What are the Best Activities You Can Do in Times Square?

Taking a trip to New York City is always exciting – and no trip is complete without a visit to the vibrant neighborhood of Times Square. Located in the heart of Manhattan, Times Square is one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks, famously buzzing with activity, night and day. People from around the globe flock to the area to experience its unique energy and check out some of its much-celebrated attractions.

If you’re planning a trip, here are some of the best things to do in Times Square – from classic shows to neon-bright lights and shopping spots.

See a Show

One of Times Square’s most popular attractions is watching a show. After all, Times Square theaters are one of the biggest entertainment areas in the world, catering to audiences everywhere.

Broadway and off-Broadway shows alike offer an incredible variety of musicals and plays. From classics such as Annie Get Your Gun, Beauty and the Beast, and The Lion King to new favorites like Frozen, Hadestown, and The Book of Mormon, it’s no wonder that theater tickets are highly sought-after throughout the area.

Oftentimes, dedicated theater lovers snatch up tickets months ahead of time. However, if you’re lucky enough to be visiting during the extremely popular Thanksgiving Day Parade Weekend, you might be able to get tickets as you go. For theater buffs looking for last-minute shows, Theater Mania offers ticket discounts for select shows.

Take in the Lights

The hustle and bustle of this star-studded location wouldn’t be complete without its famous neon-bright lights. Whether you’re popping in for a fleeting glimpse or taking time to take it all in, you can explore Times Square’s dazzling array of billboards, illuminated advertisements, and storefront signs.

Taking photos here is a must, especially since you’ll be able to document your trip to one of the most iconic spots in New York City! Some popular photo locations include the TKTS booth beneath the red stairs, where you’ll be able to snap some epic shots while avoiding too many potential crowd interference.

Indulge at Restaurants

There are infinite places to eat in Times Square, ranging from fast food to mid-range restaurants, as well as high-end dining experiences. Whether your appetite gravitates toward pizza slices, sushi rolls, a hot dog from a street cart, or an impressive steak dinner, you should be able to find something scrumptious no matter your budget or preferences.

Make sure to enjoy iconic meals – particularly those from famous restaurants like Carmine’s Italian Restaurant or Junior’s Cheesecake, located in nearby Brooklyn – for a truly authentic NYC experience.

Shop “Til You Drop

Located alongside Broadway shows and culinary hotspots are some of Times Square’s most popular shopping venues. Here, you can find everything from souvenir stands and independent retailers to high-end fashion stores, motorized kiosks featuring specialty products, and duty-free shops with low prices on cosmetics, fragrances and accessories.

A few stores you can expect to find include Lindt Chocolate Shop, espn Zone Store, Hershey’s Chocolate World, and M&Ms World New York. These shops offer snacks and souvenirs that you can take back home with you as mementos of your trip!

Check Out Family-Friendly Attractions

What many people don’t know is that Times Square is actually quite family-friendly! While this area may be highly known for its bustling nightlife and vivacious energy, the daytime brings out plenty of activities for those who might not feel comfortable exploring beneath the bright lights at night.

Visit Madame Tussauds Times Square, Ripley’s Believe it or Not!, and Discovery TSX for an exciting mix of hands-on exhibits and interactive games that everyone in the family can enjoy.

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re an intrepid tourist looking for adventure or a dedicated local searching for some fun things to do in New York City, Times Square has something for everyone! This vibrant destination is great for watching live shows, experiencing alluring lights, savoring classic meals, shopping in specialty stores, and exploring fun attractions for all ages.

No matter what time of day or night you go, rest assured that exploring Times Square will always be an unforgettable experience!

What are the Best Activities You Can Do in Times Square?

Times Square is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. With its bright lights, bustling crowds, and endless entertainment options, it’s easy to see why. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the best activities to do in Times Square.

What is Times Square?

Times Square is a commercial and entertainment district located in the heart of Manhattan, New York City. It is known for its bright lights, Broadway shows, shopping, and numerous restaurants. It is surrounded by iconic buildings such as the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and the Chrysler Building.

What are the best times to visit Times Square?

Times Square is open 24/7, so you can visit it at any time of the day. However, the best times to visit are in the evening and at night when the lights are shining brightly. Times Square is also a popular destination during major holidays such as New Year’s Eve, when millions of people gather to watch the famous ball drop at midnight.

What are some of the best things to do in Times Square?

There are plenty of things to see and do in Times Square. Here are some of the most popular activities:

1. See a Broadway show

Times Square is home to many Broadway theaters, which feature some of the best live performances in the world. You can catch popular shows like Hamilton, The Lion King, and Wicked in Times Square. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, as shows often sell out quickly.

2. Visit the Times Square Museum and Visitors Center

The Times Square Museum and Visitors Center is located right in the heart of Times Square. Here, you can learn about the history of the area and the many famous events that have taken place there over the years. You can also get helpful tips on how to explore the area and find the best attractions.

3. Check out the street performers

Times Square is home to many talented street performers, who showcase their skills to the crowds of tourists that pass through every day. You’ll see everything from acrobats and dancers to musicians and comedians. It’s a great way to experience the vibrant energy of Times Square.

4. Go shopping

Times Square is home to many famous stores and shopping centers. You can shop at popular stores like Nike, Forever 21, and H&M or visit major shopping centers like Times Square Mall and the Manhattan Mall.

5. Visit the Top of the Rock Observatory

The Top of the Rock Observatory is located in the Rockefeller Center, which is just a short walk from Times Square. From the observatory, you’ll get breathtaking views of the city skyline and a bird’s eye view of Times Square.

What are some of the best restaurants in Times Square?

Times Square has no shortage of dining options. Here are some of the best restaurants in the area:

1. Carmine’s Italian Restaurant

Carmine’s is a family-style Italian restaurant that serves up delicious dishes in a festive atmosphere. It’s a great place to go with a group, as the portions are large and meant to be shared.

2. The View Restaurant and Lounge

The View is a revolving restaurant located on the 48th floor of the Marriott Marquis hotel. As you enjoy your meal, you’ll get stunning views of Times Square and the surrounding area.

3. Junior’s Cheesecake

Junior’s Cheesecake is a famous dessert spot that’s been around since 1950. They serve up a variety of decadent cheesecakes and other desserts, all made from scratch.

4. Shake Shack

Shake Shack is a popular burger joint that serves up delicious burgers, fries, and shakes. There’s always a long line, but it’s worth the wait.

What are the best ways to get to Times Square?

Times Square is located in the heart of Manhattan, so it’s easily accessible by public transportation. You can take the subway or bus to get there, or you can take a taxi or ride-share service. If you’re driving, be aware that parking in the area can be expensive and hard to find.

Conclusion

Times Square is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New York City. Whether you want to catch a Broadway show, go shopping, or enjoy a delicious meal, Times Square has something for everyone. By following the tips in this post, you’ll be well on your way to having an unforgettable experience in the heart of the city.