Times Square
Bustling destination in the heart of the Theater District known for bright lights, shopping & shows.
Times Square is rated 4.7 / 5 from 245,781 Google reviews and sits about 933 m (12 min walk) from Grand Central–42 St station.
General overview
About Times Square
Times Square is Manhattan’s brightly illuminated commercial and entertainment plaza, centered around Broadway and Seventh Avenue between roughly 42nd and 47th Streets. It is free to visit and open as a public space, with major attractions including giant digital billboards, street performers, the pedestrian plazas, Broadway theaters, and nearby attractions.
- Iconic digital billboards and nighttime lights
- Pedestrian plazas with seating and views of Broadway
- Broadway theaters and theater-district atmosphere
- Street performers and costumed characters, especially around heavily visited areas
- Convenient location near Bryant Park, Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, and the Port Authority Bus Terminal
Things to do here
Explore Times Square plazas
Walk through the pedestrianized sections along Broadway and Seventh Avenue, including the red TKTS steps and seating areas.
See the billboards at night
The illuminated signs are most dramatic after dark, though the area is busy throughout the day.
Broadway theater visit
Times Square is the center of New York’s Broadway theater district. Individual shows require separate tickets and have their own theater policies and schedules.
TKTS booth
The Times Square TKTS location traditionally offers discounted same-day Broadway and Off-Broadway tickets, subject to availability and show restrictions.
Street performers and photo opportunities
Performers and costumed characters may be present. Confirm any requested fee before taking posed photographs.
The Times Square Museum & Visitor Center
A visitor-oriented space historically associated with Times Square information, memorabilia, and exhibits; availability and programming may change.
Use the subway where practical; Times Square–42nd Street is a major station served by multiple lines. Allow extra time for crowds, subway navigation, theater security, and pedestrian congestion. Keep valuables secure and agree on a meeting point if traveling in a group.
Book Broadway shows in advance when a specific production, date, or seat is important. Times Square itself does not require advance booking.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
See it before you go
Watch first
Video
Midtown Manhattan Walking Tour | More Than Times Square · Tours by Foot - New York (YouTube)
Most asked
How to reach
Times Square is about 933 m (~12 min walk) from Grand Central–42 St station on the New York City Subway.
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
Also near this station
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Times Square from Grand Central–42 St station?
Times Square is about 933 m (roughly 12 min walk) from Grand Central–42 St station on the New York City Subway. Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is Times Square rated?
Times Square has a Google rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 245,781 reviews.
What's near Times Square?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Bryant Park, ロックフェラー・センター, Empire State Building.
Is Times Square wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Google lists the following accessibility features for Times Square: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking, wheelchair-accessible restroom, wheelchair-accessible seating.
Is there parking near Times Square?
Google lists these parking options near Times Square: paid street parking, paid garage parking.
Do I need a ticket to visit Times Square?
No. The public plazas are free and open to everyone. Tickets are needed only for specific attractions, Broadway shows, tours, or other events.
Is Times Square open at night?
The outdoor public spaces are generally accessible 24 hours a day. Individual businesses and attractions have their own hours.
How long should I spend there?
Allow 30–90 minutes for a general visit. If attending a Broadway show, plan for the full theater schedule plus arrival time.
What is the best time to visit?
After dark is best for the illuminated signs; early morning is usually less crowded.
Can I take photos with costumed characters?
You can ask, but establish whether a fee is expected before posing or taking a photograph. Avoid handing over valuables or allowing unwanted interactions.
Is Times Square safe for tourists?
It is heavily visited and policed, but normal big-city precautions are important. Watch phones and wallets, avoid distractions, and be cautious around aggressive solicitors and unrequested photo opportunities.
Which subway station serves Times Square?
Times Square–42nd Street is the principal station, with connections to multiple subway services. Nearby 42nd Street–Port Authority and 47th–50th Streets–Rockefeller Center stations may also be useful depending on your destination.
Can I bring luggage?
Large luggage is inconvenient in the crowds and may be refused at Broadway theaters. Use an appropriate luggage-storage service or hotel storage rather than leaving bags unattended.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 9, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.