Since I’ve seen pretty much every show that’s played on Broadway for the last decade, I have a very selective list of shows I’d want to pay to see again.

I also like to think that since I’ve seen 100s of Broadway shows, and am a trained actress, I’ve got great taste when it comes to recommending shows to my friends.

Seeing a Broadway show while visiting NYC is a real treat, so the last thing you’d want is to pick the wrong show to splurge on because let’s face it, tickets are expensive these days!

I’ve created this rundown giving tips on some of the best shows on Broadway, as well as some of the most popular ones, in order to help you make the most out of your time visiting New York City!

Best Shows on Broadway for Families 

Lion King

lion-king-on-broadway

The Lion King has been running for over a decade and is still selling out most nights.

It’s one of the best shows on Broadway to take children to, especially since they’ve likely seen the film and will be mesmerized as the beloved characters come to life as giant puppets.

Truthfully, as an adult, I was blown away by the creativity of the show, though wouldn’t pay to sit through it again.

If you want a theater experience without a noisy audience distracting you, head to another show.

Seating Tip: For the most magical experience, book central aisle seats in the orchestra. They’ll be a bit more expensive, but totally worth it for the first number (trust me!).

Run Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission.

Age Restrictions: No children under 2 will be allowed in the theater. This show is recommended for ages 6 and up, though my nephew saw the tour at age 2 and was instantly obsessed, so use your best judgment on if your child can sit silently during the full show.


Aladdin

Aladdin Broadway

Aladdin makes the list purely because there’s limited options for families with kids, and it has a few delightful moments.

Compared to some of the other Disney shows I’ve caught over the years, I found this show to be the most disappointing Disney production.

The story line has changed a bit from the film, and it felt like they used their entire budget on the costumes, which are stunning, but didn’t put enough into building a truly magical set.

Seating Tip: Sit in the front mezzanine for this show. With all the fun choreography and a special “magic” moment or two during the show, you’ll have a much better view from this angle.

Run Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission.

Age Restrictions: Kids 2 and older are allowed in, however the show is recommended for ages 6 and up.

Wicked

wicked on broadway nyc

Since it’s the pre-story to The Wizard of Oz, it’s ideal that you’ve all seen the film to understand plot points and some jokes, but overall you won’t be too lost if you haven’t seen the movie.

I’ve seen Wicked a handful of times, including the first year it came out with the original cast, and most recently in 2019, and the shows held up beautifully.

Seating Tip: The Gershwin is quite large, but even at the back of the orchestra I’ve had a spectacular view.

Run Time: 2 hours and 45 minutes, including one intermission

Age Restrictions: Kids under 5 won’t be allowed in the theater, though the recommended age is 8 and up.

&Juliet

Juliet

Imagine if Juliet’s tragic tale took a turn towards empowerment and joy.

This is the heart of &Juliet, a vibrant retelling packed with modern-day hits.

It’s a jukebox musical with classic hits and a narrative everyone in your family will recognize.

Seating Tip: I don’t think there’s a bad seat in the house for this show. I’d go with whatever I could afford.

Run Time: This show runs 2 hours and 40 minutes, with one intermission.

Age Restrictions: Recommended for ages 8 and up.

Back to the Future

back to the future

Crank up the DeLorean and set your destination to Back to the Future: The Musical.

This fusion of familiar characters and nostalgic tunes makes for an electrifying outing.

I haven’t seen the Broadway transfer, but saw it in London and had a great time, despite not having seen the film.

The last 30 seconds of the show really blew me away!

You’ll be tapping your feet to the ‘80s beats and cheering on Marty and Doc Brown’s thrilling escapades.

Seating Tip: The Winter Garden is a big theater, so I’d stick to front or mid-orchestra or front or mid-mezzanine.

Run Time: This show runs 2 hours and 35 minutes, including a 20 minute intermission.

