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?