Times Square: Daytime vs. Nighttime

On my first day in New York, I visited Times Square in the late afternoon. It was already crowded, but a few days later, I went back at night and it was even more packed. This place is constantly busy, but nighttime takes the crowd and energy to another level.

If you're like me and don’t enjoy crowds, I recommend coming in the morning or early daytime when it’s relatively calmer. It’s easier to walk around and see the area without feeling overwhelmed.

That said, if your priority is getting great photos or experiencing the full Times Square “vibe,” then nighttime is better. The lights, billboards, and screens are definitely more impressive after dark. But be prepared for heavy crowds, noise, and a chaotic atmosphere.

Personally, I found Times Square to be overrated. It was too commercial, too crowded, and the overall experience wasn’t enjoyable for me. Still, I understand why people go it’s iconic. So if photos matter to you, it might still be worth pushing through the chaos. Otherwise, a quick visit during the day is enough.

Post by aliona_pi | Aug 20, 2025