Westgate New York Grand Central: The Best Hotel for NYC Sightseeing

New York City is one of the most iconic destinations in the world, offering a rich blend of history, culture, world-famous landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, exploring NYC requires careful planning—starting with choosing the right hotel. Westgate New York Grand Central, located in Midtown Manhattan, is the perfect base for sightseeing, offering unparalleled convenience, luxurious accommodations, and proximity to top attractions.

From its prime location near Grand Central Terminal to its easy access to subways, iconic landmarks, and famous NYC experiences, this hotel allows guests to make the most of their time in the city. Whether you want to visit Times Square, the Empire State Building, Broadway, or the Statue of Liberty, Westgate New York Grand Central ensures that every major sight is within reach.

In this guide, we’ll explore why this hotel is the ultimate choice for sightseeing, highlighting top nearby attractions, easy transportation options, and insider tips to maximize your NYC experience.

1. Prime Midtown Location: Walk to NYC’s Top Attractions

The number one reason Westgate New York Grand Central is ideal for sightseeing is its strategic Midtown location. When visiting NYC, having a hotel that’s centrally located and within walking distance of major attractions saves time, energy, and transportation costs.

Landmarks Within Walking Distance

Guests staying at Westgate New York Grand Central can walk to some of NYC’s most famous landmarks, including:

• Grand Central Terminal (5-minute walk) – A historic architectural masterpiece and a major transportation hub.
• United Nations Headquarters (2-minute walk) – Take a guided tour of this global landmark.
• Chrysler Building (5-minute walk) – Admire one of the most stunning Art Deco skyscrapers in the world.
• Times Square (10-minute walk) – Experience the dazzling lights, Broadway theaters, and iconic NYC energy.
• Empire State Building (15-minute walk) – Enjoy breathtaking city views from one of the most famous buildings in the world.
• Fifth Avenue (10-minute walk) – A shopper’s paradise with luxury boutiques, flagship stores, and famous department stores.
• Bryant Park & New York Public Library (10-minute walk) – Relax in a scenic urban park and explore a historic library.

Subway Access for Easy Sightseeing

New York’s subway system is the fastest and most cost-effective way to explore the city. Westgate New York Grand Central is just a five-minute walk from Grand Central Terminal, which connects guests to:

• 4, 5, and 6 trains – Travel north or south along Manhattan’s East Side.
• 7 train – Direct route to Hudson Yards, Times Square, and Queens.
• S train (Shuttle) – Quick connection to Times Square and Broadway.

From Grand Central, you can reach Downtown Manhattan, Brooklyn, and other boroughs in just minutes, making it incredibly easy to explore every corner of the city.

2. Must-See Attractions Near Westgate New York Grand Central

Times Square & Broadway Theater District (10-minute walk)

Times Square is one of the most famous destinations in the world, filled with giant billboards, street performers, Broadway theaters, and flagship stores. Visitors can:

• See a Broadway or Off-Broadway show at world-renowned theaters.
• Take iconic photos with the flashing neon lights of Times Square.
• Visit the famous M&M’s World and Hershey’s Chocolate World.

The Empire State Building (15-minute walk)

No NYC trip is complete without a visit to the Empire State Building. Head to the 86th-floor observation deck for:

• 360-degree views of NYC, including the Statue of Liberty and Central Park.
• Sunset and nighttime visits that provide stunning city lights views.
• A look at historic exhibits detailing the building’s construction and significance.

Fifth Avenue & Rockefeller Center (10-15 minutes away)

If you love shopping or experiencing iconic NYC sights, Fifth Avenue is a must-visit. Stop by:

• The Saks Fifth Avenue flagship store for luxury shopping.
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a stunning historic landmark.
• Rockefeller Center, where you can visit Top of the Rock for another spectacular skyline view.

Central Park (20-minute walk or 10-minute subway ride)

New York’s most famous green space is just a short ride from the hotel. Visitors can:

• Take a leisurely walk through the park’s scenic paths.
• Rent a bike or rowboat for a fun outdoor experience.
• Visit Bethesda Terrace, Strawberry Fields, and Bow Bridge for stunning views.

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island (30-minute subway ride to Battery Park)

For history lovers, a ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is a must. Guests can:

• Climb to the pedestal or crown of Lady Liberty for unforgettable views.
• Explore the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, which tells the story of millions of immigrants who arrived in America.

One World Trade Center & 9/11 Memorial (20-minute subway ride to Downtown Manhattan)

Pay tribute to NYC’s resilience by visiting the One World Trade Center and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Guests can:

• See the reflecting pools that honor the victims of 9/11.
• Visit the One World Observatory, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.
• Explore The Oculus, a striking architectural masterpiece filled with shops and dining.

3. Best Ways to Explore NYC from the Hotel

To get the most out of your sightseeing, it’s important to plan your transportation and timing. Here are some tips:

Walk Whenever Possible

Many of NYC’s top attractions are close together, and walking lets you soak in the city’s energy, architecture, and hidden gems.

Use the Subway for Longer Distances

The subway is the fastest and most affordable way to explore NYC beyond Midtown. Buy a MetroCard or use OMNY contactless payment for convenience.

Book Tickets in Advance

• Reserve Broadway tickets online for the best seats.
• Buy Empire State Building and Top of the Rock tickets early to skip long lines.
• Purchase ferry tickets for the Statue of Liberty in advance to avoid waiting.

Visit Popular Attractions Early or Late

To avoid crowds:

• Go to Times Square in the morning or late at night for fewer people.
• Visit observation decks at sunrise or sunset for the best views.
• Explore Central Park in the morning for a peaceful experience.

4. Dining & Nightlife Near the Hotel

After a day of sightseeing, guests can enjoy NYC’s incredible food scene just steps from the hotel.

Best Nearby Restaurants:

• Grand Central Oyster Bar (5-minute walk) – A historic seafood spot inside Grand Central Terminal.
• The Capital Grille (10-minute walk) – A top-rated steakhouse for a luxurious dining experience.
• Shake Shack (10-minute walk) – A classic NYC burger joint.

Best Rooftop Bars:

• Ophelia Lounge NYC (5-minute walk) – Offers stunning views of the East River.
• 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar (15-minute walk) – One of the best rooftop bars in the city.

Conclusion: The Ultimate NYC Sightseeing Hotel

With a prime location, easy access to top attractions, and seamless transportation options, Westgate New York Grand Central is the best hotel for NYC sightseeing. Whether you’re visiting Times Square, the Empire State Building, Central Park, or the Statue of Liberty, this hotel provides the perfect starting point for an unforgettable New York City adventure.

For travelers who want comfort, convenience, and effortless access to NYC’s most famous landmarks, Westgate New York Grand Central offers the ideal experience.