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I always have a great time when I visit New York. And I usually focus on Manhattan, like most tourists. But this time, I decided to stay in Manhattan, but explore Queens.
I stayed in Manhattan at Hyatt Herald Square. But made the trip across the river for my adventures.
Here’s what I thought of the experience!
Exploring Queens Index:
Part 1 – Hyatt Herald Square Review
Part 2 – My Haircut at Moon Barber Shop in Jackson Heights
Part 3 – Sri Pra Phai Restaurant
Part 5 – Trip to the US Open Tournament
My Hyatt Herald Square Review
On a recent work trip to New York, I decided to hang around for a few extra days.
I usually stay at the Andaz 5th Avenue, but the Hyatt Herald Square was cheaper and close to my meetings. The price was ~$200 a night, which is good for New York. So I paid cash and saved my Hyatt points! It was a category 6, so it would have cost 25,000 Hyatt points or 12,500 Hyatt points & $150 if I used the Points and Cash rate.
Some of y’all might like that it’s near the Herald Square Macy’s, the “World’s Largest Store.” But the mere thought of shopping makes me cringe!
What I did appreciate about the location is you can step outside to admire The Empire State Building.
When I walked into the lobby, I felt like I was in a club with all the bright lights and loud music. So right away, I got the vibe here was “hip” and “cool” – 2 things I am definitely NOT! 😉
Although it was a nice change from the usual monotonous hotel decor. And I was used to it by the next morning.
Plus, the service here was great. The staff were all very welcoming.
My room was pretty small. Although that’s to be expected in a big city like New York. Everything was situated closely together. But I had a king-sized bed, a sitting area, a TV, and a desk.
The room was modern and comfortable. And fit in with the rest of the hotel. Although I usually like hotels that are less hip with larger rooms.
The bathroom was on the small side, too. But it was filled with fresh towels and toiletries. And it was very clean. So it was good for just one person.
Breakfast at the Hyatt Herald Square
I have Diamond elite status with Hyatt, so free breakfast was included each morning of my stay.
I particularly liked the fried eggs served with fresh avocado and a side of breakfast potatoes and toast. All vegetarian!
The food was delicious. And was served in a room without any windows. So no view! And, it got crowded quickly.
But you can’t beat free!
The Rest of the Hotel
I wandered around the hotel to see what else was there.
Just like the rooms (and all of New York!), everything is packed-in tight.
There’s a bar with only a few seats next to a counter that could double as a work area. I saw a few people typing on laptop computers.
At the other end of the counter, there’s a coffee bar.
Some of the decorations were playful and fun. Like a row of books arranged to make a rainbow around the entrance to the restaurant. And some board games in case you feel up to sinking a battleship or arranging tiles into words. 😉
There were also a few other spots where you could relax with your coffee or cocktail. Not many, though! But I’m glad they managed to fit in more places to sit and lounge.
You Can Do It Too
Want to visit New York? While I did NOT use my miles for this particular work trip, it’s easy to get to New York and stay there using miles & points. Here are a few ideas:
1. Flights
- United Airlines – United Airlines miles are easy to earn. If you have the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, Sapphire Reserve, Ink Business Preferred Credit Card, or Ink Plus or Ink Bold (both no longer available), you can transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to transfer partners like United Airlines. Check out my post on how to use United Airlines miles.
- Southwest – Chase Ultimate Rewards points transfer to Southwest, too! Plus, if you have the Southwest Companion Pass, a friend can fly with you for (almost) free!
- British Airways – If you’re a short flight away from New York, you can save miles by using British Airways Avios points to book an award flight on American Airlines. You can transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points, American Express Membership Rewards points, and Starwood points to British Airways.
2. Hotels
New York is full of hotels you can book with points! For example, there are ~30 Starwood hotels and 12 Hyatt hotels around New York City!
I also like Airbnb for larger groups, or for a more authentic feel. I stayed at an Airbnb with my mom & sister during a previous trip to New York City.
One of my favorite hotels is the Andaz 5th Avenue. The big plus of this hotel is its proximity to major attractions like Central Park, Rockefeller Center, and Times Square.
It costs 25,000 Hyatt points per night. This is a great hotel if you want to use the 2 free nights that come with the Chase Hyatt card. Or stay 4 nights with the sign-up bonus from the Chase Sapphire Reserve!
Bottom Line
I’m grateful I got to stay at the Hyatt Herald Square. The room was priced right for New York. So I decided to try it out.
It was a good place to begin my meetings and adventures each day. Even if the decor was a bit too modern and the hotel too small compared to the hotels where I normally stay.
Next time, I’ll choose a hotel that’s more low-key. Or maybe another Airbnb. Although I did appreciate the location, and the welcoming service.
Do you have a favorite hotel in New York City?
Hi, I got the half price points promotion email from Hilton.It expires today, 12/5. I received the email 12/2 and tried to purchase 80,000 points on 12/3. It would not give me the discounted rate. I contacted Hilton Honors on 12/3 and a gain today and they created a case file but would not let me buy the points. They now say 7 to 10 days on a resolution. I feel like I’m getting blown off. Any suggestions? Vince
Sorry to hear about that. Perhaps try tweeting them for better customer service?
Wait, disregard my last comment I was looking at Times Square lol.
I was surprised at the rate, but it was a rather small room.
I just looked up the Hyatt Herald Square via the Chase UR travel portal. It’s showing a rate of $758/night. How did you manage to get it for $200?
Darius:
With all due respect, allow me to offer your readers some helpful hints.
1. If you are going to explore Queens why not stay in Queens? The Long Island City neighborhood is just across the Queensboro bridge, one subway stop into Manhattan and a better alternative for hotels at half the price of Manhattan.
Most of the major chains have a property in this section of Queens as it is a popular alternative to Manhattan. Easy access to four subway lines and only 5 minutes away from Manhattan. Access to LaGuardia Airport is quick and easy.
2. January to March are great months for visiting New York as most hotels (including the ones in Manhattan) have their “I love New York promo”, at deeply discounted rates, where using points is not a good value. I’ve seen the Marriott as low as $79 a night, and IHG properties for $99 a night. It is low season.
3. Although this is in no way up to the caliber of a Hyatt, Hilton or Marriott, I usually stay at the Country Inn and Suites in Long Island City. Country Inns are marginal at best (barely mid level) but this property is one of the better ones. On the Cyber Monday deal I secured a room for four nights at $56 a night in January and again in late March. Staff is great, can’t beat the rate and the free breakfast includes real New York bagels. Club Carlson like most chains has promotions each quarter and they are usually stackable, especially if you have their Visa Credit Card.
4. Final point, if your not getting a free hotel breakfast, New York diners and local neighborhood establishments offer great cook to order breakfasts usually for under $10. If your in New York, why not eat where the New Yorker’s eat. I’ve had great ethnic four course dinners for under $25 (excluding wine).
Steve, thanks for those detailed tips. Very helpful. I had meetings Manhattan so preferred staying there, but I will stay in Queens sometime to get the full experience – especially if it is a subway stop into the city. $56 is a great rate for a NYC hotel!
I’ve been going to Sri Pra Phai for almost 30 years. It is the most legit, comprehensive Thai restaurant in NYC. Hope you loved it, excited to read the review!
I haven’t been to many other Thai restaurants, but I did find it very authentic and tasty. I’d totally go back when I visit next, and can see why you’ve been going there for 30 years! 🙂