An extensive makeover by famed designer Jordan Mozer transformed this Marriott-owned hotel from cookie-cutter to au courant. The lobby is modern without being steely, thanks to blue and red leather chairs and funky orb-shaped ceiling fixtures. Rooms have stylish, dark hardwood furniture and blue and gold accents, plus modern necessities like technology panels where you can plug in all your electronics—iPod, cell phone, laptop—in one place. Bathrooms have robes and LATHER products. The restaurant Two Times Square on the second floor has sweet views of Times Square. (Hint: For just-as-cool views of the square, ask for an upper-floor room overlooking Seventh Avenue).

Renaissance New York Hotel Times Square Amenities:

• 305 rooms. Wireless Internet access. Restaurant, bar. Fitness center. Pets accepted.