I had a short trip for 4 days last Jan, it was fab. I stayed at the Wolcott Hotel, which is a budget hotel in midtown Manhattan. It's an older hotel, but very clean and the decor is beautiful, all marble and gold. In that area, you are right in the middle of everything - the Empire State is just round the corner, Broadway is about 15 minute walk away. Unfortunately, the prices go up in December and thats why I left my trip until January. You just won't be able to see everything in 4 days. I enjoyed it so much though, I am returning next September for a fortnight!