Midtown Convention Center Hotel

For New Yorkers, finding the right accommodation, whether for visiting friends and family or for a convenient staycation, often comes down to balancing location, price, and expected amenities. In the bustling heart of Midtown Manhattan, at 522 W 38th Street, stands the Midtown Convention Center Hotel. As its name suggests, its primary appeal lies in its proximity to one of the city's major event venues, the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, making it a potentially convenient base for attendees and exhibitors.

However, discerning locals and visitors understand that not all accommodations are created equal, and it's essential to have a clear and factual understanding of what a hotel offers before booking. This article aims to provide an honest and informative overview of the Midtown Convention Center Hotel, drawing directly from publicly available information and real customer experiences. We will delve into its precise location, its accessibility, and the services and features you can expect. We'll also address common concerns raised in guest feedback to ensure you have a complete picture.

New York City's hotel landscape is vast and varied, offering options for every budget and preference. For those prioritizing a prime Midtown location and proximity to a major convention center, the Midtown Convention Center Hotel might initially seem like a viable choice. Our goal here is to equip you with all the necessary details to determine if this hotel aligns with your specific needs and expectations for a comfortable and productive stay in the city. By being transparent about both its advantages and areas where it might fall short, we hope to help you make an informed decision for your next New York City stay.

Understanding the realities of budget-friendly accommodations in a high-demand city like New York is crucial. While a hotel's address can promise convenience, the actual guest experience is shaped by its services, room quality, and staff attentiveness. This overview will provide a balanced perspective, allowing you to weigh the benefits against the potential challenges.

The Midtown Convention Center Hotel is situated at 522 W 38th St, New York, NY 10018, USA. This address places it firmly in Midtown West, a highly active and continuously developing part of Manhattan. Its name directly reflects its primary locational advantage: exceptional proximity to the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, which is just a few blocks away. This makes it an incredibly convenient choice for anyone attending conventions, trade shows, or large-scale events at the Javits Center.

For New Yorkers, this location is advantageous for several reasons. It's close enough to the Theatre District and Times Square to offer easy access to Broadway shows and dazzling attractions, yet it's slightly removed from the most intense crowds, providing a bit more breathing room. The area around 38th Street and 9th/10th Avenues is part of the dynamic Hell's Kitchen neighborhood, known for its diverse culinary scene. While some customer reviews indicate the "area is a bit rough," they also state it "didn't feel unsafe," and "found plenty of good eateries in close proximity," highlighting the practical benefits of its surroundings.

Accessibility via public transportation is a key strength of this location. The hotel is within walking distance of several major subway lines, offering seamless connections throughout Manhattan and to other boroughs.

• The A, C, E lines are accessible at 42nd Street – Port Authority Bus Terminal (approximately a 10-15 minute walk), providing direct links to Uptown, Downtown, and various parts of Brooklyn and Queens.

• The 1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, W, and 7 lines at Times Square-42nd Street (approximately a 15-20 minute walk, depending on pace) connect you to almost every major destination in Manhattan, including Central Park, the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and museum row.

The Port Authority Bus Terminal, a major regional transportation hub, is also conveniently located nearby, making it accessible for those traveling by bus from outside the city. For train travelers, both Penn Station and the newly renovated Moynihan Train Hall are within a reasonable walking distance (around 15-20 minutes), serving Amtrak, Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), and NJ Transit.

While driving in Manhattan is generally not recommended, the hotel's proximity to the West Side Highway allows for relatively easier vehicular access compared to deeper Midtown streets. However, parking can be costly and limited. For air travelers, access to LaGuardia Airport (LGA), JFK International Airport (JFK), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is feasible via public transit and taxi/rideshare services. The high "Walk Score" of the area indicates its pedestrian-friendly nature, allowing guests to comfortably explore many nearby attractions on foot.

Based on customer reviews and typical offerings of hotels in this category and location, the Midtown Convention Center Hotel at 522 W 38th Street generally provides essential, no-frills services aimed at budget-conscious travelers. It's important to set expectations based on the candid feedback provided by past guests.

