Looking for fun things to do in Times Square? We’ve got all the details you need!
What and where is Times Square?
Times Square is a very famous intersection in New York City that’s become a major tourist destination. It’s been featured in many movies and TV shows, so it’s likely you’ll recognize it for its giant billboards and the tall skyscrapers that surround it.
It’s right in the middle of great NYC areas to explore like Broadway, and close to classic NYC sights like Grand Central Station. You can’t miss it if you’re wandering around the area - the Times Square lighting is like a beacon!
How far is Central Park from Times Square?
To get to Central Park from Times Square, you can walk for 14 minutes, drive for 6 minutes or take the 1 train to 59 St - Columbus Circle.
How far is Times Square from the Statue of Liberty?
To get to the Statue of Liberty from Times Square, you can travel by car for 25 minutes and then take the ferry, or take the 1 train to South Ferry for 17 minutes on the subway.
What do people do at Times Square New York?
At Times Square in New York, visitors love to take photos - it’s a classic New York sight! There are always street performers dressed as your favorite characters from the movies - you can take a memorable picture with them! (It’s always one of the top things to do with kids in Times Square!).
There’s also plenty of places to try fantastic dishes and drinks that are iconic in New York. Get one of NYC’s famed hot dogs or pizza slices and walk around to see the sights.
You can also visit one of the many historical landmarks and attractions in Times Square and the surrounding area. This option is brilliant when the weather isn’t the greatest!
Historical Landmarks and Attractions near Times Square
Famous buildings in Times Square
There are plenty of famous buildings in and around Times Square to see and visit.
Many of the famous architectural examples you can see are former theaters. The Times Square Church, an interdenominational church that has lively services, is a former theater!
The Brill Building is an office building famous for its connections to the music industry. You can spot it by Its striking gold entryway! It used to house studios for many leading musicians and songwriters to create their memorable music, like Liza Minelli, Bobby Darin and more.
The American Radiator Building is a gold-and-black skyscraper you won’t fail to see! It was built in the 1920s as the headquarters of the American Radiator Company.
1501 Broadway, also known as the Paramount Building, was built between 1925 and 1927 as the headquarters of Paramount Pictures, the sixth oldest film studio company in the world. The Art Deco building stands out with its tiered upper levels and the globe that sits on top, which is lit at night. When it was built, it was the tallest building in Times Square - now it’s dwarfed by many others!
Museums near Times Square
There are so many amazing museums near Times Square, you’ll find it difficult to pick which ones to go to!
There’s the Museum of Broadway, which details the history of the amazing theater district of New York! You’ll be able to see costumes and props from some of the brilliant shows that have graced the stage here.
There’s also Madame Tussauds New York, where you can get up close with some of your favorite movie stars, pop icons and more! See stunningly life-like waxworks of all your favorite famous people.
If you’re looking for more of a cultural trip, you can try the Museum of Modern Art! Explore over 200,000 works of modern and contemporary art in the collection, with pieces from all over the world.
Of course, at RiseNY we’re also based just one minute’s walk from Times Square! We have seven interactive museum exhibits, created with support from brilliant NYC museums like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the American Museum of Finance and more! Learn about the history of New York, from fashion to Broadway to TV and radio!
Immersive experiences near Times Square
There are always interesting immersive experiences near Times Square to explore!
Take INTER_, an art installation that gives you a multi-sensory experience through sound baths, light installations and more!
Our own amazing interactive experience in NYC is one of the best, though! Soar above the NYC skyline and journey through an amazing year of NYC traditional events on our amazing immersive ride! Step into our 40ft, 180-degree dome and feel like you’re really flying above the city’s famous skyscrapers and landmarks! Want to know more about immersive experiences? Our article about different types of immersive experiences can help.
Where can I go out in Times Square?
There are so many amazing spots to visit in Times Square if you want to go out!
Try the Hard Rock Cafe New York and see cool memorabilia from the cream of the rock crop, or Bar 54, Times Square’s tallest rooftop bar. Catch some live music at some of this area’s amazing jazz and piano bars, like The Iridium or Shake Rattle & Roll Dueling Pianos. Times Square is also a great option for date nights, with plenty to do and see. Whatever you choose, you’ll have a great time!
How late are things open in Times Square?
Attractions are open pretty late in Times Square - there’s a reason we call New York “the city that never sleeps!”. New York is a bustling city at all times of the day or night, and with so many great theaters around Times Square, there’s almost always something to go and see!
If you’re looking for things to do in Times Square at night, you can admire the Times Square lighting, enjoy a comedy club or go see a Broadway show! Grab some food at one of the many nearby restaurants and then pick a show you’re bound to love.
RiseNY: a New Immersive Experience near Times Square
At RiseNY, our immersive experience will help you learn more about New York and Times Square in an hour than you’d ever learn just looking around! Explore our immersive museum exhibits, from Taylor Swift's dress to costumes from Hamilton, take a soaring ride on our immersive flying experience and dive deep into New York City’s past with an exciting film narrated by Hollywood actor Jeff Goldblum.
