Love the view there as a first timer, but it's soooooo crowded! As well as some weird smells

When I traveled here with my high school drama group as an alumni chaperone years back, we knew we wanted to stop here. Honestly, Time Square is mostly hype. Though, I really loved the Sbarro Pizza as it was leaps and bounds better than the ones you find in local malls. That made the visit for me, plus we checked out some shops for souvenirs. Unless stopping for some shops or a restaurant, I would say this is a one-and-done destination personally. Too congested with people and I didn't like being bombarded asking for money to pose with a character. read more

Easily the most crowded and touristy place in all of NYC! It's completely packed with people, sensory overload from all the massive screens, and definitely not somewhere you want to hang out for long periods. That said, if it's your first time in the city or you're showing people around, seeing the bright lights in person is still a cool classic New York experience to check off the list once. read more

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I love times square. I love all its decades from the 80s till now. I wish I was alive in the 70s to see the casinos and all the hookers. I wonder if the 80s hookers in LiC would come here to work. The area has changed a lot. There's less cars then there used to be. I guess that is great for people coming into NYC. Definitely bicycle friendly. I recommend not walking slow while other new yorkers are trying to get to their destinations. Never leave your wallet in your back pocket. read more

Times Square - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

Times Square, one of the world's busiest pedestrian intersections, and a must-visit at least once in your life for tourists to NYC. Although shunned by locals, Times Square offers 5 blocks of glitzy lights, large LED billboards, and nearly 330,000 people passing through this small corridor on a daily basis. Here you'll find a plethora of shopping options, including no shortage of various stores hawking overpriced NY souvenirs. There are also a variety of dining options, as well as the world-famous Broadway shows. If nothing else during your NYC trip, you should at least catch a show at Broadway at least once. This is also the site of the annual New Year's Eve ball drop, which continues to attract over a million visitors to Times Square every year. And while there is no shortage of interesting people to see at Times Square, similar to Vegas, I would avoid the costume characters before you get suckered into paying some overpriced "fee" for a quick photo op. Also be sure to avoid anyone trying to hand out any "free" items as those are all a scam. Love it or hate it, Times Square is virtually the epicenter of NYC and something you need to experience at least once in your life. read more

Times Square - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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Iconic, touristy, crazy - but the essence of NYC and USA. I've been here many times and even stayed in a hotel here once, but I've never seen it this crazy as it was the night before the FIFA World Cup finals. A thunderstorm brought thunder, lightening and pouring rain while thousands of Argentina fans partied away through the night. Hats off to NYPD for managing the crowds so we'll. Zero violence! Everyone was having a great time. read more

Times Square - Times Square - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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Hey yall! Even tho TIMES SQUARE IS ALL HYPE, it was my first time ever, and I quickly realized how SIMILAR it is to DOWNTOWN LA IN CALI! Same ishhhhhh!! Some vibes!!! Same restaurants!! Very skimmy hotels tho that don't let anyone use the restrooms tho! Otherwise, it seems like people create their own lil hype down here everyday and all throughout the morning!!! Overall I didn't try any of the food hype yet and haven't visited QUEENS OR BROOKLYN OR HARLEM, so I'm only in manhattan area more so... but I'll try to come back and do the whole foodie thing again!!! Train was cool! People are young and lively! Police everywhere for safety!! read more

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Times Square is an experience to say the least. It was exciting; the lights, the performances, the attractions that were more like a carnival than a street show and the absolute sea of people. If you've ever watched a New Year's Eve ball drop in Time Square, take that amount of people and half that. If you're not paying attention you or who you may be with could get swept up in the crowd. If you've never been, you should check it out, but just be aware that it can be overwhelming if you're not prepared. read more

Times Square - It's SHOWTIME! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

I mean is it even Times Square if you don't see the Naked Cowboy (and characters like Mickey and Minnie)? I typically would go to NYC 3-4 times a year and tend to avoid touristy areas like Times Square. However, there have been times I needed to be there for some event or other. With that said, it's a landmark for anyone going to the Big Apple for the first time. It's jam packed with stores (let's be honest, the M&Ms shop rules), restaurants, and more. Live entertainment is often in the center of the Square (planned celebrity endorsements/interviews/events, dance troupes, singers, deejays, you name it). There's ample amphitheater-style seating to people-watch, have a bite to eat, watch an event, and so on. Who knows? Maybe you too will see Naked Cowboy! read more

