Choosing a hotel in New York City can feel overwhelming because there are so many options. I experienced this when I planned my first visit to the “Big Apple” a few weeks ago. With its varied neighborhoods, complicated transportation, numerous dining options, and countless hotel possibilities, my trip could have quickly turned chaotic. However, one thing I was sure of was my desire to stay in a themed hotel suite while in New York City.

Only a few themed hotel suites are available in New York City at any given moment. I was fortunate enough to secure a reservation for a “Lion King”-themed suite at the Hilton New York Times Square. What was my stay like in a themed suite in this bustling city, and what other themed suites are available? Here’s my experience in THE LION KING’s Royal Suite, along with other themed hotel suites in New York City that are worth checking out.

My stay in THE LION KING’s Royal Suite

As soon as I entered the Hilton New York Times Square, I felt like I was in for something special. The hotel provided a calm sanctuary from the chaos of Times Square, which is filled with vibrant billboards, street performers, and chain restaurants. I stepped into THE LION KING’s Royal Suite, inspired by the Broadway version of this classic animated film.

This newly launched suite was designed by Devin Sparkles Design, known for creating dressing rooms for Broadway productions. The two-room suite features a roomy living area equipped with two sofas and a large dining table. This proved useful when I opted for room service one evening, making me grateful for the spacious table. The living room displays artistic interpretations of costumes and props from THE LION KING on Broadway, along with special lighting that gives the impression of a sunset lingering over the savanna.

The second room boasted a spacious bedroom, complete with a television and a private bathroom. I was pleasantly shocked by the bathroom’s decor, featuring realistic faux plants and critters reminiscent of the “Hakuna Matata” scene. The bedroom was generously sized for two guests, and the bed provided a comfortable night’s sleep. Although the hotel sits at the edge of Times Square, the suite was surprisingly quiet.

Guests who book THE LION KING’s Royal Suite also enjoy several exclusive perks. These include a unique signed costume design from one of the Broadway actors, the option to receive a wake-up call from Tshidi Manye, who portrays Rafiki, and two specialty Lion King-themed cocktails or mocktails, along with Broadway merchandise and a s’mores dessert.

I thoroughly enjoyed my stay in the suite for four and would not hesitate to book it again, especially if I travel to New York City with someone who adores Broadway shows or Disney.

Additional themed hotel suites in New York City

Unless you’re planning to spend weeks in New York City—which you could easily do given how much there is to see—you won’t be able to visit all the themed hotel suites in just one trip. If you’re looking to reserve a single suite during your stay, here are some of the top options in the city.

The stunning success of Universal Pictures’ “Wicked,” which has been trending on social media since its release on November 22, has sparked interest in the ‘Stay Like’ Wicked Suite at the New York Hilton Midtown. This engaging themed suite accommodates up to four guests and is now available for booking.

through January 26, 2025. While the availability of this suite is limited, there’s still time for you to indulge in this uniquely pink and green accommodation.

As you enter the suite, you’ll be greeted by Emerald City-themed wallpaper and a door that has been custom-designed for the experience. Once you step through this welcoming entrance, a living area awaits that’s reminiscent of the Wizard’s Throne room, complete with a beverage bar and abundant green decor.

The suite boasts a bedroom designed around the characters Elphaba and Glinda, perfectly split down the middle with vibrant pink and green elements. Elphaba’s section is themed around Shiz University and the magical forest, while Glinda’s pink side features custom wallpaper inspired directly by the film, including a lovely cherry blossom tree canopy above the bed.

But the excitement doesn’t stop with the decor in this enchanting New York City hotel suite. Guests can look forward to in-room happy hours featuring pink and green cocktails. Each morning begins with a delightful surprise—a balloon floating above breakfast pastries waiting for you. Additionally, you’ll receive a collection of memorable gifts to take home, such as a backpack from the Wicked x Béis luggage line, Wicked-themed Beekman 1802 products, and OPI x Wicked nail polish. Plus, Fandango movie tickets are included, allowing you to enjoy the film either at home or in the heart of New York City.

If you’re enchanted by Disney on Broadway, consider booking a stay in Aladdin’s Times Square Palace Suite at the Hilton New York Times Square. This studio corner suite features a king bed and accommodates up to four guests, offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. The suite is adorned with theatrical prints depicting costumes and set designs from “Aladdin the Musical.”

One delightful touch is the enchanting magic lamp complemented by a neon sign, giving the illusion of wisps of smoke swirling from Genie. The bathroom transports you to the Cave of Wonders, embellished with golden mirrors and accents, alongside a scatter of gems and pearls to admire.

Your stay includes complimentary cocktails and mocktails, followed by a wake-up call from Michael James Scott, who plays Genie in the show, along with a free breakfast to start your day right.

For lovers of theater, the Tony Awards Terrace Suite at the Sofitel New York is an ideal retreat. Nestled in the vibrant Midtown Manhattan, this location puts you in proximity to a variety of Broadway theaters, art galleries, museums, restaurants, and much more.

The suite’s terrace offers breathtaking views of the Chrysler Building and Empire State Building. Inside, it showcases an impressive collection of Tony Awards memorabilia, including award-winning scripts, songbooks, opening night photos, invites, posters, and Playbills dating back to the 1960s.

This one-of-a-kind Tony Awards-themed suite in New York City features 650 square feet of space on the 24th floor and includes a king bed. Guests will also benefit from a host of luxury amenities, such as a Bose music system, a marble bathroom equipped with a rain shower and separate tub, along with Balmain toiletries.

The Plaza has held the title of New York’s top hotel since 1907. Fans of Eloise, a fictional six-year-old girl residing at the hotel, will be thrilled to stay in the Eloise Suite.

This enchanting suite comes in two layouts—one being just the Eloise suite with its own bathroom. Alternatively, it can connect to an adjacent room for a more spacious family-friendly setup. Designed by Betsey Johnson, the primary Eloise suite is filled with an array of pink hues. In the closet, you’ll find Eloise’s clothes alongside her beloved belongings displayed on the shelves, all available for guests to enjoy.

With your reservation, you’ll receive an Eloise-themed Upon arrival, you will receive a delightful gift bag that includes a robe, a warm welcome letter from Eloise, some sweets, and refreshing pink lemonade for you to savor. Additionally, your family is invited to enjoy afternoon tea in the famous Palm Court, featuring an Eloise-inspired tea menu.

My experience included staying in a Lion King-themed hotel suite in New York City. Here’s how you can discover themed suites for yourself, originally featured on FamilyVacationist.com.

The thoughts and views shared in this column belong to the author and may not necessarily align with those of YSL News. Both FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com are operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Utilizing the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation system, we evaluate and recommend family vacation concepts, destinations, all-inclusive resorts, and traditional family vacations suitable for all ages. TourScoop provides insights on guided tours, review of tour operators, evaluation of tour plans, and suggestions for travel essentials.