20 Unique Things To Do In Times Square New York

Broadway shows are performed in various theaters between 41st and 54th Streets, mostly between Sixth and Eighth Avenues in Times Square. Tickets can be purchased in advance online, at the theater box office, or at the TKTS booths for discounted same-day tickets.

Most shows have evening performances, typically starting around 7 or 8 PM, and matinee performances in the afternoon, usually around 2 PM. While exploring things to see in Times Square, a Broadway show is a must-do for theater enthusiasts.

Times Square's vibrant lights and bustling atmosphere set the perfect stage for an unforgettable theater experience.

The Red Steps are a prominent feature in Times Square, located at the intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue. These striking red stairs were installed in 2009 as part of the redesign of Duffy’s Square, a key part of Times Square.

The steps are made of red granite and are designed to be a vibrant and inviting space. They provide elevated seating with an excellent view of the bustling square. Catching street performers is one of the top things to do by Times Square while visiting this place.

As with any busy urban area, keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.

Things to do in Times Square, New York, would be incomplete without a stop at Madame Tussauds. It's a popular destination for both tourists and locals, offering a fun and photo-worthy experience.

Located at 234 W. 42nd Street, this attraction provides visitors with the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with their favorite stars and notable personalities. The museum boasts a wide range of exhibits, from film and music legends to sports heroes and political figures.

Visitors can pose with wax figures of celebrities like Taylor Swift, Robert Downey Jr., and historical icons such as Abraham Lincoln. The museum also frequently updates its exhibits to reflect current trends and events, ensuring that there is always something new to see.

A tour of NBC Studios is one of the exciting things to do in Times Square, NY. Located at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, the NBC Studios offer an in-depth look into the world of television production.

The tour includes behind-the-scenes access to various sets and studios where popular shows like "Saturday Night Live," "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon," and "Late Night with Seth Meyers" are filmed.

Visitors can explore iconic locations such as Studio 8H, known for its SNL broadcasts, and see memorabilia from decades of television history. The tour also provides insight into the production process, including how scripts are developed and how live television is broadcast.

City Kitchen, located in the heart of Times Square, offers a unique culinary experience showcasing some of New York City's most iconic foods. This vibrant food hall brings together a variety of local vendors, each specializing in a quintessential New York dish.

Whether you're craving classic New York-style pizza, flavorful ramen, or delicious tacos, City Kitchen provides a diverse selection that captures the essence of the city's diverse food scene.

The venue is conveniently situated among other attractions, making it a great addition to your list of things to do in New York Times Square. Here, you can sample everything from crispy hot dogs to rich pastries, all while enjoying the energetic atmosphere of one of the city's busiest areas.

The place offers an immersive experience that brings the wonders of the ocean to life through cutting-edge technology and interactive exhibits. This attraction uses 3D technology and virtual reality to simulate an underwater journey.

Visitors are allowed to explore marine environments, encounter sea creatures, and experience the ocean’s beauty and fragility in a compelling way. The experience includes virtual encounters with giant squids, dolphins, and other sea life, all while providing educational insights into ocean conservation and the importance of protecting marine ecosystems.

The entire encounter typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, so plan your schedule accordingly to fully enjoy the exhibits.

Standing 1,454 feet (443.2 meters) tall, including its antenna, the Empire State Building remains one of the most recognized structures globally and a must-see among Times Square attractions.

The building features two observation decks. The 86th-floor deck offers panoramic views of NYC and is open-air, while the 102nd-floor deck provides a more enclosed view. The top of the building is famous for its lighting scheme, which changes colors to commemorate various events and holidays.

For the best experience, visit either early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a quieter experience. Check the weather forecast before your visit. The observation decks are weather-dependent, and clear skies offer the best visibility.

One of the most fun and memorable things to do at Times Square is to snap a photo with one of your favorite cartoon characters. This lively area is filled with costumed performers who bring beloved characters from cartoons and movies to life.

These characters are often seen posing for pictures with tourists, adding a touch of whimsy and excitement to your visit. While interacting with these performers, it's important to remember that they usually work for tips, so a small gratuity is appreciated in exchange for the photo opportunity.

The atmosphere in Times Square is bustling, so be prepared for some waiting and be mindful of the crowd around you.

The View Restaurant & Lounge is a notable dining spot located on the 48th floor of the Marriott Marquis Hotel in Times Square. Opened in 1985, it is renowned for being New York City’s only revolving restaurant, offering a panoramic 360-degree view of the city's skyline.

It provides diners with a unique experience as the restaurant rotates slowly, allowing guests to see various parts of Manhattan while enjoying their meals.

The View rotates approximately once every hour, giving guests the opportunity to see all angles of the city without leaving their seats. This makes it a distinctive feature among the attractions in Times Square.

Dave & Buster's, a popular entertainment venue, has become a notable part of Times Square attractions. The arcade offers numerous games, from classic pinball machines to modern interactive games. Guests can also enjoy games like skeeball, basketball, and racing simulators.