Times Square - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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Times Square is the ultimate tourist attraction in NYC. The entire space is covered with screens and has all sorts of ads playing on a consistent basis. There are chain stores, souvenir shops, restaurants, street venders, street performers, taxi cabs, and lots and lots of people! It's fun, yet overwhelming and dirty. If you've never been to NYC, it's cool to check out. But the city has so much more to offer and explore, in my opinion. read more

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Known as "The Crossroads of the World," Times Square offers an unforgettable experience to 300,000 visitors every day (and around a million on New Year's Eve), with its bright lights, bustling atmosphere, and iconic landmarks. Our recent visit last Thursday, whether it's the first or millionth time, was nothing short of exhilarating. From the dazzling billboards to the vibrant energy, every moment spent there left us captivated. It truly comes alive after dark. As the sun set and the neon lights grew brighter, the city's energy seemed to multiply with the abundance of perfect photo opportunities, all coming to a head in the five blocks that stretch from 42nd Street to 47th Street. The iconic building at One Times Square is best known for the New Year's Eve ball drop. It is also home to Broadway--the world's top destination for live theater. Dozens of theaters are nearby. One can watch hit musicals, classic plays, or family-friendly shows. That probably makes them one of the most popular attractions in the world, and one can only do it in New York City. There's no place quite like Times Square. It's bold, bright, and full of life. A symbol of dreams, lights, and nonstop action. read more

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Experience for all tourist! Variety of shops and restaurants to get to. Lots of people , vendors and street food. Be sure to wear your walking shoes! read more

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TIMES SQUARE NYC starts off New Year's Eve every year at the drop of the ball - while playing Sinatra singing, "Start spreading the news, I'm leaving today. I want to be a part of it, in old New York. I want wake up in a city that doesn't sleep..." The renown "Crossroads of the world" is just that. Tourists flock here, native New Yorkers avoid it. Unless like me, you frequent the theater scene on Broadway. You weave your way through the crowds to see your show, gawk at the brightly lit billboards and are on your way. Restaurants are known to serve you well-prepared good food, and get you out on time to see your show. That skill is amazing New York City in itself! Back in the the 1970s and 1980s, Times Square was grimy, slimey and sleazy triple XXX rated. Now, it's a Dizzy Disneyland, Fast-food , brightly lit electrical, colorful, whirlwind of advertisements and spectacle. Take your selfies and just keep walking. It's New York City. Happy New Year 2026! America is 250 years old. 5 stars read more

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Sightseeing around Times Square and it's so many sights, sounds, and smells all at once. Neon, flashing lights, music, movement, and things you don't see every day unless you travel with a carnival? Saw the infamous "ball" for the New Year's Eve celebrations. Witnessed street performers vying for photo ops with the tourists for a payout. Would be interesting to just sit here and people watch when time isn't an issue. read more

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I thought Times Square was such a cool place to experience, especially because you've seen it everywhere, TV, movies, shows, so being there in real life hits different. It's definitely one of those "you have to see it at least once" kind of spots. It's exactly how you'd imagine: bright, loud, constant honking, packed with people, vendors, shops, and street performers. Just pure tourist energy all around, and honestly... that's what New York is all about. I've been a couple times now, so I feel like I've experienced both the chaos and somehow a little bit of ease (if that's even possible here). The shops around are actually really cool too ! A lot of them are multi-level and super immersive, which makes wandering around even more interesting. One thing that had me laugh a little.. the New Year's ball drop is here, and in person it's SO tiny. Like, you hear about it all the time, but seeing it in real life is kind of funny considering how many people crowd around for it. If you love big crowds and high-energy celebrations, I can see it being a great place to ring in the new year... but if you're not into that, I'd definitely skip it. I've heard way too many chaotic stories to even try it myself. read more

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I mean, it's Times Square! It's definitely a bit of a tourist trap, but it's still one of those iconic places that everyone needs to see and explore at least once. The energy and lights are unique, but word of advice: avoid most of the restaurants right in the heart of it. Just walk a block or two further out and you'll find much better places to eat! read more

