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Check the assumptions…I am assuming that the DIR842 is on the inside wall of the building. It should be, as it is not weatherproofed. Placing it on the outside of the building will make it difficult to receive a signal on the opposite side of the wall if the wall is metal clad and grounded, or the wall contains metal foil insulation.The objective is to maximise the WiFi reception in all areas within the building.2.4GHz WiFi signals travel much further than 5GHz channels, but they are more subject to noise as many devices are trying to use the few 2.4GHz channels available (e.g. other WiFi networks, microwave ovens, Bluetooth devices, etc.)5GHz channels are less subject to interference (because there are many more to choose from) but they are absorbed by solid walls and floors, and so they tend not to travel well outside the room.Check your understanding of the capabilities of the device…Consider the line of sight between the transmitter and the receivers, and align the antennae so that they are at right angles to the line of sight so that the signal radiating out from the sides of the antennae is travelling along the line of sight.If you look at the images describing the patterns of radiation from an antenna, (See Dipole antenna - Wikipedia) you will see that the signal radiates in a pattern resembling a doughnut (or torroid) around the antenna. It is easy to see that positioning all antennae in the same direction will create many overlapping fields, and may not help to propogate signals into areas where you want to receive a signal.The multiple antennae are intended to create many alternative signal paths that can bounce around and reach every part of the building - although not necessarily using obvious paths that you can imagine. The beamforming feature then uses whichever antenna is appropriate.If you were trying to maximise signal between one access point and one client at opposite ends of an empty room, it may be sensible to align all the antennae. But a two storey house is not so simple. It is likely that it is more important for you to be able to get signals in many locations for many devices simultaneously. You need diversity, not concentrated signal paths.You may find that aligning the antennae in an X pattern (each antenna at 45degrees to vertical & horizontal) is more effective than pointing two antennae vertically and two horizontally. If it is safe to do so without creating a hazard for people walking past, try positioning some antennae so that they are at 45 degrees to the wall on which the DIR842 is mounted.As far as possible avoid having two antennae parallel to each other. Two antennae that are parallel will radiate a signal that overlaps and will not achieve the diverse signal paths that are possible by separating their alignment.I note that the manufacturer’s brochure states that you can stream on one channel whilst browsing on another. I am unaware of any feature of any device available on the market that allows the user to select which channel they use for different functions.My understanding of the WiFi standards for MIMO systems is that the client and access point use multiple channels if necessary and if the channels are available. Between them, they negotiate automatically to aggregate two channels to maximise throughput if the capacity is required. But this is done automatically by the client device and access point, not at the discretion of the user.If the access point works in the way described in the brochure, it would be implementing a proprietary extension to the standards, and that would require a proprietary WiFi interface on the client device. That might be possible if you get a D-Link USB WiFi adaptor (with the same feature) for a computer, but would not be achievable with the built-in WiFi chips on most smartphones, tablets and laptop computers.I think it is safe to assume that the brochure is inaccurate - at best - and that you should expect the system to manage its channel utilisation. This would mean that it would first connect on whichever channel is strongest during its scan of channels, and would then connect a second channel if required. This process may take some seconds at least to setup and would only be apparent if the client called for a high demand stream - such as downloading a large file, or streaming a high definition movie.Check the environment for things that might affect the signal…Large metal objects will reflect the signal. Objects closer to the transmitter or receiver will influence the signal more interference than objects equidistant.Grounded metal objects close to the transmitter or receiver may screen the signal completely, such as a large refrigerator, stacked appliance, a wire mesh fence, concrete wall or floor filled with reinforcing mesh, or a metal clad wall.Hidden metal such as foil insulation in an external wall of a timber clad house or metal reinforcing mesh in a concrete floor or wall will be just as troublesome as metal objects you can see.Modern glass windows are treated with a metallic coating to reflect infrared radiation (heat). This coating also reflects WiFi signals. Window treatments such as metal blinds may have a similar effect.A large metal object immediately behind the DIR842 antennae (such as a metal tank, metal wall cladding, or foil insulation in