NYC Trip in December

We went without kids once. Stayed at the Wellington. Between Central Park and Times Square, plus a Subway station right outside the entrance. Clean enough for us but that was 10 years ago. Check Tripadvisor.

I like the Wellington as well.

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My wife just stayed at The Element and really liked it. They have rooms with fridges and kitchens.
Three blocks from Times Square
I would also suggest staying in Jersey City. Right across the Hudson and rates will be cheaper. Easy commute into the city by PATH or ferry

We just went in Dec, stayed at the Hilton in Times Square, it is central to everything, but my next trip I wouldn't stay in times square.

Honestly, if you already know your dates for sure and you don't care what brand of hotel you stay at, use hotwire.com. I've saved a shite ton of money and gotten a real nice hotel every time (as long as I put in 3 stars or more). Only caveats are no refunds for any reason other than a government travel restriction (like severe weather or God forbid a natural disaster) and you don't know the exact hotel until after you pay. But you know within a mile of which hotel you will get and how many stars it is, so you sorta see what's there and if it works.

Check when Santa Con is and avoid that weekend if at all possible.

Went in January and stayed at the Park Central, really nice Hotel and right near subway if u need to get anywhere,,, also just a few blocks from Central Park. Also if you are around 57th street and 7th Ave go to Fluffys Cafe ..Amazing Cheesecake !!

Hamilton is sold out at least a year out

NY hotel rooms are tiny and expensive comparatively. I can't imagine 5 people in 1 room. Try VRBO or home away for an apartment in midtown or surrounding areas.