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Times Square
At the busy crossroads of Broadway and Seventh Avenue, Times Square is pure energy. A riot of neon lights, digital billboards, street performers, and the nonstop pulse of city life, this iconic district draws millions each year—and for good reason. Known worldwide as “The Crossroads of the World,” Times Square is more than a tourist destination. It’s sensory overload in the best way possible, and a symbol of New York’s spirit: dynamic, dramatic, and forever on.
Where to Explore
Duffy Square
Every first-time visit should begin at Duffy Square. Home to the red steps, this raised platform is both a favorite photo spot and a perch for soaking it all in. Beneath the steps sits the TKTS booth, offering same-day discount Broadway tickets. Lines can get long in the afternoon, but mornings or evenings are often quieter, and the deals are unbeatable.
Just steps from the red stairs, the statue of George M. Cohan stands in tribute to the man who helped define American musical theater. Known for classics like Give My Regards to Broadway and Yankee Doodle Dandy, Cohan’s legacy lives on not just in lyrics but in the very DNA of the Theater District.
One Times Square & The Ball Drop
Rising behind the red steps is One Times Square, the most watched building in the world on a single night each year. Since 1907, this is where the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop has taken place. Over a billion people around the globe tune in to watch the gleaming sphere descend in the final countdown to the new year.
Even if you’re visiting outside of December, the building’s massive digital screens and historic significance make it a must-see. And soon, there will be even more reason to stop by. A $500 million renovation is transforming the tower into a year-round destination, complete with a wrap-around viewing deck offering panoramic views of Times Square and the Manhattan skyline, from river to river.
A Neighborhood That Never Sleeps
Times Square is the only neighborhood in New York City where buildings are required by law to display illuminated signage. It’s why the glow is so unrelenting. At 2 p.m. or 2 a.m., you’ll find light, movement, and something happening.
This is also a hub for spontaneous performances—musicians, breakdancers, and costumed characters all find their stage here. Take a walk, and you might catch a freestyle rap battle, a saxophone solo, or a Shakespeare monologue delivered on the sidewalk.
Things to Do in Times Square
See a Broadway Show
Shop Flagship Stores
Dine with a View
Explore Public Art
When to Go: Best Times to Visit
Early mornings offer a rare chance to see Times Square without the crowds—perfect for a jog or a quiet photo walk. Evenings bring a different kind of magic, with the lights at their brightest and the crowds at their liveliest.
Summer sees live concerts and pop-up experiences, while winter turns the square into a hub for holiday displays and festive energy. If you're visiting during New Year’s Eve, plan ahead because access is limited and security is tight, but the energy is second to none.
Local Tips for Guests Staying Nearby
Off the Beaten Path
Take a Guided Tour
Travel Smart
Pop Culture Central
From Spider-Man and The Avengers to Midnight Cowboy and Birdman, Times Square has been featured in countless films. Its larger-than-life aesthetic makes it irresistible for directors and tourists alike. The illuminated billboards, taxi-clogged streets, and electric vibe are as much a part of cinematic New York as the skyline itself.
Your Times Square Experience
If you’re here for a whirlwind weekend or planning to stay longer, Times Square offers something for every type of traveler. Families can enjoy kid-friendly stores and street performers. Couples might catch a matinee and then have drinks with a view. Solo adventurers can take in the spectacle at their own pace, soaking up one of the city’s most iconic places.
When you stay at The Belvedere Hotel near Times Square, the magic is just steps away. No train rides, no transfers, just a short stroll from the comfort of your room to the center of it all.
