Times Square, often referred to as The Crossroads of the World, is a vibrant hub of culture, entertainment, and history in the heart of New York City.
Known for its dazzling lights, bustling crowds, and iconic New Year’s Eve celebrations, Times Square is a must-visit destination for millions of tourists each year.
But beyond its surface allure lies a treasure trove of intriguing facts and stories that reveal the evolution of this iconic locale.
In this article, we will delve into some of the most interesting facts about Times Square, uncovering the secrets that make it one of the most recognizable places on the planet.
History of Times Square
Times Square, originally known as Longacre Square, has a rich and varied history that reflects the evolution of New York City itself.
Established in the late 19th century, it was named after the New York Times when the newspaper moved its headquarters to the area in 1904.
This change marked the beginning of Times Square’s transformation into a bustling commercial hub and cultural landmark, celebrated for its vibrant theaters and restaurants.
During the early 20th century, Times Square became synonymous with American theater, particularly musical theater, and earned the nickname Crossroads of the World.
However, the Great Depression brought significant decline, leading to the area’s association with crime and adult entertainment by the 1960s and 1970s.
The revitalization of Times Square began in the 1990s, spearheaded by efforts from city officials, including Mayor Rudy Giuliani.
Investments transformed it into a family-friendly destination, complete with pedestrian plazas and iconic billboards that generate substantial revenue.
Today, Times Square is a global symbol of New York City, attracting over 50 million visitors annually and hosting the famous New Year’s Eve ball drop, a tradition that dates back to 1907.
With that said let’s have a look at some interesting facts about Times Square;
1. Times Square was originally called Longacre Square until 1904 when The New York Times moved its headquarters there, prompting the name change.
2. The first New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square was held in 1904.
3. The famous New Year’s Eve ball drop tradition began in 1907.
4. Over 50 million people visit Times Square annually, more than any other NYC tourist attraction.
5. Times Square encompasses five city blocks and is much larger than most people think.
6. Times Square has been completely smoke-free since 2011.
7. Buildings in Times Square are required by law to have a certain amount of display lighting.
8. Times Square is home to a unique sound art installation that constantly emanates from a subway grate.
9. More than 500 movies have been filmed in Times Square.
10. Times Square is one of the world’s most Instagrammed places.
11. The giant Toys R Us store in Times Square had a 60-foot Ferris wheel and a two-story dinosaur.
12. Times Square was a favorite hangout spot for the rich and famous in the early 1900s, including Irving Berlin, Charlie Chaplin and Fred Astaire.
13. During the Great Depression, Times Square was known for crime, corruption, burlesque clubs, go-go bars, adult theaters, saloons, brothels and dime houses.
14. In the 1960s and 70s, Times Square was a center for sleazy adult entertainment and crime.
15. Times Square’s resurgence in the 1990s is credited to advocacy by Mayor Rudy Giuliani and investment by the Disney Company.
16. The NASDAQ sign in Times Square is the biggest LED sign in the world, standing almost 40 feet high and costing over $37 million to build.
17. Times Square is home to a visitor center and museum located in the Embassy Theater where you can learn about its history.
18. You can have your New Year’s Eve wish released from Times Square by writing it on confetti at the museum.
19. Times Square is the center of the Theater District, which is bounded by 6th and 8th Avenues and 40th and 53rd Streets.
20. On August 14, 1945, Times Square hosted the largest crowd in history with over 2 million people celebrating the end of WWII.
21. Times Square is not actually square, but made up of two triangles where Broadway cuts through the grid.
22. The largest LED display in Times Square is a 37-foot high sign owned by NASDAQ.
23. There are hundreds of Broadway plays and musicals in Times Square, from big-name blockbusters to off-off Broadway gems.
24. The TKTS booth in Times Square offers highly discounted tickets for same-day performances.
25. You can tour NBC studios in Times Square and go behind the scenes of shows like The Today Show and Saturday Night Live.
26. Times Square is home to colorful characters like the Naked Cowboy and various superheroes.
27. Times Square generates over $20 million in income each year from its giant walls of over 50 billboards.
28. The displays in Times Square are legally required to have a certain amount of neon to maintain its famous flashy excitement.
29. Times Square is the location of the famous New Year’s Eve ball drop that millions watch to ring in the new year.
30. Times Square is considered the “Crossroads of the World” and a cultural confluence of New York City.
31. The New York Times building in Times Square, now known as One Times Square, was the tallest building in the city when it was built in 1904.
32. Times Square was the site of the first electrified billboard in 1892, advertising the New York Hippodrome.
33. The first pedestrian plaza in Times Square opened in 2009, closing Broadway to cars.
34. Times Square is home to the Paramount Building, which was the tallest building in the world when it was built in 1926.
35. The Times Square subway station is the busiest in the United States, with over 65 million riders annually.
36. The New Year’s Eve ball in Times Square is lowered 141 feet in 60 seconds.
37. The ball drop has been broadcast live on television since 1956.
38. Times Square is home to the largest concentration of Broadway theaters in the world.
39. The first electric sign in Times Square was installed in 1904 by the Ballantine Beer Company.
40. Times Square is the site of the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
41. The New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square is the second most watched television event in the United States after the Super Bowl.
42. Times Square is the site of the annual Crossroads of the World Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
Conclusion
Times Square, the iconic intersection that has captured the imagination of millions, is a testament to the resilience and dynamism of New York City.
From its humble beginnings as Longacre Square to its current status as a global symbol of entertainment and culture, Times Square has undergone a remarkable transformation.
The fascinating facts presented in this article showcase the rich history, unique features, and enduring appeal of this extraordinary place.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that Times Square will continue to evolve and adapt to the changing needs and desires of its visitors.
Whether you’re a first-time tourist or a lifelong New Yorker, there’s always something new to discover in this ever-changing, ever-fascinating crossroads of the world.
