Broadway is one of the most revered New York attractions and practically a rite of passage for anyone visiting the city. And going to the theatre is possibly one of the best things to do in NYC at night. With hundreds of musicals, plays and performances taking place daily, both on and off Broadway, finding the perfect one takes some careful navigation.
Thankfully, we’ve compiled a list that showcases the best in New York City entertainment so all you have to do is make your way to the nearest box office.
Sit back, relax and take a bite out of the Big Apple with our guide to best New York shows:
On Broadway Shows
Lion King
A landmark of theatreland and an instant Disney classic, The Lion King has become the most successful Broadway show and musical in history since the first performance in 1997. Relive the movie we all know and love in a dazzling new way as you follow the colourful story of Simba’s quest to take his rightful place as King. One of the most fun things to do in NYC with kids, prepare to be blown away by the costumes, sets and attention to detail throughout the performance.
Find the nearest Big Bus Stop to the Minskoff Theatre
Wicked
Discover the untold story of Glinda the Good Witch and Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West. A must-see for anyone who grew up watching The Wizard of Oz and believes there’s more to the tale than Dorothy let on. A firm favourite on Broadway for the past 15 years, it has won countless awards including a Grammy and three Tony’s. Expect to sing along to show stopping musical numbers such as ‘Defying Gravity’ and ‘Popular’ days after watching this one.
Find the nearest Big Bus Stop to the Gershwin Theatre
The Book of Mormon
If you’re wondering what to do in NYC, take it from us when we say you’ll want to book a ticket for the nine-time Tony award winner of Best Musical, The Book of Mormon. Side-splittingly funny, the musical follows two young missionaries who are sent to Uganda to try to convert citizens to the Mormon religion…what could possibly go wrong?
Composed by South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone and Avenue Q’s Robert Lopez, The Book of Mormon is not for the easily offended.
Find the nearest Big Bus Stop to the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center
Hamilton: An American Musical
Experience the worldwide phenomenon in the city that started it all. Partly sung, partly rapped, Hamilton is the vivid retelling of the American Founding Father. Alexander Hamilton’s life imagined by Lin-Manuel Miranda after he was inspired by the 2004 biography written by historian, Ron Chernow.
Through its diverse choice of cast and innovative musical numbers, the Broadway show successfully challenges how we view American history and has received an unprecedented amount of critical acclaim. With sold out performances most nights of the week we recommend booking this show as soon as you’ve sorted your flights and hotel in NYC.
Find the nearest Big Bus Stop to Richard Rodgers Theater
Off Broadway Shows
Blue Man Group
Not everyone likes audience participation on a night out, but if you do, Blue Man Group is the show for you. Described as a multi-sensory experience, expect lots of comedy, artistic expression and encouragement to get up and become part of the show. With most websites selling cheap theatre tickets for this show, simply browsing before booking could save you up to 50% on tickets, which makes an evening spent with actors covered in blue paint even more special!
Find the nearest Big Bus Stop to Astor Place Theatre
Did you know the only difference between on Broadway and off Broadway shows is the size of the theatre? Typically, any show that seats less than 499 theatre-goers is classed as being off Broadway, so whether you decide to see one or all of these shows during your time in the city, you’re bound to experience some of the top things to do in New York. And once the curtains are drawn and the cast have taken their final bows, book a table for dinner at one of the Best Restaurants in New York…
