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What do you do when you need to redeem a Hilton Honors Free Night Reward? I save my free night rewards for travel during Spring Break. However, I only traveled to Arizona and Virginia in 2025. I redeemed a free night with Marriott Bonvoy for a two-night stay in Phoenix. In addition, I redeemed a free night with World of Hyatt for a two-night stay in Alexandria. I then realized my free night reward with Hilton Honors expired on April 30. There was no way I was going to waste my hard-earned reward.
Depending on which credit card you carry, you may receive an award annually with your card membership. As a Hilton Grand Vacations timeshare owner, I strive to maximize my earnings and rewards with the company. For example, with the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card, I earn a free night award each time I spend $15,000. In addition, when I reserve a room with Hilton Honors Points for five nights, I receive the fifth night free. I strongly recommend selecting a hotel rewards program that fits your travel needs. Although Hilton has a large footprint, you can earn a free stay with the World of Hyatt starting at 3,500 points.
I could have redeemed my Hilton Honors Free Night Reward in Chicago, but I checked my Rapid Rewards account. After playing with the low-fare calendar, I discovered an inexpensive flight to New York. I applied a promo code to the flight and used 20,500 points and $5.60 to book my flight. When I checked a week later, the fare increased to 36,000 points or $554. I booked this flight 14 days in advance. By the way, I forgot about my American Express Platinum Card when I booked my first flight. I only paid half the taxes because of a credit card hack. If you carry the AMEX Platinum Card, choose your airline based on your loyalty program.
I called Hilton to reserve my free night. The customer service representative added a note to the reservation to upgrade my room if available. I am a Diamond Member. Of course, I received two DoubleTree cookies when I checked in, and my room was on the 23rd floor. Rooms on a high floor are considered an upgrade. In addition, I received a $18 Food & Beverage Credit. Room 2307 was clean and well-maintained. Yes, it is small. I was surprised the windows opened. Even though I earned a free night reward, I checked the rates on the Hilton website, which started at $403 for Hilton Honors Members.
Shortly after I checked in, I headed to VUE180 Rooftop for a light snack. The view is gorgeous, but the space is small. I met a couple from the UK, and a gentleman from Baltimore joined me at my table. Again, seating is scarce. I ordered a sharable charcuterie board. If you like Elderflower, try the Central Park. Although I wanted to sit outside longer, the rain came in with a vengeance. Indoor seating is available, but I did not want to sit inside at a rooftop bar.
I never use rideshare in New York. I knew exactly where to purchase my MetroCard, loaded $14.50 ($1 service charge) on the card, and boarded the Q70 SBS bus to Roosevelt Av & 74 St. After a quick walk from Penn Station, I arrived at the DoubleTree by Hilton in 49 minutes. Trust me, the time will pass by quickly. Enjoy the ride on public transportation.
In summary, booking a room at the DoubleTree by Hilton Times Square South is convenient for access to the Empire State Building (12-minute walk) and Madison Square Garden (4-minute walk). The hotel is also near several subway lines and Penn Station. Finally, the DoubleTree offers a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable.
I spent $51 at VUE180 w/tip minus the $18 Food & Beverage credit. Transportation costs included $5.60 for my roundtrip flight, $15.50 for a MetroCard, and $30 for garage parking at Midway. Of course, I did not leave New York without purchasing souvenir stickers and a patch ($18.25). I also left a tip ($8) at Club MDW and LGA Centurion Lounge. Remember, I only needed money for one meal because I enjoyed a complimentary breakfast at Club MDW and the Centurion Lounge at LGA. My total cost for a one-night stay in New York to redeem a free night reward was $110.35. Have you signed up for an airline or hotel rewards program? What are you waiting for?