We (mom and kids 9 & 12) went to NYC last year for the first time before the holidays and stayed in Times Square. It was perfect for walking to Radio City Music Hall for the Rockettes and over to Rockefeller Center to see the tree and light show (and the M&M store!). Yes, it's loud and crazy but we only went for a long weekend. We took the subway from our corner to Macy's and the Harry Potter store. I wouldn't recommend our specific hotel. It was ok but had some issues that I see from TripAdvisor reviews have gotten worse. The Hard Rock Hotel was on the same block and might be fun with tweens, not sure of pricing, though (might be outrageous).

The Beacon is in my neighborhood. It's a safe residential area, has easy access to the subway, and you can walk to Columbus Circle, Lincoln Center, Central Park, and the American Museum of Natural History quite easily.

Don’t stay in Times Square if you want to sleep.

Where should I stay with my 13 and 11 year old next November. We are going to the Rockettes but want to wander around as well. We have never been!! Don't want super fancy, but nice location and safe for a mom and 2 kids. My friend said The Beacon or Moxy Times Square but open to anything.