Hello, I realize this is an old thread but in the case someone else stumbles upon it and is looking for another POV - I was also fearful of this. Never have I ever tried it before except this November I was more or less stranded in NYC. I usually stay with my friend but there was a miscommunication after an event and she grew ill - not replying to texts and ultimately falling asleep. Leaving me with no way of knowing if she was home and not wanting to risk a sketchy ride to Queens myself. As it grew later I decided that I couldn't wait any longer and - what made it was: it started pouring rain. NYC is only a six hour train ride so I usually go with minimum amount of $ as possible so booking a hotel full price really was not an option unless I wanted to crack down and ask for money wired from my (very angry) parents. Decided to take my chances and if worst came to worst beg to stay in the lobby since I had a room. Won a ~90$ bid and checked into the Hilton Garden Inn Times Square with NO problems at all! Was very shocked and pleased with my room :) (off topic: I was expecting a cubicle for that price and location but it was very spacious - though admittedly not the best view). SO, if its true desperation, I think you'll be ok. As long as you look presentable (I was wearing nice clothes but my hair was an absolute wreck; I had no luggage whatsoever(at my friends house) - probably looked like a recently new homeless person. Be courteous to the front desk. I wouldn't stay at anything above a 3 - 3 1/2 stars, maybe four depending on the place. Typically I assume the higher end the more chance they'll say something or there will be a mini bar or something. I feel like 2-3 stars in new york have seen a lot worse come through their doors.
