After nearly three years serving as an emergency shelter for newly arrived migrants, the Row Hotel in Times Square is slated to swing its doors back open to tourists on May 1, 2026. The Midtown high-rise is coming back online after a full renovation that refreshes guest rooms, retools the lobby and public spaces, and adds a new all-day café. The pivot marks a major reset for a building that became one of the city’s most visible shelter hotels during the surge in 2022.
According to Hotel Dive, ROW NYC will relaunch on May 1 as an approximately 1,300-room property with a reimagined lobby, a 90-seat Percy All Day café, a fitness center and programming geared toward Broadway and group travelers. A release from PR Newswire notes that nightly rates will start at $279, with reservations already open.
From shelter to tourist hub
The property was converted into temporary housing for asylum seekers in October 2022, and City Hall says it did not renew the shelter contract when it expired in April 2026. NY1 reported that the Row ultimately housed thousands of migrants, while Mayor Eric Adams described the closures as "another major milestone" in the city’s response. The Associated Press has documented how families began leaving hotel shelter sites as officials shortened stays and moved residents to other placements.
Neighborhood and workers
Hell's Kitchen business owners and hotel workers say they are watching closely for signs of rehiring and a return of pre-show foot traffic to restaurants and theaters near the Row. As reported by W42ST, several Midtown hotels have toggled between use as shelters and traditional tourist operations, and some owners have explored other conversions. Industry observers told Hospitality Net that the Row's size will be a test for Midtown demand, since reintroducing such a large block of rooms could ease shortages at peak periods and influence pricing and staffing decisions.
Bookings and what to expect
ROW NYC's official site lists booking details and a grand-reopening offer, with reservations live now and a special two-night discount for early stays. The hotel's website outlines room packages, details on Percy All Day and contact information for group bookings. Travelers should expect a central, budget-friendly Midtown option aimed at theatergoers and families.
What remains to be seen is how quickly staff will be rehired and where remaining shelter residents will be relocated, as city officials say they will prioritize families while closing hotel sites. Reporting from NY1 and the Associated Press has tracked the city's plan to wind down hotel-based shelters as arrivals declined.
