NYC: See Yourself on a Times Square Billboard for 24 Hours

Imagine seeing your face or message lighting up the iconic Times Square billboard—24 hours a day, for a whole day’s worth of unforgettable memories. This experience isn’t about just snapping a picture and walking away; it’s about becoming part of the vibrant city’s heartbeat, shared with millions of visitors and viewers around the world.

As travel writers who love discovering unique ways to connect with the places you visit, we’ve examined this offering closely, and here’s what makes it special—and what to consider before booking.

Two things stand out: First, the opportunity to create a personalized moment in one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks. Second, the ability to share that moment online via live stream, so friends and family can watch your star turn from anywhere. It’s a fun, simple way to add a sprinkle of celebrity to your trip.

But, it isn’t a spontaneous walk-in; you’ll want to plan ahead, make sure your photos or videos meet the guidelines, and remember that slots are reserved once your submission is approved.

If you’re someone who loves fun surprises, celebratory moments, or just wants a piece of the Big Apple’s bright lights, this experience could be perfect.

One potential drawback? The location can be tricky to find amidst the hustle and bustle of Times Square, so patience and careful navigation are needed. Also, this experience is quite short—your photo displays for just 15 seconds every hour—but that brief burst can still pack a punch.

Overall, it’s ideal for romantic couples, families celebrating milestones, or friends looking for a memorable story to tell. If you’re after something different from the usual sightseeing, this could be a highlight of your NYC visit.

Key Points

• Unique Photo Opportunity: Your image lights up Times Square for 24 hours on a billboard, creating a one-of-a-kind memory.
• Flexible Group Options: Purchase one ticket for a group shot or multiple tickets for individual displays.
• Customization: Add messages like “Happy Birthday” or “Will You Marry Me,” or include a short message with your photo or video.
• Live Stream: Watch your moment online, sharing it with friends and family worldwide.
• Timed Slots: Your display occurs once an hour for 15 seconds, with a guaranteed 22 showings in case of technical issues.
• Easy Booking and Accessibility: The process is straightforward, with full accessibility and the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Booking and Preparation

Booking this experience is refreshingly straightforward. You select your preferred date and time, then upload your chosen photo or video—which must be watermark-free and appropriate in content. Once confirmed, you’ll receive a time slot within 24 hours, so you can plan your visit around it or coordinate with friends or family. We appreciate that the process seems designed to keep it flexible: you can change your media with a 24-hour notice, provided your display hasn’t already occurred.

The cost is $150 per person, which might seem steep for a 15-second display, but many reviews mention the value in the memorable nature of the experience and the photo-sharing opportunity. Numerous visitors call it “a great surprise” or “a highlight of their trip,” especially for celebrations like birthdays or anniversaries. The inclusion of a custom frame and message adds a personalized touch that many find worth the price.

The Location and Viewing Spot

The billboard itself is located above the Pele Store, directly across from the iconic TKTS red steps, at 1560 Broadway between 46th and 47th Streets. While this is a prime spot in the heart of Times Square, it can be crowded and busy, especially during evenings. Many reviews mention the challenge of navigating the crowds or spotting the exact billboard, particularly for first-timers. Still, once you find it, the thrill of seeing your image up in lights is undeniable.

A live online stream allows friends and family to watch from afar, which is a big plus for those who want to share the moment without being physically present. Several reviewers mentioned how exciting it was to see their loved ones’ faces on the big screen or to share the link with friends back home.

Viewing Your Moment

Your photo or video will be displayed for 15 seconds each hour, giving plenty of chances for photos, videos, or just standing in awe. Reviewers like Tracy from Australia praised the experience, noting it as “a perfect surprise” for loved ones. Others, like Michaela in the US, called it “the absolute best experience for a Sweet 16,” highlighting how it elevates a special celebration.

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The Customization and Message

Adding a personal message or choosing a special frame enhances the experience. Options range from standard frames to ones with messages like “Happy Birthday” or “Will You Marry Me?” Some travelers shared how meaningful it was to include words of love or congratulations, which made the moment even more memorable. The ability to upload a short message means you can share a quick sentiment that will be broadcast along with your photo or video.

