7 places to take the family in Times Square

November 17, 8:46 PMNY Family Friendly Events ExaminerEvelyn McCormack

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Your teens will love the MTV Store

Times Square, considered by many to be the center of the universe, was transformed in the 1980s and 90s by then-Mayor Rudolph Giuliani from a dirty, tawdry neighborhood into a vibrant community, complete with Disney musicals on nearly every corner, stores appealing to every age group and fun places to eat. If you’re new to the city or planning a visit, don’t pass up the opportunity to explore a family-friendly Times Square. Just keep in mind that it is still loud and crowded, so hang onto your kids’ hands. Here are a handful of not-to-be-missed family-friendly Times Square destinations:

1. Toys R Us, 1514 Broadway at 44th Street

I know there’s one on every corner in the USA, but not like this store. Make a bee line for the store’s three-story indoor ferris wheel, with cars representing different toys and dolls. Enjoy the breathtaking ride, then shop until you drop. Be sure to visit the Lego’s department, where you’ll see giant, manmade Lego sculptures.

2. The Virgin Mega Store, Broadway, between 45th and 46th Streets

The operative word here is Mega. This is Manhattan's largest multimedia store and a magnet for teens and pre-teens. The Virgin store – all three floors -- sells music, DVDs, books and even clothing. On the lower level, you will also find a cafe and a Loewe’s movie theater. If you’re timing is right, you might see one of the many bands, Broadway stars and authors who often make promotional appearances at this store to kick off a new CD, DVD or book.\

3. The MTV Store, 1515 Broadway at 44th Street

Even though MTV’s “Total Request Live” is no longer on the air, your teens can still shop at the MTV store, a tiny place that draws young customers like bees to a hive. Although the merchandise is a bit simple, your teens will love the MTV souvenirs, T-shirts, tote bags and any product that can sport an MTV logo.

4. Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum, 234 West 42nd Street, between 7th and 8th Avenues

This is definitely a tourist trap, but some visitors love it. Inside this landmark wax museum, you’ll see remarkably lifelike wax versions of Miley Cyrus, ballplayers Derek Jeter and David Wright, Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, and even some U.S. presidents. Expect crowds at Madame Tussaud’s, where the entry fee is a steep $29 for adults and $23 for kids.

5. Hershey’s Times Square and M&Ms World, Broadway and 48th Street

Your kids will love these two places and the smell of chocolate will lure you in as well. At Hershey’s, you’ll find a gargantuan collection of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Hershey bars, Baby Ruth bars and lots of new dark chocolate choices. At the M&M store, you’ll find a mind-boggling array of M&M colors and even a play area for the kids.

6. Dale & Thomas Popcorn, Broadway and 48th Street

What the heck? Why not visit Dale & Thomas, since it’s located directly across the street from the Hershey’s store. The smell of fresh popcorn will draw you to the front door of this popular place, where you can find popcorn in flavors like Chocolate Chunk N' Caramel, Dale’s Caramel, Hall of Fame Kettle Corn, and more.

7. Ellen’s Stardust Diner, Broadway and 51st Street

If you want to sit and dine, a great place for a casual lunch or dinner is Ellen’s Stardust Diner. This family place has a basic diner menu that includes sandwiches, salads, soups, breakfasts and great French fries. The bonus? You’ll be entertained at Ellen’s by waiters and waitresses who take turns performing show tunes while you eat. Ellen’s is a sure thing, especially for tired and hungry families who need a fun break from the Times Square action.