the wall) may screen it from noise coming from the opposite direction and reflect back signals that you want to receive.Measure the results of your tests…There are many apps in the various app stores that will give you good measurements of throughput and allow you to identify the channel being used.Take a smart phone with a signal strength indicator and slowly move around the building stopping for 15–60 seconds in each location to get a reading of the signal strength.If you find troublesome deadspots where you want to use a WiFi device, try moving the WiFi access point, or re-orienting the antennae, and retest to see if the problem is resolved.Check the settings in the DIR842 and ensure that it is not doing something to improve the signal that might make your measurements inaccurate or misleading.e.g. band steering (connecting on 2.4GHz and then switching to 5GHz for higher speed)Testing signal strength over a period of minutes is more reliable than a snapshot of a few seconds. Testing at different times of the day may be appropriate, as neighbouring networks or devices may have different use profiles and become a problem at unexpected times.If necessary, relocate the transmitter and/or receiver to avoid obstacles that may reflect or absorb the signal. Try several locations to see which gives the best result on the signal meter.

22 Things to Do in Times SquareThis post covers things to do in Times Square with sections on free and night activities, shopping, restaurants, and a Times Square map and self-guided walking tour. Below you will find lots of information about Times Square so you know about all the great happenings! Be sure to check out our Things to Do in NYC for more ideas.Where is Times SquareFree Things to DoTop AttractionFamily-FriendlyPlaces to Shop + EatTimes Square at NightTIP: Many popular attractions in or near Times Square, such as Top of the Rock and Madame Tussauds are included for free with all of the tourist discount passes as well as hop-on-hop-off bus ticket packages. Read our post comparing all the passes available to you.WHERE IS TIMES SQUARESo, Times Square is not really a square. What is technically Times Square is the four quarters created where 7th Ave. and Broadway intersects in Midtown Manhattan. However, most New Yorkers refer to the larger neighborhood as Times Square, which stretches north and south from 40th St. to roughly 52nd St. and east and west from 8th Ave to 6th Ave.Times Square is easily accessible by multiple subways and buses. Use this Google mapto get exact directions from your starting point to Times Square.By Subway:A/C/E to 42 Street StationF/M/B/D to 47-50 Sts – Rockefeller Ctr StationN/WR to 49 Street Station1 to 50 Street StationC/E to 50 Street Station1/2/3/7/S to Times Sq – 42 Street StationBy Bus:M7, M104, M20 uptown/downtownM5 uptownM42 crosstown both directionsM50 westboundBack to topFREE THINGS TO DO IN TIMES SQUAREOne could spend hours in Times Square shopping, people watching and being amazed by the billboards. The ”crossroads of the world” as it is known, is jam-packed with free entertainers as well.Have a look yourself through this real-time webcam of 47th Street and Broadway.In 2016, the city decided to make things a little less chaotic in Times Square and so they designated areas where you can see performers, where you can sit, and what path to take to get outta there when you’re ready to go.You can download what they call their “cheat sheet” or use this picture of it on the right. The zones go from 47th Street down to 42nd Street.Green is for relaxing as you watch the world go by. The blue lines are where you can find various performers and cartoon characters and purple are express walking lanes so you don’t have to weave your way through the crowds.Join our free FTBF Travel Community! As a thank you, you'll receive our City Guide!Participate in official Times Square EventsFrom very interesting and innovative public art projects to entertainment options for all ages, Times Square is a part outdoor art gallery and part funhouse. You can check their official website to see what is happening that day, that month and seasonally. Amazing things appear in Times Square – in 2012 a coordinated project for Yoko Ono’s conceptual art piece IMAGINE PEACE took place in Times Square.Experience the Midnight MomentEvery night from 11:57 pm to midnight, you can witness the world’s largest digital art exhibition where the huge billboards in Times Square are synchronized resulting in three fabulous moments of the same whimsical imagery.Watch a short video of the synchronization and check out our guide for things to do at night in NYC.People-watchThis is the quintessential thing to do in New York – for locals and visitor alike. Times Square is one of the best places to sit and watch the world rush past. Grab a seat in the pedestrian zone (Stop F in the tour below) or sit on the red TKTS steps. No matter where you sit, you’ll feel the NYC buzz of energy around you.