The Overall Experience and Reviews

Based on the 441 reviews averaging 4.7/5, most travelers find this a fun, easy, and memorable activity. Many mention how straightforward the booking process is, with some noting the accuracy of the provided time slots. Several reviews highlight the stunning views and the attention to detail from the staff, who are praised for being helpful and knowledgeable.

One reviewer from the UK mentioned how “the process was very simple,” and another appreciated the timing accuracy. Many appreciated the fact that they could share the live stream and that the billboard was easy to spot once they found the location. The overall consensus is that this experience is well worth the cost if you’re looking for a personalized, memorable moment in Times Square.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early at the designated location to find the billboard, which can be crowded.
• Share your time slot with friends or family so they can watch online or join you in person.
• Prepare your media in advance, ensuring it meets the guidelines—no watermarks, vulgar content, or logos.
• Be patient—finding the billboard might take some navigating through the crowds, but once there, the moment is worth it.
• Coordinate with your group if you want multiple individual displays, since each person needs a ticket.

Why This Experience Works

This activity is perfect for those wanting to turn a simple visit into a personal highlight. It’s especially well-suited for celebrations—birthdays, engagements, anniversaries—or for travelers craving a fun story to tell back home. The online streaming feature means your loved ones don’t have to be physically present to share in your moment of fame, which adds a layer of convenience and shared excitement.

On top of that, it offers a blend of modern technology and personal touch—your message or image displayed on a giant billboard in the middle of the city that never sleeps. The custom frames and messages add a chance for creativity, making each display unique.

However, keep in mind that the display duration is brief, and the location can be busy. For some, the novelty of the moment outweighs the fleeting appearance, but others might prefer more extensive or longer-lasting experiences.

Who Should Consider This?

If you’re celebrating a special day, eager to make an impression, or just want a fun, photo-worthy memory, this experience will delight. It’s especially appealing to families, couples, and groups of friends who appreciate a mix of technology, spectacle, and personal touch. Those who value convenience and online sharing will also find it a perfect fit.

It’s a great addition for someone who’s already planning to visit Times Square and wants a unique souvenir that’s more than just a photo in front of a billboard. Also, if you love public displays of celebration or messages, this activity offers plenty of room for personalization.

The Sum Up

This Times Square billboard experience offers a lighthearted, memorable, and photogenic way to elevate your NYC trip. The simplicity of booking, the ability to customize, and the fame of seeing your face in lights make it a compelling choice for travelers wanting a fun story to share. The positive reviews and high ratings show this isn’t just a gimmick but a well-executed activity that genuinely delights its participants.

While the brief display time might seem limiting, the impact of seeing your image on an iconic billboard outweighs this small drawback. Its location in Times Square is central, and the online stream broadens the reach of your moment. If you’re after a personalized, fun, and uniquely New York experience, this is a fantastic choice.

In short, whether celebrating a milestone, surprising a loved one, or simply wanting to do something different, this activity offers a genuine, enjoyable way to become part of the city’s bright lights. It’s worth your time and money if you’re looking to add a distinctive story to your NYC journey.

FAQ

How do I book this experience?
You purchase tickets online, then upload your photo or video. Once your media is approved, you’ll get a confirmed time slot within 24 hours.

Can I change my photo or video after booking?
Yes, you can update your media up to 24 hours before your scheduled display, provided it hasn’t already been shown.

Where exactly is the billboard located?
It’s above the Pele Store at 1560 Broadway, between 46th and 47th Streets, directly opposite the TKTS red steps.

How long does my photo or video stay on the billboard?
Your image will appear for 15 seconds every hour for 24 hours. You are guaranteed 22 showings in case of technical issues.

Can I have multiple people in one photo?
Yes, there’s no limit on the number of people in a single photo, making it perfect for group shots.

Are there any restrictions on the content I upload?
Yes, files must not contain watermarks, logos, nudity, smoking, or vulgarity. Files that violate these rules will be denied.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the location is accessible.

What’s included in the price?
Your display on the billboard, a custom frame, and a short message line are included.

Can I watch the display online?
Absolutely. A live stream is available so friends globally can see your moment.

What if I don’t find the billboard easily?
Times Square is busy, but if you follow the location info carefully, you should find it. Arrive early if possible to avoid missing your slot.

This experience offers a fun, quick way to make your mark in the heart of NYC. It’s simple, customizable, and highly shareable—a perfect piece of your trip to remember.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby