New York City is one of the most popular holiday destinations for American travelers. Here, visitors get to admire the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, eat at excellent restaurants, go ice skating at Bryant Park Rink, and appreciate the vibrant atmosphere and countless holiday activities. But one of the usual concerns is expensive hotels. Well… there is a low-cost alternative!
Pod Hotels offers travelers affordable accommodations at great locations in New York City for less than $150 per night. This hotel chain offers a minimalist approach and focuses on essential services, as they state on their website: “You get everything you need, and nothing you don’t.”
Guests at the Pod Hotels have access to all basic amenities —such as functional bunk beds, free wifi, and storage space—, and get to stretch their money to enjoy more of the city.
For those thinking about celebrating New Year’s Eve in Times Square or just visiting this fascinating city during winter, there are interesting options available! The hotel chain has four great locations in New York City, ideal for those who prefer to avoid luxury to get the most out of the city.
These are the four Pod Hotels locations and relevant information about what travelers will find at each. We’ve also included example pricing for various room options for a one night stay on January 9th, 2023.
Pod Times Square
This property, set in the heart of Manhattan, features 665 rooms—that average 120 square feet— and 45 apartments available for short and long-term leases. Residents have access to an indoor and outdoor lounge and a fitness center. There are different types of rooms at this location—full pods, bunk pods, queen pods, One Bed / One Bath Pod Pad, and Two Bed / Two Bath Pod Pads— adapted to travelers’ essential needs.
Pod Times Square is just blocks away from Hudson River Park, and one block from the 42nd Street Port Authority subway and bus station, allowing tourists to easily access all neighborhoods in the city. Travelers must remember to stay alert around costumed characters in Times Square.
Example Pricing (Jan. 9th, 2023):
- Bunk Pod – $89.00
- Full Pod – $109.00
- Queen Pod – $129.00
Pod Brooklyn
Located in the trendy Williamsburg neighborhood, at this location travelers will have 249 chic rooms with oversized windows with views of green gardens and common spaces, blackout and noise-blocking shades, social areas, and practical accommodations to enjoy the best of the neighborhood.
Pod Brooklyn offers guests free wifi, complimentary bike rentals + onsite fitness classes, and guided walking tours. It’s also within walking distance from the Music Hall of Williamsburg, the Brooklyn Bowl, the East River Ferry, and just a ten-minute train ride from the heart of Manhattan.
Example Pricing (Jan. 9th, 2023):
- Bunk Pod – $99.00
- Full Pod – N/A
- Queen Pod – $99.00
Pod 51
At this location, guests will have access to a charming and recently renovated property in a tree-lined block in Midtown Manhattan. Pod 51 Hotel, one of the city’s most affordable hotels, has 348 functional rooms—the majority of pods have private bathrooms—, a café, a courtyard, and an al fresco rooftop.
Travelers staying at this hotel will be within walking distance from three major subway lines, Central Park, Fifth Avenue, MoMa, Grand Central Terminal, Rockefeller Center, and more.
Example Pricing (Jan. 9th, 2023):
- Bunk Pod – $89.00
- Full Pod – $109.00
- Queen Pod – $119.00
Pod 39
This budget-friendly hotel with a beautiful Northern Italian façade offers travelers a unique experience at the epicenter of Murray Hill, a short walk away from Grand Central Station, the Empire State Building, and public transportation.
Besides nice rooms with comfortable beds, free Wi-Fi, and flat TV screens, guests also have access to the Playroom Lounge and the award-winning rooftop bar Empellón Al Pastor which will reopen in spring 2023.
Example Pricing (Jan. 9th, 2023):
- Bunk Pod – $109.00
- Full Pod – $129.00
- Queen Pod – $159.00
To get the best rooms and prices, travelers must choose their preferred location and check the calendar for current rates and availability. Pod Hotels also have a mobile app and special offers on their website.
Those who want to minimize costs while exploring the city and avoid large crowds can also enjoy free attractions like exploring Central Park, walking the Brooklyn Bridge, visiting the Morgan Library and Museum, or visiting the Bronx Zoo on Wednesdays.
