Candlewood Suites New York City-Times Square by IHG

This hotel is highly regarded for its fully equipped in-room kitchenettes, which serve as a signature feature, providing guests with the convenience and flexibility to prepare their own meals and save on dining expenses. Its prime location places guests at the heart of the city, making it an excellent choice for sightseers, business travelers, families, and budget-conscious travelers looking for extended stays. Guests frequently commend the comfortable and spacious rooms, a rarity in this bustling urban environment. While the staff generally receives praise for their helpfulness, some guests have noted occasional inconsistencies in service. A recurring concern involves the elevators, which can lead to significant wait times. To enhance your stay, consider requesting a room not adjacent to the elevators to minimize noise, and be prepared for the hotel's weekly cleaning schedule by requesting fresh towels and trash pickup as needed.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers practical amenities that greatly enhance the guest experience, particularly the fully equipped kitchenettes found in each room. These include a full-size refrigerator, microwave, stovetop, and often a dishwasher, along with essential utensils, pots, and pans, allowing guests to prepare meals at their convenience. Many appreciate the complimentary self-service laundry facilities located in the basement, though some note that not all machines are always operational. A small but functional gym is available, complete with complimentary water bottles. In the lobby, guests can enjoy free coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and cold water, with occasional snacks like cookies or muffins. While most guests find the Wi-Fi adequate, some report it can be unreliable or slow. A common point of frustration is the elevators, with frequent reports of only one being operational, leading to considerable wait times, especially during peak hours.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is generally positive, with many describing rooms as clean and spacious for an urban setting. The comfortable beds and high-quality linens are frequently praised, contributing to a restful night's sleep. However, some guests have reported issues such as dirty carpets, stains on bedding or sofa beds, and occasional musty odors. The bathrooms are typically clean and offer good water pressure, though some note they appear dated or have minor issues like clogged drains or leaky fixtures. Noise levels receive mixed reviews; while some appreciate the anti-noise windows and quiet atmosphere, others are bothered by persistent street noise, the sound of the air conditioning unit, or the constant hum of the elevators, particularly in adjacent rooms. The air conditioning itself is often described as effective but can be noisy or difficult to regulate.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel does not offer a traditional dining service or complimentary breakfast, but its in-room kitchenettes are a significant advantage for guests who prefer to prepare their own meals. The availability of a full-size refrigerator, microwave, and stovetop allows for convenient self-catering. Guests frequently utilize nearby grocery stores, delis, and various restaurants to source ingredients or grab quick bites. A popular amenity is the complimentary coffee, tea, and hot chocolate available 24/7 in the lobby, often accompanied by snacks like cookies or muffins, though some guests mention these provisions occasionally run out. The absence of hotel-provided room service means guests rely entirely on their in-room facilities or the numerous external dining options in the vicinity.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently highlighted as a major benefit, offering exceptional accessibility to many of the city's key attractions and transportation hubs. Guests appreciate being within easy walking distance of Times Square, Broadway theaters, Penn Station, and the Port Authority Bus Terminal. Its proximity to various subway stations ensures convenient travel throughout the city, including direct access to airports. While the immediate surrounding area is generally considered safe and bustling, some guests have noted the presence of homeless individuals, a common urban reality. Valet parking is available, though it is noted as expensive and lacks in-and-out privileges, which can be a drawback for those traveling with a vehicle.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff generally receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and professionalism. Many guests highlight the quick check-in process and the staff's willingness to accommodate requests, such as early check-ins or luggage storage. The team is often described as attentive and welcoming, contributing positively to the overall guest experience. However, feedback regarding housekeeping services is mixed; the hotel operates on a weekly cleaning schedule (for stays longer than seven days), which means guests staying for shorter periods do not receive daily room cleaning or towel changes. While guests can request fresh towels and trash pickup at the front desk, some report delays or unfulfilled requests. A few guests have also noted instances of unhelpful or cold attitudes from certain staff members when addressing concerns or questioning policies.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of a destination fee or resort fee charged per night, which some find unexpected or not clearly explained upon booking. A security deposit is also typically held for incidentals, and some guests have reported delays or issues with its timely release after checkout. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, accommodating guests traveling with animals. While the hotel offers IHG Rewards benefits, some members have expressed frustration with points not being credited or their status not being recognized. Security measures, such as key card access for elevators, have been noted as inconsistent, leading to some guests feeling less secure. The hotel provides loaner items from the front desk, including small appliances, games, and DVDs, which can be a convenient perk for guests.