I have reservations at On the Ave in the Upper West Side for the end of June. Has anyone stayed here before? If so, what were your experiences (positive or negative comments?) Thanks for your comments.

Hi Fiona, I stayed there in November and liked it; I thought it was a good value for the price. I believe they are still undergoing construction however (a friend just stayed there a couple weeks ago and she said it was still going on); this was only really a problem during the day--some noise and the elevator service was really slow.

I know there have been several mentions and discussions of this hotel in the past; if you do a search, you should find them.

I think it should be great as long as you arent used to sleeping in total quiet. Its a fantastic neigbrohood with Sunflea markets, varied restaurants, access to Central Park, subways etc.
Much more down to earth exp, than midtown esp on weekends!

Thanks sheri and emily for your comments. I will be using public transportation in New York. . .is there a subway station near the hotel?

Sure,there are subways galore & lots of buses too. You are very close to the 79th st cross-town bus which will take you to the east side. Your metro card--or buy an unlimited week pass-- can be used for one bus transfer.
The Columbus ave bus, Broadway & amsterdam ave buses all run often.
Sadly, many of the bus drivers & subway personnel are perpetually grouchy but most NYers are very friendly & proud of the city. Consequently, except during our rush hour insanity -mode, we are exceedingly helpful. Also, dont be afraid to stroll across central park ; 72 is my favorite route. June should be delightful. Make sure you visit Zabars, pick up bagels at H & H, go to the Sun flea market at the public school on columbus & 77th st, visit the central park zoo, sculpture garden city view on top of met, circle line, boathouse cafe in the park, riverside drive park--near you--, scene on Columbus ave going south, pizza at pizza jt 2 on 71st, MOMA sculpture garden, World Financial Center plaza (catch a concert there), water taxi to the yankees, soho, take A train to spring street & eat at L'Ulivos.
Enjoy!

Me again. There is a new very thin comfort inn in a great location -- 71st st off centtal park west that would be a n alternative in the 'hood.' No idea on cost. 212 721 4770.

How is the safety in this area, especially during the nighttime (after 8 PM)?

Its very safe; certainly as safe as any place in NYC. after 10pm you may want to taxi around but its not really necessary. Broadway & Columbus are the busiest; you might want to avoid some of the side streets if they look dark or deserted. I wouldnt worry.

Approximate how long does it take to get to the theatre district from the hotel by taxi?

FOR EVER! That's not to say that the distance is great, just that taxis to the theater district literally CRAWL in traffic. It is always faster to take the subway into the theater district - its even faster to walk. Do the NY locals disagree?

I am a local. I suggest having dinner near the theatre, Nocolo on W55, see zagats for details. You can subway -bus it to the theatre. Do take a taxi home--I think its best to do so at that hour. Walk over to 8th ave to get one.
At that hour, it will take about 12 min to get to the west side.