Times Square–42nd Street: A Key Hub in the Heart of Manhattan

The Times Square–42nd Street station is a massive subway complex located beneath Times Square, in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, New York. It serves as the most important and busiest transfer point in the city’s subway system, connecting numerous lines. Its iconic location makes it a vital access point to Manhattan’s theater, business, and entertainment districts.

Connections and Services

The Times Square–42nd Street station is an enormous complex that interconnects several stations built at different times by different companies:

IRT Lines Platforms

• This part of the complex includes platforms for the Broadway–Seventh Avenue Line and the Flushing Line, as well as the 42nd Street Shuttle.
• It is served by trains from the following services:
  • 1 (red)
  • 2 (red)
  • 3 (red)
  • 7 (purple)
  • S (gray – 42nd Street Shuttle)
• Main entrance address: Intersection of 7th Avenue, Broadway, and 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036

BMT and IND Lines Platforms

• This part of the complex includes platforms for the BMT Broadway Line and the IND Eighth Avenue Line.
• It is served by trains from the following services:
  • N (yellow)
  • Q (yellow)
  • R (yellow)
  • W (yellow – weekdays only)
  • A (blue)
  • C (blue)
  • E (blue)
• Entrances to these sections are integrated throughout the Times Square complex.

The interconnection between all these platforms allows passengers to make convenient transfers between a multitude of lines covering much of the city.

Importance and Location

• The station is located directly beneath Times Square, at the intersection of Broadway, Seventh Avenue, and 42nd Street, in Midtown Manhattan.
• Its strategic location makes it a key access point to important destinations such as:

  • Broadway Theatre District

    • The heart of the American theater industry, with dozens of historic theaters.
    • Direct access to world-renowned shows.
    • Themed restaurants and bars related to theater.

  • Times Square

    • Famous for its digital billboards, flagship stores, and vibrant crowds.
    • Television studios (such as Good Morning America).
    • New Year’s Eve celebrations and other massive events.

  • Additional Nearby Attractions

    • Bryant Park: A green oasis with year-round activities.
    • Port Authority Bus Terminal: Direct connection via an underground passageway.
    • Madame Tussauds New York.
    • Numerous hotels and corporate offices.

History and Evolution

• The first part of the station (IRT) opened on October 27, 1904, as part of the original subway.
• The BMT (Broadway Line) platforms opened in 1917-1918, and the IND (Eighth Avenue Line) platforms in 1932.
• The complex has undergone numerous expansions, renovations, and reconfigurations throughout its history, including significant improvements in accessibility and the Shuttle connection in recent years.
• The connection between the various parts of the complex has been continuously improved to facilitate the massive flow of passengers.

Interesting Facts

• It is consistently the most used station in the New York City subway system and one of the busiest in the world.
• Its vast underground expanse includes long corridors and multiple levels.
• It offers a direct underground connection to the Port Authority Bus Terminal on Eighth Avenue.
• It has appeared in countless films, television shows, and works of art as a symbol of New York City.