Times Square: the heart of New York
Times Square is an energizing place in New York. The buzz is constant day and night, with neon signs and giant billboards lighting up the streets.
What You Need to Know About Times Square
- Times Square today marks the bustling intersection of Broadway and 7th Avenue, two of Manhattan‘s main thoroughfares. It’s the heart of New York’s theater district, home to the famous Broadway musicals.
- It’s hard to imagine that in the late 19th century, Times Square was the city’s prime horse-rental hub.
- The neighborhood took off in 1899 when Oscar Hammerstein built two theaters on what was then called Longacre Square. Audiences flocked in. Developers rushed to build, and new theaters sprang up near Broadway. The theater district was born.
- In 1904, Longacre Square was renamed Times Square to mark the opening of the headquarters of the New York Times, the famous New York newspaper. The Times has long since moved, but the name stuck.
- On December 31st, Times Square is the place to be for New Year’s Eve. Arrive very early. If you want to experience the event, read our guide to New Year’s Eve on Times Square.
What to See on Times Square
- Expect to be overwhelmed when you arrive at Times Square. The intersection glows with the warm light of neon signs and giant screens. Did you know you can see your photo or video on one of these screens? Check out our page on how to display your photo on Times Square.
- You’ll encounter crowds at all hours, day and night. You’ll spot the famous costumed characters asking for a few dollars to pose for photos. You’ll also likely see the Naked Cowboy, who performs in his underwear regardless of the weather.
- At the corner of Times Square and 43rd Street, you can’t miss the massive billboard for the Nasdaq, New York’s stock exchange for technology companies. It’s a great place to check on your Apple, Intel, or Alphabet stock.
- For an elevated view, climb the red stairs of Times Square in the northern section of the plaza. You can also grab a drink on the top floor of the Marriott hotel. From the 49th floor, you’ll have sweeping views overhead.
- After London, New York has its own Madame Tussauds wax museum. Pose next to 200 lifelike wax figures. Book your Madame Tussauds tickets through our site.
- Since December 2025, Times Square has its own observation deck. This viewing platform sits atop One Times Square and offers a unique perspective of the area. The same building also houses an interactive experience about candy and New York: iCandy NYC.
- The neighborhood also holds a gem for fans of the TV series Friends. Since December 2025, the Central Perk café has opened for real in New York.
Times Square in Video
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Times Square famous?
Times Square is a truly unique place in New York. This intersection of Broadway and 7th Avenue is surrounded by giant billboards and neon signs—a symbol of American excess. Times Square appears in countless films and TV shows, instantly placing the action in New York.
Are there hotels on Times Square?
Yes. Times Square is actually one of New York's neighborhoods with the most hotels. According to the Times Square Alliance, there are now 44 hotels on Times Square, ranging from budget options to five-star luxury.
What's the best time to visit Times Square?
The best time to visit Times Square is at night, when the glow of the advertisements fills the streets. If you want to shop, go in the morning when stores are less crowded.
Visitor Reviews
- Anthony Peterano: “For us, Times Square is the most magical place that exists. Photos and videos can’t really capture the intense, unique atmosphere. You have to go right when you arrive in Manhattan. You sit down, you wait, and you look around. Your eyes are everywhere at once, and you’re instantly immersed in American excess. Then there are restaurants, shops, entertainment—there’s really so much to do!”
- Catherine Martins: “The place where you’ll get a stiff neck looking up at everything.”
- Micheline Claes: “Nothing in particular… but everything, everything, everything! I could spend hours there. I pass through a dozen times on each trip to New York. Every time I walk around and marvel all over again.”
- Maryse Chabbert: “Everything is nice. You sit down and watch because the show is constant, day and night. You meet people. I love it. Plus our hotel was right there, so we could stay until we couldn’t keep our eyes open anymore.”
- Nath Giron: “On Times Square you have to see the M&M’s World store, look at all the giant ads, visit the Madame Tussauds museum, catch a musical, have a drink at The View Marriott Marquis, and so much more…”
- Caroline Saleil Commaille: “I love everything! The quiet mornings leaving the hotel, the madness at night with all the lights, wandering through the theater streets, sitting in hotel lobbies, perching on the red stairs to watch tourists, shopping until midnight, eating at Bubba Gump…”
- Renelde Patte : “The first place I run to when I arrive in Manhattan to soak up the city’s vibe. It’s magical! A ritual!”
- Yô Mathieux: “Must see: the New York Yankees shop! An iconic logo! Right next to the Bubba Gump restaurant!!!”
Times Square in Photos
