Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Shoppers in Times Square
Top Things to Do in New York City for Shoppers in Times Square
1. M&M's World
A three-level candy emporium bursting with color walls, character displays, and photo ops—part retail, part attraction, and fully Times Square.
✓ Why Go:
Pick up edible souvenirs and customize your own candies—perfect for gifts that scream “I was in Times Square.”
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning (9–11am) or late night to avoid peak family crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use the Personalized Printer to put a short message or photo on M&M’s—order before you browse so it’s ready at checkout.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families and sweet-tooths rave about the spectacle and friendly staff; expect lines but a fun, festive vibe.
2. Hershey's Chocolate World
A gleaming chocolate playground with over-the-top treats, from melty s’mores to milkshakes, plus exclusive merch.
✓ Why Go:
Create a custom Reese’s “Stuff Your Cup” and design chocolate bar wrappers—two unique, NYC-only souvenirs.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning on weekdays; evenings get lively but crowded.
✓ Insider Tip:
Mobile-order specialty drinks and s’mores for pickup so you can keep shopping the floor without waiting.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors call it sweet, interactive, and great for kids-at-heart—worth a quick, delicious stop.
3. Levi's Times Square
Levi’s biggest NYC outpost with an on-site Tailor Shop, walls of denim, and customization stations.
✓ Why Go:
Get jeans fitted, patched, or chain-stitched on the spot—your NYC denim becomes one-of-a-kind.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mid-mornings for the shortest waits at the Tailor Shop.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a vintage Levi’s piece to refresh; ask about limited NYC patches and DTG prints.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers praise expert tailors, deep sizes, and the flagship’s energetic atmosphere.
4. Sephora
A high-energy beauty hub for makeup, skincare, hair, and fragrance with pro services steps from the red steps.
✓ Why Go:
Test, shade-match, and restock travel sizes—ideal before a night at a Broadway show.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Open-to-lunch on weekdays; evenings are bustling with pre-show shoppers.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for Color IQ shade matching and grab free samples; book mini services ahead on busy weekends.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Beauty fans love the selection and late hours; staff gets kudos for helpful recommendations.
5. H&M
A multi-floor fast-fashion favorite in the heart of Times Square with constant new drops.
✓ Why Go:
Refresh outfits on the fly—essentials, trend pieces, and kids’ options at wallet-friendly prices.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Right at open or after 9pm to browse with room to spare.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head straight to denim and basics for the quickest sizing; check endcaps for collaborative capsules.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers appreciate the size range, prices, and long hours for last-minute looks.
6. American Eagle Outfitters
A massive, multi-level denim destination with an airy layout and prime Times Square views from inside.
✓ Why Go:
Stock up on jeans and comfy travel staples from AE and Aerie in one convenient flagship.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning or early afternoon; evenings surge with pre-show traffic.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use fitting-room checkouts when available to skip main register lines; ask about NYC-only graphic tees.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Consistently praised for selection and easy sizing—great for outfitting the whole crew.
7. Miniso
A bright, playful flagship packed with licensed plush, blind boxes, stationery, and travel-friendly accessories.
✓ Why Go:
Affordable gifts and cute carry-ons—ideal for quick souvenirs that won’t weigh down your suitcase.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Anytime before evening rush; weekends see lines at the plush and blind box zones.
✓ Insider Tip:
Stock rotates fast—if you love it, buy it now; look for Times Square exclusives near the entrance displays.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers call it joyful, well-organized, and an easy win for gifts under $20.
8. Pelé Soccer
A shrine to the world’s game with club and national-team kits, boots, and fan gear plus a customization zone.
✓ Why Go:
Personalize a jersey with your name or favorite player—then catch match highlights on the in-store screen.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Afternoons; big match days bring festive crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about badge and number patches for tournament seasons to make your kit uniquely NYC.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Soccer fans love the breadth of teams and the quick, quality customization.
9. Grand Slam New York
Times Square’s classic souvenir superstore for NYC tees, hoodies, magnets, and a deep Yankees selection.
✓ Why Go:
One-stop shopping for I Love NY gifts and licensed sports merch at competitive prices.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings or late night; midday can be shoulder-to-shoulder.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head downstairs for kids’ licensed items and bundle deals; prices are often best away from the front displays.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers appreciate the variety and value—easy to outfit the whole family’s souvenir wish list.
10. Midtown Comics Times Square
A legendary comic shop near Times Square South stocked with new issues, graphic novels, collectibles, and signings.
✓ Why Go:
Pick up this week’s releases or hunt variants and figurines—great pop-culture souvenirs beyond the usual.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Wednesday (new comic day) right at open for best selection; quieter browsing midweek afternoons.
✓ Insider Tip:
Join the rewards program and check the events calendar for creator signings while you’re in town.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Beloved by fans for its knowledgeable staff and deep inventory—an essential stop for geeks and casual browsers alike.
