Times Square is one of the busiest and most recognizable places in New York City—but it is also one of the best starting points for exploring Midtown Manhattan.
Whether you have a few hours before a Broadway show, are visiting New York with kids, or simply want to know what to do after taking your obligatory Times Square photo, there are dozens of attractions, restaurants, museums and experiences within walking distance.
From Broadway and Rockefeller Center to Bryant Park, Fifth Avenue and immersive experiences like RiseNY, here are 25 of the best things to do near Times Square in NYC.
1. Experience RiseNY
Location: Times Square
If you're looking for something to do without leaving Times Square, start at RiseNY.
RiseNY combines a museum experience with an immersive 4D flying theater ride that takes you on a journey through New York City's history, culture and iconic landmarks.
The experience begins with galleries exploring different chapters of New York's story before culminating in the flying theater, where you can experience the city from a completely different perspective.
It's especially convenient for visitors looking for a family-friendly, indoor activity near Times Square or something to do before or after a Broadway show.
Allow: Approximately 60–90 minutes.
2. See a Broadway Show
Location: Theater District
You can't visit Times Square without seeing the lights of Broadway.
The Theater District surrounds Times Square, making it easy to combine sightseeing with a Broadway performance. Whether you're interested in a long-running musical, a new production or a play, Broadway is one of the quintessential New York experiences.
If you're seeing a show, plan to arrive early enough to find your theater, pick up tickets and settle into your seat.
Allow: Approximately 2.5–3 hours.
3. Visit Rockefeller Center
Walking distance from Times Square: Approximately 10 minutes
Head east from Times Square and you'll reach Rockefeller Center, one of Midtown's most famous landmarks.
The complex is home to Radio City Music Hall, NBC Studios, shops, restaurants and the famous Rockefeller Center plaza.
During the holiday season, the plaza becomes particularly spectacular with its enormous Christmas tree and ice-skating rink.
Don't miss: The famous Atlas statue and the views along Fifth Avenue.
4. Go to the Top of the Rock
Walking distance from Times Square: Approximately 10 minutes
Want a bird's-eye view of New York?
Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center offers panoramic views of Manhattan, including the Empire State Building and Central Park.
If you're deciding between multiple observation decks during a short NYC visit, consider choosing just one. You'll get the skyline experience without spending hours traveling between different viewpoints.
5. Walk Along Fifth Avenue
Walking distance from Times Square: Approximately 5–10 minutes
Fifth Avenue is one of New York's most famous streets.
Walk south from Central Park and you'll pass some of the city's best-known stores, landmarks and architectural sights.
Even if shopping isn't on your itinerary, Fifth Avenue is worth exploring for the atmosphere and people-watching.
6. Visit St. Patrick's Cathedral
Walking distance from Times Square: Approximately 10 minutes
Located directly across from Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick's Cathedral is one of the most striking buildings in Midtown.
The Neo-Gothic cathedral provides a dramatic contrast to the skyscrapers surrounding it and is open to visitors.
It's an easy stop to add to a Midtown walking itinerary.
7. Explore Bryant Park
Walking distance from Times Square: Approximately 10 minutes
Bryant Park is one of the best places near Times Square to take a break.
The park sits behind the New York Public Library and offers green space, tables, chairs and plenty of people-watching opportunities.
Grab a coffee, sit down for a few minutes and watch Midtown go by.
Tip: Bryant Park also hosts seasonal events and activities throughout the year.
8. Visit the New York Public Library
Walking distance from Times Square: Approximately 10 minutes
The Stephen A. Schwarzman Building of the New York Public Library sits at Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street.
The building is worth visiting even if you're not there specifically to browse the library's collections. The architecture and famous reading rooms make it one of Midtown's most interesting cultural stops.
It's also conveniently located next to Bryant Park.
9. See the Empire State Building
Walking distance from Times Square: Approximately 15–20 minutes
One of New York's most recognizable landmarks, the Empire State Building rises above Midtown Manhattan.
You can visit the observatories for city views or simply admire the building from street level.
For first-time visitors, seeing the Empire State Building in person is one of those simple NYC moments that lives up to the hype.
10. Explore the Museum of Modern Art
Walking distance from Times Square: Approximately 10–15 minutes
Art lovers can walk from Times Square to The Museum of Modern Art, better known as MoMA.
The museum's collection includes works from some of the most influential artists of the modern era.
If you only have a few hours, check the museum map ahead of time and prioritize the exhibits you most want to see.
11. Walk Through Central Park
Walking distance from Times Square: Approximately 15–20 minutes
Central Park begins just north of Midtown, making it an easy addition to a Times Square itinerary.
You don't need to explore the entire park. For a short visit, focus on the southern section and walk toward landmarks such as The Mall, Bethesda Terrace or the Central Park Zoo.