A busy, but magical place all the same. Yes, it's very touristy, but there are some cool pop ups and events that happen here. There's always something new to see and do! read more

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Times Square is a very heavily romanticized spot, and when you visit, you should be prepared to feel pretty overstimulated and surrounded by massive crowds. I would recommend traveling light. I carried just a tote bag over my shoulder and felt comfortable, but I would avoid bringing anything too valuable. It did not feel particularly heavy on crime, but with so much going on in every direction, it is best to stay aware. There is truly no single way to describe this place because so many different things are happening at once. You will see street performances, musicians, people trying to talk to you, and even religious extremists. There are tons of shops in the area, many of which lean more toward higher end retail rather than traditional tourist stores, which I personally preferred. I did wander slightly off the main path and found a store selling New York themed merchandise, which was a fun surprise. This was one of the places I was most excited to see during my trip, and while I was not completely blown away, it is still something you should experience at least once. It is very much a must see in New York, if only to say you have been there and experienced it for yourself. read more

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One of the most popular destinations and attractions, in New York City! By day, Times Square seems the dull but at nightfall this area of the city comes alive with some of the best street entertainment, art, magical shows, wierd sightings, oddities...and of course, large crowds of people. Tourist and visitors love it....Native New Yorkers detest it. There are plenty of shops and restaurants to take in as well, when down in Time Square. I personally, prefer to explore other parts of the city and take in a restaurant outside of this area... for the mere fact that most of them are overrated in my humble opinion. You tend to find more authentic food, eateries and restaurants in the Burroughs of NYC itself. Not to mention the hotels and restaurant prices are very steep!...will set you back about two mortgages. But, in all fairness, what area of New York isn't expensive. Times Square is a must stop for those visiting NYC, especially first-timers! People watching, catching a good Broadway show and the novelty of saying that you've been here is what it's all about.... bucket list checked! read more

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Times Square was known as Longacre Square, the center of horse & carriage trade, to become the bustling entertainment hub and symbol for NYC'. The area was renamed Times Square in 1904 after The New York Times relocated its headquarters there. In the mid-20th century the area was sketchy & for crime with peep shows & prostitution, it was significantly cleaned up and revitalized, transforming it into the modern tourist destination known for its bright billboards, theaters, and New Year's Eve ball drop tradition. Theaters & movie palaces moving to the area. The "Great White Way" nickname emerged from the dazzling electric billboards that became iconic. The Disney & super hero figures and naked cowboy are still in their places with added Halloween characters. In the 1980s and 1990s, Mayor Giuliani led a major cleanup campaign that transformed the area. His efforts resulted in the vibrant and busy tourist attraction seen today, with large electronic billboards and a pedestrian family friendly atmosphere. Times Square continues to evolve, and today it is a major commercial and cultural hub, though some describe it as overcommercialized. read more

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Times Square is simply one of those places you have to visit at least once. People travel from all around the world to visit. The older I get, the more I dislike the crowds and money traps. However, it is fun to visit. read more

You can't come to New York and not visit Times Square, this area is in almost any show or movie set in New York so it feels like you know it already. Bright lights,massive buildings and billboards plus thousands of people hustling to and fro are part of the experience. There are so many stores and restaurants to choose from so each person's experience is different. Be in the lookout for the Naked Cowboy ( raining today so didn't see him this time) and other assorted characters. read more

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Times Square... the heart of NYC where the tourists flock and where the Broadway shows are at. Busy is the area and if you get there early one can avoid the crowds... otherwise good luck! Much to see and do around the area. Plenty of places to eat but make reservations for most and be prepared for the wait. They just open the new observation deck at Times Square so one might one to check that out... And yes, this is the place where everyone except I for one want to be NYE when the ball drops... just plan well (cuz there are no bathrooms) and be careful and stay warm! Good luck getting home after! Way to crowded for me.. visit the M&M and Krispy Kreme flagship stores - there may be a wait. Naked Cowboy playing the guitar and plenty of characters who want you to take pictures with them and tip... choose wisely and keep an eye on your wallets and your kids... read more

