Broadway

Broadway, one of the principal business thoroughfares of New York City, extending in a generally north-south direction. Laid out in the early 17th century by the Dutch, Broadway grew in length as the city developed from a small settlement on the southern tip of Manhattan Island. It now extends 27 km (17 mi) to the city's northern boundary in the Bronx. In lower Manhattan, where it passes through the financial district, Broadway is the traditional route over which national heroes and distinguished guests are escorted. It enters the heart of the commercial and garment district at Herald Square on 34th Street. Between 42nd Street, where it passes through Times Square, and 50th Street, Broadway forms the central thoroughfare of New York City's theater district. This stretch is one of the most highly concentrated entertainment centers in the United States, and includes official Broadway theaters, smaller off-Broadway playhouses, movie theaters, restaurants, and bars. The city of New York has attempted a major revitalization and development of the theater district since the 1980s. Also located on Broadway are Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts and Columbia University (1754).