Attractions in Times Square/Theatre District/Midtown (New York City)

Times Square

Named after the New York Times, which moved here in 1924, Times Square is a vibrant, neon-lit area in the heart of the Theater District. Once populated by peep shows and sex shops, it has undergone a complete image overhaul. Hotels, office towers and commercial businesses have sprung up. Disney has moved in, as well as Condé Nast. Megastores and theme restaurants have also set up shop. Times Square remains the city's favorite venue for New Year's Eve, where a huge street party is highlighted by a glitter ball dropped from Times Tower. The Times Square Alliance which was founded in 1992, works for the betterment and promotion of this most popular New York city attraction.

Grand Central Terminal

Built in 1913, Grand Central Terminal is impressive even to New Yorkers, particularly the massive main hall with its cathedral-like vaulted ceiling. The building s beautiful with chic new shops and a food court lending an air of urban charm. Not an easy feat for a railway station that is filled with a half million commuters each week. The bar at Michael Jordan's The Steak House overlooks the busy terminal. If you crave shellfish, dine at the legendary Oyster Bar. The Vanderbilt Hall within the station is also the site of numerous cultural events, so check out the website for the latest in the station's support of artistic endeavors. The station services outlying suburbs via the Metro-North Commuter Railroad.

Herald Square

Herald Square is named after a defunct New York newspaper. It was once the heart of a red light district, but now visitors are mainly interested in shopping at Macy's, 'the largest department store in the world', Toys R Us, and the Manhattan Mall. It is within easy walking distance from Times Square. When you are done shopping, there is a mini Koreatown located nearby along 32nd Street between Broadway and Fifth Avenue.

Times Square Visitors Center

Times Square Visitors Center is a large facility in the heart of Times Square, that provides all the information visitors need to get around the city. In addition to the dizzying array of free brochures and maps, visitors may book guided tours, purchase theater and concert tickets, find information on local events and shop for NYC souvenirs. Airport transportation can also be booked here.

Times Square Free Tour

This free walking tour, sponsored by the non-profit Times Square Business Improvement District, takes visitors on a fun, informative tour of one of the city's most famous neighborhoods. You will learn all about the neighborhood's recent economic turnaround, its fabled history, and (if the schedule permits) visit the inside of a Broadway theater. Its an ideal way to spend an idle day strolling around the streets of New York.

St. Malachy's Church

Founded in 1902, this church is an integral part of the Theater District. In 1920, St. Malachy's Church experienced an influx of actors, dancers, musicians, craftsmen, and tourists filling the seats, replacing the types of parishioners St. Malachy's had seen in previous years. In 1991, Father Michael C. Crimmins was named pastor and put forth immense effort to fund repairs for the church. A new roof, restoration of the interior, cleaning of the exterior and heating and air conditioning systems have made St. Malachy Church a beautiful place to pray.

Madame Tussauds New York

Set sail with Captain Jack Sparrow, audition for Simon Cowell and dance with Beyonce! Madame Tussauds takes you beyond your wildest dreams and makes you the star of the show! Sing, dance and mingle with over 200 wax celebrities in 85,000 square feet of interactive entertainment located in the heart of Times Square. Admission price is USD29 for adults and USD23 for children. Special Offer: Receive USD6 off adult tickets and USD4 off child tickets when you print and present this offer at admissions. Cannot be combined with other offers. Not valid for advanced purchases or groups over fifteen. Admission Code: 5468/5469

Morgan Library & Museum

The building housing the Pierpont Morgan Library Museum and research facility was constructed a century ago by J.P. Morgan Sr., then one of the richest men in the country. It opened to the public in 1924, and much later the adjacent private home of J. Pierpont Morgan Jr. was absorbed by the museum. A national landmark, the exhibition room showcases rare manuscripts and books - a grand variety of works by musicians, writers, artists and more, including Bach, Hemingway and Rembrandt. The extent of the collection could overwhelm, except that Morgan only shows off the right amount of wares from the permanent collection, enticing one to come back for more. Visiting the study where J.P. Morgan spent much of his time is a must, along with the expansive library across the grandiose marble hall. Differing programs are offered year round, plus there’s a small cafe, garden court, dining room and extensive gift shop.

New York Yacht Club

Opened in 1901, this clubhouse is located on property donated by business tycoon Commodore J. Pierpont Morgan. The beaux-arts building features a limestone facade with large bay windows resembling sterns of ships. The Model Room is home to over 1,500 models of yachts dating from the 1940s, and The Grill Room restaurant displays an extensive collection of sailing prints. Although this building was declared a historic landmark in 1979, it remains a private club. Visitors are not permitted unless accompanied by a club member.

Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre

Formerly known as the Plymouth, this theatre, catering to 1079 guests, is a mid-sized venue for outstanding comedies and dramas. It is home to such productions as The Odd Couple, Abe Lincoln in Illinois, The Graduate, The Heidi Chronicles and more recently, Brooklyn. Built by the Shuberts, but famously operated by producer-director Arthur Hopkins until his death in 1950. At that time, the Shuberts took over. Renamed on May 9, 2005 for Gerald Schoenfeld, longtime chairman of the Shubert Organization. The thestre has an approximate capacity of 193 seats inside.

Al Hirschfeld Theatre

Named for celebrated caricaturist Al Hirschfeld. The theatre opened in June 2003. Formerly the Martin Beck, it is one of Broadway's most popular venues. Designed by architect G. Albert Lansburgh this was the only theater in New York that was owned outright without a mortgage. Famous appearances include Basil Rathbone as Romeo to the Juliet of Katharine Cornell.

The Peninsula Spa

Pamper yourself at the Peninsula Spa, nestled within the sophisticated hotel Peninsula New York. The tri-level club not only offers health services, but also panoramic views of the city. Apart from reveling in the luxurious services, you can also tone up at the health club here. Enroll for Aerobics, Yoga or Pilates. A glass enclosed swimming pool and Mahogany lockers add a certain charm to the place. You can sit back and catch your breath at the Rooftop Garden Lounge, or go back home transformed after a visit to the hair salon.