48 unforgettable hours in Times Square

Plan an exciting two-day trip to Times Square — snag Broadway deals, experience the Midnight Moment, and more, all while keeping your schedule relaxed.

Edited by Karen Johanson | December 12, 2025

Take in the lights — and the sights — on your next visit to Times Square

From Broadway’s curtain calls to late-night art and quick bites between adventures, Times Square brings something new every hour. Make the most of a single day with practical pacing, ticketing tips, and insider guidance. Whether you’re here for the shows, the spectacle, or the famous Midnight Moment, find a plan that balances excitement and ease.

Friday

Morning

Begin your day steps from the action by dropping your bags at the front desk at Tempo by Hilton New York Times Square, located just off the TKTS red steps and the heart of the Theater District. For breakfast, opt for a quick bite at a nearby cafe: Savor some grab-and-go pastries, classic bagels, or a freshly brewed coffee. TKTS, your source for tickets, opens at 11 am or 3 pm, depending on the day, with lines forming early, especially on weekends. Check TKTS Live for opening times before you go, and real-time listings before queuing. If you've purchased from TKTS within the past seven days, you can use the Fast Pass Lane: Just show your ticket stub to access the priority line. Decide whether you want a matinee or evening show; tickets are released throughout the day. If you have a favorite show in mind, checking its availability ahead of time can help you make the most of your visit.

Afternoon

If you’ve chosen a matinee, plan a light snack before the show, such as a coffee and a pastry: Consider a cozy cafe like Blue Bottle Coffee. Arrive at your theater at least 20 to 30 minutes early to allow time to navigate security and bag checks. Around mid-afternoon, pause in a quiet plaza or grab a seat at one of the many nearby restaurants to rest and refuel before the evening’s excitement.

Evening

For pre-theater dining, aim for a meal between 5 pm and 7 pm to avoid rushing. If your show is later, enjoy dinner after the curtain call — many local restaurants stay open late. To reduce last-minute stress, try to arrive at your theater with enough time to settle in before the performance. After the show, make your way to any of 92 digital displays spanning 41st to 49th Streets to catch the Midnight Moment, a synchronized digital art display that runs every night for three minutes, starting at 11:57 pm. Stand facing the rows of Times Square billboards for the best view and avoid congested areas for a more comfortable experience. To close out your night, enjoy a nightcap or mocktail at Highball at Tempo Times Square, conveniently located within the hotel, offering a relaxing spot to unwind after your Broadway experience.

Grab discount tickets to Broadway’s hottest shows at TKTS

Saturday

Morning

Start your morning with an early walk through Times Square while the crowds are lighter. Before checking out, stop at a cafe for coffee or a healthy breakfast. The hotel’s location makes it easy to catch the subway or a taxi, with accessible entrances available for those with mobility issues. Before you do, snap a final photo at the plaza or venture over to nearby Bryant Park.

Afternoon

If your schedule allows, opt for a late checkout and a quick Midtown detour — Rockefeller Center and Grand Central Terminal’s concourse are both within a 15-minute walk, for a last look at iconic city sights. Use the afternoon to explore nearby highlights like MoMA or Central Park. These spots offer a peaceful contrast to the bustle of the city and are ideal for a midday recharge before traveling. If you’ve opted for a late lunch, consider a stop at a pizzeria or bagel shop for an authentic taste of New York City.

Until next time!

For those departing later, plan your route to subway stations or taxi pick-up points with crowds and traffic in mind. Times Square’s busy sidewalks can slow your pace, so allow extra time for travel logistics. Enjoy one last look at the lights before you leave!

Central Park is located just a few blocks away from Times Square

Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.

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