New York City is steeped in cultural and queer history, making it a top destination for young LGBTQ+ travellers starting to explore the world on their own terms. From fashion to food, politics to parties, and landmarks to luxury, the world-famous metropolis has plenty to offer. But finding a place to stay within a moderate budget that gives easy access to all the city has to offer is not always easy to find.

YOTEL Times Square is your answer in this instance. It’s less than a 10 minute walk to Times Square and its iconic gallery of skyscraper screens. Another five minutes on and you’re at the Rockefeller Center. A 20 minute walk north and you get to Central Park. Perched on 42nd Street, it is perfectly placed to see all the sights, while having great connections to the rest of Manhattan and beyond to explore even further.

When it comes to ease, YOTEL’s check-in system makes arriving at your room an absolute breeze. The traditional check-in desk is replaced with self-service screens that allow you to quickly find your booking, activate your room key and get settled for your stay.

The rooms utilize every bit of space to maximize functionality and comfort, offering a wide range of services to make your stay as enjoyable as possible. We stayed in a Premium Queen which came with a sizable and soft SmartBed that’s fully adjustable to accommodate sleeping, relaxing or even working in the upright position.

The minimalist design makes full use of the space so the room doesn’t feel cramped, while having plenty packed in. There’s a work desk with USB and power ports, a walk-in rain shower with products by Urban Jungle, and mood lighting throughout the room so you can get the ambience right for the occasion.

One of the main perks of YOTEL Times Square is their rooftop space, which is one of the largest in the city. Social Drink and Food offers craft cocktails and cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. On weekends they even offer a brunch menu. With views of the city and tented dining offerings, it’s perfect to grab a bite to eat before heading out.

For those in a rush, Komyuniti is their Grab + Go espresso bar where you can get yourself coffees, drinks and snacks if you want something to take out. There’s also Green Room 42, an eclectic cabaret club where you’ll find some of Broadway’s biggest stars performing while you enjoy drinks and dinner.

YOTEL Times Square also includes a gym that’s open 24/7 which features Peloton bikes and exercise equipment for those who like to keep up their routine while away. What’s more, their super fast Wi-Fi throughout the hotel is free to use, while there are charging points all over the premises. Perfect to keep those device topped up to research all the city has to offer.

All of this positions YOTEL Times Square as a great place to stay for those wanting to take their first trip to New York City, offering a functional and feature-filled experience mere minutes away from the city’s most popular destinations without breaking the bank.

Affordable and accessible, the tech-driven guest experience will make your stay in the Big Apple as hassle-free, straightforward and relaxing as you’d want it to be.

Click here to book your stay at Yotel Times Square New York City

GAY TIMES travelled directly from London’s Heathrow to New York City with United Airlines. To plan your own trip, check out their best fares here.