• 24-Hour Front Desk: The hotel does have a 24-hour front desk. However, customer reviews indicate that "receptionists were a hit and miss in terms of attention and positivity" and that getting staff to assist, even with basic check-in, "was like pulling teeth." This suggests potential inconsistencies in service levels.

• Check-in/Check-out: While standard check-in is typically in the afternoon (e.g., 3 PM), the hotel reportedly offers "early check-in" for an additional fee ($50), though one review noted a delay past the paid-for time.

• Basic Guest Rooms: Rooms are described as "a decent size for NYC" and "clean enough but definitely no frills." Amenities typically include a bed, a TV (though one review noted "only got about 3 channels"), and a bathroom.

• Bathroom Facilities: Bathrooms are described as "decent" and "well equipped and clean," though one review mentioned a "very slippery shower" with "poor water pressure" and a toilet that "didn’t flush well." The absence of a bathroom fan was also noted.

• Air Conditioning/Heating: Rooms have AC/heating, though one review specifically mentioned "broken air/heating" and that "AC was functional but very loud."

• No In-Room Refrigerator or Microwave: Customer reviews explicitly state there is "no microwave, no fridge." This is a significant point for travelers, especially those with specific needs like baby formula or medications requiring refrigeration. While the website reportedly said a fridge could be obtained for $15/day, a guest was told this was "nope" upon inquiry.

• No Ice Buckets or Cups: Guests reported "no ice buckets in the room" and "no cups of any kind in the room even though there is a coffee maker." Getting these items reportedly required asking staff and sometimes receiving inadequate substitutes (e.g., a garbage liner for ice).

• Breakfast (Inconsistent): One review noted being "told there would be breakfast as we were checking in, hours later when we asked what time breakfast would be, we were told no breakfast." This suggests inconsistent or unreliable breakfast service.

• Limited Housekeeping: While rooms are "clean enough," a review noted "painters tape on the bathroom wall," suggesting some rooms may not be fully finished or regularly inspected for minor defects.

When considering the Midtown Convention Center Hotel at 522 W 38th Street, its primary "features" or "highlights" are heavily focused on its location, as other amenities and services have received mixed to negative feedback from guests.

• Proximity to Javits Center: This is arguably the most significant highlight. For attendees and exhibitors of events at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, the hotel's location offers extreme convenience, allowing for short walks to and from the venue. This can save considerable time and transportation costs.

• Excellent Accessibility to Public Transportation: The hotel's location provides "super easy to get to all the big sights on foot or via subways within easy walking distance." Being close to major subway lines (A, C, E, 1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, W, 7) and the Port Authority Bus Terminal means guests can navigate virtually all of New York City with ease.

• Access to Hell's Kitchen Dining: Situated in Hell's Kitchen, guests have "plenty of good eateries in close proximity." This neighborhood is renowned for its diverse and vibrant restaurant scene, offering countless options for meals and snacks without needing to travel far.

• Relatively Affordable Stay (Location Dependent): While customer reviews lament that it's "not even a cheap place," the consensus is that if you're "looking for a relatively affordable stay in a good location, this is a good option." In the context of expensive Manhattan, its pricing might be considered more budget-friendly given its prime address, even if the value proposition is debated by guests.

• Surprisingly Quiet Rooms (for 9th Avenue): One reviewer noted the room was "surprisingly quiet despite being on 9th avenue." While noise can be a concern in NYC, this suggests some rooms may offer a decent level of sound insulation.

• Decent Room Size for NYC: For New York standards, customer feedback mentioned rooms were "a decent size for NYC," which can be a relief in a city known for its compact accommodations.

It is important to note that many traditional "features" often highlighted by hotels, such as reliable air conditioning, functioning outlets, consistent hot water, in-room appliances, or quality breakfast service, have received negative feedback from past guests, as detailed in the "Services Offered" section. Therefore, the primary highlights revolve around the geographical location and its associated conveniences.

Information regarding specific promotions or special offers for the Midtown Convention Center Hotel is not readily available in the provided customer reviews or general public data. As a hotel that appears to prioritize a no-frills, location-based value proposition, it may not frequently run elaborate promotional campaigns in the way larger chain hotels do.

