I'm just starting to plan a trip to NYC and Washington DC (first time to both places) in mid-October 2006, but I'm having trouble deciding where to stay in NYC for 4 nts. My BF and I are interested in museums, window shopping, dining, and the theatre (1 show), as well as exploring Central Park and interesting neighborhoods. I don't think we'd be happy in the hectic, tourist-ridden Times Square/Theatre District. I was thinking of The Blakely, which would be a splurge at the high end of our budget, because I think the location seems pretty ideal & it has some great reviews, but have been also considering the Milburn or the Beacon on the Upper West Side, which would save us some money and perhaps be in a more charming, tho less convenient neighborhood. What would those in the know about the Big Apple have to say about these choices? Any other suggestions also greatly appreciated.

Either Milburn or Beacon would be a good choice. Short walk to Central, Park and Lincoln Center. Could walk to both Natural Histoty and the Metropolitan. A 10 minute subway ride to the theater district.

Both the Milburn and Beacon are a short walk to the subway which, as rgf points out, will get you into Times Square quickly. The UWS is a very pleasant area.

I'd suggest checking www.hotels.com for more suggestions in your price range. I have used this site many times for reservations and have always had good luck. There are usually pictures, and websites listed, rates for your dates of travel, distance to major tourist sites and amenities.

Have a great time while you are here.

The Upper West side is really not inconvenient at all - except for walking to the theater. There are 2 subway lines and many buses - so getting to most places in the city is just as easy as from Times Square. And it's closer to most of the major museums - which are uptown - there's a reason upper Fifth Avenue is called Museum Mile. And if the weather is nice it's a great area for walking and cafe sitting.

As well, it's a great neighborhood for learning about the real city - the epitome of diversity in every sense. There are a ton of good inexpensive - as well as some more elegant - restaurants and of course The Park.

And therre are several very pleasant hotels - the Lucerne seems to get almost all good reviews.