Navigating Times Square : Answers to common questions
- Admission Fee: There is no admission fee to visit Times Square, making it an easily accessible attraction for visitors and locals alike.
- How Long to Visit: The duration of a visit can vary, but many visitors spend about an hour walking around, taking in the sights, and experiencing the energy of the area.
- Washrooms: Public restrooms in Times Square are limited, but facilities can be found in larger department stores, restaurants, and transportation hubs.
- Hours of Operation: Times Square is always open and bustling with activity, but visiting in the evening allows for the full experience of its famous lights and billboards.
- Important Information: Times Square, known as 'The Crossroads of the World,' offers an unforgettable experience with its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and diverse crowds, symbolizing the vibrant spirit of New York City.
- Handicap Accessible: Times Square is wheelchair accessible, with wide sidewalks and pedestrian areas. However, it can be extremely crowded, especially during peak hours and events.
- Pets: Pets can be brought to Times Square, but the crowded and noisy environment may not be ideal for them. Always keep pets on a leash and consider their comfort and safety.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours are available that include Times Square, offering historical insights and pointing out key attractions and landmarks.
- Restaurant or Cafe: Dining options in Times Square are plentiful, ranging from fast food to upscale restaurants. Street vendors also offer quick snacks and drinks.
- Gift Shop: Times Square has numerous shops and souvenir stores, selling everything from typical NYC memorabilia to high-end fashion and electronics.
- Parking: Parking is scarce and expensive in Times Square. Public transportation is the best option, with several subway lines serving the area.
- Family Friendly: Times Square is a bustling environment that's generally considered family-friendly during the day, but it can be overwhelming for young children due to the crowds and noise.
- Photography: Photography is a popular activity in Times Square, with its iconic neon lights and billboards providing a vibrant backdrop. Be mindful of the crowds when stopping to take pictures.
- WIFI: Public WIFI is available in Times Square, allowing visitors to access information and share their experiences online.
- Picnic Area: There are no designated picnic areas in Times Square. It's best to dine in one of the many eateries or find a nearby park for a more relaxed setting.
Please note all times and prices subject to change. Please check the offical website for details.
Experience the vibrant energy of Times Square, a bustling commercial and entertainment hub located in the heart of Manhattan, New York City. This guide will help you plan your visit and make the most of your time in this iconic destination.
About Times Square
Times Square is a major intersection in Manhattan, formed by the junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue. Stretching from West 42nd to West 47th Streets, the area is renowned for its bright billboards, bustling crowds, and lively atmosphere. It's a must-visit destination for anyone exploring New York City, offering an array of shops, restaurants, theaters, and attractions.
Getting There
Times Square is easily accessible via public transportation, taxi, or on foot. The closest subway stations are the 1, 2, 3, 7, A, C, E, N, Q, R, and W trains at Times Square-42nd Street/Port Authority Bus Terminal, and the B, D, F, and M trains at 42nd Street-Bryant Park. Numerous bus routes also serve the area, making it convenient for visitors to reach the destination from various parts of the city.
Attractions and Activities
Times Square offers a wide range of attractions and activities to suit all interests and ages. Some popular options include:
- Broadway Shows: Catch a performance of a world-renowned Broadway show at one of the many theaters in the Theater District surrounding Times Square.
- Shopping: Browse the many flagship stores, souvenir shops, and unique boutiques in the area.
- Dining: Savor diverse cuisines at the numerous restaurants, cafes, and food carts around Times Square.
- Entertainment: Enjoy live music, comedy shows, and other entertainment at venues like Carolines on Broadway or Birdland Jazz Club.
- Attractions: Visit popular attractions like Madame Tussauds, Ripley's Believe It or Not!, or the National Geographic Encounter: Ocean Odyssey.
Events and Celebrations
Times Square is the site of various events and celebrations throughout the year, including:
- New Year's Eve: Each year, millions gather in Times Square to watch the iconic ball drop and ring in the New Year.
- Broadway in Bryant Park: During the summer months, free outdoor performances from popular Broadway shows take place in nearby Bryant Park.
- Times Square Arts: This public art program features a range of installations, performances, and events, transforming Times Square into an outdoor gallery.
Facilities and Accessibility
Times Square offers a range of facilities and services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit. Public restrooms are available at the Times Square Visitor Center, as well as in nearby restaurants and hotels. The area is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available in subway stations and most buildings.
Nearby Attractions
After your visit to Times Square, consider exploring some of the nearby attractions in New York City, including:
- Bryant Park: A short walk from Times Square, this public park offers green space, seasonal events, and amenities such as a reading room and a carousel.
