The dazzling neon lights of Times Square in Midtown Manhattan attract huge numbers of visitors – and for those coming by car, finding a parking space close by can be a tricky business.
The bright lights of Times Square (Photo: Matt Wade via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0)
With its array of entertainment options and iconic digital billboards and signs lighting up the area in kaleidoscopic colours, New York City’s Times Square is a magnet for visitors to the Big Apple. And while the district is well served by public transport links, many still choose to come here in their own transport. Little surprise, therefore that finding a parking space that won’t break the bank can often be a serious challenge. However, if you take the time to plan your journey, it’s quite possible to locate a spot. Here’s our short guide to parking near Times Square.
The options for parking near Times Square mainly come down to metred street parking or off-street lots and parking garages. When it comes to metered street spaces, these are enforced Monday through Saturday, with rates starting at $5.50 per hour. Alternatively, if you prefer the security of off-street covered parking, there are several lots and garages to pick from. Our number one choice is the Port Authority Bus Terminal, where you’ll pay $25 for up to 3 hours and $55 for all-day parking. Another option we’d recommend for day parking is the garage on 1133 6th Avenue, a 5-minute walk from Times Square, where you can get an early bird rate of $23 for an entire day,
You can book the above parking garages at Spothero.com, as well as several other parking lots near Times Square.
Free parking near Times Square
As detailed above, metered street parking space restrictions are not enforced on Sundays, although you’re likely to have to get there early to land a spot, especially if there is a special event taking place on that day. The closest free parking to Times Square can be found in some of the surrounding boroughs and residential neighbourhoods such as Brooklyn, but these tend to require public transport to connect you to Midtown due to the distance between them. Other than that, there is no free parking currently available near Times Square.
Long-stay parking near Times Square
If you’re staying near Times Square and don’t have free parking at your accommodation, or are planning to drive into the area on frequent days, the cheapest option is often finding long-term parking. This can save you a fair amount of money on day parking and is also simply less hassle than hunting for street parking each day or paying excessive day rates at a private garage or parking lot. For example, at 141-145 West 43rd Street you’ll pay up to $50 to park on a daily basis, but monthly rates are just $650 – representing a saving of over $800 compared with paying for individual days.
For the best parking rates near Times Square go to Spothero.com