Age Restrictions: It’s recommended for ages 6 and up. Children under the age of 4 are not permitted in the theater.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Harry Potter and the Cursed chIL PLAYBILL

If you’re a Harry Potter fan or have someone in your party who is, this is the show to see.

The storyline follows the children of the original characters as they have their own adventures at Hogwarts.

Cursed Child is absolutely magical and will leave even people who aren’t big HP fans in awe.

Seating Tips: As much as I adore the mezzanine, this is one show where being in the orchestra adds a bit of extra magic (you’ll understand why when you go).

Run Time: Three and half hours with one intermission

Age Restriction: Recommended for children age 8 and up. An adult must accompany kids under 15.


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Best Shows on Broadway for Adults

Cabaret

Cabaret show

One of the shows I’ve been most excited to see on Broadway this season is Cabaret.

I was at this show on the West End in 2021 and was absolutely blown away by the entire production, especially Eddie Redmayne.

In fact, I was so into it I went twice in one week while I was in London.

My New York theater friend just saw the transfer and was stunned by how gorgeous this show is.

Book now, before it wins the Tony for Best Revival.

Seating Tip: When I was in London, I sat in the front mezzanine and in the rear orchestra, both were great, but I preferred front mezzanine. That said, an orchestra cabaret table would be ideal.

Oh, and get there early for the pre-show!

Run Time: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, including one 15-minute intermission.

Age Restriction: Ages 13 and up. Children under 4 will not be admitted.

Suffs

Suffs at the public theater

Journey back to a pivotal era with a musical that highlights the impassioned struggle for women’s right to vote.

I was lucky enough to score a last-minute ticket to Suffs at The Public Theater a few years ago.

It absolutely blew me away.

Through song and story, this musical will transport you to a time where voices rose and history was made in the fight for equality.

I’m so excited it’s transferred to Broadway and am so excited to bring my mom to see it later this spring.

So, basically, if you’re looking for something to see, I absolutely recommend checking it out now, before it wins all the Tonys.

Seating Tip: The action is pretty central, so I don’t think there will be a bad seat in the house for this show.

Run Time: Around 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission.

Age Restriction: Children under the age of 4 are not permitted. Recommended for ages ten and up.

Chicago

CHICAGO ON BROADWAY

Not gonna lie, it took me ages to Chicago, but once I was there, I had the best time!

The part of Roxie Hart is constantly rotating between celebrities and just genuine triple threats, so it may depend on who’s in the cast when you go, but so far none of my theater friends ever complain about a weak performance from this show.

This show is a great date night choice, or last-minute snag at TKTS.

Seating Tip: There isn’t a bad seat in this house. I’ve seen this show from both the back of the Orchestra, and in the Premium Orchestra. Both views were excellent! Friends have told me the Mezzanine is also a solid a choice.

Run Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission.

Age Restrictions: Kids under 4 won’t be admitted, but let’s face it, this show is more of a PG-13 vibe.


A Beautiful Noise

A Beautiful Noise

I haven’t seen this Neil Diamond musical yet, but I’ve heard marvelous things from local theater friends.

People say that A Beautiful Noise is a sensory celebration that harmoniously blends story, song, and stage into an unforgettable theatrical tapestry.

Seating Tip: I’m a big fan of the mezzanine in this theater.

Run Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes, with one intermission.

Age Restrictions: Kids under the age of 4 aren’t allowed in the theater.

Hadestown

Golden Gate Bridge Vintage Postcard1

Hadestown isn’t for everyone, but it’s one of my favorites from the season it opened (it also won the Tony that year).

If you want to see a unique show, based on Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, with hauntingly beautiful music, this is the show for you.

It’s a really great date night show, so if you’re looking for something romantic to do in New York, this might be it.

Local’s Tip: The bathroom line gets long here. I always run outside and across the street to the bar. They’re great about letting you order a drink while you run to the bathroom.

It’s a win-win. You get a bathroom with no line and a cheaper cocktail than you’d have had at the theater. Just keep track of time so you don’t miss the beginning of the first act.

