Essential Tips for Experiencing a Broadway Show in NYC

A visit to New York City is incomplete without witnessing a live performance. Since the establishment of the city's first theater company in 1750 and the emergence of the American musical, feeling the vibrant energy of Broadway has become a must-do for anyone traveling to the Big Apple. But where should you begin? Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned attendee, you might have several questions. Curious about how to score last-minute Broadway tickets? Unsure what to wear? And what time should you arrive? This guide serves as your introduction to the world's premier live entertainment hub.

Explore Your Options for Broadway Tickets

After selecting the show you wish to see, there are numerous ways to obtain Broadway tickets. For the widest range of dates and seating choices, make sure to purchase tickets in advance from a reliable source. The Broadway Collection is an excellent option if you want to connect with the official ticketing source for each performance. Always consult your favorite travel provider, travel agent, tour operator, or online booking platform; many reputable businesses partner with The Broadway Collection to offer tickets at reasonable prices.

We always suggest purchasing tickets ahead of your trip, but if you're already in the Big Apple, you can get tickets directly at the theater box office without any additional fees. For discounted last-minute Broadway tickets, head to the TKTS booth in Times Square. You might have to wait in line, but for many, it's a worthwhile experience. Some productions, like Hamilton and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, also offer online lotteries for specially priced tickets.

Grab the prime seat in the venue

From the Greco-Roman architecture of the Richard Rodgers Theatre to the vast Winter Garden, each Broadway theater has its own unique character. It's wise to check your seating options on the theater's website when purchasing tickets or consult a representative for guidance on premium seating, accessibility, and more. Some productions, like Moulin Rouge, which transforms part of the theater into a cabaret, even provide special seating arrangements.

In New York City, orchestra seats on the lowest level are the closest to the stage and among the priciest options. If the show is a musical or features impressive staging, you might enjoy the mezzanine, which overlooks the orchestra and offers a bird's-eye view of the performance. Larger theaters often have balcony seating, typically the most affordable, and if you're open to it, some shows allow you to purchase Standing Room tickets for the back of the house.

Dress in what feels best for you

During Broadway's golden age, attendees typically donned semi-formal or formal outfits. While there's no longer a strict dress code at Broadway theaters, many people treat their outing as a special occasion. Whether you choose a suit, a button-down shirt, a cocktail dress, or jeans, wear what makes you feel comfortable and enhances your enjoyment of the evening.

Enjoy a meal before the performance

Many top restaurants near Broadway provide pre-theater or prix-fixe menus, allowing you to enjoy a full dinner at a lower price and still arrive at the show on time. Try Bond 45 for robust Italian dishes like meatballs and branzino al forno, or visit Joe Allen for favorites such as crab cakes and steak frites. At Sardi’s, a Broadway landmark where stars have dined for over a century, you can admire caricatures of Broadway legends while enjoying a well-crafted Manhattan cocktail.

Arrive early

Be sure to verify the start time on your ticket ahead of time. Matinees generally kick off at 2 p.m., while most weeknight shows begin at either 7 p.m. or 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday night performances start at 8 p.m. Times Square and the Theatre District are often crowded, so instead of taking a taxi or Uber, opt for the subway to dodge traffic, and allow extra time for any unforeseen delays.

To ensure you don’t miss the beginning of the show, aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before curtain. If you do arrive late and the performance is already in progress, keep in mind that management will seat you at their discretion, typically during an appropriate break in the show.

Practice good etiquette

Since Broadway performances are truly live, it's crucial to show respect for both the artists and those seated around you. Express your gratitude by applauding after musical numbers or at the conclusion of an act, and refrain from talking or making noise during the performance, as it can distract the performers on stage.

Unlike concerts, it’s best not to sing along (unless prompted by the performers). While Broadway doesn’t enforce a strict bag policy, be cautious about bringing large backpacks or shopping bags to the show, or consider checking them at the entrance. Broadway theaters tend to be more intimate, with narrow aisles and limited space under seats, so a stray backpack could pose a tripping hazard.

Keep the experience alive

The excitement doesn’t have to stop when the curtain comes down. After applauding, step outside to the stage door where the cast and crew exit, and wait to request autographs on your Playbill. While not every performer will participate, it's a delightful way to engage with the artists and connect with fellow fans—a unique advantage of attending a live show.

To deepen your understanding of Broadway, be sure to visit the Museum of Broadway, an engaging museum dedicated to celebrating the art form's vibrant history. The exhibits feature interactive displays, rare props, costumes, and more from beloved productions like Chicago, Wicked, and Company.

Explore the New York theater scene further at the nearby Drama Book Shop, established by the Drama League in 1917 and now co-owned by Lin-Manuel Miranda. This charming shop is the perfect spot to find a Broadway keepsake.