Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Theater Lovers in Times Square
Top Things to Do in New York City for Theater Lovers in Times Square
1. Museum of Broadway
A vibrant, multi-floor journey through Broadway’s past and present, with show-stopping set pieces, original costumes, vivid timelines, and hands-on exhibits that reveal how productions come to life.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the ultimate primer for theater lovers—context, craftsmanship, and nostalgia all under one roof, steps from the marquees you’re here to see.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings or early afternoon between matinee and evening to avoid crowds and enjoy the galleries at your own pace.
✓ Insider Tip:
Budget extra time for the finale floor and the gift shop—window cards and specialty books sell out on busy show weekends.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Raves for immersive design and smart storytelling; many call it a must before or after catching a show.
2. TKTS Times Square
The famed red-steps booth offering same-day discounted tickets to many Broadway and Off-Broadway shows right in the heart of Times Square.
✓ Why Go:
Stretch your budget and discover new productions—the rotating inventory often includes hot titles and hidden gems.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Arrive near opening for the best selection; for evening shows, mid-afternoon often balances selection and line length.
✓ Insider Tip:
Have a short list of backup shows and seating preferences ready—flexibility helps you score better seats faster.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the savings and helpful staff; lines can be long during peak seasons but move steadily.
3. Shubert Alley
A storied pedestrian lane lined with show posters and theater offices, long a meeting ground for fans, actors, and industry events.
✓ Why Go:
Soak up Broadway atmosphere between performances and browse the latest window displays and production artwork.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon or just before evening curtain when the alley buzzes with pre-show energy.
✓ Insider Tip:
After curtain calls, nearby stage doors sometimes draw casts for quick hellos—be courteous and follow staff instructions.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Charming and photogenic; theater lovers appreciate the close-up feel of the Broadway world here.
4. Sardi's
The definitive Broadway haunt where caricatures of stage luminaries cover the walls and pre-theater rituals reign.
✓ Why Go:
It’s tradition—dine where producers, critics, and stars have mingled for generations.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
5:00–7:00 pm for pre-theater buzz or after 10:00 pm for a late-night dessert and people-watching.
✓ Insider Tip:
Solo travelers can usually snag a bar seat quickly and still enjoy the full menu and caricature views.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Atmosphere adored and service polished; food is classic and prices reflect the location and legacy.
5. Minskoff Theatre
A spacious Broadway house perched above Times Square with sweeping lobbies and strong sightlines for large-scale musicals.
✓ Why Go:
For blockbuster productions with crisp acoustics and a vantage that flatters big choreography and design.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Evenings to catch Times Square glowing before and after the show; arrive early to explore lobby views.
✓ Insider Tip:
Mezzanine center offers a superb panoramic look at dance-heavy numbers; plan a little extra time for elevator queues.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Praised for comfort and views; security and entry lines can build close to curtain.
6. New Amsterdam Theatre
A lavish 1903 landmark with Art Nouveau flourishes, meticulously restored and often home to Disney’s crowd-pleasers.
✓ Why Go:
Architecture and spectacle—perfect for families and anyone who loves classic Broadway opulence.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend matinees for family-friendly vibes or weeknights for a more relaxed pace.
✓ Insider Tip:
Look up—the ornate ceiling and proscenium details are part of the show; lobby photo ops fill quickly, so arrive early.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Audiences marvel at the theater’s beauty; concessions and merch can be pricey.
7. Lyceum Theatre
Broadway’s oldest continuously operating theater pairs Beaux-Arts elegance with an intimate, play-friendly interior.
✓ Why Go:
For serious drama in a historic room where performances feel close and nuanced.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weeknights for a quieter crowd and smoother entry.
✓ Insider Tip:
Balcony is steep but cinematic; orchestra center has better legroom—check seat maps before buying.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Beloved for atmosphere and acoustics; some note tighter seating typical of historic houses.
8. Joe Allen
An industry favorite on Restaurant Row where posters of legendary flops line the walls and the chatter is pure Broadway.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a post-show rite of passage—good American fare with a side of theater lore.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
After 10:00 pm when casts, crews, and theatergoers drift in post-curtain.
✓ Insider Tip:
Reservations are essential pre-show; the bar is a good bet for walk-ins late night.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Bustling and convivial; service is efficient during the pre-theater rush.
9. Schmackary's
A beloved cookie bakery favored by Broadway casts and fans, perfect for a sweet pre-show bite or post-show treat.
✓ Why Go:
Join the theatrical crowd and sample inventive flavors that often riff on the season.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Around 9:45–10:30 pm as shows let out, when the shop buzzes with stage-door energy.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order a mix of classics and limited-time flavors—lines move quickly but peak right after curtain.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Universal praise for chewy, generously sized cookies; expect a short wait at prime times.
10. Theatre Circle
A go-to Broadway shop for window cards, cast albums, scripts, and show apparel—ideal for souvenirs with real stage cred.
✓ Why Go:
Bring a piece of Times Square theater home, from collectible posters to limited-run merch.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid-afternoon between matinee and evening when staff can help you browse and compare editions.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask staff about protected poster tubes and shipping options to keep your finds pristine.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Shoppers love the deep selection and knowledgeable staff; prices vary based on rarity.
