Perfect Times Square Itinerary

What is there to do in Times Square? Quite a lot! Sure, there are a lot of NYC tourist traps and scams in Times Square, but there are also tons of NYC Hidden Gems. Here is our perfect Times Square itinerary for how to spend one day in and around Times Square, NYC.

A True NYC Breakfast in Times Square

It’s said that NYC has four food groups: pizza, cheesecake, hot dogs, and of course, the beloved NYC bagel. Is there a better way to start your day in NYC than with a fresh-from-the-oven bagel? There are lots of good bagel options in Times Square. Essa Bagel, Pick a Bagel, and Liberty bagels all come to mind. But for this NYC itinerary we’re going to start at Zucker’s Bagels next to Bryant Park.

Located at 1065 Sixth Avenue (between 41st and 42nd street), Zucker’s bagels bring the traditional Jewish appetizing shop to the Times Square area. Their large fluffy bagels topped with a very generous schmear are the perfect way to fuel the rest of your NYC day. If the weather is nice, take your bagels to go and eat in Bryant Park.

Explore Bryant Park

Bryant Park is often referred to as the “backyard of Times Square”. In the winter, Bryant Park is home to cozy holiday shops and a giant outdoor ice skating rink. In the summer, the park provides a huge green grassy lawn that’s perfect for picnics. Bryant Park often hosts free performances and a huge variety of activities, many of which are family friendly and even geared towards kids.

Surrounding Bryant Park on the North, South, and West, are shops and restaurants. These shops have a slightly more high-end feel than those in the heart of Times Square.

The east side of Bryant Park is home to the main branch of the New York Public Library. On the outside, you’ll see the famous NYPL lions, which you’ll recognize from movies like Ghostbusters. On the inside you’ll find some of the most glorious architecture in NYC, all yours to explore for free! There is also an exhibition called “Treasures” which is free, and is home to the original teddy bear that inspired the Winnie the Pooh story.

Grand Central Terminal

While Grand Central Terminal might not TECHNICALLY be in Times Square, it’s too close to not dip in and admire its beauty, and perhaps even take a free tour while you’re there. Search for the famed “Whispering Gallery,” and pick up a souvenir at the New York Transit Museum store.

Iconic Pizza in Times Square

What better way to do lunch in NYC than with a slice of pizza? There are several options in and around Times Square. For the best pizza in Times Square, check out Joe’s (made famous by the Spider-Man movies), Two Bros ($1 pizza), Upside (and upscale version of Two Bros), Artichoke (get a slice covered in artichoke sauce, it’s unreal), or our company’s personal favorite, Unregular Pizza which brings traditional Roman Pizza to the heart of Times Square.

Fun Midtown Museums

Many people are surprised to learn there are fun museums in Times Square! The Museum of Broadway is an immersive experience that showcases both the history of Broadway, and it also lets you get a glimpse of what happens backstage! Their friendly staff are all huge theatre fans, and they can help you pick out a great show for the night!

If you want to explore NYC history, RiseNYC showcases the highlights of NYC’s past. You’ll be able to interact with old radios, fashion pieces, the New York Stock Exchange Bell, and more before taking a simulated flight of New York City on New Year’s Eve. This experience reminds people of “Soarin’” at Epcot Center, but with a fun NYC twist!

All the way over on the Hudson River is the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. Anyone interested in military history, nautical history, or STEM, will revel in this museum just west of Times Square.

Dinner With The Locals

Locals love 9th Avenue between 42nd and 59th Street for dining. 9th Avenue is lined with restaurants, and truly offers something for everyone. A super fun family-friendly restaurant is Mom’s Midtown. It’s one of those restaurants that serves up giant milkshakes with a huge slice of cake, or other fancy goodies, on the top. Some other Times Square lunch recommendations are: Obao (Asian Fusion), Don Giovanni’s (Italian food), The Purple Tongue (European wine bar), and Gallagher’s Steak House. Most of these restaurants have a dinner pre-fixe menu if you’re looking for a good deal.

See Broadway Show

If you’re in Times Square, you must see a Broadway show. There are shows to match every taste. Disney shows are always safe family-friendly shows, so when in doubt, check Disney out. You can dress up or go casual. The goal is to have fun and pick a Broadway show for you to enjoy for what makes you the happiest.

How to be on a Times Square Billboard

After seeing your Broadway show, walk out to the famous Times Square red steps (47th Street and Broadway.) Right above the Pele store is the giant Welcome to Times Square billboard. You can put a photo or video of your choice on this billboard for as low as $150 a day. After seeing a Broadway show, surprise your travel buddies by having them see their faces in lights!

How to be on a Times Square billboard? Check out welcometotimessquare.com. We have tons of options at all different price points. We love making your NYC dreams come true.