Court House Square and Terrace
Experience iconic movie history at Court House Square and breathtaking, free views of Times Square from the Terrace.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Court House Square and Terrace
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience iconic movie history at Court House Square and breathtaking, free views of Times Square from the Terrace.
📸 Best Photo Spots
The Terrace offers unparalleled Times Square vistas. Capture the magic from this elevated vantage point.
🎬 Movie Magic Location
Visit the iconic courthouse for a 'Back to the Future' pilgrimage. A must for film fans!
Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Times Square Views
The Terrace at M Social Hotel
Breathtaking, unobstructed views of the iconic Times Square. Perfect for soaking in the city's energy.
Hill Valley Courthouse
Court House Square
A nostalgic spot for movie buffs, this courthouse served as a filming location for 'Back to the Future'.
Seasonal Markets & Events
Court House Square
Experience vibrant local culture with craft vendors, live performances, and festive displays during special events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Best Photo Spots
The Terrace offers unparalleled Times Square vistas. Capture the magic from this elevated vantage point.
🎬 Movie Magic Location
Visit the iconic courthouse for a 'Back to the Future' pilgrimage. A must for film fans!
2023 Lackawanna Winter Market at Courthouse Square | December 1 -3
Over 50 local vendors selling their crafts, live performances, the Festival of Trees, a great (new) tradition!
🛍️ Explore Local Markets
Check for seasonal markets like the Winter Market for unique crafts and festive vibes.
💰 Free City Views
Enjoy the stunning Terrace views without spending a dime. Open to all ages!
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Best Photo Spots
The Terrace offers unparalleled Times Square vistas. Capture the magic from this elevated vantage point.
🎬 Movie Magic Location
Visit the iconic courthouse for a 'Back to the Future' pilgrimage. A must for film fans!
🛍️ Explore Local Markets
Check for seasonal markets like the Winter Market for unique crafts and festive vibes.
💰 Free City Views
Enjoy the stunning Terrace views without spending a dime. Open to all ages!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, free views of Times Square from the Terrace, calling it a must-visit for its panoramic cityscapes. The historic courthouse also draws praise from movie fans. While generally positive, some note that the Terrace can get crowded, impacting the experience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Court House Square is easily accessible via public transport, with numerous subway lines stopping nearby. The Terrace at M Social Hotel is located at 52nd & Broadway, offering direct access to Times Square views.
Parking in the Times Square area can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services to reach Court House Square.
Yes, Court House Square is centrally located and walkable from many Midtown Manhattan attractions, including Times Square itself.
The Terrace is part of the M Social Hotel. You can access it by entering the hotel and heading to the designated viewing area.
Several subway lines serve the area around Court House Square, including the 1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, W, and 7 trains, depending on your exact destination within the square.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Court House Square itself is a public space and does not require tickets for entry. The Terrace at M Social Hotel also offers free access to its viewing areas.
As a public square, Court House Square is generally accessible at all times. The Terrace at M Social Hotel has specific operating hours, typically aligning with hotel guest access and public viewing times.
No, the Terrace at M Social Hotel provides stunning views of Times Square completely free of charge and is open to all ages.
While the square is free to access, special events like the Winter Market may have associated costs for vendors or specific activities, but general viewing is usually free.
There are no specific time slot bookings required for the Terrace. It's first-come, first-served, so arriving during off-peak hours is recommended for a less crowded experience.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Court House Square offers a chance to see the historic courthouse featured in 'Back to the Future' and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The adjacent Terrace provides spectacular views of Times Square.
The Terrace at M Social Hotel is ideal for capturing panoramic shots of Times Square. The courthouse itself is also a popular spot for movie fans.
The open space of the square and the free, accessible views from the Terrace make it enjoyable for families. Keep an eye out for family-friendly events.
The square hosts various events, including seasonal markets like the Winter Market featuring local vendors and crafts, as well as live performances.
While specific accessibility details for the Terrace should be confirmed with the M Social Hotel, public areas like Court House Square are generally accessible.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! Court House Square is in the heart of a bustling area with countless dining options, from quick bites to upscale restaurants, surrounding Times Square.
While the Terrace itself is primarily a viewing platform, there are often food and beverage options available within the M Social Hotel, or you can bring your own snacks to enjoy the view.
You'll find everything from classic New York pizza and hot dogs to diverse international cuisines and trendy cafes catering to all tastes and budgets.
Yes, numerous delis, food carts, and casual eateries offer affordable meals for those on a budget. Exploring the side streets can reveal hidden gems.
While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can find benches or open spaces to enjoy a casual meal. Be mindful of local regulations and clean up after yourself.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful lighting. Evenings are magical with the illuminated Times Square.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of Times Square. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating specific details.
Tripod policies can vary. It's best to check with the M Social Hotel directly, as they may have restrictions, especially during busy periods.
Experiment with different angles and perspectives. Consider capturing it with the surrounding urban landscape or during different times of day for varied moods.
The front steps of the courthouse and the vantage points from the Terrace overlooking Times Square are prime photography locations.







Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit