Times Square, located in Midtown Manhattan, New York, is a major commercial intersection and entertainment hub. Known as "The Crossroads of the World," it attracts approximately 50 million visitors annually. The square is situated at the junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue and stretches from West 42nd to West 47th Streets.
The area was originally known as Longacre Square until The New York Times moved its headquarters to the newly erected Times Building in 1904, prompting the name change. The first electrified advertisement appeared in 1904, marking the beginning of the area's association with bright lights and big screens.
One of the most iconic features of Times Square is the New Year's Eve Ball Drop, which began in 1907. The ball, originally made of iron and wood, has undergone numerous transformations and currently consists of Waterford Crystal and LEDs. Over a million people gather for the event each year, with millions more watching on television.
Times Square is also known for its theaters, including the historic Palace Theatre and the Lyric Theatre. The area is part of the larger Theater District, which has been a significant venue for Broadway shows since the early 20th century.
The square is home to several major attractions, such as the Madame Tussauds wax museum, the Ripley's Believe It or Not! museum, and the TKTS booth, which offers discounted Broadway tickets. Additionally, the area is famous for its flagship stores, including the M&M's World and the Disney Store.
One lesser-known fact about Times Square is the presence of the Times Square Hum, a mysterious low-frequency noise that has puzzled residents and visitors alike. The source of the hum remains unidentified, adding an element of mystery to the bustling area.
Another trivia involves the Times Square Alliance, a non-profit organization that works tirelessly to improve and promote the area. They are responsible for organizing numerous events, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring the safety of the millions of visitors.
The pedestrian plaza, created in 2009, transformed parts of Broadway into a car-free zone. This initiative was part of a larger effort to reduce congestion and make the area more pedestrian-friendly. The plaza features public seating, art installations, and performances, making it a vibrant social space.
Times Square also has a historical connection to World War II. The famous Victory Kiss photograph, capturing a sailor kissing a nurse, was taken here on V-J Day in 1945, symbolizing the end of the war and the joy of the American people.
In terms of architecture, the One Times Square building, originally the Times Building, is notable for its empty offices. The building generates significant revenue from its exterior advertising space, despite being largely unoccupied internally.
In summary, Times Square is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and modernity, making it one of the most recognizable and visited locations in the world.