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Why Thompson Central Park Is One of the Best Hotels in New York City

Planning a trip to New York City is exciting but choosing where to stay can feel overwhelming. With thousands of hotels spread across dozens of neighborhoods, the right location and hotel can completely shape your experience.


If you’re looking for a stylish, centrally located hotel that puts you steps from New York’s most iconic sights, Thompson Central Park New York is one of the best places to stay in NYC.


grey hotel facade of the Thompson central park with a woman in grey jacket walking in to the lobby

Best Way to Book Thompson Central Park New York

Unless you’re a dedicated Hyatt loyalist, I highly recommend booking Thompson Central Park through American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts with the Amex Platinum Card.

Booking this way provided incredible value, including:

  • $300 Amex travel credit

  • Daily breakfast credit (up to $120 total during my stay)

  • $100 property credit

  • Late checkout


I stayed here in December during the holidays, so upgrades were limited, but room upgrades are often available through the program when inventory allows.


If you’re not currently an Amex Platinum cardholder, it’s absolutely worth considering. While the annual fee is high, it can be easily offset when you plan just one well-timed trip. This single stay alone delivered over $600 in value.



The Perfect Location for First-Time and Repeat NYC Visitors

When visiting New York City, location matters more than almost anything else, and Thompson Central Park delivers one of the most convenient addresses in Manhattan.

The hotel sits just steps from the southwest corner of Central Park and is within easy walking distance of:


  • Central Park

  • Fifth Avenue shopping

  • Broadway theaters

  • Rockefeller Center

  • Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

  • Carnegie Hall


Whether you’re in the city for a long weekend or a full week, staying here means spending less time navigating subway lines and more time actually experiencing the city.



Inside Thompson Central Park New York

Thompson Central Park blends mid-century modern design with a sleek, contemporary feel which makes it a refreshing alternative to more traditional New York hotels.


Rooms & Views

Rooms are thoughtfully designed for city travelers and offer:

  • Large windows with skyline or Central Park views

  • Layouts that feel spacious by NYC standards

  • High-quality bedding and upscale finishes

  • Modern bathrooms with walk-in showers



After long days of sightseeing, the rooms provide a calm, stylish retreat from the city’s nonstop energy.


Like all NYC hotels, space is limitted so you wont find many grand open spaces. The Lobby and larger lobby bar and restaraunt is nice but on the smaller side. There is an Exhale Spa and gym on the basement level for those looking for a massage or a workout.



Dining Without Leaving the Hotel

Thompson Central Park features excellent on-site dining options, including:

  • Parker’s NYC – The lobby restaurant and bar, and the go-to spot for breakfast before heading out

  • Indian Accent – A globally acclaimed restaurant offering modern Indian cuisine in an elegant setting

  • Burger Joint – A cult-favorite hidden burger spot known for its no-frills vibe and legendary status


In addition, you’ll find countless dining options on the surrounding streets.


Two Dinner Reservations You MUST Book Nearby


Avra Madison

Just four blocks from the hotel, Avra Madison is a chic Mediterranean restaurant with exceptional food and ambiance. You’re welcomed with pita, hummus, and olives which was a classy touch and great way to start the meal.


What we ordered:

  • Avra Chips

  • Greek Salad

  • Branzino for two

  • Parmesan truffle fries



Trattoria Dell’Arte

Only two blocks away, this classic Italian restaurant is an NYC staple. The portions are generous, the food is incredible, and it’s perfect for sharing.


Highly recommend:

  • Garlic Bread Loaf

  • Caprese Salad

  • Carbonara Pasta

  • Chicken Parm



A Hotel That Fits How People Actually Travel in NYC

Thompson Central Park is ideal for:

  • First-time NYC visitors

  • Couples planning a romantic city escape

  • Broadway and theatergoers

  • Shoppers focused on Fifth Avenue and Midtown

  • Travelers who want easy access to Central Park mornings and evenings


Its location also makes it easy to explore multiple neighborhoods, including Midtown, the Upper West Side, and downtown. The subway is just one block away, making it simple to get anywhere in the city.


Things to Do when planning your trip

There are so many amazing things to do when planning your trip to NYC. Here are some of my favorites from the trip.


Explore Central Park. Thankfully there was a snow storm and it was absolutely breathtaking to witness the city covered in fresh snow.



See the lights and sights at Times Square.



Go see a show on Broadway. The Book of Morman was hilarious although certainly not for children.


Find a rooftop like the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center for breaktaking 360 degree views of the city.


Walk and explore the city and its amazing architecture like the Vessell at Hudson Yards, or sky scrapers from the Flatiron Building to the Empire State Building.





Final Thoughts: Is Thompson Central Park Worth It?

I spent a lot of time researching hotels before booking my New York City trip, and Thompson Central Park did not disappoint. The location is unbeatable, the hotel itself is stylish and comfortable, and the Amex perks added tremendous value to the stay.

If you’re a Hyatt member, it’s even more of a no-brainer as you can earn or redeem points for future free stays. For anyone planning a trip to NYC and wanting a seamless, elevated experience, Thompson Central Park is an excellent choice.

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