Will be back East in May to visit family and friends. Would like to go to the City from our visit in NJersey for 2 nights and 3 days so my husband can see Statue of Liberty and maybe we can take in a show and museum or two.

We only need something respectable ..nothing fancy as all our clothes will be with relatives in NJersey. We just don't want to have to take a train back at night..and would use the hotel for a nap and maybe dressing for dinner.

Any ideas?..I would think midtown would be best?..

I would definately look into Priceline. I've used this on my last 2 trips to NY and have gotten really good deals on nice midtown hotels.

What exactly is your pricerange?

I agree: With such basic, general requirements and a major concern about price, your best bet is Priceline.

If you haven't used it before, go to www.biddingfortrvel.com and read everything they say about bidding strategies, and see the descriptions of NYC zones and hotel list.

I think your title is what's known as an oxymoron. But perhaps someone will have an idea for you. I think Priceline may be your best deal, since it sounds like you aren't too concerned with exact location or particular about which hotel you'll get.

Here's another huge recommendation for Priceline. As mentioned above, go to biddingfortravel.com, read the hotel FAQ's and watch the bidding results.

I agree with the Priceline suggestion. People seem to be "winning" the Hilton NY for around $100-$115 right now based on looking on biddingfortravel. That would be a good central location.

As to location, assume you realize you've mentioned 3 things in 3 totally different areas--SOL all the way downtown, theaters midtown, most museums (except MOMA)uptown. If you don't go the PL route, midtown can be more expensive than other locations.

What is your idea on inexpensive?

Agree with priceline.

Hi loisco
I would try the Super 8 Times Square. It is actually a couple of blocks away from Times Square, closer to Rockefeller Plaza. Very clean, convenient location and reasonable prices. I stayed there last May and it was perfect for what you are describing.

www.hotels.com is a much better guide for hotels in NYC than Priceline. On this site you get all the info on the hotels and the price for your specific dates of travel and can compare very easily and then book.

You also might want to try Travel Inn on W. 42nd St. They have a pool and free parking. It's easy to get back to NJ from there, and I think it's under $100 a night.

You also might try the Hotel Grand Union which is just off Madison Ave in the 30's and it is in the same price range.

Have a great time while you are here.

Try the Beacon Hotel. I got it directly from them for $159.

The Red Roof Inn in Midtown runs about $100 per night. I haven't stayed there, but know the area and the hotel is only a few years old. You can also do a text search here on Fodors for reviews.

There is a really nice Best Western called Seaport Inn - rooms are about $170 pp and some have balconies where you can see the Brooklyn Bridge and Empire State Building. I really liked it there and continental breakfast was included

Thanks for all the responses....!!