(Pictured left to right: Yoko Ono Imagine Peace project, Elmo, The Naked Cowboy, Gospel Choir)Hug your favorite Cartoon CharacterSay hi to the Statue of Liberty, hug Elmo, see Elsa alongside Mario and Minnie Mouse. Say thanks to the super-heroes who keep the world safe! Keep in mind that these performers are not working for the city. They are working on tips. If you want to have a good interaction with Sponge Bob, it’s best that you tip a buck.See the Naked CowboyDressed in only tighty-whities covering the rated -x parts, cowboy boots, and a cowboy hat, Robert John Burck can be found in Times Square playing his country tunes and posing for photos with tourists. Forr the full story of how this simple dude from California became a New York icon, see our post The famous Naked Cowboy. (You can see him at Stop L on the self-guided tour below)Hear a Gospel ChoirIt’s free, it’s fun and it’s in Times Square. No need to travel to Harlem for a great Gospel Service. The Times Square Church is a lesser-known church that happens to have a fantastic choir. Find more information about it below. (Stop T on the self-guided tour below).See the Tonight Show with Stephen ColbertIt’s easy in New York to attend free TV show tapings, including The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. The show taping goes from around 5.30 pm to 7 pm. For information on how to get tickets, click here.To learn about tickets for other popular shows like the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon or The Daily Show With Trevor Noah, check out our post with all the details you need to get a seat!Check out our guide for things to do at night in NYC.TIP: For even more suggestions of things to do in the area and around the city, be sure to stop by official NYC Information Center in Times Square located on Broadway between 43rd and 44th Streets. You can get free guides, maps, brochures, coupons and discounts for hundreds of activities and sights in NYC. They have bilingual staff who can answer questions for you.Back to topTOP ATTRACTIONS IN TIMES SQUAREThese fun, famous attractions are conveniently located in Times Square. These attractions are perfect for families and, at the same time, great for night owls since many of these options stay open until 10 pm or beyond!Tip: Several of the attractions listed below are included free with the purchase of most NYC tourist discount passes as well as several bus company combo tickets. Click the link to read our review of these passes.Madame Tussauds 234 West 42nd Street between 7th and 8th AvenuesThe world-famous wax figure attraction has over 200 wax figures of famous musicians, A-list stars, sports legends, world leaders and more. There is a Marvel Super Hero 4D ultra-sensory superheroes film.Be sure to take selfies with the Hulk, Captain America, Thor, and Ironman! There are many coupons, vouchers, and discounts for Madame Tussauds available to lower the price of entry significantly. See our blog post for all the details or purchases tickets here.TIP: Consider buying a value package that combines admission to the museum with a Big Bus Night Tour. For information on New York bus tours in general, read our post, New York Bus Tours.Ripley’s Believe It or Not! 234 West 42nd Street between 7th & 8th AvenuesIf you are in the mood for the odd and unusual, Ripley’s is for you. More than 500 real artifacts, wildly fun interactive experiences, and twenty themed galleries of strange and fascinating things in this interactive museum.For all the details on prices, hours and how to find discounts and deals on tickets, click here.National Geographic Ocean Odyssey 226 West 44th Street between 7th Avenue and 8th AvenueStarting in October 2017, you can take a deep dive into the ocean right in Times Square. Using photo-real animation with giant projection screens and immersive sound, your simulated ocean voyage will feel real.This is a great activity for families with children as there is a great deal of interactive technology including touch screens, holograms, and games involving ocean conservation/research.This fun, interactive exhibit is both perfect for families and night owls since it is open late (until 10:30 pm Sunday – Thursday and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays). Find out about prices, hours and more at their website.OMEscape at Times Square 325 W 38th St. bet 8th and 9th Aves.If you haven’t heard about “Escape Rooms” this activity might be just your thing (or not). This depends if you enjoy working with others solving puzzles that will help you literally escape a room with specific themes.Rooms feature hi-tech machines including a laser security systems to recreate the environment of the theme you choose. One of the most popular ‘rooms’ is the “The Penitentiary,” where players are locked in a cramped cell and have 70 minutes to find the blueprint to escape the cell or… it won’t end well. Some other rooms are the “Laboratory of Biohazard” or “Room X (Time Travel).”OMEscape is great for groups of friends, families and some themes are appropriate for kids as well. According to YELP and TripAdvisor, it’s a 5-star activity. You can book a slot during their open hours which are 11 am-11 pm every day. It is a bit pricey, at about $31 per person. For more information visit their website.Back to topTHINGS TO DO WITH KIDSIn addition to the top attractions listed in the section above which are all perfect for kids, there are other ways to entertain the youngins when they have had enough of grown-up time.Gulliver’s Gate 216 W 44th Street between 7th Avenue and 8th AvenueThis is a massive exhibition of a miniature world. The 50,000-square-foot exhibition has incredibly detailed miniature models of cities and countries of the