Has anyone stayed at the Hilton-times square or the Grand Hyatt? Looking for comments on location, service and prices?? Are they worth the money? Thanks

Depends on what you're looking for. I've stayed at the Hilton Times Square. Yes, it is right on busy 42nd Street and near Port Authority. It is perfect if you want the business of Times Square and are doing a lot of theatre. I think all rooms have views since the hotel starts on a high floor. Nice rooms (don't get me started on how we got stuck with a strange handicapped room because the hotel was full and we booked on Priceline for just one night).

The Grand Hyatt is adjacent to Grand Central Terminal. To me it's not as great an area -- much more businesses and commercial, but of course close enough for shopping Fifth Avenue and easy to access anything from there.

I wouldn't expect much difference in service, and the prices depend on what you can find.

I've not stayed at the Grand Hyatt, and so haven't seen the rooms, but I've met people there on business in their lobby restaurant. It has a business-ishness about it. Very spacious with this tumbling waterfall in the lobby. I remember having two drinks and an appetizer and the bill came to $54. Somehow I ended up picking up the tab -- and then my atty. billed me for his time anyway, so I was doubly charged. Sigh. That's NY. I think you could pay the same and get something that's more NY feeling. It's a little garish, not particularly classy. But probably a good choice for business. The location is good for getting to other places, either by subway or by taxi. But there's not alot right there. You'll need to head north for shopping.

Thanks Patrick and Tandoori girl for your feedback. My husband, two boys(6and 13) and myself are going to be in New York the middle of March. Our kids really want to stay in a nice hotel and be in a central location. Last time -4 yrs ago we stayed at Howard Johnson's-I think 0n 34rd street -and it was a dump. So this time I want to make sure we get it right!! Looking to spend around 300. a night. Any suggestions on good restaurants and anything else is very much appreciated!! Thanks

The Grand Hyatt has just undergone a major renovation. I've not stayed there since, but friends tell me it's beautiful.

It's a great hotel.

I should also mention we will be in New York for one week.

Stayed at both and prefer the Hilton.

Shannon, now that you've confided that there are children involved, I can say that I think they would love the Hyatt. It's a very unusual NY hotel with its grand lobby. Also, you are next to Grand Central station. It has an entire floor devoted to a food court, with big oversized chairs that look like something out of Alice in Wonderland. You are within walking distance to FAO Schwartz terrific NY location, which your children will love. Be prepared to be there for at least an hour and to spend all your vacation cash. It is also a straight shot from there to Times Square down 42nd street. Which is also going to be a big wow for the kiddos. So I think either location will be fine for the kids. Personally, I don't like staying at Times Square, it's just too whacky for me -- but the kids would love it.

I have stayed at the Hilton with my three boys (9,4 & 2)and we loved the location. You are within walking distance of the Toys R Us, Madam Toussads(?), Hershey also has a big store. It's Time Square - I think all and all a much better location!