While in Times Square, it may seem as if there is a theater at every bend. While there are many, they are all unique and interesting in their own way. The New Amsterdam Theater, owned by Disney, and the New Victory Theater are two wonderfully restored and historic theaters that specialize in family entertainment. The Victory Theater has become a beloved place for many New York families and visitors as it offers every kind of entertainment, from acrobats to young theater companies. It's also recognized as an excellent theater for entertaining the hard to reach tween age group. Another option for theaters are the two mega-multiplex theaters that reside in Times Square. The Loews cinema offers thirteen screens for viewing leisure, and the AMC Empire offers twenty-five screens. For tourists who are trying to catch their fifteen seconds of fame, they may be interested in taking a walk past the Ed Sullivan Theater, where the Late Show with David Letterman is often conducting street interviews during the late afternoon. To visit these theaters, a good place to know is the TKTS booth in Times Square where theater going hopefuls line up to maybe catch tickets half-price.

Attractions in Times Square vary immensely. However, there a few key places that most visitors want to include into their agenda. For young kids, it is impossible to walk past the huge Toys ?R? Us headquarters store without stopping. The store, which promises to be ?the center of the toy universe? has more than exceeded its goal. It offers gigantic scale models of New York landmarks in the Lego section, a Barbie clubhouse for shoppers to explore, and a Candy Land themed sweets shop. While the merchandise offered inside is basically the same as any other Toys ?R? Us, the average

shopping experience can turn magical in this store. For an older set of kids, a visit to the MTV Studios may be in store. Here, tourists can look into floor-to-ceiling windows and maybe catch TRL being broadcast live.

After a long day it's all about the food and Times Square offers restaurants that, while the food may not be anything different or unusual, the atmosphere and theme of the restaurant is what will make the trip memorable. Carmine's Italian Restaurant is a favorite among a lot of visitors, making it imperative to make reservations. Once inside the door though, this hearty Italian restaurant is fun and lively. A 1960s throwback d'cor adds to the delicious menu of classic Italian dishes like shrimp scampi, rigatoni, and chicken marsala. The food is not only delicious but filling as well, as all dishes are served in enormous family style portions.

Although everyone seems to think they couldn't stomach McDonalds for yet another meal, the one in Times Square just might change their minds. This always bustling, 24-hour American classic is wonderfully decorated in a restored theater theme. After a good meal, dessert is a must. In Times Square, the Coldstone Creamery will do the trick. Lines for the ice cream shop might be out the door, but customers usually need about that long to decide what kind of ice cream creation to make. A friendly staff, who will break out in song if they receive a tip, complete the experience.

Times Square is an excellent place to spend a day on a New York City vacation. Tourists will find something for everyone in this always busy and fast paced section of the city.