Seating Tip: I’ve seen this show from both the rear orchestra and front mezzanine. Front mezzanine wins hands down!

Run Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission.

Age Restrictions: Leave anyone 4 and under at home. I’d say bring age 10 and above.


Merrily We Roll Along

Merrily We Roll Along Broadway NYC 2023

Experience Stephen Sondheim’s musical genius in Merrily We Roll Along, a reverse-chronological exploration of dreams and disillusionment.

With its thought-provoking narrative and emotional depth, it’s a show that invites you to reflect on the choices that shape us.

It’s also been one of the hottest tickets in NYC this season.

In November, I was fortunate to witness it, but I wasn’t at all as blown away by it as some of my other friends.

To be fair, I had only two weeks prior seen one of the most stunning revivals of Sunset Blvd. in London, so it had a high bar to reach.

Not to mention I also knew what the New York audiences were in for with the West End transfer Cabaret (highly recommend) that was at the time on it’s way to Broadway.

That said, it’s worth giving it a chance, if you can get a ticket, as all my NY theater friends are in love with this production.

Seating Tip: I saw this show from the side of the last row of the front mezzanine and had a solid view. There were only one or two moments of action that was hard to see. I think you can’t go wrong with center orchestra or center mezzanine for this show.

Run Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission.

Age Restrictions: Children under the age of 4 are not permitted. The show is recommended for ages 10 and up.

Moulin Rouge: The Musical

moulin rouge

If you’re looking for a really fun night out, head to Moulin Rouge. It’s a bit different than the film, but just as extravagant and fun.

Get there early to check out the pre-show dancing.

This is a great date night show, or one to do for a girls’ night. I’d avoid seeing it with family, just because it’s obviously a sexy show, and you don’t want to kill the vibe wondering how the jokes are landing with your parents.

Seating Tip: I saw this show from the rear mezzanine and had a wonderful view. I really don’t think there’s a bad seat in the house for this one!

Run Time: 2 hours and 45 minutes, including one intermission.

Age Restrictions: This a PG-13 type of show, though the official policy is that anyone under the age of 4 won’t be admitted.

Hamilton

Hamilton on Broadway

Hamilton created a cultural phenomenon back in 2016 when it transferred to Broadway after playing to sold-out crowds Off-Broadway at The Public Theater.

These days, tickets are easier to come by, but you’ll still want to book tickets ahead of time to guarantee being in the “room where it happens.”

If you’re willing to risk it, play the daily lottery for your chance to win $10 front row seats. 

Fair warning though, it’s a hard one to win.

Back when the show first transferred, it took me about six months of playing pretty much every single day to finally win.

It was totally epic, because it was right before it won all the Tony Awards that year, and I got to see the original cast. 

Since then, I’ve been back to take my mom to see it, and even though it’s not the original cast, it’s still a phenomenal show. 

In fact, I actually preferred the actor who played Burr the second time around. He found depth in places that hadn’t been so well explored the first time I saw it. 

Seating Tip: I’ve seen this show from both the front row lottery seats, and the back of the premium orchestra section.

Both views were fabulous. The main thing I’d aim for here is being on an aisle.

The bathrooms at this theater are quite small, so the line builds up fast! 

Run Time: 2 hours and 55 minutes, including one intermission.

Age Restrictions: Even though kids over 5 are allowed in, this is another show I’d recommend for at least age 10 and up.


MJ: The Musical

mj the musical broadway

This show follows Michael Jackson during the creation of his 1992 Dangerous World Tour, and is meant to be fantastic.

MJ is currently at the top of my Broadway wish list for when I return to the city from Europe.

All my friends said the performers and choreography have blown away them.

Seating Tip: Go for the mezzanine for this show in order to fully appreciate the magnificent choreography.

Run Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission.

Age Restriction: The show is suggested for ages 8 and up, kids under 4 won’t be admitted.


