Looking for the best things to do in Times Square at night? Well, you’re in the right place!
As the sun goes down New York City at night is another beast. Times Square transforms into a neon wonderland with giant billboards, dazzling LED displays, and lights galore that seem to make this historic hub brighter than daytime.
Beyond the bright lights, Times Square continues buzzing with crowds flocking to shows, restaurants, entertainment, and attractions that stay open late into the night.
Keep reading for 13 amazing things to do in Times Square once the city lights up!
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1. Take in a Broadway Show
Seeing a Broadway musical or play is a quintessential Times Square nighttime activity.
Currently, running hot shows include classics like The Lion King, Aladdin, and Hamilton at theaters along the Great White Way between 41st and 53rd Streets.
For a high-energy experience, check out popular musicals like Hamilton, Dear Evan Hansen, or Hadestown after they turn their marquee lights on.
Many theaters offer rush tickets at a discount right before showtime too. Dress up for an unforgettable Broadway night out amid the Times Square lights!
NOTE: Keep in mind that the availability of shows and specific details can change over time.
2. Dine at a Times Square Restaurant or Bar
Times Square’s restaurants and bars deliver amazing people-watching views perfect for an evening out.
For pre-theater dining, make reservations at modern restaurants like Junior’s, Margon, or Carmine’s with patios that offer views of the iconic billboards.
Grab a table at a landmark classic like Sardi’s Restaurant within walking distance to theaters.
Bars like Jimmy’s Corner, Rum House, St. Andrew’s, and Playwright Tavern are lively spots to toast cocktails and the neon-lit scenery over conversation.
With great food and entertainment, Times Square’s restaurants make the perfect date spot or a magical get-together with your loved ones.
🗽 Foodie? Check out these top-rated NYC food tours!
3. Shop the Neon Stores
The bright shops of Times Square stay open late for souvenir hunting near all the action.
Stores like Hershey’s and M&M’s World sell sweets and logo gear illuminated by flashy exterior signs.
If you’re a fan of Disney, the Disney Store brings Disney magic to life with character events and light displays.
Other neon-adorned stores for one-of-a-kind NYC keepsakes include I Love NY, Official NYC, and Manhattan Mall’s shops.
With so many vibrant, only-in-New York stores, shopping in glittering Times Square is an attraction in itself after dark.
4. People Watch Near the TKTS Booth
For an only-in-Times-Square sight, head to the TKTS Booth in Duffy Square to take in the bustling crowds and glowing billboards all around.
Watch tourists and NYC characters swarm the sidewalks near the famous Broadway discount ticket booth underneath the iconic red steps.
Nearby, the bleacher-style red seats facing the TKTS Booth offer a comfortable perch for soaking up the electric atmosphere.
As Broadway-goers rush to shows and neon lights flash overhead, the TKTS Booth area delivers prime, lively people-watching.
5. Take a Nighttime Pedicab Ride
Experience Times Square’s huge billboards and brilliant lights up close via an exciting open-air pedicab ride after dark.
Friendly drivers zip through bustling blocks, providing fun facts and photo ops in front of top attractions illuminated at night.
Many pedicab tours include live guides, blankets, and bubbles or glow sticks to enhance the Times Square magic.
For budget travelers, these iconic pedicabs also provide an affordable way to travel through Midtown at night versus pricier cabs or Ubers.
6. Attend a TV Show Taping
Be part of the studio audience during a taping of popular morning or late night TV shows filmed right in Times Square.
Start your day energized at Good Morning America’s studio overlooking lively 44th Street. Or apply for tickets to The Morning Show starring Larry Emdur and Kylie Gillies next door.
Aside from that, you can join the crowds cheering on Stephen Colbert’s monologues and skits at the Ed Sullivan Theater for the Late Show.
Taping a show surrounded by Times Square’s lights is an experience you’ll never forget.
🗽 First time in NYC? Check out these top-rated guided tours!
