posted on March 13, 2026
Times Square pulls you in fast. The things to see in Times Square unfold in a rush of motion, sound, and scale, and from the moment you arrive in Times Square, it’s clear why this intersection sits at the heart of New York City. Bright lights climb skyward, screens flicker overhead, and the energy spills out in every direction, from Broadway show billboards to clusters of street performers drawing small, cheering crowds below. It’s loud, unapologetic, and undeniably iconic, with just one block capable of holding more spectacle than some entire neighborhoods.
Within walking distance, the scene shifts again. Bryant Park offers a pause from the buzz, Grand Central Terminal hums with history and movement, and Central Park waits nearby with open paths and quieter air. You can stand still and lean into people watching, catch the midnight moment as screens sync in a countdown, or wander until you find unobstructed views that feel cinematic rather than chaotic. Some call it a tourist trap, but there’s a good reason millions still go to NYC for this stretch alone. It’s fun and unforgettable, especially once you realise how quickly Times Square connects you to the rest of the city, even when the crowds swell.
Getting to Times Square: What You Need to Know
Times Square is built for wandering, not driving. This part of New York City rewards travelers who arrive on foot or by train, step into the glow of electronic billboards, and let the area unfold block by block rather than trying to move through it too quickly. Think of this as your quick, practical Times Square guide before you dive into the bright lights.
- Nearest airports: Major gateways include JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark, all with straightforward rail and taxi connections into Manhattan. Many visitors pass through Grand Central Station before switching to the subway for the final stretch toward Times Square.
- Best time to visit Times Square: Evenings bring peak energy, but earlier mornings offer breathing room before the crowds build. Special events like the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop draw massive numbers, so timing matters if you want space to watch comfortably.
- What you’ll love about Times Square: From glowing screens to pop-up installations by Times Square Arts, the area balances spectacle with small surprises. For many, it stirs fond childhood memories tied to movies, comic books, and first glimpses of New York on screen.
- Getting around Times Square: The district is designed for walking, with wide plazas and pedestrian flow guiding you past the red steps, theaters, and nearby landmarks. Subways run beneath nearly every corner, making it easy to branch out toward Bryant Park or Rockefeller Center once you finish exploring.
- Where to stay: Hotels cluster tightly around the square and nearby Restaurant Row, placing you steps from shows, late-night dining, and easy transport links. Staying close also simplifies pre-show plans and ticket pickups.
- Parking your rental car near Times Square: Direct access is limited, so parking garages sit on the edges of the area instead. Many travelers park, lock up, and then explore on foot, returning to their car only after the day winds down near the Empire State Building.
The top 10 things to see and do in Times Square
Times Square moves fast, but the best experiences reveal themselves when you slow down just enough to choose what’s worth your time. From theatre marquees glowing after dark to playful attractions that lean fully into the spectacle, these are the highlights that shape a first visit and still reward return trips. Think classic New York standards mixed with unapologetically fun moments you can only find here.
1. Broadway Shows
Broadway sits at the heart of the Theater District, where every block hums with anticipation as curtains rise night after night. Seeing a show here is one of the most famous New York experiences, with productions that range from long-running legends to bold new premieres.
- Ideal activity length: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Cost: Varies widely by show and seat
- Bookings: Strongly recommended in advance
- Best for: Theatre lovers and first-time visitors
- Local tip: If you’re flying into the city, it’s easy to line up a show on your first night after picking up a car near John F. Kennedy International Airport and heading straight into Manhattan.
2. Times Square Ball Drop/New Year’s Eve
The Times Square Ball Drop is a pure spectacle, drawing global attention and massive crowds. It’s an iconic event that transforms the square into a sea of lights, music, and countdown energy.
- Cost: Free to attend
- Bookings: No tickets available, spots are first come
- Best for: Bucket-list travelers
- Local tip: Dress for the weather and arrive early. Real talk, it’s an endurance event more than a party.
3. TKTS Booth
The red steps above the TKTS Booth are instantly recognisable and offer same-day discounts on Broadway and Off-Broadway shows. It’s one of the smartest ways to score tickets without planning weeks ahead.
- Ideal activity length: 30 to 45 minutes
- Cost: Discounted show prices
- Bookings: Same-day only
- Best for: Flexible schedules and spontaneous plans
- Local tip: Mid-afternoon lines are often shorter than evening
- Best time of day to visit: Early afternoon
4. Madame Tussauds New York
This interactive wax museum leans into pop culture, film icons, and sports legends, making it a playful break from the streets outside. It’s immersive, selfie-friendly, and surprisingly detailed.
- Ideal activity length: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Cost: Ticketed entry
- Bookings: Recommended during busy periods
- Best for: Families and pop culture fans
- Local tip: Weekday visits feel calmer
- Best time of day to visit: Late morning
5. RiseNY
RiseNY combines museum-style exhibits with a soaring motion ride that lifts you over a virtual New York City skyline. It’s an easy win, given it’s one of the most popular indoor attractions in the area.
- Ideal activity length: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Cost: Ticketed entry
- Bookings: Recommended
- Best for: Families, first-time NYC visitors
- Local tip: Save the ride for last — exhibits build toward it
- Best time of day to visit: Early afternoon
6. M&M’s World
Four floors of color, candy, and custom merch make this a hit for anyone with a sweet tooth. You can mix your own bags, shop limited editions, or grab novelty gifts.
