Is Times Square Worth Visiting

A Complete Guide to the Heart of New York City

Times Square is one of the most famous destinations in the world, often referred to as “The Crossroads of the World.” But is Times Square worth visiting? Why is it so special? How should you spend a day there? And is it safe? This guide will explore everything you need to know about Times Square, helping you decide whether it should be on your travel itinerary.

Why Is Times Square So Special?

Times Square is more than just a bustling intersection in Manhattan—it’s an experience. Located at the junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue, it is known for its dazzling digital billboards, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere. But what makes Times Square truly special?

Iconic Billboards and Neon Lights – The massive LED billboards that illuminate the area make Times Square one of the brightest and most visually striking locations on Earth. The advertisements, some costing millions of dollars per month, add to the electric energy of the place.
Broadway Theaters – Some of the world’s most famous theater productions take place in and around Times Square. If you’re a fan of live performances, catching a Broadway show is an unforgettable experience.
Historic Significance – Times Square has been a cultural and entertainment hub for over a century. It was named after The New York Times in 1904 and has evolved into a global icon.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations – The annual New Year’s Eve ball drop is one of the biggest celebrations in the world, drawing millions of spectators both in-person and on television.
24/7 Action – Times Square never sleeps. Restaurants, entertainment, and stores stay open late, making it a must-visit for night owls.

How Do You Spend a Day in Times Square?

If you have a day to spend in Times Square, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Here’s a perfect itinerary for making the most of your visit:

Morning: Start with Breakfast and Exploration

Begin your day with breakfast at a classic NYC diner like Junior’s Cheesecake, famous for its New York-style cheesecake and hearty breakfast options.
Take a stroll around Times Square, admiring the billboards and exploring iconic landmarks like the red stairs at the TKTS booth, which provide a great vantage point for photos.

Late Morning: Visit a Museum or Attraction

Madame Tussauds New York: See lifelike wax figures of celebrities and historical figures.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not!: A quirky and fun museum featuring oddities from around the world.
M&M’s World or Hershey’s Chocolate World: Great spots for families and anyone with a sweet tooth.

Afternoon: Lunch and Shopping

Grab a quick bite from Shake Shack, or if you prefer a sit-down experience, Carmine’s Italian Restaurant offers delicious family-style dining.
Browse flagship stores like the Disney Store, Levi’s, and Forever 21.

Early Evening: Broadway and Dinner

If you’re a fan of theater, head to a Broadway show! Hit musicals like The Lion King, Wicked, or Hamilton are must-sees.
Enjoy dinner at Sardi’s, a historic Broadway restaurant known for its caricatures of famous actors.

Night: Experience the Energy of Times Square

Walk through Times Square at night when the lights are at their most dazzling.
Stop by a rooftop bar like Bar 54 for stunning city views.
If you’re up for it, take a late-night comedy show at Carolines on Broadway.

What Time Is Best for Times Square?

Times Square is lively at any time of day, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences:

Morning (8 AM – 11 AM): Less crowded, great for photography and a relaxed walk.
Afternoon (12 PM – 4 PM): Peak hours with heavy foot traffic but full of energy.
Evening (6 PM – 9 PM): The best time for seeing the lights, Broadway, and dining.
Late Night (10 PM – 2 AM): Fewer tourists, making it ideal for a calmer experience with a stunning nighttime view.

Is Times Square Safe for Tourists?

Yes, Times Square is generally safe for tourists. It is heavily policed and well-lit at all hours. However, keep these tips in mind:

Watch out for pickpockets: As with any crowded area, be mindful of your belongings.
Ignore costumed characters: Some people dressed as famous characters may aggressively ask for tips after taking photos.
Avoid scam artists: Some individuals may try to sell fake tickets or street performances that demand high fees.

What Happens in Times Square at Midnight?

Times Square remains alive even at midnight. Here’s what you can expect:

The Midnight Moment: Every night from 11:57 PM to midnight, digital billboards synchronize to display a three-minute art piece.
Street performers: Musicians and entertainers often continue performing late into the night.
Late-night eats: Some restaurants and food carts operate 24/7, allowing you to grab a bite no matter how late it is.
Less crowded experience: While still lively, midnight in Times Square is calmer compared to the daytime rush.

What Is Interesting About Times Square?

Times Square is fascinating for many reasons beyond its bright lights and bustling crowds. Here are a few fun facts:

Named After a Newspaper: It was originally called Longacre Square before being renamed after The New York Times in 1904.
The Ball Drop Tradition: The New Year’s Eve Ball Drop has been a tradition since 1907.
Thousands of LED Lights: The area is so bright at night that it can be seen from space!
Theater District Hub: More than 40 Broadway theaters are located in and around Times Square.
Pedestrian-Friendly: Parts of Times Square are now pedestrian plazas, making it more walkable and enjoyable.

How Crowded Is Times Square?

Times Square is one of the busiest places in the world, attracting over 50 million visitors annually. On an average day, about 330,000 people pass through. Here’s what to expect in terms of crowd levels:

Weekdays (Morning & Early Afternoon): Less crowded, better for photos.
Weekdays (Evening & Night): More people, especially before and after Broadway shows.
Weekends: Peak crowds, making it harder to navigate.
Holidays & Special Events: Extremely packed, especially on New Year’s Eve when over a million people gather for the ball drop.