7. Grab Dessert at Junior’s, Milk Bar, etc.
Satisfy sweet cravings into the night at Times Square’s famous dessert spots.
Share an oversized cheesecake from the Theater District staple Junior’s Cheesecake.
Indulge in soft serve ice cream cones at Milk Bar or warm cookies from Schmackary’s. For a sweet souvenir, build a customized chocolate bar at M&M’s World.
With decadent treats staying open late, Times Square offers temptation on every corner after the curtain falls on Broadway.
8. Stay at a Times Square Hotel
For the most immersive Times Square experience, book a room at a hotel right within the lights and action.
Branded spots like Hotel @ Times Square, Crowne Plaza Times Square, and DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Times Square put you steps from musical theaters.
For dramatic views, suites at sleek high rises like the Renaissance New York Times Square Hotel and Hyatt Centric Times Square New York guarantee front-row views of the billboards.
Spend the night surrounded by the excitement at the center of it all!
As with any hotel booking, it’s recommended to confirm availability, rates, and specific amenities directly with the hotels, as details can change over time.
9. Take a Guided Night Tour
Get insider perspectives during guided bus, walking, or bike tours of Times Square after the sun sets!
Knowledgeable guides provide context on the area’s history and architecture amid the dazzling lights.
Tours often include stops for photos in front of top attractions when they’re illuminated at night so make sure you bring your camera!
With an expert by your side, Times Square’s sights and stories really come alive against the bright lights.
10. Visit Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum
Rub elbows with eerily lifelike celebrity wax figures at Madame Tussauds New York!
This iconic museum lets you mingle with over 225 wax doppelgängers of A-listers, historical figures, and pop culture icons.
Pose for selfies with realistic statues of Rihanna, Lin Manuel-Miranda, Audrey Hepburn, and many more in themed exhibits.
Located right off Times Square, it’s a lively indoor activity for families and friends at night.
As attractions and exhibits can sometimes change, it’s recommended to check with the museum for the latest information before planning your visit.
11. See a Movie Premiere at AMC Loews
See the brightest stars walk the red carpet at glittering movie premieres held right in the heart of Times Square.
AMC Loews is known for hosting major Hollywood premieres where crowds gather behind barricades to spot celebrities.
Recently, AMC Loews hosted premieres for hits like Spiderman: No Way Home, The Batman, and Babylon with star-studded arrivals.
With theaters right on bustling 42nd Street, Loews provides front-row access to the electrifying energy of a Times Square movie premiere at night.
You wouldn’t want to miss out on something so spectacular, right?
12. Explore Glowing Billboards and Signs
Looking up at Times Square’s towering electronic billboards is one of the best sights after dark.
The bright, color-changing LED and neon advertisements promote Broadway shows, TV programs, products, and more in the world’s most expensive advertising space.
Signs like the Nasdaq screen and Reuters ticker splash latest news and stock updates. And famous logos like the Times Square Ball and Disney storefront draw eyes skyward.
Gazing at the glowing signs really emphasizes the sheer sensory overload.
This is definitely where dreams are made of.
13. Take Photos with the Iconic Red Steps
Make sure to snap some photos in front of the iconic TKTS Booth red steps in Duffy Square.
First installed in 2008, these glowing ruby stairs provide the perfect selfie backdrop surrounded by Times Square lights.
The bleacher-style seating of the steps also creates a natural vantage point, allowing visitors to watch the bustling streets below, take in the panoramic views, and marvel at the giant billboards and signs that adorn the area.
For an only-in-New York shot, the TKTS red stairs capture that Times Square magic in the best way possible!
Times Square at night is a must-see spectacle bursting with energy, lights, and excitement around every corner.
From taking in a Broadway show to riding pedicabs to grabbing desserts at late night eateries, Times Square offers endless ways to experience its neon lights after dark.
If you’re looking for things to do in the city with your family, you might want to check out our article on the best family-friendly things to do in NYC for suggestions.
With these guides, you surely won’t miss out on all the fun!