Top 10 Things to Do in Times Square for First-Timers

Times Square is the neon-lit heart of New York City, famous for its massive billboards, Broadway theaters, and the iconic New Year's Eve ball drop. For first-timers, the best things to do include climbing the Red Steps for a panoramic view, catching a world-class musical, and experiencing the "Midnight Moment" digital art display. To navigate this sensory-rich environment effectively, you need a reliable 5G connection to manage digital tickets, use Google Maps, and share your experiences in real-time.

1. Climb the Iconic Red Steps at Duffy Square

Located at the northern end of Times Square, the Red Steps are perhaps the most famous vantage point in the city. Sitting here allows you to soak in the 360-degree views of the digital billboards. It is the perfect spot for a selfie, but the high density of people means public Wi-Fi is often non-existent or painfully slow. Having a dedicated data connection through Visit US Data ensures you can upload your photos to Instagram without delay.

2. Catch a Broadway Show

You cannot visit Times Square without experiencing the magic of Broadway. From long-running classics like The Lion King and Wicked to new hits, there is something for everyone. Most theaters are located within a few blocks of the main square. Pro tip: Use your mobile data to check the TodayTix app for last-minute deals while you are walking toward the theater district.

3. Score Discounted Tickets at the TKTS Booth

If you haven't pre-booked your Broadway tickets, the TKTS Booth under the Red Steps offers significantly discounted seats for same-day performances. The line moves quickly, but you will want to check the live "TKTS" board online to see what is available before you join the queue. Since you will be standing in the middle of a high-frequency radio environment, relying on a premium network like Verizon or AT&T via an eSIM is much more reliable than trying to find a hotspot.

4. Experience the Midnight Moment

Every night from 11:57 PM to midnight, the digital billboards in Times Square synchronize to display a coordinated work of contemporary art. This is the world's largest and longest-running digital art exhibition. It is a fleeting three-minute experience that you will definitely want to record. If you are planning to live-stream this to friends back in the UK or Australia, ensure you have a high-speed see plans that supports 5G connectivity.

5. Visit the M&M’s World and Disney Store

For families, the massive flagship stores are a major draw. M&M’s World features a two-story "Wall of Chocolate," while the Disney Store offers exclusive NYC-themed merchandise. These stores are often crowded, and staying connected via WhatsApp is essential for families who might split up to look at different sections. Since Visit US Data plans are data-only, you can easily use WhatsApp or FaceTime audio to keep in touch with your group without needing a local phone number.

6. Dine at Ellen’s Stardust Diner

Just a few blocks north on 51st Street, this legendary diner features singing servers who are often aspiring Broadway performers. The atmosphere is electric, and the milkshakes are massive. Be prepared for a wait; check the wait times on your phone before you head over. If you are planning more NYC exploration, you might also find our Metropolitan Museum of Art NYC Tips for Tourists useful for your next stop.

7. Take Photos with Street Performers (With Caution)

From the "Naked Cowboy" to various costumed characters, the street performers are a Times Square staple. While they are fun to photograph, remember that they expect a tip if you take a photo with them. Use your mobile data to quickly look up local tipping etiquette or to use a currency converter if you are still getting used to US Dollars.

8. Explore Madame Tussauds New York

Located on 42nd Street, this world-famous wax museum offers more than just statues. It includes immersive experiences like the Marvel Universe 4D. It is a great indoor activity if the weather turns sour. Most tickets are now digital, so having your email accessible on your phone is a requirement for entry.

9. Gawk at the New Year’s Eve Ball

Even if it isn't December 31st, you can still see the famous Waterford Crystal ball perched atop One Times Square. This building is the centerpiece of the area. If you are a history buff, you can use your data to look up the fascinating history of how this area transformed from "Longacre Square" into the "Crossroads of the World."

10. Walk to Bryant Park or Rockefeller Center

Times Square is a central hub that connects you to other major landmarks. A short 10-minute walk east takes you to Bryant Park and the New York Public Library, while heading north brings you to Rockefeller Center. If you are planning to leave the city for a broader American adventure, check out our Sedona to Grand Canyon Road Trip Itinerary to see how to transition from the city to the desert.

Connectivity: Avoiding the Roaming Trap

For travelers from the UK, Australia, or Europe, using your home SIM card in the USA can lead to "bill shock." Carriers like O2, Telstra, and Rogers often charge exorbitant daily fees for even small amounts of data. In a city like New York, where you are constantly using GPS, social media, and travel apps, these costs add up fast.

Comparison: Home Roaming vs. Travel eSIM

Feature	Home Carrier Roaming (O2/Telstra/Rogers)	Visit US Data eSIM
Network Quality	Often throttled or limited to 4G	5G on Verizon and AT&T networks
Cost Structure	High daily fees or per-MB charges	Pre-paid fixed plans or daily passes
Local Number	Keeps your home number (expensive calls)	Data-only (use WhatsApp for calls)
Convenience	Automatic, but expensive	Instant digital delivery and activation

Why Network Choice Matters in NYC

New York City is a "concrete canyon." The tall buildings and massive amounts of glass can interfere with mobile signals. This is why having access to the top-tier networks is vital. Visit US Data provides connectivity on Verizon and AT&T, which offer the best penetration in urban environments.

If you are a conference attendee at the Javits Center or a family navigating the subway, you need a signal that doesn't drop the moment you step inside a building. Verizon's 5G Ultra Wideband is particularly effective in high-traffic areas like Times Square. Before you buy, you should check if your phone is compatible with US frequencies, as some older international models may lack the necessary bands for 5G.

How to Install Your US eSIM

Setting up your connection is simple and can be done before you even board your flight. This ensures that the moment your plane lands at JFK, Newark, or LaGuardia, you have an active data connection to call an Uber or check your hotel's location.

For iPhone Users:

1. Open Settings > Cellular.
2. Tap Add eSIM.
3. Use the QR code sent to your email after you see plans and complete your purchase.
4. Label the new plan "Travel" or "USA."
5. Set your Cellular Data to the new eSIM, but keep your primary line on for iMessage (ensure data roaming is OFF for your home line).

For Android Users:

1. Go to Settings > Network & Internet.
2. Tap the + or SIMs.
3. Select Download a SIM instead?.
4. Scan the provided QR code.
5. Ensure the eSIM is toggled to "On" for mobile data.

For a more detailed breakdown, you can read our guide on how to set up your travel eSIM.

Data Needs by Activity

How much data do you actually need for a trip to NYC?

• Light User: (1GB - 3GB) Best for 3-5 days of Google Maps and occasional emails.
• Social Media Enthusiast: (5GB - 15GB) Best for 7-10 days if you are uploading videos to TikTok or Instagram Stories.
• Power User/Remote Worker: (20GB - 100GB) Best for tethering a laptop or long stays of 30 days or more.

Visit US Data offers a wide range of plans, including daily passes for those who want unlimited-style access with a set amount of high-speed data per day. Whether you need 500MB for a quick layover or 50GB for a month-long road trip, there is an option that fits your itinerary.

The bottom line

Times Square is an essential experience for any first-time visitor to New York, but its fast-paced nature requires you to stay connected. By choosing a travel eSIM from Visit US Data, you bypass the high roaming fees of carriers like Telstra or O2 while enjoying the speed and reliability of the Verizon and AT&T 5G networks. Secure your data plan today and make your NYC adventure seamless.