LUMA Hotel Times Square

LUMA Hotel Times Square does not take its name lightly. This upper-middle-range boutique is decked out in lighting and decor that favors bold and bright colors, almost as an exercise in chromotherapy. Lights run along the edges of countertops, accent ceilings and floors, and outline walls and doorways throughout the common areas, giving off a futuristic, modern feel. In addition to creative lighting, decor features eclectic statement pieces and contemporary artwork. Affordable rates, a fun atmosphere, and superb location are big draws for families and couples on a budget. Having NYC's first robot butler amplifies that in-the-future feeling. The bar area mimics this look, while the hotel's restaurant stands out with its comparatively dialed-down decor and warm, natural-colored lighting. For some, this hotel's bright decor may be overkill, while for others it may be just the prism of pizazz they are seeking. It certainly makes a statement when compared to the generic chain hotels in the area.

LUMA Hotel Times Square is located within a four-minute walk from the official center of Times Square. It's also just less than one minute from Bryant Park, a five-minute walk from the New York Public Library, and 11 minutes from the Empire State Building on foot. This is an ideal spot for travelers looking to be close to several of NYC's biggest attractions and numerous subway lines. The MoMA and Theater District are all within 10 minutes on foot as well. Central Park is just a 20-minute walk north, and Grand Central Terminal is 10 minutes away on foot. Newark Liberty International Airport, JFK, and LaGuardia Airport are all around a 30-minute drive away, depending on traffic, or an hour to 90 minutes via public transit. The Port Authority Bus Terminal is less than three blocks away, and Penn Station is an 11-minute walk from the Luma Times Square.

LUMA's 120 rooms are fairly subdued compared to other areas of the hotel. Expect a fresh and modern look, great natural light, and an overall gray color scheme that features pops of color in accents and wall art. Bright blues and greens were chosen to help keep guests productive and energized, while the pillow-top beds are exceptionally comfortable and outfitted with Frette linens. Contemporary bathrooms sport Frette bathrobes, glass walk-in showers, and color-coded ETRO toiletries. Keeping with the hotel's modern lean, all rooms have 50-inch smart TVs, electronic shades and blackout curtains, and come with digital subscriptions to the New York Times and Wall Street Journal. Nightly turndown service, Nespresso machines with free pods, and a daily glass of free sangria are nice touches. All rooms have work desks, plenty of outlets and USB ports, and a sofa that pulls out into a full-sized bed. Upgrade to a Metro View Room or higher to escape views of neighboring brick walls. Luma Suites add more space and have queen-sized sofa beds, but do not include separate living room areas. ADA rooms are available on request. 

Ortizi is the hotel's Spanish restaurant led by Iron Chef and James Beard Award-winning chef Jose Garces. Ortizi feels more elegant than other areas of the hotel with geometric patterns projected by natural light and a warm, neutral color scheme. This Basque-influenced restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a host of other menus, ranging from pre-theater prix fixe to happy hour. Next door, the Ortizi Tapas Bar picks up the fluorescent lights in the lobby and has a more lounge-like vibe. This is where guests can sip their free daily glass of sangria or try a craft cocktail. Outside of these two spaces, on-site features are slim. There is no gym or spa on property, though the LUMA Glow wellness program can bring workouts (and gear), sleep kits, grooming supplies, and accessories to guest rooms. Guests are also given free and discount passes to nearby gyms. A 24-hour front desk can arrange tours and tickets or set up dry cleaning for a fee, while the city's first robot butler is on hand to deliver any simple requests, like extra toiletries or towels, to guests in their rooms. Public parking is available for a high daily rate, and reservations are required.