How Times Square Got Its Name: A Detailed Answer and Personal Opinion

People often wonder how Times Square got its famously iconic name. The answer is a little bit complicated – it’s a combination of the 19th-century real estate development named Longacre Square, the New York Times newspaper, and the decision to rename it Times Square in 1904.

Longacre Square

In the 1800s, the area was known as “Long Acre” or “Long Acres”, and by the late 19th century it had become known as “Longacre Square”. This name came about due to the area’s location (it was at the northern end of Broadway), its similarity to London’s Long Acre area, and its market culture — similar to the marketplace in London.

The square became densely populated with theater-goers and restaurants, and it began to fill up with billboards and advertisements. Such was the popularity of the area that newspapers such as The New York Times referred to it as “the Heart of Gotham.”

The New York Times

In 1904, The New York Times newspaper decided to move its offices from Park Row to the newly developed Longacre Square. This required city authorities to officially rename the area and “Times Square” was chosen. Ironically, this meant that a London-inspired name (Long Acre) was replaced by a newspaper-inspired name – although in this case the newspaper was from New York.

Conclusion and Personal Opinion

Today, Times Square is one of the most iconic and famous urban areas in the world, having been featured in countless films and TV shows. It’s no surprise that its history is so intertwined with journalism and media. The decision to move The New York Times to the area has proved to be a masterstroke – not only has it changed the identity of the square, but it has given it an unmistakable presence that will last for generations to come.

It is fascinating how much history is embedded into the modernity of this area – it reminds us of the power of advertising and how, even in a fast-moving world, decisions made in the distant past can still exert influence over our present day.

For more information on how Times Square got its name, you can read this article from Atlas Obscura, which offers a detailed explanation of its history.

Insider’s Guide to New York City

New York City, the Big Apple, the city that never sleeps. It’s a place of bright lights, skyscrapers, and endless energy. There’s a reason why it’s the city that everyone wants to visit at least once in their lifetime. But with so much to see and do in New York City, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore the must-visit attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make the most out of your trip to the city.

Attractions

When it comes to iconic New York City attractions, the Big Apple has no shortage. The most famous of them all is, of course, the Statue of Liberty. You can visit the statue via a ferry ride from Battery Park or Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Another unmissable landmark is the Empire State Building. Head to the observation deck on the 86th floor for incredible views of the city. The 9/11 Memorial and Museum is a poignant reminder of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, and is a must-visit for anyone interested in contemporary history.

Dining

New York City is a foodie’s paradise. The city is home to countless world-famous restaurants, but there are also plenty of hidden gems that are worth checking out. For a classic New York dining experience, you can’t go wrong with a slice of pizza from Lombardi’s, the oldest pizzeria in the city. If you’re craving Asian cuisine, head to Chinatown for authentic dim sum and noodle soups. For something more upscale, check out Gramercy Tavern, which offers a tasting menu of seasonal and locally sourced dishes.

Cultural Experiences

New York City is a melting pot of cultures, and there’s no shortage of ways to experience the city’s diverse offerings. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive art museums, showcasing everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art. The Apollo Theater in Harlem is a legendary venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in music, from Ella Fitzgerald to Aretha Franklin. For a taste of offbeat art, head to the Museum of Modern Art’s PS1 satellite location in Long Island City.

Local History

New York City is steeped in history, from its earliest days as a Dutch colony to its role as a center of commerce and culture. One of the best ways to learn about the city’s past is by visiting its numerous historic landmarks. The Brooklyn Bridge is an iconic symbol of the city’s growth and ingenuity, dating back to 1883. The Tenement Museum on the Lower East Side offers a glimpse into the lives of immigrants who settled in the neighborhood in the early 20th century. For a more modern take on New York history, check out the High Line, a former elevated railway line turned public park in the West Side.

Off the Beaten Path

New York City has plenty of hidden gems that are often overlooked by tourists. The Cloisters, located in the northern tip of Manhattan, is a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art that’s dedicated to medieval art and architecture. The Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn is a sprawling 478-acre park that doubles as the final resting place for numerous famous figures, from Jean-Michel Basquiat to Boss Tweed. For a taste of the city’s vibrant street art scene, head to Bushwick in Brooklyn for a self-guided tour of murals and graffiti by local artists.

In conclusion, New York City may be one of the most visited cities in the world, but it still has plenty of surprises waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re into art, food, history, or just need to snap that iconic Times Square photo, there’s something for everyone in the Big Apple.