- Ideal activity length: 30 minutes
- Cost: Free entry, purchases optional
- Bookings: Not required
- Best for: Quick stops and families
- Local tip: Skip peak evening hours if crowds overwhelm you
- Best time of day to visit: Morning
7. The Gershwin Theatre
Home to Wicked, the Gershwin Theatre is one of Broadway’s largest venues and a destination in its own right. The scale alone makes performances here feel cinematic.
- Ideal activity length: Length of the show
- Cost: Varies by seat
- Bookings: Strongly recommended
- Best for: Musical theatre fans
- Local tip: Balcony seats still offer strong sightlines
- Best time of day to visit: Evening
8. Planet Hollywood Times Square
Recently reimagined, Planet Hollywood blends dining with digital splendor, leaning into the theatrical spirit of its surroundings. It’s loud, bright, and intentionally dramatic.
- Ideal activity length: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Cost: Mid-range dining prices
- Bookings: Helpful during dinner hours
- Best for: Casual group meals
- Local tip: Share dishes to sample more of the menu
- Best time of day to visit: Late lunch or early dinner
9. Duffy Square & Father Duffy Statue
This small plaza marks the northern edge of Times Square and is a popular meeting point. Street performers often gather here, and if you’re lucky, you might spot the Naked Cowboy striking a pose.
- Ideal activity length: 15 to 30 minutes
- Cost: Free
- Bookings: Not required
- Best for: People watching and photos
- Local tip: Stand back a little for better angles
- Best time of day to visit: Early evening
10. Museum of Broadway
This attraction dives into the history, craft, and cultural impact of Broadway itself. Interactive exhibits, original costumes, and behind-the-scenes storytelling make it surprisingly absorbing, even for non-theatre buffs.
- Ideal activity length: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Cost: Ticketed entry
- Bookings: Recommended on weekends
- Best for: Theatre fans, culture lovers
- Local tip: Start here before seeing a show to spot references you’ll recognise later
- Best time of day to visit: Midday
Exploring Times Square: Your Complete Guide
Unique things to do in Times Square
For travelers who like their sightseeing a little unexpected, these experiences add texture to the square’s big, bold energy.
- Color Factory: A nearby multi-sensory playground built around color, interactive rooms, and photo-friendly installations.
- Topgolf Swing Suite: Indoor golf simulators mixed with games and food, ideal for burning energy without leaving Midtown.
- SPYSCAPE: A sleek, immersive museum that taps into espionage stories, testing reflexes, logic, and observation skills along the way.
Things to do in Times Square for families
Times Square works well for families thanks to its walkability, clear landmarks, and attractions designed to keep all ages engaged.
- Disney Store: Bright, immersive, and packed with themed displays that pull younger visitors straight in.
- The New Victory Theater: Family-focused productions that introduce kids to live performance in an accessible way.
- Hershey’s Chocolate World: A sugar-filled stop with oversized displays and build-your-own treats.
- Rockefeller Center: Seasonal events, skating, and nearby landmarks make this an easy add-on to a Times Square day.
Free things to do in Times Square
You don’t need to spend much to soak up the atmosphere. Some of the best moments here cost nothing at all.
- Times Square Viewing Platform: Elevated seating with clear sightlines, perfect for photos and taking in the scale of the square.
- Street Performers and Costumed Characters: Loud, unpredictable, and very much part of the experience.
- New York Public Library: A calm, grand counterpoint just a short walk away, offering space to reset between crowds.
Frequently asked questions about visiting Times Square
What not to miss in Times Square?
Seeing the Square after dark is essential. The scale of the screens, the constant motion, and the theatre crowds spilling onto the streets capture what makes the area iconic.
What’s around Times Square?
Within a short walk you’ll reach Bryant Park, the Theater District, and major transit hubs that connect you easily to the rest of Manhattan.
What is Times Square most famous for?
It’s known worldwide for its digital billboards, Broadway theatres, and reputation as the city’s most electric crossroads.
Is it free to watch the ball drop in Times Square?
Yes, the event is free to attend, though it requires patience, warm clothing, and an early arrival due to crowd control.
Getting to Times Square by car
Arriving with a New York car rental gives you flexibility before and after your time in Midtown, especially if your trip includes neighborhoods beyond Manhattan or airport pick-ups. Parking garages around Times Square fill quickly, so it’s best to plan ahead and drop the car before settling into pedestrian-heavy areas.
Once your city time wraps up, having access to rental options across the country makes it easy to continue exploring beyond New York. With Turo, you can browse car rental choices nationwide and shape the rest of your journey on your own terms, long after the lights of Times Square fade behind you.
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Christine Marcarian
Frequent flyer and part-time philosopher (in transit), Christine has travelled from night markets in the Philippines to the neon streets of Tokyo and the mountain roads of Switzerland, following instincts instead of itineraries... and calling it intuition. She’s explored much of Asia, Europe and North America and has her sights set on South America next. She’s happiest on a long drive with the windows down, a well-curated playlist and sunlight spilling through the rearview.