Central Park is particularly appealing for families who want a break from the crowds and concrete of Midtown.
12. Visit Madame Tussauds New York
Location: Times Square
Looking for an interactive attraction?
Madame Tussauds New York is located right in Times Square and features lifelike wax figures of celebrities, musicians, athletes and cultural icons.
It's a popular choice for families and visitors looking for a photo-friendly indoor activity.
13. See Radio City Music Hall
Walking distance from Times Square: Approximately 10 minutes
Radio City Music Hall is one of New York's most famous entertainment venues.
Located within Rockefeller Center, the theater is best known for the Rockettes and its long history of live entertainment.
Even if you aren't attending a performance, the exterior and Art Deco architecture are worth seeing.
14. Explore Grand Central Terminal
Walking distance from Times Square: Approximately 15 minutes
Grand Central Terminal is much more than a transportation hub.
Step inside to see the Main Concourse, famous celestial ceiling and iconic clock.
It's one of the best free attractions near Times Square and a great place to explore when the weather isn't cooperating.
15. Walk the High Line
Walking distance from Times Square: Approximately 20–25 minutes
The High Line is an elevated public park built on a former freight rail line.
It runs along Manhattan's West Side and offers a unique perspective on the city, architecture and Hudson River.
For a longer afternoon outing, combine the High Line with Hudson Yards.
16. See Hudson Yards and The Vessel
Walking distance from Times Square: Approximately 20 minutes
Hudson Yards is one of Manhattan's newest major developments and is home to The Vessel, a distinctive honeycomb-like architectural landmark.
The neighborhood is easy to combine with the High Line and offers restaurants, shopping and public spaces.
17. Go Shopping in Times Square
Times Square is surrounded by stores designed for visitors of all ages.
You'll find major retailers, souvenir shops, toy stores and flagship locations within a few blocks.
For families, shopping can be an easy way to fill an hour between attractions or before a Broadway show.
18. Explore the Theater District
You don't need a Broadway ticket to enjoy the Theater District.
Walk along Broadway and the surrounding streets to see theater marquees, historic venues and the constant flow of people heading to performances.
For theater fans, this is one of the best neighborhoods in NYC to simply wander.
19. Grab a Classic NYC Slice
New York and pizza are inseparable.
There are countless pizza options throughout Midtown, ranging from quick slices to sit-down restaurants.
If you're visiting Times Square, a slice can be the perfect quick lunch or late-night snack—especially when you're trying to fit several attractions into one day.
20. Try a New York Bagel
If you haven't tried a New York bagel yet, add one to your itinerary.
Bagels make an easy breakfast or quick snack when you're exploring Midtown.
Try a classic combination like cream cheese or build your own with eggs, smoked salmon or other toppings.
21. Visit the Museum of Broadway
Location: Theater District
For visitors interested in Broadway history, the Museum of Broadway offers an interactive look at the history and evolution of New York's theater industry.
It's particularly easy to add to a Theater District itinerary because of its central location.
22. Take a Walk to Columbus Circle
Walking distance from Times Square: Approximately 15–20 minutes
Head north toward Columbus Circle at the southwestern corner of Central Park.
The area is home to shops, restaurants and the entrance to Central Park.
It's also a convenient starting point for exploring the park's southern and western sections.
23. Explore Rockefeller Center's Art and Architecture
Rockefeller Center is worth more than a quick photo.
Look closely at the complex's Art Deco architecture, public art and sculptures as you walk through the plaza and surrounding buildings.
For architecture fans, it's one of the most interesting areas of Midtown to explore on foot.
24. See Times Square at Night
Times Square during the day is impressive.
At night, it's something else entirely.
The enormous digital billboards illuminate the surrounding buildings, crowds fill the streets and the entire area feels like a giant stage.
If you're visiting during the day, consider returning after dinner so you can experience Times Square in a completely different atmosphere.
25. Simply Walk Midtown
This might be the most underrated activity on the list.
New York doesn't always need to be experienced through a ticketed attraction.
Walk from Times Square toward Rockefeller Center. Continue down Fifth Avenue. Stop in Bryant Park. Grab a coffee. Look up at the skyscrapers.
Some of the most memorable moments in New York happen when you're simply walking through the city.
Best Things to Do Near Times Square With Kids
If you're visiting NYC as a family, several attractions near Times Square are particularly easy to combine.
Consider:
- RiseNY — immersive NYC experience
- Central Park — outdoor space and family activities
- Madame Tussauds — interactive celebrity experience
- Broadway — family-friendly shows are available
- Museum of Broadway — theater history and interactive exhibits
- Bryant Park — open space and seasonal activities
- New York Public Library — architecture and children's programming
For families, staying around Midtown can also minimize the amount of time spent traveling between attractions.