world with iconic sites from Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas.You can see a see a wee Buckingham Palace, a mini Grand Central (pictured on right), and a tiny Taj Mahal. They even have moving cars, trains, planes, and boats! For an additional fee, you can have a miniature 3d print of yourself that you can place anywhere in Gulliver’s world!Find out the details at their website.The New Victory Theater, 209 W 42nd Street between 7th Avenue and 8th AvenueIn the heart of Times Square is the New Victory, New York City’s first and only full-time performing arts theater for kids and families. Performances are appropriate for kids 1 1/2 years old and up to 12 years old.They have a full show calendar with a rotating array of plays, circus acts, dancing, puppets, and more. You can filter your search by age or date.In the lobby, kids can engage with props from the current show. They also offer workshops teaching performance skills from puppetry to circus arts to hip hop. It’s affordable and unique was to spend time that your kids aren’t likely to forget. Check their website for more information.Bryant Park 40th to 42nd Streets bet. 5th and 6th Aves.Located just one block from Times Square is Bryant Park, an oasis of green in the heart of Midtown. Not only is there a full range of activities for people of all ages throughout the year, they have special children’s activities.In the warmer months, your kids can visit the outdoor “Reading Room”, where they can borrow children’s books and sit at pint-sized tables and chairs watching StoryTime which is an hour of music, stories, and jokes.The park also has two ping-pong tables, board games and other activities that are fun for any age. There is also an old-fashioned carousel open all year for $3 per ride.In winter, from November through February, the family can go ice-skating. Admission to The Rink is free, and you can rent skates for a reasonable price. See our post, Where to Go Ice Skating in New York City for details.TIP: From March to October, when the massive lawn isn’t serving as the ice-skating rink, give your kids some green space to run wild in and burn off energy. The park is a nice place for a picnic and there are clean bathrooms too!For other ideas, see our extensive post: Things to do with Kids in New York City.Back to topPLACES TO EATCheap ($5-10 per person)Maoz Falafel & Grill 558 7th Ave at 40th St. Middle Eastern veggie fare, pita sandwiches, and salads.Shakeshack 691 8th Ave at 44th St. Counter service at this location of a small chain of the best burgers in the city.Chipotle 129 W 48th St bet. 6th & 7th Aves. Fast-food Mexican chain with space to sit down.Patzeria Pizza 231 W 46th St. bet. 7th Ave. & Broadway. Real New York pizza by the slice. To go only.Inexpensive ($10-20 per person)Schnippers 620 8th Ave bet. 40th & 41st Sts. American diner classics, sandwiches, soups and, salads.Piccolo Cafe 274 W 40th St at 8th Ave. Breakfast, Paninis, Salads, in this cozy, counter service.Pongsri Thai 274 W 40th St at 8th Ave. Authentic Thai food, noodle dishes, vegetable and meat entrees.Times Square Diner 807 8th Ave bet. 48th & 49th Sts. Hundreds of choices served 24 hours a day.Moderate ($20-40 per person)Toloache 251 W 50th St bet 8th Ave. & Broadway Festive environment with traditional Mexican food.John’s Pizzeria 260 West 44th St bet. 7th & 8th Aves. Great coal-oven pizza. Served by the pie only. Fun for families.Carmine’s 200 West 44th St bet. 7th & 8th Aves. Italian-American cuisine in large family-style portions.Virgil’s 152 West 44th St. bet. Broadway and 6th Ave. Huge portions of savory barbeque. Reservations recommended.Expensive ($50 and above per person)Hunt & Fish Club 125 W 44th St. bet Broadway & 7th Ave. New American, Steakhouse. Elegant decor, delicious food.Aureole 135 W 42nd St bet. 6th Ave & Broadway New American cuisine emphasizing traditional dishes with unique twists.Sushi by Bou 1 32 W 47th St bet. 7th Ave & 6th Ave. Incredible, super fresh sushi served in a ‘speakeasy’ style basement hideaway.Dining on famous Restaurant Row – West 46th Street between 8th and 9th AvenueRestaurant Row is one block of over 20 restaurants that focus on the pre-Broadway show goers and post-show theater folk. Most of the restaurants are long-time, well-known establishments.For example, Barbetta Restaurant has been on this street for almost a century. Another long-time favorite, especially with theater people, is Joe Allen, a saloon-style eatery that’s been on the row since 1965.Restaurant Row is more than just historic restaurants. Its restaurants have great quality cuisine from around the world. You’ll find French, Brazilian, Japanese, Spanish, American, Chinese, Thai, Middle Eastern, Italian, and even the unusual kosher Jewish-style Italian.In 1973, the street was officially named Restaurant Row and at the dedication, Mayor John Lindsey said, “Where else in the world, except possibly Paris, could you get 16 of the best restaurants collected in such a short strip of land?”TIP: Many restaurants on Restaurant Row and surrounding streets offer pre-theater prix-fixe menus at reasonable prices and timed to get you to your show on time. Here are a few of the best deals:Becco Founded by celebrity chef Lidia Bastianich, has a daily pasta tasting menu that’s innovative and filling. Their tasting menu is priced at $18.95 for