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Times Square

4
·1 reviews·, United Kingdom

The dazzling 'Crossroads of the World,' Times Square pulsates with energy, iconic billboards, and the magic of Broadway.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early Mornings

Fewer crowds, great for photos

CrowdLow
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Time Square - Image 1

Times Square

Best Time

Early Mornings

Fewer crowds, great for photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The dazzling 'Crossroads of the World,' Times Square pulsates with energy, iconic billboards, and the magic of Broadway.

4
(1 reviews)

"It's a sensory overload, but an absolute must-see for any first-time visitor to NYC!"

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Lights

Visit at night for the most spectacular photos of the billboards! :camerawithflash:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing. Comfort is key! :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Ball Drop

The Iconic Ball Drop

One Times Square

Witness the legendary New Year's Eve ball drop, a global spectacle of light and celebration.

Broadway's Bright Lights

Broadway's Bright Lights

Theater District

Experience world-class theater with dazzling performances that captivate audiences nightly.

Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds

234 W 42nd St

Get up close with lifelike wax figures of your favorite celebrities and historical icons.

The Red Steps

The Red Steps

TKTS Booth

Iconic viewing spot offering panoramic views of the bustling square and its vibrant billboards.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Energy (and Crowds)

Times Square is a sensory overload! Expect massive crowds, especially during peak hours and holidays. Plan your visit for early mornings or late nights to experience its magic with fewer people. Book any shows or attractions in advance to avoid disappointment.

Navigating the Neon Jungle

Getting around Times Square and NYC is part of the adventure. The subway is your best friend for efficient travel. Consider a MetroCard for easy access to multiple rides. Walking is also a great way to soak in the atmosphere, but wear comfortable shoes!

Best Times

When
Early Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, great for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Late Evenings
Why
Neon lights are magical
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays (mid-morning)
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Our hotel view of the beautiful city that never sleeps! #newyorkcity #timesquare
@myaavani
142.5K likes • 1.4M views

📸 Capture the Lights

Visit at night for the most spectacular photos of the billboards! :camerawithflash: Instagram+1

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing. Comfort is key! :athletic_shoe: TikTok

Top 5 Things to do in Times Square NYC #nyc #NewYork #TimesSquare #travel #tourism #visitnyc #nybucketlist
@jeffreyinnyc
108K likes • 2.5M views
I had to bring my dance to the city 😝 . . . #reelsdance #reels #litdances #dancechallenge #dancer #tiktok #reelsinstagram #newyorkcity #dance #timessquare #danielamontero1018
danielamontero1018
118.5K likes • 2.7M views

🎟️ Book Attractions Ahead

For shows and popular attractions, book tickets in advance to secure your spot. :admission_tickets: TikTok

🚇 Master the Subway

The subway is the fastest way to get around NYC. Get a MetroCard for easy travel. :subway: TikTok

Drop “New York” in the comments and I’ll DM you my travel guide 🇺🇸 ✨ #newyork #nyc #timessquare #drone #travel
tootripsy
6.1M likes • 56.4M views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Lights

Visit at night for the most spectacular photos of the billboards! :camerawithflash: Instagram+1

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing. Comfort is key! :athletic_shoe: TikTok

🎟️ Book Attractions Ahead

For shows and popular attractions, book tickets in advance to secure your spot. :admission_tickets: TikTok

🚇 Master the Subway

The subway is the fastest way to get around NYC. Get a MetroCard for easy travel. :subway: TikTok

🚶‍♂️ Explore Beyond the Main Square

Discover hidden gems and quieter spots just off the main drag. :compass: TikTok

What Travellers Say

4
(1 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Times Square is a vibrant, energetic hub that truly embodies the spirit of New York City. Visitors rave about the dazzling lights, the iconic billboards, and the electric atmosphere, especially at night. While some find the crowds overwhelming and the area overly commercialized, most agree it's an essential, albeit intense, NYC experience.

"Building is starting to take shape"

Andy Topham

What People Like

Dazzling billboards
Electric atmosphere
Broadway shows

What People Dislike

Overwhelming crowds
Commercialization

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Times Square is easily accessible by numerous subway lines, including the 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W, and S trains. Many bus routes also serve the area. If driving, be aware that parking is expensive and traffic can be heavy. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Walking is one of the best ways to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Times Square and its surrounding areas. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe: TikTok

The subway is highly recommended for efficient travel to and from Times Square. For exploring the immediate area, walking is ideal. :subway: TikTok

Yes, there are several parking garages, but they can be quite expensive. It's generally more cost-effective to use public transportation. Reddit

Taxis and rideshares are readily available, but traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times, especially during peak hours. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Times Square itself is a public space and does not require an entry ticket. However, attractions within Times Square, like Broadway shows or Madame Tussauds, will require tickets. :admission_tickets: TikTok

Times Square is open 24/7, 365 days a year. The surrounding shops and attractions have their own operating hours. TikTok

Visiting the public areas of Times Square is free! Costs will vary depending on any shows, attractions, or dining you choose to experience. TikTok

You can purchase Broadway tickets online through official ticketing sites, at the theater box office, or at the TKTS booth in Times Square for discounted same-day tickets. TikTok

Yes! Simply walking around, people-watching, enjoying the billboards, and taking photos are all free. The Red Steps offer a great vantage point. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