The Book of Mormon

book of mormon on broadway

With Matt Stone and Trey Parker of South Park fame as its creators, it’s no wonder that The Book of Mormon is still one of the funniest shows on Broadway.

Basically, the show follows two naïve Mormon boys as they’re sent to Africa to convert the locals to Mormonism.

This show isn’t for anyone who takes offense easily.

I was invited to one of its early preview performances when it first came to Broadway and the entire row in front of me left mid-performance because they were offended by one song in the first act (when you see it you’ll know which one). 

Since then, I’ve been back two other times, and the show still is just as funny as when it opened.

It’s still one of my favorite choices when I’m taking out-of-town friends to see their first Broadway show. 

Seating Tip: Like most shows, I’m all about the front mezzanine, though the front bit of the rear mezzanine also has a magnificent view.

Run Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes with no intermission.

Suggested Age: This is definitely a PG-13 level show, though officially anyone over the age of 4 is allowed. 



The Who’s Tommy

the whos tommy

The Who’s Tommy is a rock musical based on the 1969 concept album by the iconic British band The Who.

It tells the story of Tommy Walker, a young boy who becomes traumatized and retreats into himself after witnessing a horrific event.

Despite being deaf, dumb, and blind, Tommy becomes an international pinball champion and spiritual leader.

The show features an electrifying score with classic Who songs like “Pinball Wizard,” “See Me, Feel Me,” and “We’re Not Gonna Take It.”

The high-energy performances and stunning visual effects make it a theatrical spectacle.

Seating Tip: Central orchestra or mezzanine would be my go-to in this theater.

Run Time: Running about 2 hours and 10 minutes, including one intermission.

Age Restrictions: Recommended for ages 10 and up.

Six: The Musical

London-at-Night-Cab-driving-by-the-West-End-Marquee-of-Six

I saw Six on the London’s West End, but assuming the Broadway version is similar, this is a fun and quick show to catch.

It follows the six ex-wives of King Henry VIII as they take the audience through their lives and relationship with the King via several catchy pop songs.

It’s not something I’d spend a ton of money to see, but if you can score an affordable ticket, it’ll make for a fun night that leaves at least one song stuck in your head.

Seating Tip: Go for either front mezzanine or orchestra for this show.

Run Time: 80 minutes, with no intermission.

Suggested Age: Recommended for ages 10 and up. Children under the age of 4 are not permitted.

Lempicka

lempicka on broadway

Explore the tumultuous and glamorous life of Tamara de Lempicka in Lempicka, a visual and auditory feast highlighting art’s power during times of adversity.

I haven’t seen it yet, but it’s at the top of my must-see list for when I’m back in the city soon.

My friend who just saw it said the story of survival that paints a stage as richly as Lempicka painted her canvases captivated him.

Seating Tip: This is a show I’m planning on doing mezzanine seating for.

Run Time: The show runs about 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission.

Age Restrictions: This show is recommended for ages 12 and up. Children under the age of 4 aren’t allowed in the theater.

The Notebook

the notebook on broadway

The Notebook was the classic romantic film when I was growing up, so you know it’s a show I need to see.

My best friend just saw it and said it blew him away.

From all the chatter I’ve heard, this is a special show.

Seating Tip: I think anywhere you can get a ticket will be great!

Run Time: The show runs 2 hours and 20 minutes, including one intermission.

Age Restrictions: Children under the age of 4 are not permitted in the theater. Similar to the film, it’s PG-13.

Best Off-Broadway Theaters to Keep an Eye On

the public theater off broadway 2

Since the shows running Off-Broadway are constantly changing, it’s best to keep an eye on the schedules for these theaters and production companies. 

I’ve been seeing shows at these spots for the last decade, and in some cases prefer their selection to what ends up on Broadway. 

