Get Your 15 Seconds of Fame on a Times Square Billboard in NYC!

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing yourself or a loved one showcased on a giant billboard in Times Square, this experience promises to make that happen. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the reviews and details suggest it’s a pretty unique way to add a splash of Hollywood-style glamour to your trip. For a price of around $150 per person, you get a chance to be part of the flashing lights that draw millions each year.

What we really like about this experience is how personalized and straightforward it seems—your photo or video is front and center, with options to add a custom frame or a line of text. Plus, the fact that your image will appear every hour for 24 hours means you won’t miss the moment, and your friends and family can see you even if they aren’t physically there.

However, there’s a little caveat worth noting: some users mentioned the process of submitting your photo and waiting for approval can be a bit confusing, and not every billboard has the same setup, which might affect how easily you can track your display. Also, keep in mind this isn’t a live stream of your billboard—your image will appear at a prescribed time, not continuously.

This experience feels best suited for celebrating special occasions, surprises, or just creating a memorable story to tell back home. It’s a fun, photogenic moment—if you’re prepared for some minor logistical details, it can definitely be a highlight of your NYC itinerary.

Key Points

• Personalized Display: You can upload a photo or video and customize it with a frame or text.
• 24-Hour Visibility: Your image will show every hour on Times Square’s big screen, making it easy for friends to spot.
• Unique NYC Memory: It’s a fun way to make your trip exceptionally memorable.
• Clear Pricing: At $150, it’s reasonably priced for a once-in-a-lifetime social media moment.
• Not a Livestream: Your billboard appearance is scheduled, not live, which is good to know beforehand.
• Accessibility: Near public transport, service animals allowed, open most of the day.

What is this experience really about?

This tour offers you the chance to see yourself or loved ones projected onto one of Times Square’s famous billboards. Instead of just snapping photos or taking selfies, you’re stepping into the spotlight—albeit briefly. The process is quite simple: you purchase a ticket, submit your photo or video, and once approved, your image is scheduled to be broadcast from a 31-foot (9-meter) tall screen.

The location is prime: the billboard above the Pele store, right across from the TKTS red steps, is one of the most recognizable spots in the city. It’s a location that draws everyone’s attention and, for a moment, yours will be the star of the show.

How does the process work?

After booking, you’ll receive detailed instructions—it’s important to follow them closely. You’ll upload a photo or video, and the service will need to approve it before it can be broadcast. This approval process can sometimes cause some confusion, as one reviewer noted, but as long as you pay attention to the email instructions, it should go smoothly.

Your submitted image can include multiple people or just yourself. You have options to add a custom frame or a line of text—great for birthdays, anniversaries, or other special messages. Once everything is set, the billboard will show your image every hour for 15 seconds, and this schedule runs 24 hours a day.

What to expect on the day of your display

On the day, timing is key. You’ll want to be in Times Square during the scheduled broadcast, which is generally marked in your confirmation email. Many reviewers enjoyed watching their image pop up on the big screen, especially when passing by on a tour bus or walking through the area. Some even reported catching their billboard moment multiple times throughout the day, as their image appeared every hour like clockwork.

One review shared, “Seeing my Happy Birthday Billboard multiple times throughout the day was unforgettable.” This confirms that, if timed right, your display can be a real highlight, especially for birthdays or special milestones.

What’s the value here?

At $150, this isn’t a cheap experience, but it’s a memorable one that blends personal flair with a dash of celebrity. For just a few minutes’ worth of investment, you get permanent bragging rights and some fun photos to share. Some reviewers emphasized that it felt like a big surprise for loved ones, turning an ordinary trip into an extraordinary story.

What are the downsides?

Not everything is perfect. Some users found the process of submitting their photos a bit confusing or inconsistent, especially since the billboard locations can vary. Plus, since the display is scheduled, there’s no real-time viewing—your image appears at a pre-set time, which might be disappointing if you’re hoping to see it live. A major complaint came from a user who felt misled about the availability of a live feed—the experience does not offer streaming, only scheduled appearances.

These logistical quirks highlight the importance of reading the instructions carefully and planning your visit accordingly. If you’re someone who prefers instant gratification, this might not be the best fit.

Who is this experience best suited for?

This tour really shines for special occasions: birthdays, anniversaries, proposals, or a fun surprise for friends and family. It’s particularly appealing for those wanting a personalized, shareable moment in the heart of NYC’s most iconic location. It’s less ideal if you’re expecting a seamless, live experience or if you prefer more traditional sightseeing.

How does it compare with other NYC attractions?

While most visitors flock to landmarks like the Statue of Liberty or Empire State Building, this experience offers a different kind of personal connection—a fleeting moment on Broadway-sized screens. It’s more about the personal story rather than sightseeing, which makes it a refreshing change of pace.

If you’ve ever imagined your face in the bright lights of Times Square, this is as close as you’ll get to that fantasy. It’s a straightforward, fun way to celebrate a milestone or surprise someone special. Many reviews rave about how memorable and “magical” the experience was, especially when timed well or tailored for a special event.

However, be aware of the logistical details—submission approval, scheduled broadcast times, and the fact that you won’t see your billboard in real-time unless you happen to be there at the exact moment. The experience’s value really depends on your expectations and how well you prepare for it.

All in all, for $150, you’re not just paying for a photo on a screen—you’re buying a story that will stay with you long after the neon lights fade. It’s a fun, memorable addition to a trip that you’re likely to cherish and tell stories about for years.

Can I include multiple people in my photo or video?
Yes, each ticket allows you to submit one photo or video featuring one or more people, so you can easily include friends or family.

How long does my image stay on the billboard?
Your image will be shown for 15 seconds every hour, around the clock, for 24 hours. This schedule helps ensure you and your friends can catch it at some point during the day.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While the tour is generally accessible to most travelers and the location is family-friendly, the activity itself is about displaying a static image, so it’s best suited for those who can navigate the process of submission and be present during scheduled times.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before your scheduled appearance, giving you a full refund. Cancellations made within 24 hours are not eligible for a refund.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the price of $150 covers your ticket, submission options, and scheduled display. However, remember that you need to submit your photo or video and wait for approval, which is part of the process.

Will I see my billboard in real-time?
Not exactly. The billboard displays your image according to a schedule, not live streaming. You’ll need to be in Times Square at the right time to see it on the big screen.

If you’re after a quirky, personal way to stand out in NYC, this experience offers a pretty fun opportunity. Just plan ahead, follow the instructions carefully, and get ready for a moment of fame in one of the world’s most iconic locations.