Times Square - 12/18-12/22/25: Welcome 2026 Sign available to take pics with before it gets hoisted up - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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I came for the classic tourist photos, and left straight after. The movies make this place seem magical, but when the weather is almost in the 100s and the humidity is suffocating you in the summer, it's just not the place to be. In the winter, this place is magical with snow. The area where you can sit is quite small, but it's enough to take it all in. Just be warned there's a lot of people. There are a couple of hotels that have restaurants with great views on higher floors so you can enjoy the hustle and bustle in the warm and at a bird's eye view. read more

Times Square - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

If there is one place that captivates true life America in all of its glory, "Times Square" would definitely be that place. Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan in New York City, Times Square spans between 42nd to 47th St's while the epicenter of the larger-than-life digital billboards covers Broadway, Seventh Ave, and 42nd St. And when I say digital, the amount of lights that many of these large scale businesses represent is something that is out of a postcard or movie. But seeing is believing as being here in person takes things on a whole other level. As many people reading this review, Times Square is a major tourist destination year-round. It can attract nearly 500,000 people on the busiest days while all walks of life visit here from around the world. This place is not for the faint of heart as you must prepare yourself on any given day to be bumping shoulder-to-shoulder to fellow strangers. In my humble opinion, walking is truly the only way to get around here. I would be against riding your bike/scooter as the amount of foot traffic, NYC taxis, Uber drivers, and buses can be too much for some people to handle. The history here began around the late-1800's but did not grow significantly until the 1920's when the entertainment industry grew at alarming rates. Early entertainers such as Charlie Chaplin and Fred Astaire performed here. However, the period from the 1960's through the 1980's saw a decline in the area with crime and corruption through many businesses. During the present day, this place is the home to ABC's Good Morning America, NBC's Today Show and Jimmy Fallon Show, a mecca of amazing Broadway musicals, and of course the annual New Year's Eve Times Square Ball (drop) that has been going on since 1907. Additionally, this place has a ton of outdoor street performers including the Naked Cowboy, musicians (covering all genres), dancers, and even costumed characters such as Elmo, Spiderman, and many more. There are even a ton of Pedicabs everywhere with many that light up and have built-in jukeboxes to completely get anyone in the mood. In addition to the countless amount of restaurants, you will also find a ton of street food vendors; everything from hot dogs, Halal food, and quick hot snacks for on-the-go. Finally, I highly encourage checking out the "red steps" with the statue of George Cohan whose legacy helped pave the way for the New York City entertainment industry. Love it or hate it, "Times Square" is a certain vibe but not something I would enjoy every day. I picked up quite a few items at the countless amount of souvenir shops while taking a ton of pictures during my most recent trip in October 2025. And coming here depends on the time of year because this place gets hot & sticky in the summer while being downright cold & frigid in the winter. I would just prepare yourself for cars honking their horns, sirens from the squad cars & ambulances, flashing lights in all directions, and the steam rising from beneath the ground. That and the smell of sewage, street food, and concrete is all the rage here. My rating for the experience, exhilaration, and wow factor, a unanimous five stars. read more

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Times Square is an iconic place that truly captures the energy of New York City. The bright lights, lively atmosphere, street performers, and endless entertainment make it an unforgettable experience. It's busy, exciting, and definitely a must-visit for anyone coming to NYC. read more