For the iconic neon billboards, nighttime is best. For fewer crowds and softer light, early mornings are ideal. Instagram+1

The Red Steps at the TKTS booth offer a classic view. Rooftop bars and hotels also provide stunning panoramic photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Generally, personal photography is allowed. For commercial shoots, permits may be required. Always be mindful of others. Instagram

A camera with good low-light performance is recommended for nighttime shots. A wide-angle lens can help capture the grandeur of the billboards. :camerawithflash:

While generally permitted, avoid intrusive photography, especially of performers or private establishments. Be respectful of the space and other visitors. Instagram

🎫 🏨 Hotels & Accommodation

Popular options include the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel, Pod Times Square, Hotel Riu Plaza New York Times Square, and The Manhattan at Times Square Hotel. TikTok+2

Consider hotels like Pod Times Square or YOTEL New York Times Square for more affordable options. TikTok

Hotels like the W Times Square or the Hyatt Centric Times Square often offer rooms with excellent views of the bustling square. TikTokInstagram

Yes, hotels directly in Times Square can be quite noisy due to the constant activity. If you prefer quiet, consider hotels a few blocks away. TikTok

These refer to the same hotel, Pod Times Square, known for its compact, modern rooms and convenient location. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Times Square offers a wide range of dining, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Popular choices include Margon, Beast and Butterflies, and various pizza places. TikTok+1

TikTok creators highlight spots like Margon for authentic flavors and Beast and Butterflies at M Social Hotel for a unique dining experience. TikTok

You can find almost anything, including American classics, Italian, pizza, international cuisine, and quick bites. TikTok

Yes, look for pizza by the slice, food carts, and casual diners for more budget-friendly meals. TikTok

Several cafes and restaurants offer brunch, often with bottomless options. Check local listings for current menus and specials. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Times Square offers a dazzling spectacle for families, with its giant billboards and bustling energy. Madame Tussauds is a hit with kids, allowing them to pose with wax figures of their favorite stars. TikTok Plan your visit for early mornings to avoid the densest crowds and make the experience more enjoyable for little ones. TikTok

Consider booking kid-friendly Broadway shows in advance. For dining, numerous restaurants cater to families, offering diverse menus. Remember to keep a close eye on children due to the crowds and constant movement. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Times Square can be experienced without breaking the bank! Simply walking around and soaking in the atmosphere is free and incredibly rewarding. Instagram Look for discounted same-day Broadway tickets at the TKTS booth to catch a show affordably. TikTok

For meals, opt for pizza by the slice, food carts, or casual diners rather than sit-down restaurants in the heart of Times Square. Consider staying in hotels slightly outside the immediate Times Square area for better rates. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Times Square is a photographer's dream, especially after dark. The vibrant neon billboards create a stunning backdrop. Instagram+1 Visit during golden hour or after sunset for the most dramatic lighting. The Red Steps offer an iconic vantage point for capturing the square's energy. Instagram

Experiment with long exposures to capture light trails from traffic and people. Consider visiting early morning for a chance to photograph the square with fewer people, offering a different perspective. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Experiencing the Spectacle: Times Square at Night

Times Square truly comes alive after dark. The towering billboards, a dazzling array of advertisements, create a vibrant, almost surreal atmosphere. This is when the 'Crossroads of the World' earns its name, with a constant flow of people and a symphony of lights and sounds. Many visitors find the sheer scale and energy of the illuminated advertisements to be a highlight of their trip. Instagram+2

For the best photographic opportunities, aim for the evening hours. The reflections on wet streets after a rain can add an extra layer of magic to your shots. Consider visiting during holidays like Christmas for extra festive decorations. TikTokInstagram

While the visual spectacle is undeniable, be prepared for significant crowds. It's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, so patience is key. Despite the hustle and bustle, the energy is infectious and a quintessential New York experience. TikTok

Broadway Beyond the Glitz

Times Square is synonymous with Broadway, the heart of American theater. Home to dozens of historic theaters, it offers an unparalleled selection of musicals, plays, and live performances. From long-running hits to brand-new productions, there's a show for every taste and age. TikTok+1

Securing tickets can be part of the adventure. While booking in advance online or at the box office guarantees your seat, the TKTS booth in Times Square offers same-day discounted tickets, a great option for spontaneous theater-goers. TikTok Many visitors recommend checking out shows that are popular but perhaps not the absolute biggest blockbusters for a potentially more intimate experience. TikTok

Beyond the ticketed shows, the atmosphere of the Theater District itself is captivating. The marquees, the bustling sidewalks, and the anticipation of a performance create a unique energy. Even if you don't catch a show, a stroll through the district is a must-do. TikTok

Navigating Times Square with Kids

Times Square can be an overwhelming but exciting destination for families. The sheer scale of the billboards and the constant activity capture children's attention. Attractions like Madame Tussauds offer interactive fun with wax figures of characters and celebrities. TikTok

When visiting with children, consider timing your visit to avoid the absolute peak crowds. Early mornings or late afternoons can be more manageable. Plan for breaks and snacks, as the sensory input can be intense. Many restaurants in the area are family-friendly, offering diverse menus to please picky eaters. TikTok

For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting some of the nearby attractions that are less crowded, or focus on specific kid-friendly shows on Broadway. The sheer visual stimulation of Times Square itself is often entertainment enough for younger visitors. TikTok

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