Times Square – New York’s Happening Place

MAITLAND, Fla. - June 25, 2013 - PRLog -- You would never believe so much was going on in such a few short blocks, but that’s the beauty of Times Square, New York’s happening place. You will find something to interest every taste and every age – especially good news for those traveling with two or more different generations of family members. Those who remember Times Square as the seedy red light district of long ago will be pleasantly surprised at how the area has cleaned up its act over the past decade or two. And the process is still underway, with certain neighborhood streets closing to car traffic and ambitious plans on the part of the municipal government to improve pedestrian areas with trendy concrete tiles and enormous marble benches.

What Do You Want to Do?

You and your entire family could literally spend an entire New York vacation in Times Square. The district is filled with hotels for a variety of budgets and restaurants featuring cuisine from all corners of the world – not to mention that quintessential NYC landmark, food carts. After you’ve slept and eaten, you can visit a choice of local museums. One of the most exciting is Discovery Times Square, which aims to be more than a museum, but rather a center for discovery through its innovative exhibits, which recently have ranged from the original Dead Sea Scrolls to Harry Potter up close and personal. Other fascinating displays are to be seen at Madame Tussaud’s wax museum and Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium.

Shopping as Entertainment

Another popular activity in the area is shopping. However, Times Square style shopping bears little resemblance to what goes on at your local dollar store. There are close to 200 stores in the neighborhood, including the huge Toys “R” Us emporium, which is built on a massive scale and can be just as entertaining as a museum or an amusement park. You’ll find shops for women, men and children’s clothing; gourmet chocolates; outdoor gear; fashionable shoes; nail care; electronics; wine and liquor and many more. Shop for souvenirs to take home – Backstage Memories, which specializes in Broadway memorabilia, is especially recommended.

The Night Life

Night life in Times Square may not have the same risqué connotations it used to but it still is lively. A number one activity in the evening is catching a Broadway show; even if you are traveling on a limited budget, you may be able to pick up half price tickets for the same day at the TKTS outlet. Before or after the show, it is traditional to dine at one of the well-known theater world hangouts, such as Sardi’s whose walls are covered with portraits of Broadway personalities. After that, check out one or two of the local night clubs, which include relaxing lounges, upbeat dance bars, venues for listening to new live music and clubs with a Latin flavor.

New York has so much to see and do that you’ll appreciate staying in a comfortable hotel with easy access to everything. The nicer New York hotels tend to fill up fast, though, so it’s a good idea to reserve in advance (http://crshotels.com/).