedroom Corner Terrace Suite (city views); One Bedroom Corner Suite- Top Floors (city views)
On-site locations to check out: Highball (Times Square views), fitness center (city views)
Tempo By Hilton New York Times Square
Address: 1568 Broadway
Accommodates: 4
Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Terrace Non-smoking rooms
9. M Social Hotel Times Square New York (from USD 369)
M Social Hotel Times Square New York has two room options with different views —partial ball-drop view or full ball-drop view for those who want to experience the best of New York’s New Year festivities. No matter what you pick, you’re sure to have the time of your life in this superbly located hotel. You can even head to the open terrace if you want to bask in the excitement of NYE. When you’ve had your fill of the energy of Times Square, you can relax in your room thanks to soundproof glass.
As an added perk, the hotel also has an NYE offer that you can use to book your stay at incredible rates.
The hotel also has plenty of other amenities, such as Beast & Butterflies, where you can let your hair down as you sip on your favorite beverages or head out to the rooftop terrace to enjoy views of the city.
Best rooms with Times Square Ball Drop views: Full Ball Drop View; Partial Ball Drop View
Alternative rooms with views: Most rooms have views of the city, but here are some top picks: Social Deluxe Times Square (views of Times Square); Social Superior Hudson River View; Social Premier Times Square
On-site location to check out: Beast & Butterflies (city views)
M Social Hotel Times Square New York
Address: 226 West 52nd Street
Accommodates: 6
Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre
10. W New York - Times Square (from USD 463)
Book the aptly named Cool Suite in W New York - Times Square for unmatched views of Times Square. Apart from the views, you’ll also enjoy facilities such as a minibar, a wet bar, and premium movie channels in the Cool Suite. Separate living and dining areas are available in the Extreme Wow Penthouse Suite.
Other excellent features include the hotel’s Living Room, perfect for socializing, and FIT, an on-site gym for fitness enthusiasts. When it’s time to eat, you can choose from a two-floor seafood restaurant, an upscale Mexican restaurant, and even in-room dining.
Best room with Times Square views: Cool Suite
Alternative rooms with views: All rooms have views of the city, but here are some top picks: WONDERFUL (city views); Extreme Wow Penthouse Suite (Broadway views); Wow Suite (Broadway views)
On-site location to check out: Fitness center (city views)
W New York - Times Square
Address: 1567 Broadway, Times Square, New York (NY), United States, 10036
Accommodates: 4
Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre
11. The Times Square EDITION (from USD 692)
The Times Square EDITION has 452 guest rooms, most of which offer stunning city views and exclusive access to watch the Ball Drop live. Avail any of the packages for Ball Drop viewing, such as the NYE: Terrace Garden Party for an unforgettable experience. The hotel’s Superior King and Premier King Rooms feature some of the best city views. Guests rave about the modern luxury they’ve experienced during their stay. Each room has a flat-screen cable TV and a private bathroom.
Best rooms with Times Square views: Superior Times Square; Premier Times Square; Balcony Suite; Premier Balcony Suite; Penthouse Suite; Family Suite
Alternative rooms with views: All rooms have views of the city or the river, but here are some top picks: Deluxe City View Room; Premier Family Suite (river views); Family Penthouse Suite (river views)
On-site locations to check out: Fitness center (city views), event spaces (city views)
What guests are saying about the view:
“The view of Times Square was the reason I booked here and it didn’t disappoint. You are high up and can just stare down for a while and not get bored. We didn’t try the restaurant but it looked stunning and I would come back just to try it.” - by Google reviewer, Manal Ali
The Times Square EDITION New York
Address: 20 Times Square, 701 7th Avenue at West 47th Street
Accommodates: 4
Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Garden Terrace
12. LUMA Hotel - Times Square (from USD 420)
LUMA Hotel in Times Square is a centrally located property only a stone’s throw away from Midtown’s best attractions, restaurants, and places of interest. It offers spacious and stylish rooms and suites that boast city views, including a view of the ball drop to ring in the new year. The accessible rooms also have hearing and visual aids along with a roll-in shower and ADA bathtub, so all guests get to enjoy their stay. The on-site restaurant, AperiBar by master chef and entrepreneur Charlie Palmer, serves classic food and cocktails, including Neapolitan pizza, seafood, pasta, and fizzy cocktails.
The hotel offers an exclusive NYE package that includes a stay at the Skyline View room or one of the suites with a rear view of the ball drop, a bottle of Prosecco, tickets to their NYE Party, and access to 42nd Street for another view of the iconic ball drop. But if you prefer to watch this from your room, feel free to do so!
