United States

Times Square: The Crossroads of the World

A dazzling, neon-lit intersection in the heart of Manhattan, famous for its billboards, Broadway theatres and New Year's Eve ball drop.

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About Times Square

Times Square, often called 'the Crossroads of the World', is a major commercial intersection and entertainment hub in Midtown Manhattan, famous for its enormous illuminated billboards, dense concentration of Broadway theatres, and constant flow of both locals and tourists at virtually any hour. Named after The New York Times, which once had its headquarters in the area, the square has evolved over the decades from a gritty, somewhat unsavoury district into a heavily commercialised and carefully managed tourist destination.

Times Square is perhaps most globally famous as the site of the annual New Year's Eve ball drop, watched by both the roughly one million people who gather in person and hundreds of millions more on television broadcasts worldwide. Beyond this signature event, the square serves as the gateway to the Broadway Theatre District, with dozens of theatres staging world-renowned musicals and plays within walking distance.

Why Visit Times Square?

The 'Crossroads of the World'

A dazzling, constantly illuminated Manhattan intersection.

The Gateway to Broadway

Dozens of world-renowned theatres within walking distance.

The Famous New Year's Eve Ball Drop

Watched by millions in person and on broadcasts worldwide.

Enormous Illuminated Billboards

A visually overwhelming, iconic urban spectacle.

A 24-Hour Hub of Activity

Constantly busy with visitors at virtually any hour.

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Good to Know

Times Square suits families, couples, groups and photographers, for a visit of 1.5 to 2.5 hours, often combined with a Broadway show in the evening. The square is free to walk through and experience at any time, with the best lighting effects visible after dark.

Booking Broadway show tickets in advance, either online or through official discount booths in the area, is recommended, especially for popular, long-running productions.

How to Reach Times Square

  1. 01

    Pakistan to New York

    Fly from Islamabad, Lahore or Karachi to New York, usually with connections through a European, Gulf or North American hub. Check current routes, visa requirements and book early.

  2. 02

    Airport to Manhattan

    Take a taxi or transit connection from the airport into Manhattan, about 45 to 60 minutes.

  3. 03

    Manhattan to Times Square

    Take the subway directly to Times Square-42nd Street station.

  4. 04

    Explore

    Walk the square, see the billboards, and attend a Broadway show if booked.

Things to Do in Times Square

01

Walk Through the Square

Take in the illuminated billboards and bustling atmosphere.

02

See a Broadway Show

Attend a world-renowned musical or play at a nearby theatre.

03

Visit at Night

Experience the square's full dazzling light display after dark.

04

Shop at Flagship Stores

Browse large retail stores surrounding the square.

05

Photograph the Billboards

Capture this iconic, visually overwhelming urban scene.

06

Explore Nearby Midtown Attractions

Combine your visit with other nearby Manhattan sights.

Best Time to Visit Times Square

Excellent

Spring

April to June

Mild weather, comfortable for walking the square and nearby streets.

Recommended season
Excellent

Autumn

September to November

Cooler and quieter, still pleasant for sightseeing.

Recommended season
Good

Summer

July to August

Warm and very busy, with the largest crowds of the year.

Good time to visit
Good

Winter

December to March

Cold, with a festive atmosphere leading up to New Year's Eve.

Good time to visit

Travel smart

Travel Tips for Times Square

A few useful things to know before you go there.

  1. Visit Both Day and Night

    The billboards and atmosphere change dramatically after dark.

  2. Book Broadway Tickets in Advance

    Especially important for popular, long-running shows.

  3. Avoid New Year's Eve Unless Prepared

    The ball drop draws roughly a million people with limited facilities.

  4. Watch for Street Performers

    A common sight, though some may expect a tip for photos.

  5. Wear Comfortable Shoes

    Midtown Manhattan is best explored on foot.

  6. Keep Valuables Secure

    As with any busy tourist area, stay mindful of your belongings.

  7. Carry Cash and Cards

    Both are widely accepted throughout the area.

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Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

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Yellowstone National Park

The world's first national park, a vast volcanic wonderland of geysers, hot springs and abundant wildlife.

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Las Vegas Strip

A dazzling stretch of mega-resorts, casinos and entertainment, famous for its neon lights and larger-than-life attractions.

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Walt Disney World, Orlando

A vast resort complex of four theme parks, water parks and resorts, offering immersive experiences for visitors of all ages.

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Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles

The world-famous sign overlooking Los Angeles, a lasting symbol of the global film and entertainment industry.

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Location

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Frequently Asked Questions

It is a major commercial intersection in Midtown Manhattan, famous for its illuminated billboards and Broadway theatres.

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