Times Square - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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This was part of a whirlwind afternoon guided tour that started and end in Time Square. My husband worked in New York for quite awhile as a consultant, and for years he kept telling me stories about the city. Finally, he decided it was time to take me there myself for my first -- and perhaps only -- visit to New York City. What an overwhelming afternoon. We tried to cram as many of the major sights into one day as we possibly could, which was honestly the best way for me to experience the city. New York is HUGE. The traffic, the crowds, the endless noise and movement of people made me feel both exhilarated and exhausted at the same time. Thank goodness we had a tour bus and guide to help us navigate everything because I would have been completely lost trying to tackle the city on our own. We started and ended in Times Square, which felt like standing inside a living billboard. The lights, giant screens, restaurants, street performers, and the endless river of people moving in every direction was honestly sensory overload in the best and worst ways possible. My husband had talked about Times Square for years, and while no picture can truly prepare you for it, seeing it in person really does make you understand why New York has the reputation it does. One stop I truly loved was Grand Central Terminal. It felt elegant in a way that modern buildings often don't anymore. The ornate ceiling with its painted constellations, the old-world architecture, the massive staircases, and the famous clock in the center of the terminal made it feel like stepping back into another era of travel. Central Park was another surprise for me. Somehow, in the middle of all that steel, glass, concrete, taxis, and people, there exists this enormous green sanctuary. The winding paths, stone bridges, lakes, and giant rocky outcroppings almost make you forget you're standing in one of the busiest cities in the world. It definitely is not your average park. The most emotional stop for me was One World Trade Center and the 9/11 Memorial. The tower itself is beautiful, but there is something haunting about the entire area when you think about how many lives were lost there. Standing near the memorial pools and hearing the water flowing downward left me very quiet and reflective for awhile. We also took the Staten Island Ferry and finally got to see the Statue of Liberty in person. By that point in the day, after all the walking, I honestly just wanted to sit quietly and stare at Lady Liberty while the river moved around us. It was strangely peaceful compared to the intensity of the rest of the city. In the end, I am very glad I experienced New York at least once. It is loud, energetic, historic, beautiful, chaotic, emotional, and unlike anywhere else I've ever been. But I will admit this: By the end of the day, I was more than ready to go home to the peace, quiet, and far gentler pace of South Dakota. read more

My Bowling league is back so I will be in this area Even more. I do come for a Dalllas BBQ visit here and there but now will definitely be here next few weeks on days of my games. Area is nice to come to here and there but sometimes it is loaded with tourists around 43rd and 44th streets, definitely, but there are lots of bars and restaurants you can attend on any given day. read more

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The Ultimate NYC Attraction Times Square is the heart of New York City. The massive digital billboards are breathtaking, especially at night--it's so bright you'll forget it's dark out! It's loud, crowded, and chaotic in the best way possible. You haven't truly experienced NYC until you've stood in the middle of this neon dream! Biggest con about this place is the fact that it's a tourist trap. The character photo op is something to avoid as well as knowing to keep it moving past all the people trying to sell you something. Other than that, there's never a reason to not visit the most iconic part of any city in the world. read more

Born and raised in the Bronx and we avoid this location due to all the tourist esp during prime times. I was surprised that it wasn't super crowded on a Sunday. I ran a bunch of errands in this area and was able to get through them fast. This area has def gotten much cleaner and more organized in recent years. So many places to shop at and overall feels safer read more

Times Square - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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Times Square is a place you should experience at least once - ideally several times and at different times of day. The lights, screens, and constant movement create a unique atmosphere you won't find anywhere else. Even though it's very crowded, the square has a special energy and dynamism that are inseparable from New York. It gets especially lively in the evening, and street performers can be seen here almost all day long. read more

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You hit the streets of New York, thinking you've seen it all on TV the flashing lights, the chaos, the endless energy and then you step into Times Square at prime time. Boom. It's bigger, brighter, and way more overwhelming in real life than any screen could capture. Unlike the Statue of Liberty, which can feel disappointingly small up close (sorry, Lady Liberty), Times Square hits you like a caffeine IV drip straight to the soul. The neon billboards scream louder than your ex, the crowds move like they're auditioning for a disaster movie, and the honking taxis provide the soundtrack nobody asked for but everybody secretly loves. Perched on those iconic ruby-red steps the glowing glass bleachers atop the TKTS booth that light up like they're trying to outshine Broadway itself you're basically sitting in the front row of the world's most expensive circus. Street performers in full Elmo regalia hustle for tips, vendors sling hot dogs that probably cost more than your first apartment, and characters (the good, the weird, and the "is that legal?") weave through the madness. Fun fact: those steps can hold up to 1,500 people, turning you into part of the spectacle while you people-watch like Anthony Bourdain scoping out the next hidden gem except here, the gem is the sheer, unfiltered insanity of it all. Chris Rock would probably say it's the only place where you pay $20 for a pretzel and still feel like you're getting robbed less than the tourists in mouse ears. If you're planning a trip, save your energy, get some sleep beforehand, and go at night when it's electric. You'll leave jealous of anyone who calls this chaos home, because for one priceless moment, you're right in the middle of money, money, money the Apprentice anthem blaring in your head while the ball drop dreams feel just a little closer. Don't miss it; your Instagram (and your sanity) will thank you. read more

