Times Square

The square took its name in 1904 when The New York Times moved to the building at its southern end, and the paper started New Year's Eve celebrations there the same year to mark the opening; the ball has dropped since 1907. The signage is not accidental or merely tolerated: zoning rules for the district set minimum requirements for illuminated signage, measured in surface area and brightness, so a building here is legally obliged to be lit - the opposite of most planning regimes. The area declined badly through the 1970s and 80s and was redeveloped from the 1990s. Pedestrian plazas replaced traffic lanes from 2009. Broadway theatres are on the surrounding side streets, not the square itself.

What's there

• Signage required by zoning - minimum lit surface, not merely permitted.
• The New Year's Eve ball - dropped here since 1907.
• Pedestrian plazas - traffic lanes removed from 2009.
• Broadway theatres nearby - on the side streets rather than the square.

When to go

Year round; after dark for the effect. An hour.

Good to know

It is extremely crowded and aggressive costumed performers solicit tips - not optional-feeling. Prices in the immediate area are high. New Year's Eve means many hours penned in without facilities. Most New Yorkers avoid it.

Nearby

Bryant Park is east; Hell's Kitchen is west.

Key facts