The Howard Johnson at Penn Station - the property behind the name

A Midtown Manhattan property popularly called the Howard Johnson at Penn Station placed guests within walking distance of Penn Station, Madison Square Garden, Times Square and Broadway. The building was later rebranded (appearing in some guides as the Regency Inn & Suites). Because names and amenities have changed over time, verify the current operating name, address and services before booking.

Overview

For decades travelers associated a budget, no-frills hotel steps from Manhattan's transport hub with the Howard Johnson name. That property, long marketed to business travelers and tourists for its central address, later operated under other brands and is commonly remembered by longtime visitors as the Howard Johnson at Penn Station.

Location and nearby landmarks

The hotel sits in the Midtown Manhattan corridor around Pennsylvania Station, placing it within easy reach of Madison Square Garden, the Manhattan Center, Broadway theatres and Times Square. That centrality made it popular with visitors who wanted quick access to rail connections, performance venues and the city's shopping and business districts.

History and rebranding

Originally part of the Howard Johnson chain, the building was rebranded in later years and has operated under different names, including listings as the Regency Inn & Suites in some travel guides. The Howard Johnson name has persisted in popular memory, even after those changes.

Rooms and amenities (what to expect today)

The midtown property historically offered modest rooms with basic in-room conveniences such as telephones, irons and cable TV. Many city hotels have since updated rooms with Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and modern climate control; but the exact amenities now offered at this address should be confirmed before booking. ¹

Breakfast was promoted as a complimentary continental offering in older descriptions. Current service levels (complimentary breakfast, lounge access, or onsite food service) vary by operator and should be verified with the hotel's current listing or booking platforms. ²

Practical tips

If you want the convenience of staying near Penn Station and the arenas and theatres of Midtown, search for the property by address, not only by the Howard Johnson name. Compare current reviews and the hotel's official page or major booking sites to confirm its operating name, amenities, and recent guest feedback. ³

Bottom line

The building that many remember as the Howard Johnson at Penn Station remains a convenient Midtown option in memory and in location. Its name and management have changed over time, so verify the current brand and services before you book.

1. Confirm the current operating name and street address of the former Howard Johnson property near Penn Station
2. Verify current room amenities (Wi-Fi, TV type, climate control, in-room facilities) for the property at that address
3. Check whether the property currently offers complimentary breakfast or other food services
4. Confirm walking times/distances from the hotel address to Penn Station, Madison Square Garden, Times Square and Manhattan Center
5. Verify current ownership/operator and any recent rebranding history