Times Square, one of the most iconic and bustling areas in New York City, is full of exciting activities and attractions. Here are some of the best things to do in Times Square:
1. Experience the Bright Lights and Billboards
Highlights: Marvel at the neon lights and massive digital billboards that light up Times Square. The dazzling display is even more impressive at night, creating a vibrant, electric atmosphere.
Why It’s Special: Times Square is known as “The Crossroads of the World” for a reason—its energy and visual spectacle are unlike anywhere else on the planet.
2. Catch a Broadway Show
Highlights: Enjoy a world-class performance at one of the many Broadway theaters located in and around Times Square. Whether you’re into musicals, dramas, or comedies, there’s something for everyone.
Why It’s Special: Broadway is the pinnacle of live theater, and seeing a show here is a quintessential New York experience.
3. Visit the TKTS Booth
Highlights: Head to the red steps of the TKTS Booth in Times Square to purchase same-day discounted tickets to Broadway and Off-Broadway shows. The booth often has great deals on some of the hottest shows.
Why It’s Special: Getting a good deal on a Broadway show while standing in the heart of Times Square is a must-do for theater lovers.
4. Explore Madame Tussauds New York
Highlights: Get up close and personal with lifelike wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, and pop culture icons at Madame Tussauds. The museum features interactive exhibits, including a Marvel 4D experience.
Why It’s Special: It’s a fun, family-friendly attraction where you can take photos with your favorite stars—perfect for some light-hearted entertainment.
5. Enjoy the View from One Times Square
Highlights: Visit One Times Square, the site of the famous New Year's Eve ball drop. While the building is mostly occupied by offices, the ground level often hosts exhibitions, and the building’s exterior is adorned with iconic billboards.
Why It’s Special: This is the focal point of Times Square and a historic spot where millions gather each year to ring in the New Year.
6. Shop at Flagship Stores
Highlights: Browse and shop at some of the world’s most famous flagship stores in Times Square, including the Disney Store, M&M’s World, and Hershey’s Chocolate World. These stores are as much about the experience as they are about shopping.
Why It’s Special: The flagship stores in Times Square are larger-than-life and offer unique experiences, such as personalized M&Ms or a ride through the history of Disney.
7. Dine at Themed Restaurants
Highlights: Grab a meal at one of Times Square’s many themed restaurants, like the Hard Rock Café, Planet Hollywood, or Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. These restaurants are full of memorabilia and offer a fun dining experience.
Why It’s Special: Themed dining in Times Square is an experience in itself, combining food with entertainment and unique décor.
8. Take a Selfie on the Red Steps
Highlights: Climb the famous red steps above the TKTS Booth and snap a selfie with the vibrant backdrop of Times Square. It’s one of the best spots to take in the energy of the area and capture a memorable photo.
Why It’s Special: The red steps are an iconic spot in Times Square and offer a great vantage point to soak in the view of this bustling hub.
9. Visit Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
Highlights: Explore the strange, unusual, and fascinating exhibits at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Times Square. From bizarre artifacts to interactive displays, it’s a museum that celebrates the odd and extraordinary.
Why It’s Special: Ripley’s offers a quirky and fun experience that’s perfect for those who enjoy the unusual and bizarre.
10. Experience the Midnight Moment
Highlights: Witness the Midnight Moment, the world’s largest and longest-running digital art exhibition synchronized on electronic billboards throughout Times Square every night from 11:57 PM to midnight.
Why It’s Special: It’s a unique art experience that transforms Times Square into a digital canvas for three minutes every night, showcasing the work of contemporary artists.
Times Square is more than just a tourist hotspot—it’s a place where the pulse of New York City is felt at every corner, offering endless entertainment, shopping, and dining options for visitors.