You re on the right track. Last time we went, we stayed in North Bergen, NJ. We saved a bundle over staying in Manhattan. If you re driving, just make sure you have toll and parking money. If you are planning on riding the subway, try to get close to the NJ Transit line or the P.A.T.H., that s Port Authority Trans Hudson. Here s a Map: http://www.eurohotelguide.com/transport/��Have a blast and don t play the 3 card monty.
You could try Priceline or HotWire, if you re willing to pay before you know exactly which hotel you re getting. [And if you re savvy with Priceline; I prefer HotWire.] If you want to be in the city, then you don t want to stay in Jersey or on Long Island, especially. The commute will wear you out. You can t drive, as there s nowhere to park unless you want to pay an arm and a leg and then there goes any savings you thought you had with your hotel. It IS expensive to stay in the City - that s just reality. But people I know have gotten good deals through Priceline.
You can check out he hotels in Jersey City, NJ. Depending on your budget, may I recommend the link below.http://travel.yahoo.com/p-hotel-477673?f��Good luck