lunch and an amazing $22.95 for dinner.Le Rivage For theatergoers, you can get a pre-theater menu for $39 between 3 pm to 7:30 pm If you come after 7:30 pm it’s an even better deal. Prix fixe dinner is $29! Look on YELP and get a free glass of wineHourglass Tavern Prix-Fixe pre-theater dinner is 4-8 pm for just $23.95 with soup or salad, entrée and choice of dessert.For more Restaurant Row listings and reviews, look here.Back to topPLACES TO SHOPStores in Times Square stay open quite late. Most are open 10 pm, and many open until midnight!Clothing (Unisex)H&M – 4 Times Sq at W 42nd St.Superdry – 729 7th Ave at W 49th St.ASICS – 120 W 42nd St b/t 5th & 6th Aves.Gap – 1466 Broadway at W 42nd St.American Eagle Outfitters – 1551-1555 Broadway at W 46th St.NHL Store Powered by Reebok – 1185 6th Ave. bet W 46th & W 47th sts.Forever 21 Mega Store – 1540 Broadway b/t W 45th & 46th StLevi’s Times Square – 1501 BroadwayOld Navy 1514 Broadway at W 45thMake-upM.A.C. Cosmetics – 1540 BroadwaySephora – 200 W 42nd St at 7th Avenue and also 1500 44th St at BroadwayInglot – 1592 Broadway at W 48th St.Times Square shops that kids love:M&M’s World – 1600 Broadway at 48th StreetDisney Store – 1540 Broadway bet. W 45th & 46th Sts.Midtown Comics – 200 West 40th Street near 7th AveClick here for even more shops in the area.Back to topTIMES SQUARE AT NIGHTTimes Square is open 24 hours. There is never a time when you will find it quiet and empty. Many of the free activities listed above go on in the nighttime, like the Midnight Moment or the amazing people-watching place at night.Some of the top attractions listed above, like Madame Tussauds or Ripley’s Believe it or Not! stay open until at least 10 pm or beyond!Check out our guide for things to do at night in NYC.Here are some other suggestions:See a Broadway showTimes Square is pretty much synonymous with Broadway shows. With dozens of theaters with box-office hits to smaller, high-quality shows, there are so many choices.Don’t be put off by the cost of tickets. We have lots of suggestions on how to get discount Broadway tickets and if you are flexible with time, you will surely have no trouble seeing a show for an affordable price. Also, read about the TKTS both below.Go bowlingBowlmor Times Square is…well, a lot more than bowling. Besides having 48 bowling lanes, Bowlmor has an arcade, billiards and lounge areas. It might not be what you imagined you’d be doing in Times Square, but Bowlmor is a great way to spend a New York night.It’s uniquely-themed bowling lounges, depicting specific places and times in the history of NYC. You can bowl, dine, and chill out in a ‘speakeasy’, Chinatown, Central Park, or Coney Island without leaving Times Square. It is located at 222 W. 44th St bet 8th ave and Broadway and is open Sundays to Thursdays from 2:00 pm – 12:00 am and Friday/Saturday 2:00 pm – 2:00 am.Relax at a rooftop barTimes Square has several lounges and bars where you can take in great views of the lights on Broadway.St. Cloud at the Knickerbocker Hotel (Stop C on the tour below). Drinks are pricier at these bars, but they are swanky, plush and have fantastic views.Some other recommendations are Sheraton Four Points Rooftop bar and Haven Rooftop which is enclosed with glass and heated in the winter!To find out about other rooftop bars near Times Square and throughout the city, see our post Rooftop Bars with great skyline views.If you want to skip the drink and just enjoy the view, see our post, Best New York Skyline Views.Take a Self-Guided Night TourThe Self-Guided tour below can certainly be taken at night, as well as our Self-Guided Theater District Tour. We offer pay-what-you-like night tours that include Times Square.Shop til you dropTimes Square is the place to take care of all the shopping you want to do but cant squeeze into your days of sightseeing. So many shops in Times Square are open every night until at least 10 pm, with some staying open as late as Midnight or even 1 am!Check the official Times Square website for the list of over 100 stores and find out who’s open late.See a comedy showCarolines at 1626 Broadway at 49th Street is a legendary comedy club is where performers like Jerry Seinfeld, Billy Crystal, and Rosie O’Donnell got their start. It is a big venue, and yes, tickets will be pricier than comedy clubs in other parts of the city. But if you want a quintessential comedy club experience, Caroline’s is the place to go.Broadway Comedy Club at 318 West 53rd Street features at least four nationally known headliners for a performance that lasts from 90 minutes to two hours. Keep in mind that in addition to your tickets, there’s a two-drink minimum, so be prepared to pay. But also be prepared for high-quality comedy.LOL Times Square is a casual comedy club offers a variety of lineups and even has a family option since as we know, New York-style comedy can be a bit raunchy at times. Though the quality of the performances may not be as high as the other cubs listed, the price isn’t as high either.TIP: Always check on Groupon for deals to comedy clubs, or lots of other types of entertainment. For other budget-friendly comedy venues around the city, see our post Stretching Your Dollar at the Best NYC Comedy Clubs.Check out our guide for things to do at night in NYC.Back to topSELF-GUIDED TOUR OF TIMES SQUARENote: You can also view this tour on