A Guide To Broadway In New York: Shows and Tickets (And What To Avoid)

New York City is an incredible city to visit, with so many places to see and things to do all across the city. New York is also home to world-class art, culture and of course, Broadway theatre. All around the Theatre District, some of the world’s best shows are being performed, and it can be hard to know what to see. This is where our guide to Broadway in New York comes into play!

Broadway hosts a treasure-trove of performances: from musicals to plays, comedies to dramas, old favourites to the hottest hits. You name it, you’ll find it on Broadway.

You see, Broadway has a history dating back many years, with some of the world’s greatest actors, singers and dancers performing at its iconic theatres; and it’s still true to this day, with heaps of current Broadway shows that are performed most nights.

That being said, there’s a lot to untangle when it comes to choosing the best Broadway show and getting the best tickets. So, to help you get the most out of your visit to New York, I’m detailing all the nitty-gritty details you need to have the best time in the Big Apple.

Have an amazing time visiting New York. It really is a fun city!

1.) Don’t get swindled with terrible seats

Shows on Broadway are incredible! Not only that, the theatres are so beautiful and intimate, with wonderful views of the stage and of the actors. You really feel very close to the action. That being said, seating is always subjective. What’s perfect for you, might not be the best seat for someone else.

For instance, I love to be sat in the orchestra. I love looking up to the action on stage. That being said, I know some friends that would prefer to sit in the mezzanine, for a more direct view—often at a lower price. It all comes down to personal preference.

Now, to avoid getting swindled with terrible seating, make sure to book your tickets with a reputable site or ticket provider. We always head to the show’s official website to book the tickets directly with their preferred seller. This way, you not only know you’re directly supporting the theatre and performers, but you’re also able to easily choose the seats from real ticket inventory. But now I’ve discovered The Broadway Collection. It’s an official website that makes it even easier by listing the most popular shows and linking to the official and most trusted booking sites for each show.

You see, sometimes, when you book from random stores on the street, or unofficial sites you found online, you might be told you’re getting the ‘best available’ ticket. This is great, in theory, but you never really choose your own seats, and you won’t know until you’ve arrived at the theatre. And often you are charged service fees that are much too high. There are a number of ways to buy intelligently and safely, and Broadway Collection provides easy access to those sites. It makes it all so easy to book, without any of the fear that you’re not purchasing ‘real’ tickets.

Read more: Best things to do in New York City

2.) Arrive early

Look, I’ll be honest, you really shouldn’t be late for a Broadway show; that’s a given. Though, sometimes stuff happens. The traffic, missed connections or just too much time exploring…it’s a natural part of being in a city I suppose.

We always plan to be inside the theatre about 25 minutes before the show starts. This way, it gives you ample time to grab a drink, head to the restrooms and settle in before the show starts.

Though, fret not if you are late. Although entry will be prohibited during parts of the performance, theatres will usually escort you in during set changes to quickly find your seat.

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3.) Book Special Broadway Seats

We’re all familiar with seating plans when booking theatre tickets, right? Well, if you’re looking for an extra-special experience, then head to the theatre’s website and see what they offer in terms of special seating options, including “premium seating,” which costs a little more but provides spectacular locations.

We only found this out when we booked tickets for Moulin Rouge! The Musical on Broadway. We were already sold on booking stalls seats for the show. However, when we went to the theatre’s website, we also had the option of booking ‘Can-Can’ seats with a table.

These seats were situated within the stage area and it was such a special experience. Yes, the tickets do cost a little more, but it’s well worth it if you’re looking for unique seats for a Broadway show.

4.) Broadway shows to watch

The world is your oyster when it comes to the best Broadway shows to book. It really does come down to individual preference, but we’ve noted some of our favourite Broadway shows (insert link) that we really think you’ll love. These shows, such as & Juliet, Wicked, The Book of Mormon and so many more are just incredible to experience.

Oh, and don’t forget to check out our guide to the best current Broadway shows to see (insert link). You’re going to have the best time.

Read more: Best things to do in Manhattan

5.) Explore the area around Broadway

One of the benefits of Broadway being so centrally located in Manhattan is that it’s a great area to explore; especially Times Square and the restaurants and attractions around the Theatre District.

Whenever we have a Broadway show booked, we spend a good few hours exploring the wider area. For instance, on our last theatre trip, we also combined that with a visit to the Rockefeller Center and saw the views from the Top of the Rock.

Oh, and don’t forget, you’ve got the Museum of Broadway, Times Square and Fifth Avenue all within easy reach. There are so many things to do in Midtown Manhattan (insert link) that you’ll be spoilt for choice.

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