The Broadway & Theatre District in New York is world-renowned for its legendary theatres and brilliant performances taking place on the stage. If you’re planning a trip to New York City, you should consider making it a Broadway trip, especially if you’re visiting for the first time. Even though it can be a bit intimidating to go to Broadway for the first time, we can help guide you on your way to Broadway & the Theatre District.
When to Visit Broadway
The history of Broadway Theatre can be dated back to the late 19th century when theatres began to form around the intersection of Broadway and 7th Avenue. This particular area started to gain popularity as a center for entertainment and attracted both local and international visitors. It earned the nickname “The Great White Way” because of its bright lights that shined on the theatre. The entire district started to grow eventually with the development of many legendary theatres that showcased a wide range of musicals and plays.
Broadway has shaped the heart of American culture and influences performing arts globally. These theatres display a wide variety of creations such as dramas to forefront musicals. The Broadway & Theatre District also plays an important role in the economy of New York by generating billions of dollars. It is not just about ticket sales but also helps local businesses and promotes tourism. Broadway attracts world-class actors, directors, and producers from across the world.
Every year the Broadway & Theatre District attracts millions of visitors, each of which is seeking a unique and multicultural experience. All of this makes it a must-see destination in New York City. After all these years the theatre has constantly evolved and changed according to the changes in society or technological advancements. This makes it a dynamic landscape. The legacy of Broadway Theatres continues to grow as they continue to produce world-class productions and keep preserving these theatres.
How to get there
There are a variety of options through which you can reach the Theatre district. Let’s look at some of these below.
Driving – If you are looking to come here by driving, make sure you know that there could be huge traffic on your way, especially during peak times. Even though there is parking available in the theatre district it can be quite expensive and hard to find due to the high demand of the area.
Uber or Taxi – Ordering an Uber or catching a taxi to the district can be an easy and convenient way to get there. It will remove the challenge of finding parking for yourself and will be available at your door. Most of the drop-offs and pick-ups are done close to the theatre district.
Train – You can find direct access to the theatre district by using the New York City Subway system with several lines serving the area. Times Square – 42nd Street and 49th Street are both located very close to the theatre district. It is a very easy and cost-efficient way to reach Broadway & the Theatre District.
Bus – M7, M20, M42, M50, and M104 all circle around the area. All these buses have various stops in and around the theatre district. It can be an opportunity to get a more scenic view of the city on your route to the destination.
Activities
You can catch a Broadway show at a world-renowned theatre. Make sure you check the current shows going on and book your ticket in advance, so you don’t have to wait in line.
If you visit the TKTS booth, you can get discounts on tickets to Broadway and Off-Broadway shows.
Located in the northern part of Times Square is Duffy Square. Over at Duffy Square is situated the booth for TKTS and those legendary red steps.
You can discover and explore the vibrant Times Square, which is known for its hustle and bustle, bright shining lights, and various restaurants as well.
Take a guided tour of the theatres and check how the behind-the-scenes productions of Broadway shows are assembled. Every theatre has its tours, and you will need to check with them.
You can also take a walking tour of the Broadway district to learn about its history. Also, educate yourself about how these theatres have played a vital role in the further development of American theatre.
Here are some of the attractions in the theatre district listed. Al Hirschfeld Theatre, Ambassador Theatre, August Wilson Theatre, Belasco Theatre, Broadhurst Theatre, Broadway Theatre, Brook Atkinson Theatre, Eugene O’Neil Theatre, Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre, Gershwin Theatre, and the Hudson Theatre.
Food
Even though there is a Restaurant Row in the theatre district that has many restaurants in a very small area, we will still list some of the best ones for you.
Brooklyn Diner – This diner is close to Times Square and has pastrami and French toast to offer to its customers.
Amorino Gelato and Cafe – It was established by two Italian childhood best friends. They dreamed of recreating their homeland in New York by serving gelatos and sorbets.
Bocca di Bacco – After you experience your Broadway play, run over to Bocca di Bacco for some creative Italian cuisine. Here you will find homemade pasta, meats, and seafood. There is also a wide variety of wines available for wine lovers. It is easily one of the best Italian restaurants in New York.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. – It is named after the famous character from the award-winning movie ‘Forest Gump’. It is a must-visit restaurant for fans of the movie or seafood.
Stay
AKA Times Square – It provides luxurious, furnished apartments with complimentary amenities and services that include a fitness center and morning coffee. It is in the center of Times Square and is just a 5-minute walk from key locations.
Crowne Plaza Times Square Manhattan – It is good for families looking for something located centrally. It is situated directly on Broadway between 48th and 49th Streets. Every room at Crowne Plaza offers tremendous views of the city along with cable TV, free WI-FI, and a host of other amenities.
Hotel Millenium Broadway – Right in the pulsating heart of Manhattan, it scores a lot of points just for its amazing location.
Tips
Remember to book your Broadway tickets in advance, especially for the most popular shows. You can purchase these tickets either online or at the box office. Although there is no official dress code for the theatre, most people prefer to dress in business casual or more formal attire. The Broadway shows do have an intermission although it is very short. Make sure you grab a snack during that time. Do not be late to your late as they have a late seating policy and try to avoid any disruptions. To make sure everything goes smoothly, arrive at least 30 minutes early at the show so that you have enough time to do all the proper security checks and have sufficient time to find your seats.
Other Attractions
Other than the Broadway & Theatre District, there are a bunch of other activities and things for you to do in and around the area. Here are some of them listed below.
- Madame Tussauds
- Rockefeller Center
- Central Park
