Times Square

Overview

Times Square is a massive, blindingly bright commercial intersection in Midtown Manhattan, defined by its overwhelming concentration of LED billboards, Broadway theaters, and surging pedestrian traffic.

Highlights

• The Spectacle: Over 238,000 square feet of illuminated signage creating a canyon of constantly shifting light and color — the "Crossroads of the World."
• TKTS Booth: The famous red-stepped ticket booth selling same-day Broadway and Off-Broadway tickets at 20–50% off.
• New Year's Eve Ball Drop: The globally televised midnight countdown on December 31, drawing over 1 million spectators to the streets.

History

Named for the New York Times, which moved its headquarters here in 1904. The square became synonymous with Broadway theater, then deteriorated into crime and seediness in the 1970s–80s before a dramatic corporate-led cleanup in the 1990s.

Visitor Tips

• Brief Visit: Most New Yorkers recommend experiencing the sensory overload briefly rather than lingering. Walk through, take a photo, move on.
• TKTS Queue: The TKTS booth under the red steps has the shortest lines in the late afternoon. Check the app for available shows.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.