However, like many independent or smaller hotels in New York City, potential "offers" that might be implicitly available, or could be negotiated, often revolve around:

• Seasonal Pricing: Rates for the Midtown Convention Center Hotel will undoubtedly fluctuate significantly based on demand, which is heavily influenced by events at the Javits Center, major holidays (like the NYC Marathon, as mentioned in a review), and peak tourist seasons. Booking during off-peak times or well in advance might result in lower rates.

• Direct Booking Incentives: While not explicitly stated, some independent hotels might offer slightly better rates or more flexible terms when booking directly through their own website or phone number, as opposed to third-party online travel agencies, due to reduced commission fees.

• Group Rates: For larger groups, especially those attending events at the Javits Center, it might be possible to negotiate group rates directly with the hotel's sales team.

• Last-Minute Deals: Conversely, if the hotel has last-minute vacancies, they might offer reduced rates to fill rooms, particularly outside of major event dates.

• Early Check-in Fee: As noted in one review, the hotel does offer early check-in, though it comes with a $50 fee and might still involve waiting. This is a "service" that acts as an "offer" for convenience, albeit at a cost.

Given the customer feedback regarding inconsistencies in advertised services (like breakfast and fridge availability), it is particularly crucial for anyone considering this hotel to confirm any perceived "promotions" or specific amenity availability directly with the hotel staff at the time of booking or inquiry. Relying solely on website information without direct confirmation might lead to disappointment.

For direct inquiries, reservations, or more specific information about the Midtown Convention Center Hotel, please use the following contact details:

Address: 522 W 38th St, New York, NY 10018, USA

Phone: (212) 405-1700

Mobile Phone: +1 212-405-1700

It is highly recommended to call the hotel directly for the most immediate and accurate information, especially given the customer feedback about potential discrepancies in advertised services and general staff attentiveness. Confirming specific amenities, such as the availability of a refrigerator, current breakfast offerings, or any other critical service for your stay, directly over the phone would be advisable.

While a specific email address for general inquiries is not readily available in public data, calling the provided phone numbers will connect you to the front desk, which is the primary point of contact for guests and potential bookings. Online travel agency websites may also list the hotel and offer booking capabilities, but direct communication is best for clarifying specific needs.

For New Yorkers, the Midtown Convention Center Hotel at 522 W 38th Street offers a very specific, and limited, suitability. While it may not be the top choice for a luxurious staycation or a family retreat, its primary advantages align with particular local needs, especially when considering value for its location.

Firstly, its most compelling feature for locals is its unparalleled proximity to the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. For anyone attending a conference, trade show, or event there – whether as an exhibitor, attendee, or even a local professional dropping by – this hotel's location significantly cuts down on commute time and logistical stress. Being able to walk to and from a major convention saves time, money on transportation, and offers the convenience of easily dropping off materials or resting between sessions. This makes it a highly practical choice for business-related stays.

Secondly, despite the noted issues, the hotel's central Midtown West location still provides excellent access to the core of Manhattan. For locals who might be attending a Broadway show or visiting Times Square without wanting to deal with a late-night journey home, this hotel offers a convenient crash pad. The ease of access to major subway lines (A, C, E, 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W) and the Port Authority Bus Terminal means that whether you're coming from another borough or need to reach various parts of Manhattan quickly, connectivity is a major plus. You can get to "all the big sights on foot or via subways within easy walking distance."

Thirdly, the "relatively affordable" price point for a Midtown location, as noted by a reviewer, can be a draw for budget-conscious New Yorkers. While the value proposition is heavily debated due to service issues, if the primary need is a place to sleep close to the Javits Center or Times Square without breaking the bank, and expectations are managed accordingly, it could fit the bill. The presence of numerous "good eateries in close proximity" in Hell's Kitchen also ensures convenient dining options for guests.

In conclusion, the Midtown Convention Center Hotel's suitability for locals is highly specific. It shines primarily as a pragmatic choice for those whose main priority is its immediate proximity to the Javits Center and excellent public transportation access in a central Manhattan location. For New Yorkers needing a basic, no-frills, and conveniently located overnight stay for work or specific events, and who are prepared to manage expectations regarding amenities and service consistency, it offers a functional base in the bustling heart of the city.

Midtown Convention Center Hotel

522 W 38th St, New York, NY 10018, USA