Pod Hotel Times Square Review: Smart, Stylish, and Perfectly Located in NYC

If you’ve ever searched for an affordable hotel in Manhattan that doesn’t feel like a compromise, chances are Pod Hotel Times Square popped up more than once. Tucked right into the heart of Midtown, this compact hotel has become a go-to choice for travelers who want a clean, modern place to sleep without paying luxury prices just to be near Times Square.

But is Pod Hotel Times Square actually worth it? Or is it just another tiny-room gimmick banking on its location?

After digging deep into guest experiences, amenities, room layouts, and the surrounding neighborhood, here’s a full, honest, and detailed look at Pod Hotel Times Square—who it’s best for, what it does well, and where it might fall short.

Overview: What Is Pod Hotel Times Square?

Pod Hotel Times Square is a budget-friendly, minimalist hotel located at 400 West 42nd Street, just a few blocks from Times Square. The concept is simple: smaller rooms (“pods”), smart design, and shared or private bathrooms—depending on what you book—all at a lower price than traditional Midtown hotels.

Instead of focusing on square footage, Pod focuses on location, efficiency, and style. It’s not trying to be a luxury resort or a romantic getaway hotel. It’s designed for travelers who plan to spend most of their time exploring New York City and want a comfortable, well-located base to come back to at night.

Location: How Close Is Pod Hotel Times Square to Everything?

Let’s start with one of the hotel’s biggest selling points: location.

Pod Hotel Times Square sits on the western edge of Midtown Manhattan, near Hell’s Kitchen and the Theater District. From the hotel, you’re within walking distance of:

• Times Square (5–7 minutes)
  
  

• Broadway theaters (5–10 minutes)
  
  

• Port Authority Bus Terminal (right across the street)
  
  

• Hudson Yards (15 minutes)
  
  

• Bryant Park & New York Public Library (15 minutes)
  
  

• Penn Station (about 15 minutes)
  
  

If you’re relying on public transportation, this location is incredibly convenient. Nearly every major subway line is accessible nearby, making it easy to reach downtown Manhattan, Brooklyn, or even JFK and LaGuardia airports.

For travelers asking whether Pod Hotel Times Square is safe—yes, it is. The area is busy, well-lit, and full of foot traffic at nearly all hours, which adds a layer of comfort, especially for solo travelers.

First Impressions and Check-In Experience

The lobby at Pod Hotel Times Square is modern, energetic, and surprisingly social. Unlike traditional hotel lobbies that feel quiet and formal, this space feels more like a hybrid between a café, lounge, and coworking area.

Check-in is usually quick and efficient, with friendly staff and self-service kiosks available during busy periods. Luggage storage is offered for a small fee, which is common for budget hotels in NYC.

One thing to note: this hotel is popular, especially during peak travel seasons. Expect a lively atmosphere, particularly in the evenings.

Rooms at Pod Hotel Times Square: Small but Smart

Let’s address the biggest question people have when booking a pod hotel in Times Square:
How small are the rooms?

Yes, they’re small—but they’re thoughtfully designed.

Room Types Available

Pod Hotel Times Square offers several room categories:

• Single Pod – One twin bed, shared bathroom
  
  

• Bunk Pod – Two twin bunk beds, shared bathroom
  
  

• Full Pod – Full-size bed, private bathroom
  
  

• Queen Pod – Queen bed, private bathroom
  
  

• ADA Accessible Rooms
  
  

The shared bathrooms are single-occupancy, cleaned frequently, and generally well-maintained. If you’re comfortable with hostel-style bathroom arrangements but want more privacy than a dorm, this is a nice middle ground.

What You Get in the Room

Despite the compact size, rooms are surprisingly functional:

• Comfortable mattress and clean linens
  
  

• Air conditioning and heating
  
  

• Flat-screen TV
  
  

• USB charging ports
  
  

• Small desk or fold-down table
  
  

• Hooks and under-bed storage
  
  

You won’t find mini-fridges or coffee makers in most rooms, but that’s part of the trade-off for affordability.

Noise Levels: Can You Sleep Near Times Square?

Being close to Times Square raises a fair concern about noise. While street noise is inevitable in Midtown Manhattan, Pod Hotel Times Square does a decent job with soundproofing.

Rooms on higher floors tend to be quieter, and interior-facing rooms experience less street noise. That said, if you’re a very light sleeper, bringing earplugs isn’t a bad idea—especially on weekends.

Amenities and Shared Spaces

Pod Hotel Times Square doesn’t overload guests with amenities, but what it does offer feels intentional.

Bar 42

Located on the ground floor, Bar 42 is one of the hotel’s highlights. It’s a casual bar and lounge where guests and locals mingle. Drinks are reasonably priced for NYC, and the vibe is relaxed without feeling chaotic.

Outdoor Patio

There’s also an outdoor patio space—a rare perk in this part of Manhattan. It’s a great spot to unwind after a long day of sightseeing.

Wi-Fi and Connectivity

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, and most guests report stable, fast connections suitable for work or streaming.

Who Is Pod Hotel Times Square Best For?

This hotel isn’t for everyone—but for the right traveler, it’s a fantastic choice.

Ideal For:

• Budget-conscious travelers
  
  

• Solo travelers and backpackers
  
  

• Couples who don’t mind small spaces
  
  

• Theater-goers and short-stay visitors
  
  

• Digital nomads who spend days out exploring
  
  

Not Ideal For:

• Travelers with lots of luggage
  
  

• Families with young children
  
  

• Those seeking luxury amenities
  
  

• Guests who plan to spend a lot of time in their room
  
  

If your priority is location over space, Pod Hotel Times Square makes a lot of sense.

Pricing and Value for Money

Prices at Pod Hotel Times Square fluctuate depending on season, demand, and room type. On average:

• Shared bathroom pods are significantly cheaper than traditional hotels nearby.
  
  

• Private bathroom pods are still competitively priced compared to Midtown alternatives.
  
  

When you consider how close the hotel is to Times Square and major transit hubs, the value becomes clear. You’re paying for location and efficiency, not excess.

Comparing Pod Hotel Times Square to Other Budget Hotels

Compared to hostels, Pod offers more privacy and better design. Compared to traditional budget hotels, it offers a better location at a similar or lower price—just with smaller rooms.

If you’ve stayed in European pod hotels or Japanese capsule hotels, this concept will feel familiar but more comfortable and Westernized.

Tips for Staying at Pod Hotel Times Square

To make the most of your stay:

• Book early for better rates
  
  

• Request a higher floor for less noise
  
  

• Pack light—storage space is limited
  
  

• Use public transportation instead of taxis
  
  

• Take advantage of the lobby and patio spaces
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Pod Hotel Times Square good for first-time visitors to NYC?

Yes. Its central location makes navigating the city easy, especially if you’re unfamiliar with New York.

Does Pod Hotel Times Square have private bathrooms?

Yes, but only in certain room types. Be sure to check before booking.

Is Pod Hotel Times Square clean?

Cleanliness is one of the most consistently praised aspects in guest reviews.

Can you work remotely from Pod Hotel Times Square?

Yes, especially from the lobby and shared spaces. Rooms are small but functional.

Final Verdict: Is Pod Hotel Times Square Worth It?

If you’re looking for a clean, modern, affordable hotel near Times Square, Pod Hotel Times Square absolutely delivers—so long as you understand what you’re booking.

It’s not about luxury or space. It’s about efficiency, location, and value.

For solo travelers, couples on a budget, or anyone who wants to spend their money on experiences rather than square footage, Pod Hotel Times Square is one of the smartest lodging options in Midtown Manhattan.