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There is nothing in the world like Times Square. So every time I'm in town I try to at least drive through, but prefer on foot. I'm sure i cannot add to over a thousand reviews other tuan to say it's an absolute must if in Manhattan. A bucket for me would be a ball drop on NYE. read more

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Times Square is one of those places that somehow manages to live up to the hype while still overwhelming you in the best possible way. The moment you step into the area, especially at night, you're immediately surrounded by towering digital billboards, flashing lights, and a constant buzz of energy that feels almost cinematic. It's the kind of place that makes you stop in your tracks for a second just to take it all in--the glow of neon reflecting off the streets, the massive screens playing ads and videos, and the feeling that you're right in the center of something iconic. What really stands out is just how visually stunning it is after dark. The brightness of the lights almost makes it feel like daytime, and every direction you look offers something new to catch your eye. Street performers, costumed characters, musicians, and artists all add to the atmosphere, making it feel like a nonstop show. It's chaotic, but in a way that feels alive rather than stressful--there's always something happening, and that's part of its charm. Of course, it wouldn't be Times Square without the crowds. It is *very* busy--shoulder-to-shoulder at times--especially in the evening and on weekends. You have to be prepared to move slowly and weave your way through tourists from all over the world. At first, the sheer number of people can feel overwhelming, but after a while, you start to embrace it as part of the experience. It's a global gathering place, and that diversity adds to the excitement. Despite the crowds, there's something undeniably magical about being there. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning again, it still manages to impress with its scale and energy. It's not a quiet or relaxing destination, but it's not meant to be. Times Square is bold, loud, and unforgettable--a place that captures the essence of New York City in one glowing, bustling intersection. read more

TIMES SQUARE - Every and any trip to the big apple is not complete without seeing Times Square! Major destination , crossroads to the world, nonstop people and cars and entertainment and giant TVs that light up the sky!! It's loud! I don't know how people stay in the hotels surrounding Times Square! I came here with my daughters and we were ready to leave just as soon as we got there !!! Worth seeing but just for a hot second !! read more

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This is a must stop! It's the heart of NYC! From food to souvenir shopping to the midnight show across all screens to special events! It does not sleep! Always fun to check out!! read more

Times Square - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

I visited New York, and of course, I had to go to Time's Square. It's so fun and SO lively the best people watching. The billboards are so fun!! There are also so many shops and restaurants near by. Def a must check out place when visiting. I also loved seeing the officers on horses. Totally fun!! read more

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Mandatory visit when in New York! At nightfall is when the nightlife comes alive with the huge crowds, huge billboards event for personalizing and the art that surrounds Times Square is unforgettable! As the street performers swarmed through unapologetic with damage moves and tricks to entice the crowds are they grow bigger and bigger! With over priced but yet amazing photos caught by street photographers and characters from Disney to other famous network stars with photos ops ready for tipping and purchasing! As Manhattan the symbol of New York it's a must see panoramic views with huge advertising billboards surrounding the downtown and the Red Steps in Times Square (officially known as TDF's TKTS Steps) ! With the bustling crowds and street performers my child was one of the many volunteers who participated in the activities and blew the crowds away! Overstimulated is an understatement! So touristy Times Square was and without a doubt the most amazingly atmospheric vibe you wouldn't want to miss stepping into New York! Times Square is a must do bucket list destination! Check em out! read more

Too many people. No restrooms. Too expensive. People are not friendly. Not even the police are willing to be nice. Food is expensive. Everything is a major wait time. Alot of druggies and weirdos. Do not go here unless you have a condo exactly where you want to be and alot alot of money. Then it will be very fun. We made the best of it on a budget. read more

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is it a little overrated? yeah. am i still going to go? yeahhh reminds me of so many movies but shark tale especially hahaha read more

Times Square - view - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - New York, New York

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