Where to Find Restrooms in Times Square, NYC During Big Events

Times Square has limited public restrooms, and during major events (New Year's Eve, parades, protests), lines are epic. Plan ahead.

Public Restrooms (Free)

• Port Authority Bus Terminal (625 8th Ave) – Multiple levels; largest capacity. Open 24/7.
• Times Square Visitor Center (7th Ave & 47th St) – Small, but dedicated.
• Bryant Park (42nd St & 6th Ave, 1 block west) – Beautiful, clean, well-maintained. Worth the short walk.
• NYC Parks Dept. Comfort Stations: Few in immediate TSQ; check map.

Commercial Restrooms (Purchase Expected)

• Starbucks (multiple locations) – Usually require purchase; code on receipt.
• McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's – Customer restrooms.
• Department Stores: Macy's Herald Square (34th St – 10 blocks, but huge), Nordstrom Rack, H&M, Forever 21 (varies).
• Hotels: Lobby restrooms if you're a guest; some allow non-guests discreetly.

Subway Station Mezzanines (Emergency)

Gender-neutral, single-occupancy at:

• Times Sq–42 St (1/2/3/7/N/Q/R/W/S)
• 42 St–Bryant Pk (B/D/F/M)

Accessible from street via station entrance; no MetroCard needed for restroom only.

Event-Specific

• NYE: Port Authority, Bryant Park, and designated "comfort stations" along pen route. No portable toilets in pens. Go before entering.
• Parades: Same; side streets may have portables.

Pro Tips

• Go early. Before crowds peak.
• Hydrate strategically. Don't chug right before entering a pen.
• Know locations. Screenshot map.
• Carry TP & sanitizer. Supplies run out.

Times Square restrooms are a strategic resource. Treat them like one.