Times Square

12/13/04

This 24-hour circus is the public face of New York.

by Contributor

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.

10/05/03

Unbelievable

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.

09/02/03

What a Rush

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

03/01/03

Times Square Is GREAT

by Carolin_Elsey

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!

• Pros: FUN, FUN, FUN
• Cons: EXPENSIVE, EXPENSIVE, EXPENSIVE

02/07/03

times square = day light

by eet

love it! only place at night where it seems like the suns out, its so bright!

• Pros: always seems sunny
• Cons: crowded

12/12/02

Cant go wrong

by mishi62370

The best cant get any better for cheap electric fun- good anytime you want to 'see NY' The shopping is getting more diverse but there are plenty of places to eat, play games, see shows...any place to relax? On a good day take the stroll down to 34th street, the walk is great. Lots of shops to relax, look....buy.....you have to do 'Macy's'. The art through that crowd, if your browsing, browse, dont let the bustle of the people disturb you, get into the groove, its not that bad being a transplant and see the city come alive.

• Pros: the lights, the sounds, the people

12/09/02

The Heart of New York

by trideout

I didn't really feel like I was in New York until I hit time square. Such an awesome feeling, quite exhilirating. Everyone should go there at least once and stay in a hotel somewhere near by.

12/01/02

Too Crowded

by Anna02_R

I don't find any reason to go there. Lots of stores that have only one goal -- charge too much/rip off visitors

• Cons: crowded, rip off stores

12/01/02

Town Square

by atrajchel

This place is awsome! It never sleeps! Madison Sqaure is the best!

• Pros: Site seeing
• Cons: Crowded

11/30/02

Loved Manhattan

by april23

I had the pleasure of visiting NYC for 7 days this October 2002. What a wonderful time.Time Square has it all, we spent at least 5 nights at Time Square throughout are trip. I love that everyting is in walking distance! And yes, if you get a chance go see The Producers. The enviorment is family friendly, and I was never once aprehensive about going out walking at night. God willing, I will be back someday to enjoy all over again!