LindainOhio

We stayed at the Michaelangelo 2 years ago and booked their least expensive room on an internet special. We were upgraded to a suite--I didn't ask and they actually didn't mention it when we checked in.

The suite had a marble entry, a living area, king bedroom and luxurious bathroom. I was impressed. The room did not have a view but I did not find that to be a problem. If I remember correctly, at one time the Michaelangelo was an apartment complex.

At the time they also had a complimentary continental breakfast--with cappucino. We enjoyed talking at breakfast with another couple who always stays at the Michaelangelo when they visit NYC.

The staff were helpful and pleasant and we loved it there.

Patrick

The Michelangelo was originally the huge old TAFT Hotel. Only part of it is now the Michelangelo. Part is now apartments which are called Executive Plaza.

lindafromNJ

We stayed at the Michaelangelo twice and really enjoyed it. Sometimes if you tell them you are a first time guest they will upgrade you. We got nice big rooms (junior suite) when we stayed. No view however. The staff if friendly and the service is good. Also stayed at the Sofitel which is in the theater district but quiet. We really liked that hotel. They have good weekend specials. The rooms were large and it is a fairly new hotel. There was also a view from that hotel.

j_999_9

As others have mentioned, the Mich is pretty liberal when it comes to upgrading -- which might be one reason to choose it, though you can't be sure about these things. Have no idea what the upgrade possibilities are at the Westin.

E

I've been meaning to ask--is the Michelangelo part of any chain or "group"? It doesn't advertise itself much, so maybe the liberal upgrade policy is a conscious effort to build loyalty and good word-of-mouth reviews.

laurelee

Yes, the Sofitel is another one I've considered seriously, but have to pay a bit more for-I think there is a good chance of getting a view there, however, and quieter than Times Square.
Thanks for all your comments-I love hearing what others have to say.

stammer

I have stayed at both hotels in recent years. Although I enjoyed both hotels, I love the Michelangelo. It is by far one of my favorite spots in NY. I usually refer to it as a "hidden gem." I like the fact that it is not an overwhelming, big hotel with crowds. The Westin is great but has more of a touristy feel to it.

laurelee

Stammer, did you have an interior or outer facing room-do you remember what type of room you had. Can you tell me about the area surrounding it?

Momof5

Okay, I know that no one chose the Westin but I stayed there in December and loved it. I thought the location was great and the views (from a corner room) were fantastic. It is only a few blocks to Spamalot to. I thought it was clean and very modern, when I go next spring to NYC this is where I am staying.

stammer

I have to be honest, I dont recall what type of room I had at the Mich. It may have been a Jr. Suite. The hotel is located in a nice central area.

I DO remember the views from the Westin. I had an upper floor, corner room. This hotel is great and is a bit closer to the theater.

Either way, you can not go wrong.....

laurelee

I guess I just have to decide! Thanks for all your help. Looks like it's views or very nice, quiet hotel in a not so touristy area. Hmmm.....

laurelee

At the Westin, how did you land that corner room? Did you request it ahead of time or a check-in?

stammer

I requested a Club Room but was relocated to this upper, corner room with Club access at check - in. Not sure how I landed that room......

GoTravel

lauralee, The Michelangelo is a much nicer hotel in a much nicer location.

dms615

I recently stayed at the Westin. The architecture and decor of the hotel are unique and ulra contemporary. However, the location is the only reason I will not return. For me, Times Square is a place to walk through once or twice but is too touristy to call home for a few days. I usually stay at the Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers (811 7th Avenue on 53rd Street). The Sheraton is located within walking distance of better restaurants, better shopping, Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick's Cathedral and the Museum of Modern Art and even Central Park. I love to get out of the hotel and walk around to realy soak up the surroundings. You will not get that experience from the Westin. I paid less at the Sheraton too! You can google the hotel to see what it looks like.
If you are visiting late enough in November you will experience all the holiday decorations and window displays.
Not to be missed is the lighted musical display one the storefront of Saks near Rockefeller Center. One more quick tip-a great breakfast place is Norma's located in the lobby of the Le Parker Meridien Hotel (118 W 57th St/Btwn 6th & 7th Ave). It is a little expensive but so worth it, call ahead for reservations. A great website for restaurant listings and menues in Manhattan is menupages.com
Have a fantastic trip!

laurelee

Boy, I'm going back and forth now! Guess I asked for it! I'm still not sure what to choose-between Westin and Michelangeolo or if I should look further. I do know that the rates have gone up everywhere since I made reservations so I don't think I can get close to the price I am now paying.
I had also considered Norma's for breakfast I knew it would be expensive-but most say worth it. Thanks for all the tips and I still love hearing more if info. is out there.