Times Square

Times Square is a major commercial intersection, tourist destination, entertainment center, and neighborhood in the Midtown Manhattan section of New York City. It is one of the world's most visited tourist attractions, drawing an estimated 50 million visitors annually.

History

Times Square was originally known as Longacre Square until 1904 when it was renamed after the New York Times moved its headquarters to the newly erected Times Building. The area has since become a symbol of New York City and the United States.

Geography

Times Square is located at the junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue, and stretches from West 42nd to West 47th Streets. It consists of the blocks between Sixth and Eighth Avenues from east to west.

Attractions

Times Square is known for its many Broadway theatres, cinemas, and electronic billboards. It is also home to attractions such as the Hard Rock Cafe, Ripley's Believe It or Not!, and Madame Tussauds.

New Year's Eve

One of the best-known traditions of Times Square is the annual dropping of the Times Square Ball on New Year's Eve. This event has been held since 1907 and is watched by millions of people worldwide.

Redevelopment

In the 1980s and 1990s, the city government encouraged a clean-up of the Times Square area. Today, Times Square is a major center of the world's entertainment industry.

See also

• List of New York City Designated Landmarks in Manhattan from 14th to 59th Streets
• National Register of Historic Places listings in Manhattan from 14th to 59th Streets