Times Square, located in Midtown Manhattan, New York, is a bustling hub of activity and a must-see landmark for visitors. Known as "The Crossroads of the World," it attracts millions of tourists each year.
A Brief History
Originally called Long Acre Square, it was renamed in 1904 after The New York Times moved its headquarters to the Times Building. The first electric advertisement appeared in 1904, kickstarting Times Square's transformation into an iconic location for neon lights and billboards.
Fun Trivia and Hidden Facts
New Year’s Eve Ball Drop: The tradition started in 1907 when the Times Square Ball made its first descent from the flagpole atop One Times Square. The current ball is covered in Waterford crystals and weighs nearly 12,000 pounds.
Bright Lights, Big City: The lights in Times Square are so bright that it’s one of the few places in the world where the area is classified as having "permanent twilight." It has even earned the nicknames “The Great White Way” and “The Center of the Universe.”
TKTS Booth: The red steps above the TKTS booth provide one of the best views of Times Square. The booth itself offers discounted theater tickets, making it a hotspot for Broadway enthusiasts.
Hidden Subway Station: Beneath Times Square lies a decommissioned subway station known as the 42nd Street Shuttle, which originally opened in 1904.
Aladdin’s Lamp: The Disney Store in Times Square features a magical element: a lamp from the movie Aladdin that actually grants wishes. Well, sort of. It’s a fun interactive experience for kids.
Secret Tunnel: There’s a secret pedestrian tunnel that stretches from the Times Square subway station to the Port Authority Bus Terminal, helping commuters avoid the crowded streets above.
Costumed Characters: Expect to see a variety of costumed characters ranging from Elmo to Batman. These performers work for tips, so have some small bills handy if you want a photo.
Midnight Moment: Every night from 11:57 PM to midnight, Times Square’s electronic billboards synchronize to display a three-minute art show called the Midnight Moment.
Theater District: Times Square is synonymous with Broadway. The Theater District houses iconic theaters like the Lyceum Theatre, the oldest continuously operating theater on Broadway.
Food Paradise: Times Square isn’t just about the sights; it’s also a culinary hotspot. From the legendary Carnegie Deli to the massive Hard Rock Cafe, there’s something for every palate.
NASDAQ MarketSite: The NASDAQ’s digital display in Times Square is one of the largest in the world. It’s a key location for financial news and market updates.
Times Square is a place where history and modernity blend seamlessly, creating a vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of New York City.