Best Indoor Things to Do Near Times Square
Rainy day in NYC?
You're in luck. Midtown has plenty of indoor attractions.
Some of the best options include:
- RiseNY
- Madame Tussauds
- Museum of Broadway
- Museum of Modern Art
- New York Public Library
- Broadway shows
- Grand Central Terminal
- Rockefeller Center attractions
- Shopping along Fifth Avenue
This makes Times Square a particularly convenient area to explore when the weather isn't ideal.
Best Free Things to Do Near Times Square
You don't need to spend a fortune to experience Midtown.
Some of the best free activities include:
- Walking through Times Square
- Exploring Bryant Park
- Visiting the New York Public Library
- Seeing Rockefeller Center
- Walking along Fifth Avenue
- Exploring Grand Central Terminal
- Visiting St. Patrick's Cathedral
- Walking through Central Park
- Exploring the Theater District
One of the best things about New York is that some of its most famous experiences don't cost anything at all.
What Can You Do Near Times Square in 3 Hours?
If you only have a few hours, keep your itinerary compact.
Three-hour Times Square itinerary
Hour 1: Explore Times Square and the Theater District
Hour 2: Experience RiseNY
Hour 3: Walk to Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick's Cathedral and Fifth Avenue
This gives you a mix of entertainment, history, architecture and classic NYC sightseeing without spending your limited time traveling across Manhattan.
What Can You Do Near Times Square at Night?
Times Square is at its most energetic after dark, but there are plenty of other options nearby.
Consider:
- Seeing a Broadway show
- Having dinner in the Theater District
- Walking through Times Square
- Visiting Rockefeller Center
- Exploring Fifth Avenue
- Seeing live entertainment
- Getting a late-night slice of pizza
- Walking toward Bryant Park
If you're visiting New York for the first time, seeing Times Square at night should definitely be on your list.
How Far Are NYC Attractions From Times Square?
Times Square's central location makes it a convenient base for exploring Midtown.
Walking times are approximate and depend on your starting point within Times Square, walking speed and street conditions.
How to Spend Half a Day Near Times Square
If you have about four to five hours, here's an easy itinerary:
12:00 PM — Lunch in Midtown
1:00 PM — RiseNY
2:30 PM — Times Square and Theater District
3:00 PM — Rockefeller Center and St. Patrick's Cathedral
4:00 PM — Fifth Avenue and Bryant Park
5:00 PM — Dinner or Broadway
This itinerary keeps everything relatively close together while giving you a mix of attractions and classic New York sightseeing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Times Square
What are the best things to do near Times Square?
Some of the best things to do near Times Square include seeing a Broadway show, visiting Rockefeller Center, exploring Central Park, walking Fifth Avenue, visiting Bryant Park, exploring museums and experiencing RiseNY.
What attractions are within walking distance of Times Square?
Many major Midtown attractions are within walking distance, including Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, the New York Public Library, St. Patrick's Cathedral, MoMA, Central Park, Broadway theaters and the Empire State Building.
What can I do near Times Square with kids?
Family-friendly options include RiseNY, Central Park, Madame Tussauds, Broadway shows, the Museum of Broadway, Bryant Park and other interactive attractions throughout Midtown.
What are the best indoor activities near Times Square?
RiseNY, Madame Tussauds, the Museum of Broadway, MoMA, Broadway theaters, the New York Public Library and Grand Central Terminal are all good indoor options near Times Square.
Is Times Square worth visiting?
Yes. Times Square is one of New York City's most recognizable destinations and is particularly convenient for first-time visitors because it is surrounded by Broadway theaters, restaurants, attractions and major Midtown landmarks.
How long should I spend in Times Square?
You can see the main sights in Times Square in about 30–60 minutes, but the surrounding Midtown area can easily fill an entire day.
What should I do near Times Square before a Broadway show?
Consider visiting RiseNY, Bryant Park, Rockefeller Center, the New York Public Library or simply exploring Times Square and the Theater District before your show. Choose activities that are close to your theater so you don't have to rush.
What is the best indoor attraction near Times Square?
For an immersive New York experience, RiseNY combines museum galleries with a 4D flying theater experience and is located directly in Times Square.
Ready to Explore New York?
Times Square is more than a place to take a photo.
Within a short walk, you can experience Broadway, world-famous architecture, museums, Central Park, great food, shopping, history and some of the most recognizable landmarks in New York City.
Whether you have three hours or an entire day, start in Times Square and explore from there.
And if you want to experience New York rather than simply look at it, make RiseNY part of your itinerary.
Part Ride. Part Museum. All New York.
