Times Square

Times Square in New York City is one of the most vibrant and energetic places in the world. The moment you arrive, the massive digital billboards, bright lights, and constant buzz of people create an atmosphere that feels uniquely New York. It truly lives up to its reputation as the crossroads of the world. Walking through Times Square is an experience on its own. Street performers, musicians, and artists often entertain visitors, and there are countless shops, restaurants, and theaters all around the area. The famous Broadway theaters nearby also make it a major destination for live shows and performances. The best time to visit is in the evening when the lights from the giant screens illuminate the entire area and create a spectacular view. Even late at night the place remains lively, which makes it feel very safe and exciting for visitors. Parking in this part of Manhattan can be very expensive and difficult to find, so using the subway is usually the most convenient option. The Times Square 42nd Street subway station connects several major lines, making it easy to reach from almost anywhere in the city. One helpful tip is to walk a little away from the busiest intersection and explore the surrounding streets where you can still enjoy the lights but with slightly fewer crowds. Also take a moment to sit on the red steps above the TKTS booth because it offers one of the best views of the entire square. Overall Times Square is a must visit attraction in New York City, especially for first time visitors who want to experience the energy and excitement of Manhattan.

Last year in May, I visited New York City for the first time, and Times Square in Manhattan was absolutely one of the most iconic places I could not miss—and one I will never forget. This area is incredibly inspiring. Not only because of the many shops and bright lights, but also because Manhattan is a global creative hub. Artists from all over the world come here to perform on Broadway, presenting some of the best productions of our time. During my visit, I had the chance to watch several Broadway musicals, including Moulin Rouge, Aladdin, and The Lion King. Experiencing these world-class performances in the heart of Times Square was truly unforgettable and showed the high artistic level of Broadway theatre. I also enjoyed some shopping while I was there. I bought a pair of Levi’s jeans, which are originally an American brand and much cheaper in the U.S. compared to Belgium. For shopping, New York—especially Manhattan—is definitely a great place. A small tip for visitors: Times Square is an amazing place to walk around, explore, and enjoy the atmosphere, but you should be aware that food and drinks can be quite expensive in this area. It’s good to know where to stop if you want to eat or drink. Even so, simply hanging out, walking around, and enjoying the energy of Times Square is absolutely worth it. If you are in New York, Times Square is a must-visit spot—loud, bright, creative, and full of life.

NYC’s Times Square in winter is simply magical! • I was able to pass by Times Square almost every day during my stay in Manhattan. It was walkable from my hotel. • As expected, it gets crowded during the day, but I was lucky enough to see it almost empty after a snowstorm — which happened to fall on my birthday, too. • It was so pretty and quiet. The bright lights, massive screens, snow-capped streets, and soft snow falling: pure bliss. • There are plenty of cafés, restaurants, and shops around, definitely worth trying some! Lines usually move fast despite the crowd. • Broadway Theater District is just steps away, with theaters everywhere you look. They’re must-visit. • Sunset is especially beautiful, but you can spot it better along 8th Ave and 47th St. • Try to avoid staying in the middle of the crowd for too long — less commotion and safer, too. Winter in Times Square just hits different; cold air, warm lights, and a little birthday magic in between. ✨

The fabulously famous Times Square!! Hotel was literally a 5 minute walk… I had never been here and always wanted to go.. first journey was about 130am after arriving at the hotel.. it was semi barren, not a lot of tourists marching about… no sidewalk shows, but the place reeked of weed and it got worse the next day when the numbers increased dramatically.. but other than that. The buzz was electric, people everywhere, this was the site of many ball drops that I watched on TV.. pretty cool to be here in person… Massive LED screens surrounded you everywhere with all the hustle and bustle and Walmart dressed costumed characters looked to make a quick buck.. and everywhere you looked you saw those 360 degree cameras that could record you as Empire State of mind played on a consistent loop.. Great experience..

This had to be on the tick list as I have been meaning to just walk down here and take some photos, but even though it has been over a foot of snow the night before and it was freezing, it was sort of better in a way as it wasn't as busy! Went in to the McDonalds to grab some free wifi and book the 2 for 1 vouchers for the Empire State building, so google offers when in New York as even the locals didnt know this offer covered loads of 2 for 1 offers on Theatre and buildings, museums etc. Walked straight down to Central Park at the end of the road straight after and took some pictures at the Home Alone 2 film locations.

Visiting Times Square is exactly what you expect—and somehow still surprising. It’s loud, bright, crowded, and completely over the top, but that’s also what makes it such a uniquely New York experience. The scale of the lights and screens doesn’t really register until you’re standing there looking up, surrounded by motion in every direction. Even in January, there’s an incredible energy to the place. The crowds were more manageable than peak tourist season, which made it easier to take it all in without feeling overwhelmed. Walking through at night, when everything is lit up, feels almost unreal—like stepping into the middle of a live movie set. What stood out most was the mix of people from everywhere. Tourists, locals moving through on their way somewhere else, street performers, families, couples—it all blends into this constant flow that somehow works. It’s chaotic, but there’s a rhythm to it. Times Square isn’t a place you linger for hours, but it’s absolutely worth experiencing at least once. It’s one of those spots that captures the nonstop pulse of the city and reminds you just how big and alive New York really is.

What's not to love about one of the most iconic spots in America. The world is a better place because of Times Square and there is a lot to see and do here like seeing the red steps, watch a live performance on the streets, watch a Broadway Musical like the Lion King. As far as hotels go, we stayed at the Hard Rock Hotel which is amazing and perfect location. 5 stars doesn't do Times Square justice.

The beating heart of the city that never sleeps! Times Square is an absolute sensory overload in the best way possible. It’s where NYC’s rich history meets modern-day spectacle. Whether you’re there at 10 AM or 2 AM, the energy is always "on." From the street performers and dancers to the massive, glowing billboards, there’s never a dull moment. It’s the ultimate spot for people-watching and photography. If you’re in New York, you simply can't miss the neon glow of this iconic landmark!