Times Square New York: A Nigerian’s Ultimate Guide

If you think Lagos traffic at night is bright and chaotic, wait until you see Times Square in New York! This place is the heartbeat of the Big Apple, where massive billboards, flashing lights, street performers, and thousands of people create an electrifying atmosphere 24/7.

Located in the heart of Manhattan, Times Square is where Nigerians who love vibes, entertainment, and social media-worthy moments will feel at home. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, this guide will show you everything you need to know about Times Square – from history to must-see attractions, shopping, food, and insider tips.

1. A Brief History

Before it became a global tourist attraction, Times Square was called Longacre Square – just a quiet part of New York. However, in 1904, when The New York Times newspaper built its headquarters here, the area was renamed Times Square.

Since then, it has grown into the most visited place in the world, attracting over 50 million visitors every year! Now, it is the epicenter of New York’s entertainment industry, home to Broadway, world-famous restaurants, and the legendary New Year’s Eve Ball Drop.

Fun Fact: The lights of Times Square are so bright that astronauts can see them from space!

2. Top Things to Do in Times Square

Take the Perfect Selfie with the Neon Billboards

Once you step into Times Square, the first thing you’ll notice is the massive LED billboards everywhere! These screens advertise movies, brands, and Broadway shows, making the whole place feel like a real-life movie scene.

Best Spot for Photos:

• The famous red steps at Duffy Square (right above the TKTS booth)
• The center of Times Square at Broadway & 7th Avenue

Tip: Visit at night for the best photos, when the lights are at their brightest!

You may want to visit the Statue of Liberty!

Experience Street Performers

Times Square is full of entertaining street performers, from dancers and magicians to people dressed as Spider-Man, Mickey Mouse, and even the Statue of Liberty!

But beware – some of them expect tips when you take photos with them! If you are feeling generous, $1-$5 is fine.

Warning: Avoid the “Naked Cowboy” if you don’t want awkward photos in your camera roll!

Watch a Broadway Show (Even on a Budget!)

Times Square is home to Broadway, the world’s most famous theater district. If you love musicals, don’t miss a chance to watch a Broadway show!

Top Broadway Shows Near Times Square:

• The Lion King (perfect for Nigerians who love African culture!)
• Aladdin (for a magical experience)
• Hamilton (for hip-hop and history lovers)
• Wicked (for a fairy tale twist)

Budget Tip: Want cheap tickets? Visit the TKTS booth at Times Square to get discounted last-minute tickets for Broadway shows!

Eat at Famous Restaurants

Times Square is a food lover’s paradise, but be prepared – some restaurants here are overpriced because of the tourist crowds. Still, a few places are worth the money!

Must-Try Restaurants:

• Junior’s Cheesecake – Famous for New York-style cheesecake
• Carmine’s – Family-style Italian food (huge portions!)
• Shake Shack – For a classic American burger experience
• The Halal Guys – For affordable and tasty street food (it reminds you of Lagos suya vibes!)

Nigerian Tip: If you miss home food, check out Buka New York in Brooklyn for real jollof rice!

Shop for Souvenirs & Cool Stuff

This location has amazing stores where you can buy souvenirs, clothes, and fun gifts.

Best Stores:

• M&M’s World – A massive store dedicated to chocolates
• Disney Store – For lovers of Mickey Mouse and Disney characters
• Hershey’s Chocolate World – Perfect for chocolate lovers
• NBA Store – If you love basketball, get official NBA jerseys here

Tip: Don’t buy souvenirs from street vendors—they overcharge tourists!

See the Famous New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

If you are in New York on December 31st, don’t miss the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball Drop – one of the biggest celebrations in the world! At exactly midnight, a giant glowing ball drops while millions of people count down to the new year.

Tip: If you plan to attend, arrive early (by noon!) to get a good spot because the crowd is massive!

3. Interesting Facts About Times Square

• It Never Sleeps! The lights in Times Square are on 24/7, and businesses don’t close early.
• It is the Most Visited Place on Earth! Over 50 million tourists visit every year.
• Renting an Ad Billboard is Super Expensive! A single billboard ad in Times Square can cost up to $3 million per month!
• Times Square is Car-Free on New Year’s Eve! Police block all traffic, and people take over the streets to celebrate.

See some fun activities you can do in New York City

4. How to Get to Times Square

By Subway (Cheapest & Fastest)

• Take the 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W, A, C, or E train to Times Square – 42nd Street Station

By Taxi/Uber

• Just say, “Take me to Times Square,” and enjoy the ride. But be warned—traffic is crazy!

By Walking

• If you are already in Manhattan, it is easy to walk to the location from most places.

Tip: The subway is the best option – taxis are too expensive in NYC traffic!

5. Best Time to Visit

• At Night (Best Time for Photos) – The lights shine the brightest, and the energy is amazing.
• Early Morning (Less Crowded) – If you want empty streets for photos, visit before 9 AM.
• New Year’s Eve (If You Love Big Crowds!) – Experience the ball drop celebration.

Warning: Avoid visiting during rush hour (5-7 PM) – it is too crowded!

6. Is Visiting Times Square Worth It?

Whether you are a Nigerian tourist, student, or digital nomad, Times Square is an exciting place that will leave you amazed. The lights, energy, street performances, Broadway shows, and food make it one of the best places to visit in New York.

Even if you are in NYC for just one day, ensure this location is on your itinerary!