Times Square

Times Square is not just a square, but the true heart of New York City, pulsing in the very center of Manhattan. Located at the intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue, it is the hub of the famous Theater District and one of the most recognizable landmarks not only in the USA but worldwide. The square received its name in April 1904, when The New York Times editorial office moved here.

This place is often called the "crossroads of the world," and for good reason. Every year, Times Square attracts about 50 million visitors, and more than 300,000 pedestrians walk its sidewalks every day. The square is famous for its giant digital billboards and neon signs that shine 24/7, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of eternal celebration and movement. It is the only area in the city where building owners are legally required to display bright advertising on their facades.

Times Square is the epicenter of entertainment, home to world-famous Broadway theaters, numerous shops, restaurants, and unique tourist attractions. A visit to this square is an opportunity to dive into the incredible energy of the "Big Apple," see one of the busiest places on the planet, and feel like part of something grand. This iconic location is a true symbol of New York and the entire United States.

Since Times Square is a public space rather than an organization with a single office, the best way to obtain information is to contact the Times Square Alliance. This organization is responsible for the development, promotion, and management of the area. Below are the primary contacts for reaching out.

A visit to Times Square is an immersion into a kaleidoscope of experiences available at any time of day. One of the main things to do here is simply to stop and soak in the unique atmosphere. You can take a seat on the famous red steps of the TKTS pavilion and watch the endless flow of people. In the evening, the square is transformed: thousands of bright neon signs and giant LED screens create a mesmerizing light show that has become the hallmark of this place. This dazzling illumination makes Times Square one of the most photographed places in the world.

Times Square is the heart of the Theater District, so a Broadway show is a must for many. World-famous musicals and productions, ranging from timeless classics to high-profile premieres, run in numerous theaters located in the immediate vicinity of the square. Tickets can be purchased in advance, or you can try your luck at the TKTS booths, which often sell tickets for same-day performances at a significant discount.

Furthermore, Times Square is a true paradise for shopping and entertainment enthusiasts. It features flagship stores of global brands, massive candy stores like M&M's World and Hershey's Chocolate World, and numerous souvenir shops. No one will go hungry either: the square is surrounded by countless restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls for every taste and budget — from classic American diners to eateries featuring cuisines from around the world.

The square earned special fame for its New Year's Eve celebrations. Every year on December 31, millions of people around the world watch the famous ceremony of the Times Square Ball drop. This tradition, which began in 1907, attracts about a million spectators to the square, who count down to midnight together, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of universal celebration.

Getting to Times Square is easy, as the square is located at the very heart of the New York City transportation system. The most convenient and fastest way is by subway. One of the city's busiest stations, Times Square–42nd Street, is located right beneath the square. This major transportation hub serves numerous lines, making it easy to reach from almost any part of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, or the Bronx.

Besides the subway, you can reach Times Square via numerous city buses with routes through Midtown Manhattan. This is a great option if you want to enjoy the city views along the way. Of course, you can always use the famous yellow taxis, which will easily take you to the "crossroads of the world." However, if you plan to travel by private or rental car, be prepared for difficulties: finding parking in this area is extremely difficult, and the cost can be quite high.

For travelers arriving in New York City via one of the three major airports (JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark), the route to Times Square is also well-planned. From each airport, you can reach Manhattan by airport express trains, dedicated shuttle buses, or taxis. Once you are in Manhattan, the simplest solution is to transfer to the subway and head to the Times Square–42nd Street station.

The history of Times Square is inextricably linked to one of the world's most famous newspapers — The New York Times. Few people know that until 1904, this place was called Longacre Square. Everything changed when the newspaper's publisher, Adolph Ochs, decided to move the headquarters to a new skyscraper and convinced the city authorities to rename the square in honor of his publication. The new name was officially assigned on April 8, 1904, forever securing the square's connection to the world of journalism.

The epicenter of the updated square became the skyscraper known today as One Times Square, then called the Times Building. This 25-story building, 111 meters tall and designed by architect Cyrus L. W. Eidlitz, was located at the intersection of 42nd Street and Broadway. The rapid development of the area was aided by another landmark event of 1904 — the opening of New York City's first subway line, with one of its key stations right under the square. This made it easy to reach, attracting numerous theaters and restaurants to the area and laying the foundation for the future famous Theater District.

Interestingly, The New York Times editorial office was located in its legendary building for a relatively short time — from 1904 to 1913. Despite the move, the legacy it left behind was grand. The name "Times Square" not only stuck but also became a world-famous symbol of the USA. Moreover, it was the newspaper's owner, Adolph Ochs, who started the famous tradition of celebrating New Year's Eve in the square. It began with fireworks, and in 1907, he organized the first-ever descent of the famous glowing ball, which has since become the main New Year's ritual for all of America.

When planning a visit to Times Square, you should allow for 2–4 hours to fully experience its unique atmosphere. This will be enough time to take a leisurely stroll through the square, take famous photos against the backdrop of giant neon billboards, sit on the red steps of the TKTS pavilion, and watch the bustling life of the "crossroads of the world." During these few hours, you can also pop into several flagship stores, such as M&M's World or the Disney Store, and grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafes or from street vendors.

If your plans are more ambitious, the time spent at Times Square may increase significantly. For example, attending one of the famous Broadway musicals will require at least an additional 2–3 hours. A full shopping spree or a visit to nearby attractions like Madame Tussauds will also take quite a bit of time. Ultimately, how much time to dedicate to Times Square is up to you, but even a short walk will allow you to recharge with the incredible energy of this iconic New York City location.

The main thing to know about Times Square is that it is a public space, so the square itself is accessible 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can come here at dawn to see the city wake up, or in the dead of night to enjoy the neon lights at full power. However, it's worth remembering that the numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues around it operate on their own schedules. Most stores are typically open from approximately 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM, while many restaurants and cafes stay open until late at night.

No booking is required for a stroll through the square itself — admission is always free. Nevertheless, if you plan to see one of the famous Broadway shows, tickets should be purchased in advance, as they are in high demand. Theater performances usually start at 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM, with matinees available on certain days. For specific restaurants, museums, or attractions in the area, it is also recommended to check their operating hours and booking requirements on their official websites beforehand to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

While Times Square is undoubtedly the epicenter of New York's bustling energy, its surroundings offer just as many interesting discoveries. Exploring the nearby blocks will allow you to see the city from different perspectives, take a break from the crowds, and complement your impressions of the "crossroads of the world." Just a few minutes' walk away, you can find world-famous landmarks, cozy green oases, and iconic cultural sites.

Thanks to its central location, Times Square serves as an ideal starting point for walking tours of Midtown. Many of the most famous symbols of the USA and New York are within a short walk, making it easy to create a packed itinerary for the whole day.