Central Parking System – Westside

Live in the area, but need to park a vehicle occasionally– did the same thing to us both times as the other reviewer wrote. They give you the special event rate upon entering, then when picking up vehicle claim they did not. Upon further asking around, turns out everyone in the neighborhood knows they’re all about scamming people. There’s literally 4 – 5 other garages on the block, use another one.

Whether or not you’re going to the area to dine, walk around, go shopping, or what have you — you WILL be charged for «event» parking if there happens to be an event in the area.
So, already knowing that I was in overpriced Manhattan and already knowing I was likely going to have to overpay for a parking spot in a garage like this, I happened upon this place which is located on 34^th Street (though they officially have a 9^th Avenue address) and tired of circling, I pulled in here.
First thing upon entering is a price list which looks like it’s a good deal, until you pull down to the register below and you see the real prices (which is pretty much the same, but a few dollars more of «tax» included now). Yes, I get it, but still kinda of crappy to not display the right price up front. Pulling in here is tricky, because if another car is coming the opposite way or people are walking, there’s virtually no room — so use caution not only with your wallet/​purse, but now with pulling in here.
Of course they demanded money up front and charges event prices — either for the Javitt’s Center ($ 42) or MSG ($ 46)…which of course ended up being $ 46. The only good thing is that it was $ 46 for at least up to 10 hours or more, though I wasn’t going to need that much time. If I was staying in the area for only an hour and NOT be going to one of the «events», I’d apparently still have to pay that $ 46 anyway. Nice and scammy. Why advertise all sorts of prices and then just mutter «$ 46 prepaid» in a rude manner? Already weary of driving around this area during rush hour I agreed and paid the amount, since I just wanted to get out and walk already. Really, $ 46 is not terrible for me, but this place — like most others in the area — just like to milk people.
A few hours later, I came back and saw a new sign stating «Event Parking in Effect». Nice touch AFTER, because it wasn’t there BEFORE. The person in front of me tipped the guy after getting her car, but I really didn’t see the need here especially after they already got a good amount of money in the first place and not too friendly to boot.
The ONE good and convenient thing with this location is that if you’re looking to use the West Side Highway, it’s a simple right turn out and just a few blocks away on 34^th street.
Bottom line, would be nice of this place and places like it to display their REAL prices up front (taxes and all included) and display that «Event Parking» will be in effect whether you’re going to an actual event or not. I don’t expect them to because it is Manhattan after all. So, if you want a decent, indoor, and conveniently located parking garage to house your car and you’re not concerned about the overpricing, this is your place.