Times Square & Broadway with Kids: Family Travel Guide | Homejourney

Times Square and Broadway with Kids: Fast Answer Guide

If you are planning Times Square and Broadway with Kids: Family Travel Guide-style trip, focus on three things: choose family-friendly Broadway shows, stay in safe parts of Midtown Manhattan within walking distance, and plan your days around quieter times (mornings and early matinees) to avoid the most intense crowds.

This cluster guide from Homejourney sits under our broader international travel pillar and is written specifically for Singapore families and global travellers who may later explore Singapore property investment with Homejourney.

Why Visit Times Square and Broadway with Kids

Times Square is called the “Crossroads of the World” and sits at the heart of Midtown Manhattan, surrounded by more than 40 Broadway and Off-Broadway theatres.[2][9] It is one of the most visually stimulating places you can take kids: giant LED billboards, costumed characters, and street performers fill the pedestrian plazas.[2][3] For theatre‑loving families, pairing Times Square with Broadway musicals is a natural choice, with many shows specifically marketed as family-friendly.[2][6]

From Singapore, the contrast is huge: think of it as Orchard Road, Marina Bay and an entire Esplanade theatre district compressed into a few blocks and turned up to maximum brightness at all hours.

Best Time to Visit (with Singapore Travellers in Mind)

For families, the best periods are late April to early June and late September to early November, when temperatures are milder and crowds are more manageable than the Christmas–New Year peak. Summer school holidays (June–August) have many special family events, but expect heavier crowds in Times Square and higher Broadway ticket prices.[2][8]

If you are travelling from Singapore, also consider jet lag: arriving in the late afternoon local time lets kids sleep soon after a light early dinner, adjusting more easily to the 12–13 hour time difference.

Getting There from Singapore & Money Basics

Most Singapore travellers fly via major hubs (Tokyo, Seoul, Dubai, Doha or Frankfurt) into New York’s JFK or Newark airports. From both airports, yellow cabs have flat or metered fares into Manhattan, while app-based rides and shared shuttles are available for families wanting door‑to‑door transport with car seats (pre‑book if needed).

New York uses the US Dollar (USD). For a quick mental check from SGD, many Singapore travellers use 1 USD ≈ 1.3–1.4 SGD (rates fluctuate; check your bank or a trusted FX app before departure). Paying by card is widely accepted, similar to Singapore; however, tipping (usually 15–20% at restaurants and for taxis) is standard and should be budgeted for.

Top Family Attractions in Times Square & Theatre District

Times Square is dense with kid-friendly attractions all within easy walking distance, which is ideal when travelling with children.[1][2][3]

1. Experience Broadway Shows with Kids

Taking your children to a Broadway show is the highlight of any family visit.[1][2][9] The official Times Square family guide and theatre listings highlight numerous kid-friendly productions, including long‑running musicals and seasonal favourites.[2][6][10] Many families from Singapore find matinee performances (typically 2 pm) easier with younger kids than late 8 pm shows.

For better value, consider discounted same‑day tickets from the TKTS booth under the red steps in Duffy Square, which often includes family shows at reduced prices.[2][3] During special events such as Kids’ Night on Broadway, children 18 and under can attend participating shows for free with a full‑paying adult ticket, plus enjoy pre‑show activities and discounts.[4][5]

2. Times Square’s Iconic Outdoor Experiences

Key outdoor stops kids usually love include the red bleacher steps above the TKTS booth, which give an elevated, car‑free vantage point over the square.[2][3] Families often sit here for photos or a snack break while watching the moving billboards. Nearby statues such as the Father Duffy statue in Duffy Square and the Hope sculpture become easy “landmarks” to orient your kids so they don’t feel lost in the crowd.[3]

3. Family-Friendly Indoor Attractions

Popular indoor attractions in and around Times Square include wax museums, immersive NYC experiences, and giant themed stores.[1][3][9] These are valuable backups on cold or rainy days and ideal between meals and shows.

For example, family-oriented guides highlight Madame Tussauds, RiseNY (a 4D flying theatre over NYC), large arcades such as Dave & Buster’s, and themed bowling at Bowlmor Lanes.[1][3][7][9] Disney’s flagship store and candy megastores are also magnets for children.[2][3]

Practical Family Travel Tips: Safety, Transport, Visas

Visa & Entry for Singapore Families

Singapore passport holders typically use the US Visa Waiver / ESTA system if eligible; travellers of other nationalities should confirm requirements on the official US government websites before booking flights. Because US border regulations can change, always check for the latest rules and any transit restrictions.

Moving Around Midtown Manhattan with Kids

Times Square sits around 42nd–47th Street, centred on Broadway and 7th Avenue.[2][9] The Times Square–42 Street subway complex connects multiple lines, making it one of the city’s busiest hubs. From a Singapore perspective, think of it as an MRT interchange like Dhoby Ghaut or City Hall at rush hour—expect crowds.

For families with younger kids or strollers:

Walk for short hops (e.g., Times Square to Bryant Park or Rockefeller Center) instead of changing subway lines.[1][2][3][9]
Use lifts where available and avoid peak commuting hours (8–9:30 am, 5–7 pm).
Consider Yellow Cabs or reputable ride‑hailing apps after evening shows when children are tired.

Safety Considerations in Times Square

Times Square is heavily policed and highly lit, but the density of people can be overwhelming for children.[1][2][3] Common issues include aggressive costumed characters seeking tips, ticket touts, and occasional street demonstrations.

Agree a family meeting point such as the red steps or a clearly named shop in case anyone gets separated.[1][3]
Explain to kids that some performers expect payment if you pose for photos; parents should negotiate and pay, not children.
Keep valuables out of sight and use crossbody bags in crowded pedestrian zones.
Use official ticket booths (TKTS, theatre box offices) or reputable websites rather than accepting tickets from street sellers.[1][2][4]

Homejourney’s focus on safety and verified information for Singapore real estate applies to travel content as well: always use official Broadway League resources, the Times Square Alliance guide, and recognised ticket platforms when booking family activities.[2][4][5]

Money-Saving Tips for Families

Use same‑day discount booths like TKTS for Broadway shows where appropriate, especially for non‑peak performances.[2][3]
Visit free or low‑cost nearby attractions such as Bryant Park and the New York Public Library.[1][3][9]
Share large portions at American diners; kid‑sized meals are often more than enough for younger children.

Where to Stay with Kids: Midtown Manhattan Family Areas

For a Times Square and Broadway with Kids: Family Travel Guide style itinerary, staying in or just outside Times Square makes it much easier to walk to shows and attractions, similar to booking a hotel near City Hall or Orchard MRT for easy access in Singapore.

Best Neighbourhoods for Families

Times Square / Theatre District: Closest to Broadway shows and late‑night lights; convenient but noisy and bright at night.[2][9]
Bryant Park / 5th Avenue Corridor: 10–15 minute walk to most theatres, with a calmer, more “business district” feel.[1][3][9]
Hell’s Kitchen: West of Times Square with more local eateries; still within walking distance but generally quieter at night.

Families often choose slightly away from the main square to reduce noise while remaining close enough to walk back after an evening show.