Table of Contents
New York Times Square is among the most popular locations in the entire world with people rushing to it in their millions every day. Well-known for its bright nights, large neon signs and lively atmosphere, this place is definitely must visit for any tourist. Whether one is visiting the place for the first time or the second time, that is where Times Square is located, offering plenty of fun to all who want to visit by providing Broadway shows and quality dining, shopping, and entertainment facilities. In order to help you make the right choices and not miss the most interesting activities in New York, we present 8 Times Square tours for tourists in this article.
Introduction to Times Square
Bordered by west 42 nd & 47 th streets, Times Square is in the Midtown Manhattan and it is found at the intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue. This place has neon and digital signs, people of all ages and nationalities are always active, day and night. New York is a vibrant city that’s why Times Square is rather an embodiment of the city’s energy, and peoplePowell, possessing various individual interests, will stimulate several aspects of their personality: a theatre-goer, gourmet or a shopper.
The History of Times Square
Times square was not always the tourist attraction central that is demonstrated today. It was formerly called Longacre Square and received its present appellation in 1904 when The New York Times company shifted its office to the new Times Building now One Times Square. The newspaper, coupled with the new technique of electrified advertising during the early part of the twentieth century played a large role in the transformation of what is today’s known as Times Square.
The area had it’s highs and lows, especially during the 1960’s and 70’s that it became a symbol for criminals and adult entertainment venues. However, a huge renovation process in the 1990s greatly turned the area into the family and tourist attractions friendly, well known today. Now it is associated with bright lights show, Broadway and as a popular tourist/city-breaks for the New York residents and foreigners alike.
Top Attractions in Times Square
- The TKTS Booth: Well situated at the center of Times Square, TKTS booth sells Broadway and off broadway shows tickets at restricted prices at that day. Well, if what you are in the mood for is excellent performances and this is coming at a cheap price, this is for you.
- Madame Tussauds New York: The museum is especially suitable for families and everyone who appreciates pop-art. The facility is filled with; celebrity, historical and comic characters well sculpted from wax.
- The Times Square Ball Drop: For instance, if you are in New York on New Year’s Eve, I would like to suggest that you must go and witness the dropping of the ball in One Times Square. Welcome the new year through counting the seconds with thousands of other people as well as watching the ball drop.
- Broadway Shows: This is because Broadway is located in New York City’s most famous area. which is Times Square. Since there are tens of theaters located nearby, visiting a world-class musical or play is almost mandatory.
Times Square During the Holidays
If one chooses to visit during this time, then there is no better place like the Time Square in those holidays. From Thanksgiving to New Year’s, which is the cheeriest time; the region is bright with the festive decorations, holiday lights, and trees. The whole city but most predominantly the Times Square is immersed in a festive winter atmosphere. The annual New Year celebration is perhaps the most popular among the people and around New Year’s Eve more than a million people come to watch the ball drop and welcome the New Year.
Also, window shopping in the neighboring stores such as Macy’s in 34th street is a tradition throughout the holiday where their festive pieces entice the young and the old. To those who happen to be in the city during thanksgiving up to new year, it is recommended that they take a walk in the times square to feel the yuletide atmosphere.
Best Restaurants in Times Square
The place that has a lot of eating places includes Times Square with varied menus to suit the customers’ preferences as well as pocket. If you fancy a fast meal, there are many places to go to or if one needs to take a seat and be served, one can. Here are a few standout restaurants:
- Carmine’s: A big family-style successful Italian restaurant in New York, Carmine’s is better for the groups and those who like to eat tons of pasta and receive huge plates.
- Junior’s Cheesecake: Especially popular are their deserts, for example, cheesecake many guest said is famous all over the world. Their menu also has a lot of options for dinners accompanied with classics such as burgers and sandwiches.
- The View Restaurant & Lounge: Over sixteen years, The View has become NYC’s only revolving rooftop restaurant which is on the 48th floor of Marriott Marquis. From dining and entertainment establishments with dining only, open terraces, stunning views of the city.
- Shake Shack: If you are hungry, there is no better place to go other than Shake Shack where you can get some of the finest fast foods including the burgers, fries and shakes among others.
Check Out: A Comprehensive Tourist Guide to the Manatee Viewing Center.
