What to Know About Visiting Times Square in 2021?

Visiting Times Square in 2021 is an experience that can be enjoyed safely. Here’s what you need to know when planning your visit to the iconic Crossroads of the World, where Broadway, dazzling lights, and energy meet.

Times Square Basics

Times Square is located in Midtown Manhattan, at the intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue. People from all over the world come to experience its celebration of culture, entertainment, art, and commerce like no other. With fantastical sights and attractions to explore, it is a place for everyone!

Hours And Rules

Most attractions in Times Square are open from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., seven days a week. Retail stores tend to open earlier and close later; most retailers have posted their hours inside or around their storefronts. During peak season, many shops stay open as late as 9 p.m. At Times Square, there are many rules that must be followed: no smoking or vaping outside, no soliciting or selling, no bikes or skateboards, no amplified sound systems or amplified music, no taking pictures behind a barricade or space-taker, no excessive talking or running, no wearing inappropriate clothing in public, and no sleeping on the streets or sidewalks. All visitors are expected to respect the rules and regulations of the designated area.

Covid-19 Regulations

In light of the novel coronavirus pandemic, there are certain extra safety requirements visitors to Times Square should be aware of. To protect public safety, anyone ages two and over must wear face masks at all times when in Times Square. Social distance requirements are also mandatory; visitors should remain six feet apart from anyone not from their own household at all times. Additionally, there is limited access to public restrooms.

Exploring Attractions

As long as visitors adhere to the health and safety provisions outlined above, there is a myriad of attractions to explore in Times Square! Here are some things you won’t want to miss:

Broadway Shows

The experience of seeing a Broadway show in Times Square is one not to be missed—whether you’re an avid theater-goer or it’s your first show. For more information on shows playing around the crossroads of the world, check out Broadway.com. As with all destinations currently open in New York City, masks are required and social distancing is enforced.

Behind The Curtain Tours

The tour specialists at Behind the Curtain Tours are serious about providing an insider perspective on Times Square. From media business tours to guided walking tips and outdoor scavenger hunts led by veteran comedy writers, there’s something for every curiosity seeker.

Nightlife Experiences

Times Square by night is an unforgettable experience—especially during New Year’s Eve! Guests may not be able to gather indoors during the Covid-19 pandemic, but there are still plenty of outdoor activities they can do while enjoying the vibrant energy of the area. From taking pictures with family and friends at the Crossroads of the World to listening to live music on outdoor stages throughout the area, there is no shortage of great outdoor activities in Times Square by night. And if this isn’t your idea of a good time, numerous restaurants and bars dot Seventh Avenue as well as great local entertainment at various venues around the neighborhood.

Safety and Security

No visit to Times Square would be complete without some insight into its safety measures. The area is patrolled 24/7 by the NYPD and State Troopers who work in cooperation with Community Affairs Officers from the Police Commissioner’s Office of Public Information (CPO). Officers report suspicious activity and strive to keep pedestrians safe by helping to maintain crowd control on heavily trafficked areas like 46th Street and 47th Street between Broadway and 7th avenue. In addition to patrols, the NYPD has set up various surveillance cameras throughout the area that monitor pedestrian traffic and alert officers of suspicious activity within seconds.

Final Considerations

Visiting Times Square in 2021 is definitely something to be experienced! Just remember to follow public health protocols to keep yourself and those close to you safe from Covid-19, like wearing a face mask at all times when out in public and always following social distancing guidelines. Keep your wits about you and plan for any emergency scenarios by familiarizing yourself with emergency exits and alternate routes incase you have to evacuate rapidly. Lastly, if you’re going for a night on the town in Times Square – carry cash and plan on splitting up with friends during the journey to avoid compromising their safety as well as yours. Afterall – a little bit of caution never hurt anybody!