Times Square
The dazzling 'Crossroads of the World,' Times Square pulsates with energy, iconic billboards, and the magic of Broadway.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great for photos
Times Square
Best Time
Fewer crowds, great for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The dazzling 'Crossroads of the World,' Times Square pulsates with energy, iconic billboards, and the magic of Broadway.
"It's a sensory overload, but an absolute must-see for any first-time visitor to NYC!"
📸 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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
Theater District
Experience world-class theater with dazzling performances that captivate audiences nightly.
Madame Tussauds
234 W 42nd St
Get up close with lifelike wax figures of your favorite celebrities and historical icons.
The Red Steps
TKTS Booth
Iconic viewing spot offering panoramic views of the bustling square and its vibrant billboards.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Energy (and Crowds)
Navigating the Neon Jungle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 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:
🎟️ Book Attractions Ahead
For shows and popular attractions, book tickets in advance to secure your spot. :admission_tickets:
🚇 Master the Subway
The subway is the fastest way to get around NYC. Get a MetroCard for easy travel. :subway:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 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:
🎟️ Book Attractions Ahead
For shows and popular attractions, book tickets in advance to secure your spot. :admission_tickets:
🚇 Master the Subway
The subway is the fastest way to get around NYC. Get a MetroCard for easy travel. :subway:
🚶♂️ Explore Beyond the Main Square
Discover hidden gems and quieter spots just off the main drag. :compass:
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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:
The subway is highly recommended for efficient travel to and from Times Square. For exploring the immediate area, walking is ideal. :subway:
Yes, there are several parking garages, but they can be quite expensive. It's generally more cost-effective to use public transportation.
Taxis and rideshares are readily available, but traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times, especially during peak hours.
🎫 🎫 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:
Times Square is open 24/7, 365 days a year. The surrounding shops and attractions have their own operating hours.
Visiting the public areas of Times Square is free! Costs will vary depending on any shows, attractions, or dining you choose to experience.
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.
Yes! Simply walking around, people-watching, enjoying the billboards, and taking photos are all free. The Red Steps offer a great vantage point.
📸 📸 Photography
For the iconic neon billboards, nighttime is best. For fewer crowds and softer light, early mornings are ideal.
The Red Steps at the TKTS booth offer a classic view. Rooftop bars and hotels also provide stunning panoramic photo opportunities.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. For commercial shoots, permits may be required. Always be mindful of others.
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.
🎫 🏨 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.
Consider hotels like Pod Times Square or YOTEL New York Times Square for more affordable options.
Hotels like the W Times Square or the Hyatt Centric Times Square often offer rooms with excellent views of the bustling square.
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.
These refer to the same hotel, Pod Times Square, known for its compact, modern rooms and convenient location.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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 creators highlight spots like Margon for authentic flavors and Beast and Butterflies at M Social Hotel for a unique dining experience.
You can find almost anything, including American classics, Italian, pizza, international cuisine, and quick bites.
Yes, look for pizza by the slice, food carts, and casual diners for more budget-friendly meals.
Several cafes and restaurants offer brunch, often with bottomless options. Check local listings for current menus and specials.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing the Spectacle: Times Square at Night
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.
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.
Broadway Beyond the Glitz
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. Many visitors recommend checking out shows that are popular but perhaps not the absolute biggest blockbusters for a potentially more intimate experience.
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.
Navigating Times Square with Kids
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit