First Time in NYC: Hotel Fees, Check-In and What to Expect
New York hotel bills carry more than the room rate. Expect a nightly destination or facility fee, tax on that fee, paid parking, and a check-in age limit. Knowing the numbers before you book avoids the surprise at the desk.
What is a destination fee?
A nightly charge for inclusions the hotel packages with the room. At Aura it is $35 per night, plus tax, covering Wi-Fi and a welcome drink at The Long Room next door. It is not optional, so treat it as part of the rate.
What does parking cost?
Self-parking at the partner garage runs about $75 per night before tax. There is no valet. For a theatre trip the car is usually the most expensive item after the room, which is why most guests arriving by air skip it entirely.
What time can you check in?
Check-in is 4:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM. The minimum age to check in is 21, and a credit card and photo ID are required. Early arrival usually means luggage storage and a walk, not an early room.
What is in the room, and what costs extra?
Wi-Fi is included through the destination fee and the fitness center downstairs has Peloton equipment. Mini fridges are available for a fee. There are no rollaway beds, and the hotel is entirely smoke-free. Pets are welcome at $150 per pet per stay, up to two, with a bed and bowls on request.
How much should you budget beyond the room?
A reasonable working figure for two people: destination fee $35, parking $75 if driving, breakfast $20 to $35 each, and dinner $60 to $120 each at the hotel restaurants. Subway fares are $2.90 a ride, and most theatre-district walks cost nothing at all.
Frequently asked questions
Do New York hotels charge a resort fee?
Many Midtown hotels charge a nightly destination or facility fee. At Aura it is $35 per night plus tax, covering Wi-Fi and a welcome drink.
Can you check in before 4:00 PM?
Not guaranteed. Bags can be held at the desk while you walk the neighborhood.
Is parking included?
No. Self-parking runs about $75 per night before tax at the partner garage, with no valet service.
Aura Hotel Times Square, 120 W 44th Street, New York, NY 10036, (212) 710-7000. Current policies are confirmed at booking.