Times Square
New York, NY 10036
Phone:
- Cross Street:
- 42nd Street
- Directions:
- 1, 9, 2, 3, 7, N, R, S at 42nd St-Times Sq; A, C, E at 42nd St-Port Authority
Editorial Review for Times Square – by David Mabury
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.
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Insider Tips
When to GoThe square's most famous tradition is the New Year's Eve ball drop, which began when the Times dropped an illuminated ball off its new building on Dec. 31, 1906.
User Reviews for Times Square
10/05/2003 Posted by tee_nyc
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.
09/02/2003 Posted by rudee
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.
Pros: Great atmosphere
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