Times Square NYC

Things to do in Times Square

Catch a Broadway show

Experience the magic of live theater by watching amazing Broadway plays like The Lion King, Aladdin, Chicago, and Wicked at the theater district. It's a must-do Big Apple experience! The energy and talent on display are truly unforgettable.

Customize chocolate at M&M's World

Get creative at M&M's World in Times Square! Make your own special chocolate treats by picking your favorite colors and adding personal messages. These make the sweetest souvenirs to take home!

Hop on a Bus Tour

Easily accessible from Times Square, you can take a bus tour to get a better sense of the Big Apple. This is a fantastic way to see iconic NYC landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge, SoHo, Wall Street, Hudson Yards, Empire State Building, and more!

Visit Madame Tussauds

Come and meet your favorite celebrities, historical figures, and famous personalities at Madame Tussauds in Times Square. This iconic wax museum features lifelike statues, perfect for selfies and photo ops.

Be part of a live studio audience

Watch a live show hosted by famous talk show hosts like Stephen Colbert on The Late Show or Jimmy Fallon on The Tonight Show. Nights not your thing? You can also be a part of the energetic audience for the Today Show, which starts at 7 AM.

Climb the iconic Red Steps

Climb the iconic red steps in the center of Times Square for a fantastic view of the lively scene below. The elevated vantage point will give you awesome photo opportunities and a great spot to people-watch and really appreciate the scale of NYC's atmosphere. While you're in there, consider visiting the historical and architectural marvel of Grand Central Terminal, which is just an 11-minute walk away or a 6-minute subway ride.

Check Out the Midnight Moment

Experience the Midnight Moment, the biggest digital art show in the world. It happens daily from 11:57 PM to midnight. During this time, the digital billboards light up and display modern and contemporary art all at once.

Tips for Exploring Times Square

1. When's the best time to go to Times Square?\ Times Square is buzzing 24/7, but it's especially packed during peak hours. Try visiting early in the morning or late at night to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy the area with fewer people around, which makes for a more relaxed experience and better photos.

2. What are the best shoes to wear when in Times Square?\ There's always something happening in Times Square -- from bright billboards to street performers. Wear comfortable shoes because you'll likely be walking a lot while exploring, and keep an eye out for spontaneous performances or hidden gems like cool shops and quirky cafés tucked in nearby streets.

3. Where are the best spots for views in Times Square?\ For a great view of Times Square from above, head to one of the elevated viewing platforms, such as the one at Duffy's Square (near the red glass steps). It's a perfect spot to take in the full scale of the neon lights and the hustle below without getting overwhelmed by the crowds.

4. Where to eat in Times Square?

You'll never run out of food options in Times Square! Try tasty tacos at Los Tacos No. 1, a slice of New York cheesecake at Junior's, or yummy American food at Ellen's Stardust Diner, where you'll enjoy live performances by singing waitstaff. If you want something a bit fancier, head to Carmine's for delicious Italian food or The Rum House for special cocktails.

5. What to see in Times Square?

When you visit Times Square, you will be greeted with giant digital billboards and lots of bright lights. Besides this, there are many shops where you can find anything from clothes to funny souvenirs. You can also see awesome street performers showing off their talents around the area.

6. How to get to Times Square?

Getting to Times Square is easy with various subway lines (1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W) stopping at 42nd Street-Times Square station. You can also take a taxi, ride-share, or walk if you're already in Midtown Manhattan. For a fun experience, consider taking a bus tour or a walking tour to explore nearby attractions like Central Park, Madison Square Garden, the New York Public Library, Pier 57, and Grand Central Terminal.