Lights, camera, action! Enjoy the captivating world of Times Square with this self-guided audio tour. Discover the legendary history and evolution of New York’s entertainment district, from its glittering searchlights to the infamous ‘Ball Drop’ on New Year’s Eve. Explore iconic filming locations, uncover hidden artwork, and explore the seedy past of theaters like the Liberty and New Victory. This flexible sightseeing experience offers a personalized journey through the stories that have shaped one of the world’s most famous destinations. Are you ready to unlock the secrets of Times Square?
Key Points
- This self-guided audio tour explores the iconic filming locations, hidden artwork, and fascinating history of Times Square along Broadway.
- The 75-minute immersive experience highlights the legendary lights of Times Square and the seedy evolution of its theaters.
- Participants can access the tour content offline through the VoiceMap app, allowing for a personalized and flexible sightseeing experience.
- The tour begins at the iconic red steps above the TKTS booth, offering a vibrant starting point in the heart of Times Square.
- Notable historical events covered include the controversial premiere of ‘The Birth of a Nation’ and the gangland murder of Beansie Rosenthal.
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Tour Overview
Embarking on a captivating self-guided audio tour, visitors can discover the dazzling history of Times Square, exploring its iconic filming locations and hidden artwork along Broadway from 47th Street to 42nd Street.
Lasting 75 minutes, this immersive experience highlights the legendary lights of Times Square, from search lights to theater marquees and the famous New Year’s Eve ‘Ball Drop’.
Along the way, travelers will uncover the fascinating stories behind the Liberty Theatre’s notorious past and learn about the seedy evolution of the New Victory Theater.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this flexible tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant past and present of one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks.
What’s Included
This self-guided audio tour provides a lifetime of access to the content in English, which can be enjoyed through the convenient VoiceMap app for both Android and iOS devices.
Participants can access the tour’s audio, maps, and geodata offline, allowing them to fully enjoy the experience without relying on a constant internet connection.
Whether on the go or exploring Times Square at their own pace, travelers will have everything they need right at their fingertips.
The self-guided nature of the tour also means visitors can start, pause, and restart the experience whenever they choose, ensuring a personalized and flexible sightseeing adventure.
Meeting Point
The tour begins at the iconic red steps above the TKTS booth, situated at the intersection of 47th Street and 7th Avenue in the heart of Times Square.
Easily accessible by taking the N, Q, R, W, S, 1, 2, 3, or 7 train to the Times Square station on 42nd Street, and then walking just 2 blocks north, this vibrant starting point sets the stage for an immersive exploration of Times Square’s dazzling history and hidden gems.
Participants will be captivated by the energy and excitement of this world-famous landmark, as they prepare to embark on a self-guided audio tour that promises to reveal the untold stories and fascinating evolution of one of New York City’s most iconic destinations.
History of Times Square’s Lights
Times Square’s lights have a dazzling history, from the captivating searchlights that once pierced the night sky to the iconic theater marquees that continue to dazzle millions of visitors.
In the early 1900s, these bright beams were used to attract crowds to the area, transforming Times Square into a beacon of entertainment and excitement.
As the years passed, the lights became more sophisticated, with the iconic ‘Ball Drop’ at New Year’s Eve becoming a global spectacle.
Today, the lights of Times Square remain a symbol of the city’s vibrant energy, drawing in travelers from around the world to witness the sheer brilliance of this iconic landmark.
Birth of a Nation Premiere
Liberty Theatre, where the controversial film ‘Birth of a Nation‘ premiered in 1915, sparked nationwide outrage and inspired the revival of the Ku Klux Klan.
Directed by D.W. Griffith, the movie’s distorted portrayal of Reconstruction-era history glorified the Klan and its racist ideology, inciting lynchings and violence across the country.
Tour-goers will learn how this landmark film, once considered a cinematic masterpiece, is now widely condemned for its blatant racism and its lasting impact on the nation’s racial tensions.
Though the Liberty Theatre no longer stands, this dark chapter in Times Square’s history serves as a sobering reminder of the power of media to shape public opinion and social movements.
Gangland Murder of Beansie Rosenthal
Stepping away from the Liberty Theatre’s controversial legacy, the tour now explores the gripping tale of the gangland murder of Beansie Rosenthal – a pivotal moment that captivated the nation and cemented Times Square’s reputation as a hub of organized crime.
On July 16, 1928, Rosenthal, a notorious gambler and racketeer, was gunned down outside the Club Monmartre in full view of bystanders. The brutal assassination was orchestrated by mobster Lucky Luciano and his associates, who sought to eliminate a threat to their criminal empire.
The ‘Trial of the Century’ that followed captivated New Yorkers and sparked nationwide debates about the pervasive influence of organized crime. This sordid chapter further solidified Times Square’s image as a dangerous, lawless district.
Evolution of the New Victory Theater
Interestingly, the New Victory Theater has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a venue for serious drama to one that embraced the risqué world of burlesque and even pornography before eventually reclaiming its status as a family-friendly cultural institution.
Initially opened in 1900 as a legitimate theater, the New Victory saw its fortunes wane in the mid-20th century as it shifted towards more salacious entertainment.
But in the 1990s, a major restoration effort breathed new life into the space, allowing it to return to its roots as a hub for high-quality performing arts accessible to all.
Today, the New Victory proudly showcases an eclectic array of theater, dance, and circus productions, cementing its reputation as a beloved Times Square landmark.
Origin of the Tony Awards
The iconic Tony Awards, recognizing excellence in American theater, have their origins firmly rooted in the vibrant cultural landscape of Times Square.
Established in 1947, the Antoinette Perry Awards – more commonly known as the Tonys – were conceived to honor the accomplishments of actors, directors, and producers making a lasting impact on the Broadway stage.
The Tonys have evolved over the decades, becoming a prestigious global event celebrating the best in theatrical achievement.
Created by the American Theatre Wing to promote and support the theater industry, the Tonys are named after actress Antoinette ‘Tony’ Perry, a co-founder of the Wing.
The first ceremony was held at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel just blocks from Times Square, and the Tonys continue to be presented annually in iconic Broadway theaters.
The Tonys have featured countless memorable moments and acceptance speeches in Times Square.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take the Tour at Any Time of Day?
Yes, the tour can be taken at any time of day. The self-guided nature of the audio tour allows participants to explore Times Square’s iconic sights and history at their own pace, whenever is most convenient for them.
Is the Tour Available in Other Languages?
Unfortunately, this self-guided audio tour of Times Square is only available in English. While the content may be fascinating, the tour doesn’t offer options for other language speakers. Travelers who don’t understand English may want to explore Times Square on their own.
How Do I Access the Tour if I Don’t Have a Smartphone?
If you don’t have a smartphone, you won’t be able to access this self-guided audio tour. The tour’s experience is designed around the VoiceMap app, which is required to download the audio content and navigate the tour.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?
There are currently no published discounts or package deals available for this self-guided tour. However, the tour does offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for interested participants.
How Long Does It Take to Complete the Full Tour?
The self-guided audio tour takes approximately 75 minutes to complete. Participants can enjoy the dazzling history and iconic sights of Times Square at their own pace, exploring the highlights along the way.
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Recap
Enjoy the captivating past and present of Times Square. This self-guided tour provides a personalized journey through the iconic lights, theaters, and stories that have defined this legendary entertainment district.
Discover the fascinating evolution from a seedy neighborhood to a global beacon of excitement – all accessible at your own pace through the VoiceMap app. Uncover the legends and lore that make Times Square the ‘Crossroads of the World.’