  • The Public Theater
  • St Anne’s Warehouse
  • The Park Avenue Armory
  • 54E59
  • Cherry Lane Theater
  • Minetta Lane Theater
  • Company XIV
  • Punchdrunk
Company XIV

After seeing Company XIV's amazing production of Seven Sins, I'm dying to catch their other production, Cocktail Magique. If it's as sexy as the last one I saw, you're in for one very steamy date night.


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Some of My Favorite Off-Broadway Picks

Titanique

Titanique off broadway show nyc

Prepare for an unexpected twist on a classic tale as Titanique sails triumphantly off-broadway near Union Square.

This Celine Dion/Titanic parody boasts heart-stopping anthems leading this inventive spoof, to be a voyage you won’t soon forget.

I seriously can’t remember the last time I’ve laughed so much at a show.

Don’t miss the boat on my favorite off-broadway show!

Seating Tip: I don’t think there’s a bad seat in the house for this show. I was able to get great seats through TodayTix about a week before the show.

Run Time: 1 hour and 40 minutes, with no intermission.

Suggested Age: I’d say PG-13, since it’s based on the film and there’s sexual innuendo, adult humor, and language.

Little Shop of Horrors

Playbill-Little-Shop-of-Horrors-Off-Broadway-

At Westside Theatre, Little Shop of Horrors resurrects a cult favorite with a carnivorous twist.
This revival has laughs, thrills, and that iconic, sinister plant.

It’s the perfect fun night out solo, with friends, or with a date.

The great news is that because it’s been running a few years, it’s a lot easier to get into at the last minute.

Seating Tip: My ex and I saw this from premium orchestra which was amazing. It’s a small enough theater that I don’t think you can go wrong anywhere.

Run Time: This musical runs 2 hours and 15 minutes, including one intermission.

Age Restrictions: Children under the age of 4 are not permitted. Recommended for ages 8 and up.

The Play That Goes Wrong

the play that goes wrong

The Play That Goes Wrong is a hilarious British farce that follows an amateur theater group’s disastrous attempt to put on a murder mystery play.

Chaos ensues from the very beginning, with collapsing sets, missed cues, and increasingly absurd blunders that have audiences roaring with laughter.

Seating Tip: Anywhere you sit in this theater should have a good view.

Run Time: The play runs 2 hours, including one intermission.

Age Restrictions: Children under the age of 4 are not permitted in the theater. Recommended for ages 8 and up.

FAQ’s

Ally at Broadway theater - Nov. 2023
Ally at the James Earl Jones Theatre in NYC

How do I choose the best seats at the theater?

A lot of the time, seating really comes down to personal preference and affordability.

I love being in the front mezzanine because it’s generally the best way to view the production as a whole, since you can get a clear view of the choreography, staging, and set design.

How to get cheap Broadway tickets?

Broadway shows tend to be quite expensive, so if you want to see a popular show book early on the show’s official website (never through Broadway.com) to score tickets in the cheapest section.

If you’re last minute, try playing the shows lottery or rushing their show (depending on what their policy is).

For tips, check out my full article on how to score the cheapest tickets to Broadway shows.

How far in advance should I get to the theater?

Since your seats are reserved, there’s no reason to get to the theater super early. Doors open 30 minutes prior to a production, and I’ll normally aim to arrive about fifteen minutes before the show starts. This way I can hit the bathroom, grab a drink if i want one, and settle into my seat without a big wait for the show to start.

What to do I wear to a Broadway Show?

These days, unless you’re going to an Opening Night, you can be fairly casual, though you’ll still want to look put together. Check out my article on “What to Wear to a Broadway Show” for all my tips and tricks to dress for a night at the theater.

Final Thoughts

Ally next to Gutenberg and Sweeney Todd Broadway Ads
Ally outside a Broadway show in NYC

I hope this has helped you find the best show on Broadway to see while you’re in NYC.

Since shows are constantly opening and closing, I’ll do my best to see as many as possible to keep this page as up-to-date as possible.

Let me know in the comments below if there’s a show I’ve missed that you think needs a mention on the list!







 

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