There actually are long-time New Yorkers who bemoan the
loss of the peep shows and pickpockets that used to exemplify Times Square.
As bad as the area was before Rudy Giuliani’s administration overhauled
it in the 1990s, they feel it was more authentically New York than the Disney-fied
tourist destination it has become. For the rest of us, however, who can now
walk safely (for the most part) in this area, it’s known as a fun, clean,
and glittery place to be. Neon lights reflect off the mirrored windows of
the surrounding buildings, creating an otherworldly glow at night. Bright
colors abound, and there are endless restaurants, hotels, and trinket shops.
These, combined with over 30 Broadway theatres and well over 100 off-Broadway
theatres, serve to beckon millions of tourists every year.
Although primarily a theatre and tourist district, there are places
to live here. If you like theatre life and can stand the round-the-clock activity,
you can take advantage of the low housing prices in this area. The few available
apartments are in the upper floors above stores in brownstone buildings. But
the apartment stock is now being increased as new buildings are built and
commercial spaces are renovated to create residential units.