- Rockefeller Center: Located nearby, Rockefeller Center is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the Top of the Rock observation deck, Radio City Music Hall, and the famous ice-skating rink during winter months.
- Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Just a few blocks away, MoMA is one of the most influential art museums in the world, showcasing an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art.
- Central Park: A short walk or subway ride from Times Square, Central Park offers a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle, with walking paths, playgrounds, and beautiful scenery.
- Fifth Avenue: For shopping enthusiasts, the famous Fifth Avenue is lined with high-end stores, boutiques, and iconic landmarks such as St. Patrick's Cathedral.
Tips for Visiting
Make the most of your visit to Times Square with these helpful tips:
- Visit during off-peak hours: Times Square is often less crowded early in the morning or late in the evening. Weekdays can also be less busy than weekends.
- Stay safe: While Times Square is generally safe, it's essential to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
- Plan ahead: Research shows, attractions, and events in advance to make the most of your time in the area. Booking tickets for popular attractions and performances ahead of time is highly recommended.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Exploring Times Square and the surrounding area often involves a significant amount of walking. Make sure to wear comfortable and supportive footwear.
By using this guide to plan your visit, you'll be well-prepared to experience the excitement and energy of Times Square, one of New York City's most iconic and vibrant destinations.
More in our list of Things To Do In New York City
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Local Temp: 10.7℃ / 51.3℉
High: 11.6℃ / 52.9℉
Low: 9.5℃ / 49.1℉
Humidity: 86 %
Map for Times Square
Did You Know?
Times Square is named after The New York Times, which moved its headquarters to The newly built Times Building in 1904.
The area is renowned for its dazzling array of electronic billboards and neon lights. One of the earliest electric advertisements in Times Square was for a car company in 1920. Today, the square's digital displays are some of the most iconic and photographed elements in the world, embodying the energy and hustle of New York City.
Times Square is one of The world's most visited tourist attractions, drawing an estimated 50 million visitors annually.
Times Square is the site of the annual New Year's Eve ball drop, a tradition that began in 1907. The event draws crowds of up to a million people to the square, with millions more watching from home. The original ball was made of iron and wood; the modern one is a geodesic sphere covered in Waterford Crystal panels.
During World War II, Times Square became known as "The Crossroads of the World" due to the high number of servicemen who congregated there. This nickname has endured, reflecting the square's status as a global meeting point and its diverse array of visitors from all corners of the globe.
Travel Information for
New York City Visitors
Time Zone: New York City operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST), which is 5 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT-5).
Weather: New York City experiences a humid subtropical climate. Summers (June to August) are typically hot and humid, with average temperatures around 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Winters (December to February) are cold and windy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Spring and autumn are milder and generally the most pleasant times to visit.
Population: New York City has a population of over 8 million people, making it the most populous city in the United States.
Size: The city covers an area of about 783.8 square kilometers (302.6 square miles). It consists of five boroughs: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island.
Language: English is the primary language. However, NYC is incredibly diverse, with residents speaking over 200 different languages.
Currency: The United States Dollar (USD) is the currency used. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always handy to have some cash, especially for smaller purchases or in areas like Chinatown.
Safety: NYC is generally safe for tourists, but as with any major city, it's wise to stay alert, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
Tipping: Tipping is customary in the United States. In restaurants, a tip of 15-20% of the total bill is standard. Tips are also expected for other services like taxis, hairdressers, and hotel staff.
Electricity and Plugs: The United States uses Type A and Type B plugs, and the standard voltage is 120 V with a standard frequency of 60 Hz. Visitors from countries with different electrical standards may need adapters.
Water: Tap water in New York City is safe to drink and is known for its quality.
Verified & Trusted Contact Information for Times Square
Contact: Official Website
Address:
Junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue
Website: www.timessquarenyc.org
Latitude: 40.758896
Longitude: -73.98513
More Places and Things To Do in New York City Within 500 km/300 mi of Times Square
The Madame Tussauds New York
The Distance from Times Square to The Madame Tussauds New York is 0.4 KM / 0.3 MI
The Museum of Modern Art
The Distance from Times Square to The Museum of Modern Art is 0.7 KM / 0.4 MI
The Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
The Distance from Times Square to The Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts is 1.5 KM / 0.9 MI
The American Museum of Natural History
The Distance from Times Square to The American Museum of Natural History is 2.7 KM / 1.7 MI
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Distance from Times Square to The Metropolitan Museum of Art is 2.9 KM / 1.8 MI
The One World Observatory
The Distance from Times Square to The One World Observatory is 5.6 KM / 3.5 MI