Shopping in Times Square
This is particularly true when it comes to shopping for items where a visit to Times Square is more of a shopping expedition. While it may not be a traditional shopping district like Fifth Avenue, it boasts plenty of stores that are worth visiting, especially for tourists:
- M&M’s World: Given that it is a candy store, do not expect a clean looking and structured store. However, this multi-story candy wonder-land is an exciting place for kids and adults. It’s also possible to fill your own M&Ms and strange souvenirs can be bought there.
- Disney Store: The Disney Store located at Time Square is a dream come true for children as well as Disney freaks because of its exquisite toys and gadgets on display along with several kiddies’ ride- in- toys and gadgets.
- Hershey’s Chocolate World: Yet another confectionery shop on the strip is the Hershey’s Chocolate World which customers can get big-sized chocolate bars and chocolate named according to their individual desires as well as take lots of photos.
- Uniqlo: When it comes to stylish and economical clothes Uniqlo is the store of choice. This flagship store shown a large variety of chic and sober clothing.
- Sephora: Lovers of beauty products should visit Sephora’s large store located in Times Square that stocks beauty products inclusive of cosmetics and skincare.
Broadway Shows in Times Square
There is always a live performance in Broadway, and every person should endeavour to watch a show while in Times Square. Broadway is packed with some of the recognisable and enduring musicals ever, such as The Lion King show, Hamilton and the Wicked. For those who have been to Broadway before and those who never been there, Broadway has all types of plays to suit all people.
Make advance bookings for your tickets, either online or else if you are the kind of person who loves to take risks, then the TKTS booth is the place to be. A lot of theaters can be easily found nearby Times Square, it will take no more than ten minutes of walking so it is possible to get to a theater after dinner or after some sightseeing.
Nightlife and Entertainment Options
Times Square comes alive at night, and there are plenty of nightlife options to keep you entertained well after the sun sets:
- Dave & Buster’s: This Amherst arcade and sports bar is a ideal place for palates and large groups who are interested in food, beverages and games.
- Hard Rock Cafe: Being one of the famous local attractions, Hard Rock Cafe provides its visitors with the bitter taste of music and such trinkets as souvenirs and clothes with the emblem of the cafe.
- Bar 54: You may want to go up to Hyatt Centric Times Square for a slightly more chic experience at Bar 54. It is actually the tallest rooftop bar in New York City and provide great views of the skyline.
- Karaoke Bars: If you wish to go hardcore and sing your lungs out, there are quite a number of Karaoke joints in and around the Times Square to entertain your singing appetite with friends.
Tips for Navigating Times Square as a Tourist
- Stay Alert: Having the crowd experience in Times Square I have noticed it gets very congested especially at those specific hours. This should be taken to mean that when you’re in public spaces, you should always have your things safely within your reach.
- Best Time to Visit: If you care about crowd then it is better to visit Herne Bay during early morning when the population of the tourists is minimal. For a more energetic feel of the place, it is more advisable to visit the place during the evening when probably the closest is brightest.
- Comfortable Shoes: One thing you would be doing most of is walking and therefore it would be wise to wear comfortable shoes.
- Be Wary of Street Performers: Sure, the fun characters which are at times on the streets performing can make some money from tips in form of a few bucks given to them in exchange for photo or performance sessions. This means you should prepare yourself and never feel forced to tip if it goes against your wish.
Conclusion
It is a place like Times Square which epitomises the vibe of New York City. Whether it is watching a Broadway show, having a meal at a renowned restaurant or just enjoying the colorful ambience, the location has it all. This is a guide to 8 experiences in the vicinity of New York’s Times Square so you can maximize your fun.
For more in-dept info : Click Here.
FAQs
1. When is the best time to visit Times Square?
Its well recommended that you make your way to times Square in the evening especially if you want to witness the light. However, if you want few people to be around you then you should visit the park early in the morning.
2. Is Times Square safe for tourists?
The area is safe but just like any other location that has several tourists, it is also attractive to those with ill intention thus you should be very careful with your pockets and bags.
3. Can I see the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in person?
Yes, you can! This event attracts thousands of people and is arguably the most popular event that occurs in New York’s time square annually. However, there are usually many people around these areas and so one should be ready to sweat it out and reach early enough to have the best view.
