joyce

I understand that there is an area referred to as the "new 42nd st" where old buildings were leveled and several new hotels have been constructed (or are under construction). Can any new yorkers give me some 1st hand knowledge? We are planning a trip to NY and would certainly be interested in staying in that area.

Patrick

I'm not sure what you are expecting. The old porn theatres and tacky, closed up derelict buildings are gone. In their place and under construction is a series of very "glitzy", plastic looking buildings, including the Madame Tussaud's wax museum, some glorified souveneir shops, and a food court similar to that you'd find in a mediocre mid-western mall. There are also a couple of rebuilt Broadway theatres and a movie house and some theme restaurants. The best of the hotels right in the heart of this activity would be the new Hilton built above one of these complexes. Don't get me wrong, this restoration or rebuilding is a whole lot better than what was there, but don't believe any publicity that may make the area sound like some great ultimate destination. By the way this one to two block long area is just a couple of blocks from all the other hotels and attractions of Times Square and the theatre district (pretty much more of the same).

howard

There is a new Hilton hotel in the 42nd Street block between Times Square and 8th Avenue. I forget the exact name, but if you call 1-800-HILTONS, I'm sure they can give you the name.

David

Marriott, Doubletree and Sheraton (to name a few) all have properties in that general vacinity.

Owen O'Neill

The "New 42nd Street" usually refers to the block of 42nd between 7th and 8th Avenues. In place of the old smut shops are chain restaurants (e.g. Chili's, Houlihan's, Applebee's etc., two huge cinema complexes (the AMC 25 in particular is the plushest and nicest theatre in the city), Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum, the theatre where Lion King (the Broadway show) is playing, BB King's Blues Club etc.. It is very touristy and glitzy but can be fun. Keep in mind that NYC has so much to offer and such a great public transport system that you needn't be in the middle of that hustle and bustle to enjoy it. Any hotel in the "Times Suare area" will be more or less a 5-10 minute walk to the "new" 42nd Street. You'll have many to choose from - don't feel compelled to stay right there.

Amy

I agree with everything that has already been said. The Times Square area (which would include the "New 42nd Street") has become a lot more tourist-friendly in recent years. You'll still find the occasional run-down building or porn shop, but the area has really become Disney-ized.

And no - don't limit yourself to 42nd Street! It's the entire Times Square area that has been renovated, not just 42nd Street. In fact, you might be happier staying on another street in the area. Depends on your interests, and where you want to go. 42nd Street is more on the southern side of Times Square...