Times Square
Broadway and Seventh Ave
(at 42nd Street)
New York,
NY
10036
40.7579
-73.9856
Neighborhoods: Theater District - Times Square, Midtown
What People Are Saying About Times Square
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
Overview
The Astors developed Times Square in the 1830s as a silk-stocking neighborhood. The square got its current name when the New York Times moved in at the turn of the century. After new subways brought thousands of commuters to 42nd Street, the city's theaters moved up from the Bowery and lower Broadway. By 1928, 264 shows were playing in 76 theaters. Stars crowded into Sardi's and the Knickerbocker Hotel. Million-watt advertising "spectaculars" lit up the night.
The Appeal
Times Square today has hosed off the grime of the '70s and '80s to compete for tourist families' dollars. Boarded-up sex shops have been demolished or renovated. For all the gripes about "Disneyfication," few would trade the mouse ears for the bad old days of pickpockets, prostitutes and porno. History still haunts the streets, where 70 years ago Damon Runyon and Walter Winchell told the world about the Great White Way.
User Reviews
tee_nyc
October 05, 2003
You quickly find out why they call this the "Crossroads of the World", neon and huge TV screens explode with brightness along Broadway. How can you complain its too crowded? This is New York, baby.
read full review
rudee
September 02, 2003
Times Square is a rush if you haven't been there before. It overwhelms you. It engulfs you. It's an experience you'll never forget. A good place for Souvineers. Just a tip if you are buying any of the many T-shirts various venders are selling: The shirts with the ripped tags mean they were rejected at the factory, thus they have flaws. i.e. crooked lettering, etc. People can get a little pushy at times, so you'll need to have patience.
read full review
Carolin_Elsey
March 01, 2003
Times Square is GREAT! It is so bright and busy! There are so many shops and attractions! It is true, the city that doesn't sleep! But buy your souveniers elsewhere! You can find the same stuff on Canal Street at MUCH CHEAPER prices!
read full review
