Bucket list experience:
New York, United States of America (USA)
As one of the globe’s two most prestigious cities for theatre (alongside London’s West End), hosting a wide variety of drama and musicals – many world-class – iconic Broadway needs no introduction.
Taking in a Broadway show is therefore a New York City must, even for those not big on performing arts; with famous names and the highest quality performers, it really doesn’t get much better.
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Destination Guide >Browse online listings, e.g. New York Magazine or Time Out for shows, reviews, contact numbers and websites for tickets.
Some shows sell out many months in advance, so if you have specific tastes, plan ahead. Others may have good availability or same-day bargains to buy online or at the theatre. Not surprisingly, matinees tend to have more availability than evenings and are a better bet for the popular shows at short notice.
Ticketmaster has tickets for pretty much any event or show going, but beware of hefty bookings fees.
TKTS booths in Times Square, South Street Seaport and Downtown Brooklyn sell same-day tickets up to 50% off for select Broadway plays and musicals – go early before the queues form.
Stub Hub is a national ticket marketplace that allows ticket holders to resell their tickets. It’s a great source of last-minute tickets to most performances – but you may pay a higher price, especially for top shows.
Inside Sport & Entertainment is a full-service agency that can score the best prices and VIP packages to any event in town (but you’ll pay for it).
Shows run all year round, but there are fewer shows July to mid-September. Most shows don’t perform on Mondays, though do check because a few do.
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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
New York City, New York, United States of America (USA)[0.5 miles]
A typically luxurious Mandarin hotel with top-notch facilities and faultless service – in an unrivalled location on Central Park. As good as Manhattan five stars get, and in the perfect location – walking distance to New York’s top attractions.
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New York City, New York, United States of America (USA)[0.8 miles]
Sumptuous luxury hotel with lauded bar, spa, eateries, right next to Manhattan’s best shopping and museums.
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New York City, New York, United States of America (USA)[0.9 miles]
One of the world’s most famous and luxurious hotels in a prime location overlooking Central Park, for traditionalists seeking an old-school sense of occasion.
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New York City, New York, United States of America (USA)[1.3 miles]
The surrounding clean, light streets in this enclave boast cool, modern skyscrapers.
Bryant Park is an elegant city park, adorned with the beautiful New York Public Library New York, and during the week fills with flocks of office workers eating lunch at scattered tables and chairs.
The Empire State, Rockefeller Centre, Broadway theatres, Central Park, and 5th Avenue shopping are close by.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
New York, United States of America (USA)
The ‘city that never sleeps’ is a 24/7 thrill of soaring skyscrapers, jaw-dropping architecture, dynamic culture and world-class art, dining and performing arts scenes.
Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
New York, United States of America (USA)[0.7 miles]
One of the world’s greatest museums of contemporary art, taking you on an artistic journey through Post-Impressionism, Cubism, Surrealism, Abstract Impressionism and Pop Art.
Best for ages: 8+ | £22
New York, United States of America (USA)[1.8 miles]
An art deco icon, built 1929-31, that offers unrivalled, 360-degree views of the city. It’s touristy, but a must-do.
Best for ages: 8+ | £32
New York, United States of America (USA)[2.1 miles]
A staggering emporium of world-beating nature and science exhibitions and interactive displays, in a majestic building. A world-class attraction and a must-see for anyone remotely interested in nature.
Best for ages: 4+ | £17
New York, United States of America (USA)[2.1 miles]
The iconic building where world leaders and diplomats gather to resolve the world’s greatest challenges – and a bastion of hope that one day the world can live together in peace.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
New York, United States of America (USA)[0.4 miles]
One of the world’s most iconic and prestigious concert venues has a storied history dating back to 1891. It’s known for exceptional acoustics and stunning architecture, and countless legendary performances by renowned musicians and orchestras from around the world. Book ahead for an unforgettable evening.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
New York, United States of America (USA)[1.6 miles]
One of America’s pre-eminent small art museums with an enviable bequeathed collection of European paintings, sculpture and porcelain, including Bellini, Constable, Gainsborough, Degas, Rembrandt, and Whistler. Housed in the late steel magnate and art collector Henry Frick’s magnificent mansion.
Best for ages: 18+ | £18
New York, United States of America (USA)[2.5 miles]
A feast of hundreds of private art galleries, packed into one enclave on the west of Manhattan, showcasing an eclectic mix of contemporary and modern art.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
New York, United States of America (USA)[3 miles]
Located where the High Line meets Chelsea and the Meatpacking District, this erstwhile warehouse is one of New York’s great foodie destinations. The rambling hall is crammed by casual restaurants, food kiosks, and speciality food shops.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
