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Standing in the middle of Times Square feels a little like being inside a giant kaleidoscope that someone forgot to shake. The signs are impossibly bright, the crowds move like they all have somewhere urgent to be, and every few feet there’s a new sound, smell, or gimmick demanding your attention. It’s chaotic, loud, and unapologetically commercial. And honestly, that’s kind of the point. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local who still doesn’t get the hype, this guide to the best things to do in Times Square will help you sort the genuinely fun from the overpriced tourist traps.
You’ll find Broadway’s beating heart, the world’s largest amount of neon per square foot, and a handful of hidden gems tucked behind the marquees. So put on your most comfortable shoes, look both ways (twice), and get ready to explore.
Stand Where the Energy Hits You: The Best Photo Spots
Times Square really doesn’t have a center, but the TKTS steps at 47th Street and Broadway come closest. Once you climb the red staircase and find a slice of space to sit, you can watch the LED billboards change the sky’s color every few seconds. It’s the perfect people-watching perch and, for photographers, the best place to capture the full neon chaos without having to dodge elbows.
If you want a photo with the iconic “Times Square” banner as a backdrop, stand directly beneath it on 7th Avenue. Wait for a red light when the pedestrian crossings are packed; that’s your moment. For a more elevated view, pop into the JW Marriott’s View Lounge on the 49th floor, or head to the Renaissance Hotel’s rooftop bar. Both offer a front-row seat to the flickering skyline, and they’re usually happy to let you take in the view even if you’re just buying one drink.
Not every memorable travel photo needs a million LED lights, though. Sometimes it’s just as fun to capture the natural world. If you’re planning your next big trip, you might also be inspired by these incredible things to do in Hawaii’s Big Island, where the landscapes look nothing like Midtown Manhattan.
Catch a Broadway Show (or a Sneak Peek at One)
The Broadway theater district wraps around Times Square like a sequined scarf, and there’s simply no better place to catch a live performance. From long-running heavyweights like The Lion King and Wicked to newer hits like SIX and the ever-changing lineup at the Music Box Theatre, there’s a show for every taste.
The trick to scoring affordable tickets is to hit the TKTS booth under the aforementioned red steps. They sell same-day tickets for up to 50% off, and the line moves surprisingly fast. Alternatively, download the TodayTix app and set alerts for the show you want. You can also try your luck at the Broadway lottery, where you might land front-row seats for a fraction of the price.
Theater history runs deep in New York, but if you ever want to experience theatrical roots that go back a few thousand years, you might enjoy our picks for the best things to do in Athens, Greece, where ancient amphitheaters still host performances under the stars.
Get Up Close With Art, Wax, and Wonder
Beyond the flashing screens, there’s a surprising amount of culture hiding in the neighborhood. Madame Tussauds New York draws crowds who want to pose with celebrity wax figures, while Ripley’s Believe It or Not! has all the oddities you can handle, from shrunken heads to illuminated car sculptures. For a more contemporary twist, check out RiseNY, a 360-degree movie-musical that tells the story of New York City with special effects and a sweeping yet intimate vibe.
Another little gem is the Museum of Broadway, which only opened a few years ago. It tracks the history of theater through costumes, set pieces, and interactive exhibits, and it’s a delight for any stage nerd. If you’re thinking of a different kind of art journey, maybe something less flashy, you might love the quiet beauty of Corfu, Greece, and our guide to the best things to do in Corfu, Greece, where the island’s old town feels like a painted backdrop from a classic film.
Eat and Drink With a Side of Spectacle
Times Square is packed with celebrity chefs and overpriced buffets, but a few places stand out for making dinner part of the entertainment. Ellen’s Stardust Diner remains a legend for its singing waitstaff, who belt out show tunes while you work through a plate of blueberry pancakes. The diner is small and usually has a line, but the vibe is pure Broadway cabaret.
If you’re looking for a more grown-up spot, head to the rooftop at The Knickerbocker Hotel. It’s open to the public at certain hours and offers craft cocktails with direct views of the square. Or, for breakfast with a twist, stop by Friedman’s which serves up excellent comfort food in a relaxed setting.
Here’s a quick list of must-try bites that won’t break the bank:
- The famous $5 slice pizza from Joe’s Pizza, just around the corner
- Street cart chicken and rice from the halal guys at 7th Avenue and 43rd Street
- Rainbow ice cream from the M&M’s World store (it’s all about the photo)
- A hand-carved roast beef sandwich from Rosie’s, a hidden local spot
For dessert, grab a slice of cheesecake from Juniors. It’s as famous as the billboards themselves.
Take a Tour That You’ll Actually Remember
If you want to understand the neighborhood’s history and its place in New York’s story, a walking tour is a smart move. There are dozens of companies, but choose one that focuses on the secret past of Times Square, covering its days as a circus district and its later, sketchier chapter. A tour will point out details you’d walk right past, like the long-abandoned pipe organ under the Lyric Theatre or the famous “naked cowboy” lore.
For something quicker, hop on a double-decker bus tour that does a loop around Manhattan. They usually let you hop off and on at stops near Times Square, giving you a good aerial perspective. If you prefer something more intimate, a pedicab ride through the streets is a fun night-time adventure (just negotiate the price first).
And hey, if you’re planning a bigger celebration, you might also want to look at our guide to slowing down in Valencia with kids. Sometimes, getting away from the neon is exactly the reset you need.
Insider Tips for Making the Most of Your Time in Times Square
Timing is everything. The plaza is least crowded before 9 a.m., when the morning sun makes the billboards glow in a softer way. If you want the full night-time dazzle, come after 10 p.m., when some of the crowds have thinned out and the signs seem even more intense.
Here are a few quick pointers:
- Use the public restrooms at the Times Square Information Center on 7th Avenue and 46th Street. They’re free and surprisingly clean.
- Avoid the costumed characters (Elmo, Spiderman, etc.) unless you’re ready to tip them. They can be pushy.
- Keep your wallet in a front pocket and your phone zipped up. A pickpocket can work the crowds faster than you’d think.
- Take the subway: the 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, S, and W trains all stop at 42nd Street–Times Square. It’s often the quickest way out.
- If you’re staying nearby, book a hotel with a rooftop lounge so you can escape the noise without leaving the neighborhood.
- And for families, carve out some time for the M&M’s World store, which has a giant 3D movie experience that’s surprisingly entertaining.
With those tips, you’re ready to take on the crossroads of the world, no map required.
