Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City on a Budget in Times Square
Top Things to Do in New York City on a Budget in Times Square
1. Times Square
Stand in the heart of New York’s neon crossroads where skyscraper canyons glow, buskers perform, and pedestrian plazas offer prime people-watching without spending a dime.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the city’s most famous scene—buzzing energy, giant screens, and a bucket-list photo op—all free and accessible day or night.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning (7–9 am) for space to roam and photos; late evening (after 10 pm) for peak glow without peak crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use the red bleacher steps at Duffy Square as a free grandstand for panoramic shots; bring a wide-angle setting on your phone.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers love the electrifying vibe and say it feels like “movie-New York,” though many note crowds can be intense during prime hours.
2. Duffy Square Red Steps
Climb the iconic crimson bleachers above the TKTS booth for sweeping billboard views and a perfect perch to soak in Times Square’s spectacle.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a free, elevated lookout in the middle of the action—great for resting your feet and snapping budget-friendly skyline photos.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Golden hour (summer: 7–8:30 pm; winter: 4–5 pm) and late night after the Broadway curtain when crowds thin out.
✓ Insider Tip:
If it’s busy, circle to the back staircase—lines are shorter and you’ll reach open seats quicker.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors rave about the views and convenient seating, calling it the best zero-cost vantage point in Times Square.
3. Midnight Moment
Watch billboards sync across Times Square for a curated minute of digital art just before midnight—an only-in-NYC spectacle that’s totally free.
✓ Why Go:
It transforms advertising screens into a nightly gallery, letting budget travelers catch contemporary art without a ticket.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Arrive around 11:50 pm to find a spot; the show runs from 11:57 pm–12:00 am nightly.
✓ Insider Tip:
Stand near the Red Steps facing south for a wide view of synchronized screens.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Art lovers call it a surprising, serene pause amid the frenzy; casual visitors describe it as a memorable, free “wow” moment.
4. One Times Square
Gaze up at the storied skyscraper where the New Year’s Eve Ball drops—visible year-round for photos without the December crowds.
✓ Why Go:
It’s an icon of global countdowns and a quick, free stop for history and skyline shots steps from the plazas.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Daylight for façade details; after dark for illuminated signage and the ball’s perch.
✓ Insider Tip:
Stand across Broadway near the pedestrian plaza for a straight-on shot of the ball and building.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers appreciate checking off a world-famous landmark with zero cost and minimal time investment.
5. Hershey's Chocolate World Times Square
Step into a candy wonderland to browse oversized bars, themed merchandise, and occasionally sample treats—fun even if you don’t buy.
✓ Why Go:
It’s an indoor, budget-friendly diversion with sweet photo ops and air conditioning right on the square.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings before 11 am or late evening after shows to avoid family rushes.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head upstairs for less-crowded displays and better views of the floor below.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families and sweet-tooths call it playful and welcoming; budget travelers like that browsing is free and quick.
6. M&M'S New York
Three colorful floors of candy tubes, NYC-themed merch, and interactive stations make for an easy, low-cost stop steps off Broadway.
✓ Why Go:
It doubles as a whimsical mini-attraction and weather-proof photo spot where window-shopping is half the fun.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays before noon; late evenings are calmer after theater crowds disperse.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head to the top floor windows for fun angles over Broadway without the crowds.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors describe it as cheerful and over-the-top—great for quick, free fun between sights.
7. Schubert Alley
Wander the historic pedestrian passage between famed theaters for Playbill gazing, stage-door peeks, and a sense of Broadway’s golden age.
✓ Why Go:
It’s free, atmospheric, and places you amid the Theater District’s architectural history within a block of the plazas.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon before curtain (6–7:30 pm) for pre-show buzz; quiet mid-mornings for photos.
✓ Insider Tip:
Look for show posters and production displays along the walls—great backdrops for budget-friendly Broadway selfies.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Theater fans love the nostalgia and intimacy; even non-fans enjoy the alley’s calm break from the crowds.
8. Richard Rodgers Theatre Stage Door
Join fans on 46th Street after evening performances to see Broadway actors exit, sign Playbills, and sometimes chat—no ticket required.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a free, close-up Broadway experience and a unique Times Square memory for theater lovers on a budget.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Roughly 10:15–10:45 pm on performance nights; arrive earlier for a rail spot.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a marker and a sturdy program; be respectful of barricades and staff directions.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans describe it as thrilling and personal, with occasional star encounters that make the night.
9. Good Morning America Studio
Catch the buzz outside the glass-walled studio or request free audience tickets for a behind-the-scenes morning of live TV in Times Square.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a cost-free way to experience broadcasting energy and possibly appear on-air with the square as your backdrop.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings; arrive by 6–6:30 am for outdoor viewing or follow ticket instructions for audience entry.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a sign for a better chance to be featured on camera during outdoor segments.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors enjoy the upbeat atmosphere and proximity to anchors; early start is the main trade-off.
10. Ed Sullivan Theater
Line up for a free taping at the historic home of The Late Show—part landmark visit, part comedy night, all at no cost if you snag tickets.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a classic New York studio experience in the northern Times Square area with A-list guests and vintage marquee charm.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Check taping days; afternoon check-in typically starts a few hours before the evening show.
✓ Insider Tip:
Join the online waitlist early and stay flexible—standby often works for solo travelers.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests praise the high production energy and say the free tickets are one of Midtown’s best-value experiences.
