How long does it take to walk through Times Square?

A direct walk through Times Square takes about 10 minutes, but this self-guided route takes roughly 75 to 90 minutes. This allows for ample time to take photos, read historical markers, and climb the TKTS red steps.

Is it worth visiting Times Square at night?

Yes, visiting at night is highly recommended because the neon and LED billboards are at their most impressive after sunset. This is when the 'Great White Way' truly earns its name, providing a vibrant atmosphere that is unique to New York City.

Can I see celebrities at Sardi's?

While not guaranteed, Sardi's remains a popular spot for Broadway actors and producers, especially after a show. The restaurant is located at 234 West 44th Street and is most famous for its celebrity caricature wall.

Is the Times Square walking route accessible for wheelchairs?

Yes, this route is highly accessible as it follows the paved pedestrian plazas and standard Manhattan sidewalks. All major intersections in this area are equipped with curb cuts for easy navigation.

Where can I find discount Broadway tickets on this walk?

The TKTS booth located at Father Duffy Square (47th Street and Broadway) is the primary location for same-day discount tickets. You will pass this iconic spot during the walk.

What is the best time to avoid crowds in Times Square?

To avoid the largest crowds, visit early in the morning (before 9:00 AM) or very late at night. However, the crowd energy is part of the experience for many visitors, especially during the evening theater rush.

Is Bryant Park safe to visit after dark?

Yes, Bryant Park is considered very safe and is well-lit and patrolled by private security. It often remains active late into the evening with various public programs and events.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Times Square is the most famous intersection in the world, a neon-soaked canyon of light that serves as the symbolic center of New York City. This self-guided walk through the performance district invites you to experience the energy of the Great White Way at your own pace. While millions of visitors pass through these streets every year, few take the time to uncover the layers of history hidden behind the massive LED screens. This walking route explores the evolution of the area from a quiet horse-trading hub known as Longacre Square to the global capital of entertainment. By following this audio walk, you will discover the legacy of Broadway's legendary venues, the haunts of famous playwrights, and the quiet corners that offer a reprieve from the midtown hustle. The experience begins in the middle of the neon glow, where the sheer scale of the digital billboards creates a perpetual daylight. From there, you will move into the more intimate spaces of the stage world. You will visit Shubert Alley, a narrow passage that has seen the footprints of countless stars, and Sardi’s, where the walls are lined with the faces of Broadway royalty. As you navigate this neighborhood stroll, you will learn about the business of show business at the TKTS booth and stand before the historic Palace Theatre, a venue that has hosted everyone from vaudeville legends to modern-day icons. The route concludes in the elegant surroundings of Bryant Park, providing a perfect contrast to the high-octane energy of the streets you just traversed. This self-guided adventure is designed for those who want to see the sights without the pressure of a group. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this walking tour New York City provides a fresh perspective on a neighborhood that is constantly reinventing itself. From the grit of the early 20th century to the polished spectacle of today, the story of Times Square is the story of the city itself. This route is an ideal choice for a walking tour New York City that focuses on the intersection of culture, history, and the vibrant nightlife that defines Manhattan. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

The dazzling LED billboards of the 'Center of the Universe'

Shubert Alley, the historic heart of the Theater District

Sardi's restaurant and its famous celebrity caricatures

The iconic red steps of the TKTS booth

The historic Palace Theatre's vaudeville legacy

A peaceful conclusion in the elegant Bryant Park

Tour Stops (6)

Times Square

Times Square, the intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue, is the most visited tourist attraction in the world. Originally named Longacre Square, it was renamed in 1904 when the New York Times moved its headquarters to the newly built Times Building. This move coincided with the opening of the first subway line, transforming the area into a major transportation and entertainment hub. Today, it is famous for its massive LED billboards and the annual New Year's Eve ball drop. As you stand here, you are surrounded by roughly 50 million visitors annually. The neon of the past has been replaced by high-definition screens, but the electric energy remains the same. This area is a masterclass in urban density and commercial art, representing the tireless spirit of a city that never sleeps.

Shubert Alley

Shubert Alley is often called the heart of the Broadway theater district. This narrow private thoroughfare between West 44th and 45th Streets was created in 1913 as a fire exit for the Shubert and Booth theaters. Today, it serves as a legendary gathering spot for actors and fans alike. As you walk through, look at the posters of current Broadway hits and historical plaques. Legend says that many careers were launched here, with actors waiting in the alley hoping to catch the eye of a producer. It is a place where the magic of the stage feels tangible, even from the outside. The atmosphere here changes with the season, often hosting special outdoor events, making it a dynamic stop on any self-guided walk through the city's performance history.

Sardi's

Sardi’s is an iconic restaurant that has been the unofficial clubhouse of the Broadway elite since 1921. It is most famous for the hundreds of caricatures of show business celebrities that line its walls. Vincent Sardi Sr. started the tradition by hiring an artist to draw patrons in exchange for meals, and it quickly became a mark of 'making it' on Broadway to have your face on the wall. The restaurant is also known as the birthplace of the Tony Awards; Antoinette Perry’s friends met here after her death to plan a memorial award in her honor. While the menu offers classic New York fare, the real draw is the history soaking into the red leather booths. It remains a popular spot for opening night parties where cast members wait for the first reviews.

TKTS Times Square

The TKTS booth, topped by its iconic glowing red steps, is the epicenter of Broadway’s accessibility. Opened in 1973, this booth revolutionized the theater industry by offering same-day discount tickets to some of the world’s most sought-after shows. The current structure, completed in 2008, has become a landmark in its own right, offering an elevated vantage point to look down the canyon of Broadway. Sitting on these steps, you can soak in the surrounding neon while watching the choreographed chaos of the city below. It is a place where theater-goers and tourists converge, all sharing the hope of catching a performance. While the availability of tickets changes daily, the booth remains a steadfast symbol of New York’s commitment to making the arts available to everyone.

Palace Theatre

The Palace Theatre is a legendary venue that represents the gold standard of Broadway. Opening in 1913, it was once the premier vaudeville house in the United States; 'playing the Palace' meant you had reached the pinnacle of show business. Legends like Judy Garland and Harry Houdini once graced this stage. In a remarkable feat of modern engineering, the theater was recently lifted 30 feet above street level to make room for new retail space below, a project that highlights the ever-changing nature of Times Square real estate. Note that because of significant renovations and ongoing construction in the area, the theater’s exterior appearance may vary. Despite the changes, it remains one of the most historic spots on Broadway, with stories of resident ghosts still circulating among performers today.

Bryant Park

Our final stop, Bryant Park, serves as the town square of Midtown Manhattan. Located right behind the New York Public Library, this lush green space offers a stark and welcome contrast to the neon intensity of Times Square. Originally a potter's field, the park underwent a massive transformation in the 1990s to become the vibrant, safe, and beautifully landscaped garden you see today. Depending on when you visit, you might find a winter ice rink, a summer film festival, or locals enjoying a game of chess. It is a literary and cultural hub, surrounded by soaring skyscrapers and the historic architecture of the library. It is the perfect place to end your self-guided walk, allowing you to transition from the high-energy theater district to a more peaceful, reflective atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

While many companies offer group excursions, a self-guided walk like this Zigway route is often the best choice for theater lovers because it allows you to stop and admire your favorite theaters at your own pace without a group schedule. You can spend more time at Shubert Alley or the TKTS booth as you see fit.