The bright lights of NYC's Theater District have been the heart of Broadway for over a century. Over the decades, the district has solidified its status as the world’s live entertainment capital. Today, millions visit Broadway’s 41 theaters to experience world-renowned performances. Whether you’re a Broadway aficionado or just looking for your next must-see show, uncovering the past, present, and future of this iconic district is a magical experience.
New York City's famous Theater District spans from West 41st to 57th Street, between Sixth and Eighth Avenues. Today, it’s part of the Midtown neighborhood. The first Broadway theaters were built in 1903. The electric light bulb transformed the district, giving rise to Times Square’s signature glowing signage.
Broadway flourished in the 1920s, peaking with 70 theaters and 250 productions. However, the rise of movies led to a sharp decline in theater attendance, with Broadway hitting rock bottom in the 1970s. It wasn’t until the 1980s that efforts began to restore the district. By the 1990s, Broadway was booming again—helped in part by Disney’s The Lion King. Today, the Theater District is world-famous, attracting millions of visitors each year.
As the Theater District continues to thrive, Broadway remains home to some of the most in-demand performances in the world. Planning a trip to NYC? Be sure to buy your tickets in advance, as some of the best Broadway musicals sell out quickly. Securing tickets early ensures you can get the best seats for your must-see show.
While classic Broadway hits continue to captivate audiences, new productions are always on the horizon. These upcoming shows are already generating buzz and excitement among theatergoers:
Many of the iconic NYC theaters have been carefully restored to preserve their original charm. The Gershwin Theatre, opened in 1972, is currently playing Wicked. It boasts an impressive seating capacity of 1,900. The Ambassador Theatre is one of the first theaters built, opening in 1921. It has a unique hexagonal shape to fit a maximum number of seats. It is currently running Chicago. Patrons hoping to see The Book of Mormon will love the Eugene O'Neill Theatre, as it is one of the most popular medium-sized theaters. It’s also right next to Times Square. Another famous theater is the Ethel Barrymore Theatre. First opening in 1928, it has played some of the most well-loved performances. Currently, it is playing Othello, starring Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal.
Seeing a Broadway show is a must for NYC visitors. While booking your tickets in advance ensures the best selection, many Broadway shows also offer same-day lottery tickets, giving theatergoers the chance to score heavily discounted seats. These lotteries are often available online or in person, so check individual show websites for details. If you're looking for another way to save, head to the TKTS Booth in Father Duffy Square, where you can find discounted same-day tickets for various performances. The booth in Times Square is a go-to spot for theater lovers hoping to see a show without paying full price.
After securing your tickets, complete your visit by booking one of the Theater District New York hotels that will keep you in the center of the action. The Belvedere Hotel NYC is a fantastic hotel near the Theater District, located just a short, ten-minute walk away.
Book your stay at the Belvedere Hotel NYC and be within minutes of the Theater District.