Times Square
Times Square · New York, USA
'The Crossroads of the World': the neon-lit, crowded heart of New York
Know before you go
- Beware the 'free CD' scam (take one and they'll demand money)
- don't get stung for high prices after posing with costumed characters
- New Year's Eve controls are very strict, so check announcements in advance.
This article is Not yet verified. Please check official announcements for prices, opening hours and dates.
Culture
Culture & customs
Background
Named after the New York Times, it has been New York's stage since 1904: Broadway curtains, the countdown of the New Year's Eve ball and the revelry of street performers. It's the launch pad of American pop culture and the 'New York dream' made concrete — on an ordinary day some 200,000–250,000 people walk through; stand on the red steps and the crowds flow like a river under neon bright as day.
Local customs
- Tip street performers you pose with
- Broadway shows must be booked in advance — dress appropriately
- New Yorkers walk fast, so don't stop suddenly on the pavement.
Religion & beliefs
- A secular commercial district
- no religious affiliation.
Etiquette
Etiquette & taboos
Rules that apply here
Driving in the US: what to do when police pull you over
- Signal right and pull over safely to the right
- Roll down your window after stopping, before the officer reaches you
- At night, turn on the interior light
- Keep both hands on the wheel and ask passengers to keep their hands visible too
- Getting out and walking towards the police car
- Suddenly reaching for the glovebox, a pocket or under the seat
Sudden movements may be read as a threat and become dangerous. The wording of the rules varies slightly between states.
Not yet verifiedSource: Texas Department of Public Safety driver handbook
Don’t DON'T
- Beware the 'free CD' scam (take one and they'll demand money)
- don't get stung for high prices after posing with costumed characters
- New Year's Eve controls are very strict, so check announcements in advance.
Locals appreciate DO
- New Yorkers appreciate efficient, courteous visitors
- seeing a Broadway musical (via the TKTS discount booth) and a late-night jazz bar is the right way to do 'a New York night'.
Plan your visit
Practical info
Travel tips
- The neon is at its best at night. Free
- book Broadway tickets weeks ahead
- arrive in the late afternoon for the night view plus a show
- 42nd Street subway station is right there.
Eat nearby
What to eat nearby
Must-try
- New York pizza
- Hot-dog cart snacks
- American food around Broadway
New York pizza, hot-dog cart snacks, American food around Broadway, Jewish deli, desserts
| Where to eat | Chains around the square (with a premium); walk to the Ninth Avenue restaurant strip in Hell's Kitchen (local prices), the Bryant Park market (seasonal) |
|---|---|
| Dining etiquette | Ask the price first at street food carts (some have no prices displayed) |
| Typical price per person | Fast food USD 15–28 ≈ CNY 107–199, main meals USD 35–60 ≈ CNY 249–426 |
| Tips | Restaurants in the middle of the square are about convenience — for flavour, go to Ninth Avenue. |
Prices are typical rates as of October 2026, not exact quotes; CNY equivalents are approximate where exchange rates fluctuate.
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Rhododendrites · CC BY-SA 4.0
Photos
Photos
chensiyuan · CC BY-SA 4.0
Don Ramey Logan · CC BY-SA 4.0
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Dietmar Rabich · CC BY-SA 4.0
Sources & verification notes
Times Square Alliance: footfall data
Compiled from NYC Tourism guides to Times Square
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