Best room with Times Square Ball Drop views: Skyline View
Alternative rooms with views: LUMA Suite (views of Times Square);
On-site location to check out: 42nd Street (side view of the ball drop)
LUMA Hotel - Times Square
Address: 120 West 41st Street
Accommodates: 4
Parking Restaurant Room service Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Non-smoking rooms Laundry Dry cleaning
Other hotels near Times Square (without a view of the Ball Drop)
13. The Muse New York (from USD 1081)
Stylish and modern, The Muse New York is a boutique hotel nestled near Times Square and Broadway. Its rooms are designed with Gravel Bath amenities and Kassatex luxury linens paired with a walk-in marble shower and a monochrome palette to highlight the beauty of the colorful skyscrapers outside. You can also bring your furry friend here as the hotel offers special pet-friendly packages, including a dog bed, cat tree, water bowls, and treats.
Although the hotel doesn’t offer ball drop views, Times Square is only a short walk away, and you can head to the on-site cafe and coworking space, Little Opus, for delicious pastries, all-day dining, and craft cocktails.
Alternative rooms with views: Deluxe Queen and Deluxe King (city views); Executive King (city views); Grand King (city views); Executive King with Balcony (city views); King Suite with Balcony (city view)
The Muse New York
Address: 130 West 46th Street
Parking Pets allowed 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Non-smoking rooms Business centre Laundry Dry cleaning
14. The Chatwal (from USD 895)
With art-deco style and beautifully appointed suites, some curated by master designer Thierry Despont, The Chatwal’s rooms, as wells as services are opulent. Have your butler service, access to the wellness center and spa while keeping connected with their unlimited internet connection. Be part of one of the most iconic events of New York away from the crowd and in the comfort of this stunning accommodation.
You can dine at the on-site restaurant or opt for room service to eat in the privacy of your room.
Alternative rooms with views: One King Junior Suite (street views); Accessible One King Junior Suite (street views); One King Deluxe Room (street views)
On-site location to check out: Mezzanine Bar (floor-to-ceiling windows offer great city views)
The Chatwal, The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
Address: 130 West 44th St
Accommodates: 4
Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre
15. The Pearl Hotel (from USD 135)
In the heart of the theatre district, just a stone’s throw from Times Square, this hotel is in a fantastic location to enjoy the New Year’s Eve ball drop. With 94 boutique rooms on offer, you’ll be impressed with their slick black furnishings and metallic decor - it’s the perfect glam stay for New Year’s.
The 94 boutique rooms have modern amenities, such as L’Occitane toiletries, hairdryer, Wi-Fi and work desk for business travelers, and a coffee machine for your daily caffeine fix!
Alternative rooms with views: Superior King Room (city views); Deluxe Queen-Queen Suite (city views); Deluxe King Room with Balcony (city views); Queen Room with Balcony (city views)
On-site location to check out: Restaurant (city views)
What guests are saying about the view:
“When we arrived we received a complimentary room upgrade to a larger room with a balcony, which provided a nice, quiet sitting area with some great views of the city. Our room was also in tip top shape, featured a microwave, fridge and even a TV in the bathroom, features lacking in some other high end boutique hotels I’ve stayed at around the country.” - by Google reviewer, Travis Roberts
The Pearl Hotel
Address: 233 West 49th Street
16. Casablanca Hotel by Library Hotel Collection (from USD 198)
Although you can’t see the ball drop from the private rooms here, the property is just steps away from Times Square. It’s worth noting that over New Years’, there is a four-day minimum stay and all guests must be over the age of 21.
The rooms are decorated in a homey manner, with wooden furniture, a bed throw and comfortable seating. Some features you can enjoy here are continental breakfast, luggage Storage, and Wi-Fi to upload vacation pictures.
On-site location to check out: Rooftop (views of Times Square and the Ball Drop)
Casablanca Hotel by Library Hotel Collection
Address: 147 West 43rd Street
17. Kimpton Hotel Theta, an IHG Hotel (from USD 446)
You’ll need to stay in a private room on one of the top floors of this beautiful hotel to get a good view of the New Year’s ball drop, which is just one block away. The hotel has a clean, classic style and all of the amenities that you want and expect from any hotel.
Alternative rooms with views: 1 King Premium High Floor (city views)
Kimpton Theta New York - Times Square by IHG
Address: 790 8th Avenue
Accommodates: 4
Parking Restaurant Pets allowed 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Non-smoking rooms Facilities for disabled guests Internet services
3..2..1!
HAPPY NEW YEAR! Get ready to party, whether it’s catching the ball drop with your special someone, or just enjoying New York alone there is much to do in NYC. Once you’ve chosen the perfect hotel to see the ball drop, all you have left to do is to think about what to wear for this special New Year’s Eve event.