Times Square may not always be to the locals’ taste, but this busy and energetic area dubbed the “Crossroads of the World” is undoubtedly one of the most famous tourist attractions in the world. The atmosphere is loaded and chaotic, exuding the energy and diversity for which New York City is so renowned.
Set between West 42nd and West 47th Streets on Seventh Avenue, the former Longacre Square was renamed Times Square in 1904 when the New York Times moved its headquarters to a new building on 42nd Street (you’ll now find the New York Times a short distance away on Eighth Avenue). Not long after, the first of the iconic electrified advertisements appeared: the ancestor of multitude of neon signs, news reels, stock exchange screens and gaudy advertisements that light the square up to 24 hours a day.
Times Square always has a myriad of free and impromptu events to entertain you. Street performers such as African drummers, jugglers or dancers are a common sight any time of the day or night. In particular, look out for the Naked Cowboy. This busker has become notorious for playing the guitar in only his underwear.
Complement this experience with a visit to the Times Square Museum and Visitor Center in the Embassy Theatre with displays illustrating the story of the square. Highlights include the “Times Square Spectacular” show featuring the Centennial Ball and simulating the famous New Year’s Eve countdown every hour.
The world-famous Broadway theatre district, home to over 30 theatres, extends off from Times Square. This is the place to come for the biggest and best shows. You can buy tickets directly from the theatre’s box office or from the Broadway Concierge & Ticket Center in Times Square. You can always see hundreds of potential show-goers queuing up at the TIX outdoor booth to buy half-price tickets on the afternoon of the show.
Alternatively, head to Madame Tussauds Museum to get close up to stunningly life-like wax doubles of your favourite celebrities, or head to one of the many huge multiplex cinemas to see the latest film releases.
Times Square is very easy to access by public transport, as many of the Subway lines run through the 42nd Street Times Square Station.
