My New York City Adventure
The Ultimate Travel Advisor’s Guide to the Best Things to Do Near Times Square, NYC
By Reed Ulmer, Travel Advisor
Times Square is one of New York City’s most iconic destinations—bright lights, bustling streets, and endless energy. If you’re staying in or near Times Square, you’re in the heart of Manhattan, perfectly positioned to experience Broadway, world-class dining, shopping, and unforgettable attractions. As a travel advisor, I’ve curated this guide to help you make the most of your stay, whether it’s your first visit or your tenth.
Planning a New York City trip? Contact me to create a personalized Times Square itinerary that maximizes your experience and minimizes stress!
1. Catch a Broadway Show Like a Local
No visit to Times Square is complete without seeing a Broadway show. From Hamilton to The Lion King, Broadway offers world-class performances for every taste.
Travel Advisor Tip: Booking tickets in advance ensures you get the best seats, but if you’re flexible, the TKTS booth offers same-day discounts for many shows.
Top Pre-Show Restaurants:
Becco – Famous for its family-style pasta and prix-fixe menu.
Osteria al Doge – Cozy Italian with homemade pasta.
Sardi’s – Classic theater district restaurant with celebrity caricatures and Broadway memorabilia.
2. Explore Times Square Itself
Even if you’ve seen it in movies, nothing compares to the real thing. Take in the neon billboards, climb the famous Red Stairs, and pop into flagship stores.
Must-See Spots:
M&M’s World – Colorful and interactive for all ages.
Disney Store – Perfect for fans or families.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Times Square – Quirky exhibits and fun photo ops.
Advisor Insight: Visiting at night gives you the full Times Square experience—the lights, energy, and street performers are unforgettable.
3. Museums & Cultural Stops Nearby
Even in the heart of Times Square, you’re minutes from cultural highlights:
Madame Tussauds New York – Life-size celebrity wax figures; perfect for fun photos.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium – Quirky, interactive exhibits.
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) – About a 15-minute walk with world-class art collections.
4. Shopping Near Times Square
From flagship stores to unique boutiques, Times Square has it all:
M&M’s World & Disney Store – Great for souvenirs or gifts.
Fifth Avenue – A short walk east for high-end shopping.
Unique Local Shops – Explore independent boutiques tucked between big streets.
5. Dining & Drinks in Times Square
Times Square offers options for every appetite, focusing on local and iconic NYC spots:
Casual & Quick:
Carmine’s Italian Restaurant – Family-style Italian meals with a lively atmosphere.
Oceana Restaurant – Seafood-focused, with a classic New York feel.
Upscale & Unique:
The View Restaurant & Lounge – NYC’s only rotating rooftop restaurant.
Gallagher’s Steakhouse – Classic NYC steakhouse experience near Broadway.
Sardi’s – Theater district classic with celebrity caricatures.
Nightlife & Drinks:
R Lounge at Renaissance Times Square Hotel – Rooftop bar with skyline views.
Stella 34 Trattoria – Italian dining with a view of Macy’s and the city.
6. Fun & Unique Experiences
Top of the Rock – Stunning Manhattan views, including the Empire State Building.
Bryant Park – Ideal for relaxing, coffee, or ice skating in winter.
Escape Rooms & Interactive Games – Fun group experiences.
Street Performers & Pop-Up Events – Times Square is full of live entertainment surprises.
7. Practical Travel Advisor Tips for Staying Near Times Square
Book hotels early – Popular Times Square hotels fill quickly.
Wear comfortable shoes – Manhattan involves a lot of walking.
Visit attractions early or late – Avoid peak crowds whenever possible.
Use the subway – Fast, affordable, and convenient.
Final Thoughts
Times Square is more than a tourist hotspot—it’s the heart of Manhattan. Staying nearby gives you the advantage of being steps away from Broadway, dining, shopping, and unique experiences. With a little planning, you can make your Times Square visit unforgettable.
Planning a New York City trip can feel overwhelming. As a travel advisor, I craft personalized itineraries that maximize your time, ensure you get the best experiences, and handle all the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the city. Contact me today to plan your perfect Times Square adventure!
