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Times Square
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Landmark
Times Square is one of the world's most recognizable intersections, located in the Midtown Manhattan section of New York City at the junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue. Originally known as Longacre Square, it was renamed in 1904 after The New York Times moved its headquarters to the newly erected One Times Square building. It serves as the hub of the Theater District and is globally famous for its massive digital billboards and 24-hour neon-lit energy. Each year, the area draws tens of millions of visitors and hosts the world-famous New Year's Eve ball drop ceremony. During the 1990s, the area underwent significant redevelopment, transitioning from a gritty urban center into a family-friendly tourist destination. Today, Times Square is often referred to as the 'Crossroads of the World' and remains a powerful symbol of New York City's modern urban identity.
- Location: United States
- Top sights: Madame Tussauds New York · Intrepid Museum · Stephen Sondheim Theatre
- Nearby: Hoboken (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | -1 | 3 | 9 | 15 | 20 | 24 | 23 | 20 | 13 | 7 | 1 |
| Rain mm | 81 | 81 | 100 | 102 | 98 | 117 | 109 | 114 | 105 | 122 | 91 | 116 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Times Square is a public space freely accessible 24 hours a day. There are no indoor areas; the entire attraction is a busy street space with neon signs and stages.
Typical hours
Being a public plaza, it is accessible at any time. The brightest and busiest times are in the evening when all neon signs are lit.
Photography
Photography is naturally allowed and widely used by tourists. Watch out for crowds and try to capture the entire scene with a wide-angle lens.
Time needed
A short visit for looking and photographing takes about 30 minutes. Those wanting to explore the area or go into shops should allow 1-2 hours.
Combine with
Times Square is at the heart of the Broadway theater district, well-suited for an evening show. Rockefeller Center and the Empire State Building are also within walking distance.
Getting there
Times Square is easily reached by subway; the Times Square‑42nd Street and 42nd Street‑Bryant Park stations are directly under the square. Many bus lines also stop nearby.
Insider tip
Visit Times Square late evening (after 10 PM) for fewer crowds but still bright lights. Avoid costumed street performers who offer photos for money - they are often expensive.
Geography
Facts
- More than 300,000 pedestrians cross Times Square daily.
- The New Year's Eve ball drop tradition began in 1907.
- Some billboards cost over $3 million per month to rent.
- Times Square is a designated smoke-free zone.
- The iconic red TKTS staircase consists of 27 steps.
- It is considered the brightest spot on Earth when viewed from space.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Times Square (8)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is there?
Giant screens and theaters.
When is it busiest?
Evenings and weekends.
Is it safe?
Yes, it is very busy and well-policed.
Where is Times Square?
In the heart of Manhattan, New York.
How long to stay?
A quick stroll is often enough.
Times Square: where is it located?
Times Square is located in United States.
Times Square: what is there to see?
Highlights include Madame Tussauds New York, Intrepid Museum, Stephen Sondheim Theatre.
Times Square: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Times Square: why is it worth visiting?
Times Square is one of the world's most recognizable intersections, located in the Midtown Manhattan section of New York City at the junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue.
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