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The early days:
- The Longacre Square/Theatre District area dates back to the mid-1800s when it was known as Longacre Square.
- In 1904, the New York Times decided to move their headquarters from Lower Manhattan to Times Square, and the area was subsequently renamed as Times Square.
The heyday of vaudeville and Broadway:
- From the early 1900s to the 1920s, Times Square was a major center for vaudeville and Broadway shows.
- Iconic theaters like the Winter Garden Theatre and the Palace Theater were built during this time.
- Times Square also became a popular spot for hotels, restaurants, and cabarets.
Rise of the movie industry:
- Starting in the 1920s and continuing through the 1950s, Hollywood studios began to flock to Times Square, opening up movie palaces and theaters.
- The Paramount, Loew's State, and RKO Roxy theaters all became big names.
- Times Square became a hub of entertainment, both for Broadway and for movies.
The decline and rejuvenation of Times Square:
- In the late 1960s and 1970s, Times Square fell into decline, with crime and urban decay becoming major problems.
- However, in the 1990s, the area underwent a major rejuvenation, with the city government, businesses, and non-profit organizations investing heavily in the area.
- New public spaces were created, including the Times Square Plaza and the pedestrian-only Broadway strip.
- The area also saw the construction of new office buildings, hotels, and retail stores.
Present-day Times Square:
- Times Square is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
- The area is home to numerous iconic landmarks, including the One Times Square building, the giant New Year's Eve ball drop, and the Broadway Theater District.
- Times Square is also known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining options.