our GPS-enabled audio tour app (though this tour currently has no audio).This is an interactive map. Use your mouse to scroll around.Click on the box in the upper right-hand corner for a larger version of the map.Stop A – Times Tower (1905) + the Time Ball – One Times Square (corner of Broadway and 7th Avenue, West 42nd and West 43rd Street)Times Square was originally known as Long Acre Square, and in the late 1800’s consisted of a large open space surrounded by drab apartments. The arrival of electricity and the subway system transformed the square. Adolph S. Ochs, owner and publisher of The New York Times from 1896 to 1935, opened Times Tower in 1905. It was the second tallest building in the city at the time, but only eight years later the Times outgrew the space and moved to a new location, not before beginning the New Year’s Eve Spectacular – a tradition that continues today. The building is topped by the time ball and has been mostly vacant since 1995, apart from a Walgreens on the two lower levels, and it generates more than $23 million a year in advertising revenue.‘The Ball’ is a 12 feet (3.5 m) diameter sphere, weighing 11,875 pounds (5400 kg) and covered with a total of 2,688Waterford Crystal triangles. It is capable of creating more than 16 million colors and billions of patterns and has been the ball since 2007 – the latest in a long series of redesigns since the ball was first dropped in 1908. The actual notion of a ball ‘dropping’ to signal the passage of time dates back to England’s Royal Observatory at Greenwich in 1833, where a ball would drop at one o’clock every afternoon to allow the captains of nearby ships to precisely set their chronometers.An estimated one million people fill Times Square every New Year’s Eve, with millions more watching nationwide and over a billion throughout the world. The celebrations in Times Square feature star-studded musical performances, balloons and more than one ton of confetti. Revelers begin to gather in the late afternoon on New Year’s Eve, with prime viewing areas filling up quickly. Then at exactly 11:59 p.m. EST, the Ball makes its 60-second descent down the flagpole. There are no portable restrooms in Times Square during the celebration, no alcohol is permitted, there are no public food vendors and temperatures are often below freezing. Learn some tips on getting a good spot in Times Square on New Year’s Eve.Stop B – Conde Nast Building at 4 Times Square (2000), (Broadway between West 42nd and 43rd streets)If you recognize the building is because it has been the locale of action sequences in The Amazing Spider-Man and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles films. This 809 ft (247 m) tall building is among the tallest in New York City and one of the finest examples of “green” energy saving skyscraper design in the United States. Environmentally friendly chillers, along with an insulating and shading curtain-wall ensure that the building does not need to be heated or cooled for the majority of the year. The headquarters of the Conde Nast magazine empire occupied much of the building before relocating to the new World Trade Center, Today, it’s current tenants include the major international law firm Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, H&M, SS & C Technologies, Inc. and NASDAQ MarketSite. The Nasdaq ticker graces the building’s lower level facade.The building’s management company may also sound familiar: the Durst Organization. The Durst family is part of a closed circle of real estate owners who date back to the early 1900s and who still dominate Manhattan’s prime office space market. The organization is (as of 201)7) currently run by Douglas Durst, age 71. He is one of two brothers in the family. Robert Durst, the other brother is not involved in the family business. Rather, he has been the suspect of three unrelated murders: Kathleen McCormack Durst, his first wife, who disappeared in New York in 1982 (her body has never been found so there has never been an arrest made); Susan Berman, his good friend, who was murdered in California in 2000; and in 2001, he was suspected of killing and dismembering his neighbor in Texas Morris Black. He was convicted of dismembering Black, but acquitted of his murder. In 2017, Durst was put on trial for the killing of Susan Berman. As of this writing, the case is still being tried. All of this mayhem was captured in the acclaimed documentary The Jinx.Stop C – Knickerbocker Hotel (1906) – 6 Times Square (corner of Broadway & 42nd St.)A hotel until 1920, after which it was turned into office space and was the home of Newsweek magazine from 1940 to 1959, it was converted back into a hotel in 2013. The building is in the Beaux-Arts style, constructed of red brick with terracotta details. It was built by John Jacob Astor the 4th. There is a rooftop bar, St. Cloud, with a great view of Times Square, so if you are thirsty or hungry, or just want to take in the view, head on up. For more Rooftop Bars, read our post 10 Rooftop Bars with Skyline Views of Manhattan and if you want great skyline views without the bar, see our post Best New York Skyline Views.Stop D – The Environmentally Friendly Billboard – 3 Times Square (at 7th Avenue and 42nd Street)Times Square’s first environmentally friendly billboard was lit up in 2008 and is powered by wind and solar energy. It’s 