Hard Rock Hotel New York Planned for Times Square

by Brian Major
Last updated: 5:30 PM ET, Mon June 6, 2016

PHOTO: Hamish Dodds, Hard Rock's CEO, announcing the new Hard Rock Hotel New York Monday in Times Square. (Photo by Brian Major).

Hard Rock International will launch its newest hotel near the famed "Crossroads of the World" in 2019 with the opening of the Hard Rock Hotel New York, a 445-room, newly built property to be located on 48^th Street, steps from Time Square.

The new property will continue the brand's connection with popular music in part via its location along what was previously known as "Music Row," a street once filled with musical instrument and guitar sellers, studios and repair shops. Hard Rock is developing the new hotel in collaboration with New York-based Extell Development Company.

"We're proud and eager to showcase the Hard Rock Hotels experience in New York City, a destination whose spirit and limitless energy aligns perfectly with our brand," says Hamish Dodds, Hard Rock International's chief executive officer. The new hotel will feature "customized amenities and programming that will deliver a one of a kind music experience tailored for New York City," Dodds added.

"Like other Hard Rock properties, the new hotel will feature stunning memorabilia displays adorning the walls," said Jon Lucas, Hard Rock International's Executive Vice President of Hotel and Casino Operations.

"The memorabilia will showcase both contemporary artists who call New York home, as well as iconic musicians in key moments in New York City music history. Those pieces will be selected from the world's largest music memorabilia collection. We have over 80,000 pieces so I think we will find a few that fit in this property."

"Times Square is synonymous with music and pop culture, from Broadway to the Brill Building, from live clubs to instrument stores on 48th Street's Music Row," said Tim Hopkins, president of the Times Square Alliance. "The imminent arrival of Hard Rock Hotel New York is music, not only to our ears, but to the ears of music lovers around the world."

The hotel will offer a large lobby featuring a signature restaurant and lounge plus a trendy lobby bar. The Hard Rock Hotel New York will also offer a rooftop venue where guests can enjoy daytime sunbathing and nighttime dancing while enjoying panoramic views of Times Square. Day and evening rooftop activities will range from artist and D.J. sessions to events featuring some of the most influential artists and celebrities.

The Hard Rock Hotel New York will also include a stylish, upscale underground speakeasy designed to "capture the essence of New York City's music subculture" for both locals and travelers, according to Hard Rock officials.

The property will also feature brand-specific amenities and programs exclusive including a Rock Spa featuring a Rhythm & Motion spa menu. Guests will also find music experiences available through Hard Rock's Sound of Your Stay music amenity program, which features Fender guitar and DJ-equipment rental delivered in-room.

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