Times Square is the place to be in Manhattan. Known as the Cross of the World, this magical area is always busy and bustling. It is especially known for its huge luminous screens as well as the costumed characters and the numerous stores. Shopping, shows, culture, restaurants… Lots of nice surprises await you!
You’ve certainly had a glimpse of this place, whether in a movie (scenes were shot to make Spiderman 3, Men in Black, American Pie, and many others) or a video game (Prototype or Ultimate SpiderMan).
In Times Square, the animation is always there and the crowd is constant. During your stay, you will quickly get into the atmosphere that is always there!
You’re probably wondering what the main attractions are in Times Square. What are the things to do and discover, the good addresses? Find out everything you need to know before taking off.
The history of Times Square
The city has long been nicknamed Longacre Square in reference to the transportation industry, especially during the time of the 20th-century carriages.
But in 1904, this district was renamed Times Square at the same time as the establishment of the New York Times in One Times Square (formerly, Times Building).
The 1920s marked a turning point in the development of the city with the installation of theaters, shows, music halls, and hotels. Large events and gatherings were organized regularly. The names of famous people such as Charlie Chaplin and Fred Astaire echoed everywhere. During this time, more than 250 shows were performed on the stages of Times Square.
But during 50s, Times Square became an unattractive place with prostitution traffic and the massive presence of sex shops. A situation that continues to deteriorate until the 90s with the arrival of Mayor Rudolph Giuliani. The latter put an end to these acts and restores the reputation of the district with the complicity of Walt Disney. Times Square has since been transformed into a magical place, a real architectural and light show very much appreciated by locals and tourists.
What is waiting for you in Times Square?
Superheroes, naked cowboys, gigantic screens
Climb the famous red steps (27 in total), located between 7th Avenue and Broadway. Once at the top, admire the superb view of the district and its various luminous screens in the heart of this surrealist atmosphere. People dressed as superheroes approach passers-by! Feel free to take a selfie with Batman, Mickey, and many others.
If you’re lucky, you might meet the Naked Cowboy, an iconic character known worldwide. He doesn’t go unnoticed with his boots, his white kangaroo briefs, his hat, and his guitar. Whatever the season, he livens up the streets of the neighborhood. Take a moment to pose with him and get your picture taken with his autograph.
Window shopping, shopping, and entertainment galore
Shopping is in full swing in Times Square. A real culture in this Manhattan neighborhood! The stores are real tourist hubs. Famous clothing stores have set up shops such as Levi’s Store, Forever 21, American Eagle Outfitters Mac as well as big names in beauty such as Cosmetics, and Sephora…
You can also drop by souvenir stores and flagship stores… In short, there is something for everyone in this lively neighborhood!
If you come with the kids, they will be amazed by the Toys R Us collection. Or Disney Store and its impressive objects, including the sublime life-size castle. The M&M store offers its famous chocolates in all colors. Oh yes, don’t forget to go to Hershey’s Chocolate World to taste the s’mores, the marshmallow sandwich cookie.
All of these stores fascinate with their huge sizes, far above other establishments in their chain. Most of the stores are open until midnight.
Great museums and musicals
Visit museums such as Discovery Times Square, where temporary exhibits and special events are held. Madame Tussaud’s Museum houses wax statues of world-famous celebrities (singers, politicians, athletes, etc.).
Explore the strange universe of Ripley’s Believe It or Not, a breathtaking place where you will be overwhelmed by unusual objects. Still, on the offbeat side, the National Geographic Encounter takes you into its virtual underwater world of more than 5,500 m2. Expect to see sharks, whales, and giant squids.
Whether you are a fan or not, you will be won over by the many musicals offered. The sets, costumes, and staging are just… magical! Every night, Times Square hosts classic and recent musicals in its 40 Broadway theaters! Among the most famous shows are The Lion King, Mary Poppins, Cats, and The Phantom of the Opera.
The area is lively throughout the year with spectacular events. In February, couples flock here to celebrate their love. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a colorful parade celebrated in November.
And don’t forget to book your ticket to see the “ball drop” live, the crystal ball that will come down on December 31 to welcome the New Year. Along with local residents and other visitors, you can count down together until midnight. And the party continues all night long, into the morning!
As you can see, to fully enjoy the area and its attractions, it’s best to book a hotel close to the city and metro station.
American-style food… yum yum!
Here again, there are many choices and you can eat at any time of the day in Times Square.
The Bubba Gump (1501 Broadway) serves mainly seafood and fish dishes. But you will also find more gourmet menus like burgers, sandwiches, and pasta. If you are fond of seafood, another possibility: is Red Lobster.
For American-style specialties, go to Junior’s (1515 Broadway). Their cheesecakes are unbeatable! The View bar/restaurant prepares tempting cocktails that you can sip slowly while you admire the view of NYC from the 48th floor of the Marriott.
Where is this area located and how do I get there?
Times Square is located between 42nd Street and Broadway in Manhattan. In 2009, most of Times Square was closed to motorized traffic to become a pedestrian zone.
To get there, you can take several subway lines; the purple, red and yellow lines stop at Times Square / 42nd St.
