Times Square: News, Events & Visitor Guide

Times Square is one of New York’s busiest corners — bright lights, nonstop crowds, and constant events. If you’re planning a visit or tracking developments here, this page gives fast, useful info: what’s happening, how to get there, and smart tips so your trip goes smoothly.

When to visit and what to expect

Want fewer crowds? Weekday mornings (before 10am) are your best bet. Evenings and weekends draw big crowds, especially near Broadway theaters and major stores. Holidays like New Year’s Eve and major sports or concert nights trap huge crowds and street closures — plan ahead or avoid those dates if you don’t like big groups.

Events pop up often: movie premieres, street performances, branded pop-ups, and political or cultural rallies. Check local event calendars or official NYC announcements for road closures and permitted events. If you follow Times Square news, you’ll spot new billboards, major brand launches, and occasional public art installations first.

Practical tips: getting there, safety, and eats

Getting in: The subway is fastest. Major lines stop at Times Square–42nd Street: 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W, S, and many connections. Grand Central is one block away for commuters. Taxis and ride-shares work but expect traffic delays at peak times.

Safety: Times Square is generally busy and well-patrolled, but pickpocketing and scams happen in crowded spots. Keep valuables secure, use a crossbody bag, and watch your surroundings. If you’re alone at night, stick to well-lit streets and busy blocks. Follow official street signs and police instructions during major events.

Food and breaks: You’ll find everything from quick bites to sit-down restaurants. For faster lines, try food carts on side streets or smaller delis a few blocks away. If you want quieter spots, walk north toward Bryant Park or east to Koreatown for more relaxed options.

Best photo spots: Capture the classic view from the red TKTS stairs at Duffy Square (near 47th Street) or stand on the pedestrian plazas at 46th and 47th for wide-angle shots of the billboards. For night photos, use a higher ISO and steady hands — the lights are bright but moving crowds make long exposures tricky.

Planning for shows: Buying Broadway tickets in advance is smart, especially for weekend or hit shows. Same-day discount booths (like TKTS) often have deals, but lines form early. If you prefer flexibility, check digital resale platforms and official box offices before committing.

Need local updates? Bookmark official NYC news sources and follow Times Square’s venue and event pages for last-minute changes. If you’re tracking commercial news — big ad buys, brand activations, or building renovations — local business sections and press releases cover those quickly.

Want a quick tip: wear comfortable shoes. You’ll walk a lot, and standing on crowded sidewalks gets tiring fast. Enjoy the show of lights, but move with purpose when crowds surge.