Times Square Tips, Tricks, and Fun Things to Do for Tourists and Locals

Times Square is loud, bright, chaotic, and addictive. Whether you are visiting from out of town or you live in the five boroughs, this guide will help you make the most of the area. Find practical tips, money savers, photo ideas, family-friendly picks, and a few local secrets to help you enjoy Times Square like a pro.

Quick essentials

Where: Midtown Manhattan, centered around the intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue at 42nd Street.
Transit: Major subway hub: Times Sq-42 St. Multiple lines connect here. Exit toward the red TKTS stairs or Duffy Square for the classic experience.
Expect crowds: It is one of the busiest spots in the city. Have a plan for photos and meetups.

Best times to visit

Early morning: 6:30 to 8:30 a.m. is surprisingly calm and great for photos with fewer people.
Golden hour and dusk: The lights come alive and the sky adds color to your shots without the midnight crush.
Late night: After 11 p.m. you will find fewer families and a more nightlife energy, though some shops may be closed.

Save on Broadway and shows

TKTS booth: Discounted same-day Broadway and Off Broadway tickets are sold at the red steps. Lines form, but you can often score big savings for evening performances.
Lotteries and rush: Many shows offer digital lotteries and day-of rush tickets. Check official show apps or sites for details.
Matinees: Weekday matinee performances are often cheaper and less crowded.

Food tips and where to eat

Quick bites: Pizza by the slice, halal carts, and deli counters are efficient and classic New York choices.
Avoid overpriced tourist traps: Look one or two blocks away from the main plaza for better quality and value.
Sit-down shows: For themed dining like singing servers or retro diners, reserve ahead if you want a specific experience.
Snack smart: Use delivery apps for hotel room meals or to avoid long waits during peak dinner hours.

Photo and people-watching spots

Red TKTS stairs: Classic vantage point for wide shots of the plaza and towering lights.
Ground level and reflections: After rain, puddles create cinematic reflections of the signs. Night mode on phones works wonders.
Lower Broadway angle: Capture depth by shooting down Broadway toward the lights rather than straight into a billboard.
Avoid tripods: Tripods are often impractical in crowds. Use a small stabilizer or lean on railings for steady shots.

Free and low-cost things to do

Watch the lights and digital art displays. Keep an eye out for temporary public art or evening projection programs.
Catch street performers, musicians, and pop up acts. Bring small change for tips if you take photos with costumed performers.
Drop into nearby public spaces like Duffy Square and the pedestrian plazas to rest your feet and people watch.

Family-friendly activities

Look for toy and candy stores that are fun for kids and make for colorful photos.
See a family friendly Broadway show; matinees are great for younger audiences.
Bring ear protection for small children. The noise level can be intense on busy nights.

Local tips and hidden gems

Step away from the center: Walk a block or two toward the side streets for quieter, more local cafes and bars.
Explore alleys: Small side streets and service alleys often reveal interesting murals, service entrances, and less-seen architecture.
Plan meetups at landmarks: Use the red stairs, the statue of Father Duffy, or a specific subway entrance so friends can find each other easily.

Safety and comfort

Keep valuables secure and zipped in crowded areas. Use a crossbody bag or a front pack during peak times.
Stay aware when taking photos. Do not step into traffic for a shot.
Use marked crosswalks and follow pedestrian signals. Traffic flow is constant and fast.
If you feel harassed by costumed characters, walk away and do not engage. Politely decline photos if you do not want to tip.

How to be a courteous visitor

Give space on the red stairs and plazas for others to sit and take photos.
Respect performers and vendors. Ask before photographing close up and tip when appropriate.
Keep the area clean. Use trash bins or hold onto small items until you find disposal options.

Times Square is a sensory overload in the best possible way. Come with a plan, pick a few must-do moments, and leave time to just wander. Whether you are ticking it off a list as a visitor or carving out a night out as a local, Times Square can surprise you if you look beyond the bright lights.

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