Historically, the square was the end of the road from Leiden; it served as a parking lot for horse-drawn traffic.

Today, modern traffic travels through the square and side streets are packed with restaurants and nightclubs.

The Stadsschouwburg, a national-renowned theatre, is the most notable architectural landmark on the square; the American Hotel is close by.

[2] On February 22, 2022, a 27 year old man took at least one person hostage inside of an Apple Store in Leidse Square.

[3][4] It is approximately 150 meters from where well known crime reporter Peter R. de Vries, a key figure in the Marengo trial, was murdered.