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

If you’re visiting New York City and craving a once-in-a-lifetime moment, this experience offers just that: seeing your face or message lighting up a Times Square billboard for 24 hours. It’s a simple idea—upload a photo or video, and it gets displayed on the iconic “Crossroads of the World.” But behind this straightforward concept lies a blend of excitement, personal connection, and genuine spectacle that many travelers find memorable.

What we love about this experience is how it turns a simple photo upload into a shared moment of joy and surprise, especially for special occasions like birthdays or proposals. Plus, the viewing location is prime — directly above the Pele store and across from the famous TKTS red steps, making it easy to find and photograph. On the flip side, one possible drawback is that timing can be tight; you need to upload your media soon enough to get your desired slot, and navigating Times Square’s crowds can be tricky.

This experience is well-suited for couples celebrating a milestone, families wanting to create a unique memory, or anyone who just wants a fun, quirky slice of NYC life. It’s also perfect if you’re looking for a personal yet shareable moment that friends and family around the world can watch live online. If you’re after a quick, unique souvenir of your NYC trip, this could be a highlight.

Key Points

Unique moment in Times Square’s spotlight – your face or message lighting up the big screen.
Flexible options — choose a group shot or individual displays, with custom frames and messages.
Online streaming allows friends worldwide to watch your moment in real time.
Simple process with straightforward booking, clear time slots, and easy photo uploads.
Prime location in the heart of Times Square, making it easy to find and photograph.
Great for celebrations like birthdays, proposals, or just a fun surprise without long lines or complicated tickets.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Experience

This experience revolves around uploading a photo or video that will be displayed on a massive Times Square billboard for 15 seconds every hour over a 24-hour span. The process is surprisingly straightforward, but a few details are worth noting to maximize your fun.

The Location and Visual Impact

The billboard itself is situated at 1560 Broadway, above the Pele Store and opposite the TKTS red steps — a prime Times Square spot. When you arrive, you’ll see the billboard in person, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot your image lighting up during your assigned time. You can also watch the live stream online, which adds a layer of excitement as friends and family can tune in from anywhere.

How the Process Works

You start by purchasing a ticket for $150, which includes one display of your chosen media. If you want each member of your group to have their own spotlight, you can purchase multiple tickets. Each display lasts 15 seconds and occurs once every hour for 24 hours. The scheduled time slots are confirmed within 24 hours after your booking, so you can plan accordingly.

Uploading Your Media

The key is to upload your photo or video promptly because your slot isn’t reserved until your media is submitted. The platform allows you to change your media as long as you request the update at least 24 hours before your display. Media must be free of watermarks, logos, nudity, smoking, or vulgar content — standard for a public display in such a high-profile location.

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Custom Frames and Messages

Want to make your message pop? You can choose from standard or themed frames, like “Happy Birthday” or “Will you marry me?” Adding a line of text is also possible, giving your image that extra personal touch. This is especially popular for special occasions, according to reviews, with many users describing how their family or loved ones were thrilled to see their faces on the big screen.

The Real Experience: From Booking to Viewing

Booking is easy — you select your date, purchase your ticket, and receive your confirmation with the scheduled time. The entire process is designed for flexibility, with full refunds available if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance.

Once you’re in Times Square, finding the billboard is straightforward. It’s above the Pele Store, a prominent landmark. However, given the area’s bustle and occasional confusion due to crowds and high-rise buildings, some reviewers note that finding the exact spot can be a bit of a challenge. Yet, the location is so iconic that it’s worth the effort.

Watching Your Photo or Video

During your scheduled time, you’ll see your media displayed for 15 seconds. Many reviewers mention the thrill of seeing friends or family’s reactions, with some describing it as “a surprise that made their day.” The live stream is an added bonus, especially if loved ones are watching from afar, making this more than just a photo — it’s a shared community moment.

Timing and Reliability

While the experience guarantees 22 showings within 24 hours to account for technical glitches, some reviewers mention the importance of timing your upload carefully. Delays or miscommunications can occur, but overall, the process is smooth and well-organized.

Pricing and Value

At $150 per person, this experience is certainly a splurge, but many find it well worth the cost. When you consider it as a personalized souvenir — a moment that will be shared, streamed, and remembered — it offers solid value. The fact that you can include a message, custom frames, and have your family or friends participate makes it flexible and fun.

For special occasions, many reviewers remark how it elevates the celebration — turning a typical trip into an unforgettable story. For others, it’s simply a hilarious and heartwarming memory to share for years.

Authentic Feedback and Tips

From reviews, we see a common theme: the location and timing are critical. Some mention the challenge of navigating Times Square, especially during busy hours, but most agree that once you find the billboard, the excitement begins. Several users highlight the ease of booking and the nice clarity of communication from the provider as major advantages.

The experience is also appreciated for its simplicity — no complicated tours or lengthy waits, just a quick upload and a little patience. Many mention how surprised and delighted friends and family are when they see their face lit up on the screen, making it perfect for birthdays, proposals, or just a fun surprise.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Experience?

This billboard experience offers a fun twist on the typical NYC sightseeing routine. It’s ideal for families celebrating milestones, couples proposing or marking an anniversary, or friends eager for a memorable story. Because of its straightforward nature, it’s also perfect for travelers who prefer simple, impactful moments over lengthy tours.

While it costs a bit more than a typical souvenir, it provides lasting memories and a unique story that can be shared with loved ones worldwide. Plus, being able to watch your moment live online adds a modern touch of connectivity.

If you’re in New York and want a slice of the city’s biggest stage for your personal message or face, this experience delivers a genuine thrill — a delightful, easy way to shine in Times Square.

FAQ

How long does my photo or video display on the billboard?
Your media will be shown for 15 seconds at your scheduled time, repeated once every hour for 24 hours.

Where exactly is the billboard located?
It’s above the Pele Store at 1560 Broadway, right in the heart of Times Square, opposite the TKTS red steps.

How do I guarantee my preferred time slot?
You will receive your confirmed time slot within 24 hours after booking, but your spot isn’t reserved until you submit your media. Prompt uploading is essential.

Can I change my media after booking?
Yes, you can update your photo or video as long as you request it 24 hours in advance and your initial media hasn’t been displayed yet.

What should I include in my media?
Media should be free of watermarks, logos, nudity, smoking, or vulgar content. Keep it appropriate for a public display.

Is this experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the billboard and viewing location are fully accessible.

Can I participate as a group?
Absolutely. You can purchase multiple tickets to display separate photos or videos, or create a group shot with no limit on the number of people.

What if I want to celebrate a special occasion?
You can add custom frames or messages (like “Happy Birthday” or “Congratulations”) to make your display more personal and festive.

What if I cancel my booking?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before your scheduled display for a full refund.

Is there an online component?
Yes, your display will be streamed live online, so friends and family anywhere can watch your moment.

This personalized Times Square billboard experience provides an authentic, fun, and memorable way to mark a special moment in the city that never sleeps. Whether celebrating an anniversary, surprising loved ones, or simply wanting a unique keepsake, it delivers a dash of NYC magic with a modern twist.

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