126 feet (38 m) wide and 47 feet (15 m) high and fitted with 64 solar panels and 16 wind turbines, some of which are visible from street level. By generating its own electricity the sign saves around $15,000 a month, and annually prevents 18 tons of carbon spewing into the atmosphere. There’s no backup energy source either, so after a few days without enough wind or sun, the billboard goes blank.For a huge billboard that isn’t so concerned with environmental friendliness, check out Google’s Android billboard.Stop E – Broadway Pedestrian Plaza – Times SquareOne of the BEST people-watching locations in New York City. Mayor Michael Bloomberg transformed Times Square into a pedestrian plaza in 2009, in order to ease traffic congestion and cut down on pedestrian accidents. The trial was so successful that Times Square became a permanent pedestrian plaza in 2015. Take a seat and watch the world go rushing by!Stop F – United States Armed Forces Recruiting StationSituated on a small traffic island between Broadway and 7th Ave is the most famous recruiting station in the country. When it was first erected in 1946 it was a simple ”cottage style building” that was so small it didn’t even have a bathroom for the recruiters! In 1999, the current station building was created and is a state-of-the-art structure that resembles a three-dimensional U.S. flag. Its high-tech sleek design fits in seamlessly with the neon lights of Times Square. It is much more than just another flashy sight- this recruiting station receives over 1,000 applicants every year.Stop G – Site of the former Paramount Theatre Broadway between West 43rd and 44thStreetThis former illustrious stage and movie theater opened in 1926 with a film showing of the Paramount film, “God Gave Me Twenty Cents.”. During its 40 year run, the Paramount showcased some of the most famous and talented performers and movies of the day, including Frank Sinatra. The theater itself was magnificent in design, having been modeled after the Paris Opera House with white marble columns, red velvet drapes, a grand staircase, and an enormous crystal chandelier in the lobby. Despite its splendor, the theater fell victim to the times and closed in 1966. The auditorium was razed and converted into office space, and the once majestic entrance and lobby were gutted to make way for retail space. Today the ground floor of the former theater is the Times Square branch of the Hard Rock Café.Stop H – One Astor Plaza (1972) – At 7th Avenue between West 44th and West 45 Sts.A 745 ft (227 m) skyscraper completed in 1972, it is currently the headquarters for Viacom and houses the MTV Studios, Minskoff Theatre, Best Buy Theater and some retail outlets. The three MTV studios are used to record segments for MTV, VH1, Nickelodeon, Comedy Central and other affiliated networks.This is also the location where one of the most famous photographs in NYC’s history was taken. The photo was taken as New Yorkers were celebrating the surrender of the Empire of Japan (Victory over Japan Day). A sailor passionately kisses a dental hygienist, Greta Friedman, who was at the time unknown to him.Stop I – Location of Failed Times Square Bombing Attempt – Southeast corner of 45th and BroadwayIn 2010, would-be bomber Faisal Shahzad parked an SUV filled with a crude propane bomb just outside of an entrance to the theater hosting the Lion King. Two street vendors, Lance Orton and Duane Jackson (read more on their story), noticed smoke coming from the car and called the police, who detonated the bomb.Stop J – The Naked Cowboy, Topless Women, and Superheroes – Times SquareAs it’s packed with tourists at most hours, Times Square is also popular with scammers, frauds, and tricksters who will try almost anything to separate tourists from their money. There are counterfeit goods for sale, as well as fraudulent show tickets, and passes to some of the most suspect comedy shows in town. Times Square also hosts topless women known as ‘desnudas’ and costumed characters who pose for photos in the hope of receiving tips. They sometimes resort to violence if not compensated, resulting in headlines like ‘Minnie Mouse and Hello Kitty get into a fight over tips’. However, there is definitely at least one exception – the famous Naked Cowboy. Dressed in only tighty-whities and a guitar, the well-buffed Robert John Burck struts his stuff while playing country tunes and posing for photos with passersby. The Naked Cowboy gladly accepts gratuities, but unlike his aggressive neighbors, Burck simply relies on the words TIPS written on his boots and the kindness of visitors.Stop K – Billboards on BroadwayThe advertising billboards that surround Times Square are called ‘spectaculars’ and comprise some of the most expensive outdoor advertising space on the planet. They raise approximately $23 million per year in revenue, with an average cost per spectacular of around $1.1 million to $4 million a year. It’s quite a bargain considering that advertising during the Super Bowl costs up to $3.8 million for 30 seconds. All those ‘spectaculars’ consume about 161 Megawatts, enough to power 161,000 average US homes, three times the power used by all of Sierra Leone, and twice the electricity used to power all the casinos in Las Vegas.The Most Spectacular of the Spectaculars – Broadway from West 45th Street to West 46th Streets.Opened late in 2014, the massive billboard spanning the entire block between West 45th Street and West 46th Street stands eight stories tall and is nearly as long as a football field. It’s also higher resolution than any television on the market.Stop L – Palace Theater – West 47th Street and 7th AvenueWhen it opened in 1913 it was the most famous vaudeville theater in the United States and every performer dreamed of playing the palace. If you landed a gig at the Palace you could say you finally “made it.” The ‘Who’s Who’ list of celebrities who have performed on the Palace stage, including Ethel Barrymore, Harry Houdini, Will Rogers, Ethel Merman, Judy Garland, Jerry Lewis, Harry Belafonte, Bette Midler, Shirley MacLaine and Diana Ross. In the late 1980’s, a 45-story DoubleTree hotel tower was built above the theater and now the theater facade is practically invisible behind an enormous wall of billboards. Only the marquee is visible.Stop M – Duffy Square – Intersection of Broadway & 7th Ave at 47th StreetFrancis Patrick Duffy (1871 to 1932) was a Canadian-American soldier, Roman Catholic priest, and military chaplain. He journeyed into the thick of battle to recover wounded soldiers and is the most highly decorated cleric in the history of the United States Army. He also conducted vital work in Hell’s Kitchen and Times Square and is honored by a statue on the island that carries his name.The only Times Square statue honoring a Broadway legend, George M. Cohan was an American entertainer, playwright, composer, lyricist, actor, singer, dancer, and producer. He wrote, composed, produced, and appeared in more than three dozen Broadway musicals and published more than 300 songs including the standards ‘Over There’, ‘Give My Regards to Broadway’, ‘The Yankee Doodle Boy’ and ‘You’re a Grand Old Flag’. Known as ‘the man who owned Broadway’, he is considered the father of American musical comedy.Stop N – TKTS Booth – Intersection of Broadway and 7th Ave at 47th StreetThe TKTS booth in Times Square (read our full post here) offers same-day discount tickets to dozens of Broadway and off-Broadway shows, selling over 1.5 million last year. The matinee performances go on-sale from 10 am, while evening performances at either 2 pm and 3 pm depending on the day.The shows with availability are listed via the TKTS Mobile App, and other TKTS booths are located in Brooklyn and at the South Street Seaport. Click here for more information. A word of warning – many of the so-called online discount sites offer tickets at prices higher than the original. For a full schedule of shows visit broadway.org.Stop O – Hotel Edison (1931) – 228 West 47th Street between 7th and 8th AvenueBuilt in 1931, Hotel Edison has room for 1,000 guests over 26 floors and is one of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in New York with its curved edges, bold lines, and an interior that is both elegant and bold. When the hotel opened, the lights were famously turned on by Thomas Edison, the inventor of the light bulb.Stop P – St. Malachy’s Catholic Church (1902) – 239 West 49th Street between Broadway & Eighth AvenueBy 1920, St. Malachy’s found itself in the heart of a burgeoning theater district and the traditional parishioners were joined by actors, dancers, musicians, craftsmen, and tourists. St. Malachy’s subsequently scheduled masses, confessions, and missions to accommodate the rigors of theater and nightclub schedules, and on opening nights, many in show business still light candles for the success of their shows.Stop Q – Times Square Church – 237 West 51st Street, on the corner of BroadwayThere is no need to go to Harlem or join a guided tour to hear great gospel music. The Times Square Church, a multi-denominational congregation, has regular sermons, services, and performances from gospel choirs. Volunteers from the congregation participate in over forty ministries around the world, ranging from feeding the homeless in New York City to staffing an orphanage in South Africa.Stop R – Ed Sullivan Theater – Broadway between West 53rd and West 54th streetsThis 13-story theater was built in the 1920s by Arthur Hammerstein. Opening night was November 30, 1927, and since then it has been a place for top-notch performances and talent to perform. The Central Broadcasting Network (CBS) bought the theater in 1935 and it was a radio broadcast station. With the invention and spread of television in the 1950s, CBS transformed the theater into a television studio. For the next 17 years, the theater was named CBS-TV Studio 50.Then, in 1953 the most significant change to the theater occurred. CBS moved one of its lesser-known TV personalities from a show held at CBS’s Maxine Elliott Theater. that man, of course, was Ed Sullivan. Thus, the Ed Sullivan Show was born and would broadcast For the next 23 years, and be seen by millions of people across the nation. Perhaps the most famous moment in musical history took place in the Theater on February 9, 1964, when The Beatles made their United States television debut. Approximately 73 million viewers tuned in to watch the show.In 1993, David Letterman began a 22 year run as the host of the wildly popular show, “Late Show”. In 2015 comedian Stephen Colbert took over the nightly slot and is carrying on Letterman’s “Late Show” legacy. Check out our post on getting tickets to see the Late Show.