Times Square, New York

New York City is one of the largest cities in the world. It attracts millions of visitors every year. One of the most popular tourist attractions is Times Square on the corner of Broadway and Seventh Avenue. Also known as the Theater District for its string of popular Broadway Theaters, it provides a multitude of attractions for visitors to New York City as well as city residents.

History of Times Square

In Colonial times and after the Revolutionary War, much of the property that is now Times Square was owned by a general in the New York Militia, John Morin Scott, who served under George Washington. The area was a working farm with acres of crops and a horse breeding operation. In the early 19h century, much of it was owned by John Jacob Astor, who sold off parcels for commercial developments. In 1904, the publisher of the New York Times moved the headquarters of the newspaper to a newly constructed skyscraper on 42nd Street, thus giving the area its iconic name. Throughout much of the 20th century, the reputation of Times Square waffled between a New York City symbol of community and a notoriously, crime-ridden neighborhood.

Present day Times Square

In the 1980s and 1990s, a commercial development boom helped Times Square achieve its current position as a mecca of tourism. A concerted effort by Mayor Rudolph Giuliani, various branches of the municipal government and city bylaw enforcement led to a cleanup of the Times Square area. Security was increased, undesirable businesses were shut down and questionable street enterprises were encouraged to relocate. Times Square was made more tourist-friendly by the addition of more pedestrian areas, upscale establishments and family-friendly businesses.

Today, Times Square is one of the most recognized icons of the United States. It attracts millions of visitors from all over the world and continues as the heart of the New York Theater District, including the legendary "Great White Way" of Broadway. Times Square is one of the most popular and well-known street corners anywhere in the world.