Times Square in New York City has come to symbolize the Big Apple itself. If you are visiting the Big Apple, this is one area you will definitely want to check out.
Location
The Square can be found by Seventh Avenue and Broadway. It extends from the 42nd to the 47th Streets. The address is W 46th St & Broadway Ave, New York, NY 10036. The place does not have a mailing address.
What to See
In the daytime, Times Square in New York City becomes instantly recognizable by the numerous signs all over the place. it is at its best during the night as it is transformed into a show of lights. Walking along the streets, you will see that it is filled with flashing lights, LED powered signs and giant video screens.
There are also scores of hotels, restaurants and theaters. These lights can be viewed during the day, but they are best seen at night. The place is also known for the Toshiba billboard below the NYE ball drop. Other popular signs are the Coca-Cola sign below the Samsung display and the NASDAQ sign.
History
In 1904, the New York Times relocated their base of operations 42nd Street at Longacre Square. The publisher of the paper, Adolph S. Ochs, convinced then Mayor George B. McClellan, Jr. to rechristen it Times Square. The renaming took place on April 8, 1904. 3 weeks later, the first electric ad was displayed. At 46th Street.
During the 1920s it became a celebrated area. The Great Depression would alter this. From the 1960s to the early 1990s, the area became known for prostitution and sex shops. In the 1990s, the place was revamped and would become more family friendly.
Cost
There is no cost for touring the area. The only thing you have to pay for is the cab ride if you took one.
Other Info
The Square is also known for its New Year’s Eve ball drop. Another popular destination is the ABC Times Square Studios. You can find this between 43rd and 44th Streets. You will also come across the AMC Empire 25 Theater (234 W 42nd S), Hudson Theater (145 W 44th St) and Kramer’s Reality Tour (358 W 44th St).
For more information about Times Square in New York City you can go to the Information Center between 46th and 47th Streets. It is open 9 am to 7 pm from Mondays to Fridays. On Saturdays and Sundays it opens at 8 am and closes at 8 pm.