Some locations, including Times Square, offer advanced virtual reality experiences, adding to the interactive fun. Moreover, the venue is popular for group events, birthday parties, and corporate gatherings, providing space and packages tailored for various occasions.

The D&B Rewards program allows frequent visitors to earn points and receive discounts and special offers.

Opened in 2006, this flagship store spans three floors and is one of the largest chocolate stores in the world. It's a popular destination among Times Square attractions, offering a unique experience for candy lovers and tourists alike.

It offers a wide range of M&M products, including customized candies, themed merchandise, and exclusive souvenirs.

A highlight for many visitors is the personalization station, where guests can create customized M&M's with their own messages, images, or designs, making for a unique souvenir.

Ripley's Believe It or Not! is a global brand known for its oddities and bizarre collections, originating from a newspaper cartoon panel created by Robert Ripley in 1918.

The Times Square location opened in 2007, bringing a world of strange and fascinating exhibits to the heart of New York City. The museum is part of the Ripley Entertainment chain, which operates numerous attractions worldwide.

The museum is located at 234 W 42nd Street, Times Square, making it easily accessible by public transport. Ripley's is typically open daily, with extended hours during peak tourist seasons. It's advisable to check their website for current opening times and ticket prices.

These tours began gaining popularity in the late 20th century as advances in aviation technology made them more accessible and safer for the general public. The tours offer a bird's-eye view of landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building, in addition to Times Square.

Tours typically range from 15 to 30 minutes, with prices varying based on the length and type of tour. Costs can range from $200 to $400 per person. The temperature can drop significantly at higher altitudes, so dressing in layers is advisable.

Located in the heart of New York City, the church occupies the building that was once the Mark Hellinger Theatre, a historic Broadway venue. The church is known for its diverse congregation, which attracts people from various denominational and cultural backgrounds. It emphasizes unity among believers.

It operates as a non-denominational Christian church, focusing on Biblical teachings and community service. Located at 237 West 51st Street, New York, NY 10019, the church is easily accessible via public transportation.

This church stands out not only as a place of worship but also as a historical landmark that adds to the rich cultural tapestry of Times Square.

Bryant Park, located in Midtown Manhattan, has a rich history dating back to 1686 when it was a part of the colonial estate. Named after poet and journalist William Cullen Bryant, the park became a public space in 1847.

Over the years, it has undergone various transformations, including serving as a burial site, a reservoir location, and eventually, a public park. In the 1980s, the park was revitalized through a public-private partnership, leading to the vibrant space it is today.

The park includes several dining options, including kiosks and a notable restaurant, Bryant Park Grill. It also hosts holiday markets and food festivals.

The New York Public Library (NYPL) was founded in 1895 and is one of the largest public libraries in the world. The main branch, known as the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, opened in 1911 and is located on Fifth Avenue at 42nd Street in Manhattan.

The library's design is a significant example of Beaux-Arts architecture. It features grand staircases, marble columns, and intricate carvings. The library holds over 50 million items, including rare books, manuscripts, maps, and more. Notable collections include the original Winnie-the-Pooh toys and a Gutenberg Bible.

Sardi's, a famous restaurant in New York City's Theater District, is renowned not only for its dining experience but also for its collection of celebrity caricatures. The tradition began in 1927 when a press agent suggested displaying caricatures of famous personalities to attract patrons.

The restaurant's walls soon became adorned with portraits of Broadway stars, film actors, and other notable figures, making it a cultural landmark for theatergoers and tourists alike.

There are over 1,300 caricatures on display, covering a significant part of Broadway history. However, not all celebrities are featured. The selection is somewhat exclusive, adding to the allure of the restaurant.

Escape rooms are interactive games where players solve puzzles and complete tasks within a set time limit to "escape" from a themed room. The concept originated from video games in the early 2000s, particularly influenced by Japanese "live escape" games.

These rooms come with various themes, such as mystery, horror, adventure, or historical settings. The storylines and puzzles are designed to fit these themes.

Players typically have 60 minutes to complete the escape room. The time constraint adds to the excitement and challenge. Escape rooms are often designed for teams of 2–6 people, encouraging collaboration and communication to solve puzzles and escape.

Gospel choirs in Times Square may perform at various venues, including churches such as the Times Square Church and nearby theaters. These performances often include traditional gospel hymns and contemporary pieces.

While there's no strict dress code, dressing smart-casual is generally appreciated, especially if attending a service or formal performance. Arriving early is recommended, especially for popular performances or services, to secure a good seat and enjoy the pre-performance ambiance.

Be respectful of the performers and other audience members. Gospel performances can be interactive, so participate respectfully if encouraged.

Double-decker bus tours in Times Square have become a popular way to explore New York City since the concept was first introduced in the 1990s. Most tours feature live guides or pre-recorded commentary, providing historical insights and fun facts about the landmarks and neighborhoods.

The open-top design of these buses allows for unobstructed views of the city's famous skyline and attractions. The tours typically cover major NYC landmarks, such as Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the Statue of Liberty, with routes extending through Times Square, Midtown Manhattan, and downtown.