Times Square

The basics

As a major commercial intersection and one of New York City's most popular areas, the "Crossroads of the World" features on just about every sightseeing tour of the city, along with the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Rockefeller Center. Many visitors come to the area to enjoy a Broadway show or behind-the-scenes theater tour. Day trips to the Big Apple from Boston often include short Times Square tours, and hop-on, hop-off bus tours stop nearby.

Things to know before you go

• The square is a must-see for first-time New York City visitors.

• Wear comfortable shoes and prepare to walk; Times Square is best explored on foot.

• If you take photos with costumed street performers, be prepared to tip.

• You can book Broadway tickets ahead of time (ideal if you want to guarantee your seats). Alternatively, pick up same-day discount tickets at the Times Square ticket booth on W. 47th Street.

• The area's many hotels and department stores are your best bets for finding restrooms in Times Square.

How to get there

Times Square is a triangular area formed by the intersection of 42nd Street, Seventh Avenue, and Broadway, in the heart of Midtown Manhattan’s theater district. There are several subway stations nearby, including 49th Street and Times Square/42nd Street Stations.

When to get there

The always-busy Times Square offers some of the city’s best people-watching—there isn’t a bad time to visit. At night, though, the lights and billboards look their brightest. The square floods with visitors during the annual Times Square Ball Drop.

Attractions in Times Square

In addition to its role as the hub of the theater world, Times Square is home to numerous other attractions—many perfect for families—including Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, M&M’s World, Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium, and Hershey’s Times Square. You’ll find some of New York City’s most famous restaurants along Restaurant Row on West 46th Street between 8th and 9th Avenues.

What types of tours can you do to see Times Square?

There are so many ways to see Times Square on a tour. From hop-on hop-off bus tours and other itineraries that visit numerous New York City highlights to theater tours, walking tours, photography tours, and even helicopter tours, you have countless options for touring the iconic Manhattan neighborhood.

How long do you need to visit Times Square?

That depends on your interests. For a quick visit to experience Times Square's energy, an hour is plenty of time to walk through the area. However, if you want to explore popular shopping stops like M&M's New York—or see a Broadway show—you could spend hours wandering the area.

What can you see on a tour of Times Square?

It depends on your tour itinerary, but you can generally look forward to seeing highlights such as the Red Stairs, Broadway theaters, neon lights and blinking advertisements, Naked Cowboy, and nearby attractions such as Bryant Park, Madame Tussauds, and Rockefeller Center.

Can you see Times Square on a helicopter tour?

Yes, you can see Times Square on many helicopter tours of Manhattan. The New York icon (which is shaped more like a bowtie than a square) is generally unmissable, thanks to the ever-present glow of its larger-than-life billboards. See if you can spot the yellow cabs from the air, too.

Can you walk around Times Square New York?

Yes, you can walk around Times Square—and for many, that's the best way to soak up its ineffable energy, as well as its over-the-top lights, sounds, and street energy. Many segments of the Manhattan neighborhood have been pedestrianized, making it even more walker-friendly—just prepare for some serious crowds.

What time of day is best to visit Times Square?

That depends on what you want to see and do. If you want to visit without big crowds, come early in the morning. However, Times Square comes alive after dark, when its enormous billboards light up the night. Stop by before or after a Broadway show for maximum effect.

Ways to explore

As a major commercial intersection and one of New York City’s most popular attractions, Times Square features on almost every sightseeing tour of the city, alongside other major NYC sights such as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Central Park, and Rockefeller Center. Many visitors come here for a Broadway show or a behind-the-scenes theater tour. To experience Times Square on your own, take a stroll up Broadway to immerse yourself in the hectic atmosphere, go shopping, grab a meal at a restaurant, or enjoy some street food. Nighttime is when New York City and Times Square light up.

Accessibility

Times Square is generally wheelchair accessible, but it is often extremely crowded unless you come in the early morning.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water bottle, retractable umbrella, portable phone charger

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, layers for unpredictable weather

Not allowed

Drinking alcohol in public is prohibited in Times Square and New York City.

Amenities

There’s public seating throughout the square, but few restrooms—use the public facilities at the Times Square­–42nd Street subway station, or buy something from a local business with a bathroom.

Address

Times Square is in the heart of Midtown Manhattan’s Theater District, one of New York City’s busiest areas. It’s easy to reach from elsewhere by subway, on foot, or via a tour bus.

Driving

Driving to Times Square is not recommended as the roads are congested and parking is difficult and expensive. If you must drive, park at paid parking garages on the edges of the area.

Public transportation

Times Square is easily accessible by subway. The closest station is Times Square 42nd Street (A, C, E, N, Q, R, W, 1, 2, 3).

Best times to visit

Early morning to avoid the crowds, but you’ll arguably miss some of Times Square’s hectic atmosphere.

Best days to visit

Times Square tends to be less congested Monday–Thursday.

Best months to visit

Times Square is a year-round destination, but to avoid the cold, snowy winters and hot, humid summers, visit in spring or fall. April, May, September, and October are especially pleasant months.

Special events

Times Square hosts one of the world’s largest and most famous New Year’s Eve parties on December 31, with a ball drop at midnight.