Where to Stay
Best Areas to Stay in New York City by Trip Type
The right base in New York depends on whether you value proximity to Broadway or a quieter, more local evening scene.
Part of the New York City travel guide
Quick answer
Midtown Manhattan suits first-time visitors who want to be near Times Square and Broadway. Brooklyn offers better value and local atmosphere a short subway ride away; the Upper West Side suits families near Central Park.
Best for first-time visitors
Midtown Manhattan
Best for independent travelers
Chelsea / Greenwich Village
Best for value & local feel
Brooklyn (Williamsburg/DUMBO)
Best for families
Upper West Side
New York's subway runs 24 hours, which makes 'how close to Times Square' a less important question than many first-timers assume. A well-connected subway stop in Brooklyn can be just as practical as a pricier Midtown address.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Brooklyn too far from Manhattan's main sights?+
Not from Williamsburg or DUMBO — both are one subway stop or a short walk across the Williamsburg or Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan.
