Seeing a Broadway show in New York City is an unforgettable experience. From the award-winning ballads of Hamilton to the whimsical journey of Wicked, each show offers a unique blend of storytelling and entertainment. Whether you’re a seasoned theater-nut or a first-time visitor (welcome!), there’s a Broadway show for you. Let’s dive in!
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The 10 Best Neighborhoods & 3 to Avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Best Broadway Shows in New York City
(Table of Contents)
Table of Contents: NYC Best Broadway Shows
Most Award-Winning Shows on Broadway in NYC
Hamilton
The plot: This groundbreaking rap musical tells the compelling story of Alexander Hamilton. From his early life as an orphan (“the ten-dollar founding father without a father”) to his ascension as George Washington’s right hand man and the fateful duel with Aaron Burr.
Dominating headlines for nearly a decade, Hamilton has quickly become the most popular Broadway show in New York City since it first debuted in 2015. The musical earned 16 Tony Award nominations, winning 11, including Best Musical.
My take: I’m embarrassed to admit that I went from knowing (almost) nothing about Alexander Hamilton to being utterly obsessed. Seriously, I can sing the entire score, word-for-word, from start to finish. In my opinion, this is the best Broadway show in New York City and I envy anyone that gets to see it for the first time.
Website: Hamilton
Location: Richard Rodgers Theatre, 226 W 46th Street
Good to know: Hamilton is buried at Trinity Church in New York City, you can visit his grave-site in the Financial District.
Hadestown
The plot: Centered around two mythic young lovers, Orpheus and Eurydice, this epic love story follows Eurydice’s condemnation to the underworld (Hadestown) and Orpheus’ desperate attempt to retrieve her. Hades, the god of the underworld, allows Orpheus to escort Eurydice out of Hadestown on one condition: he can’t turn back to look at her. I’m not keen on spoilers, so you’ll have to see what happens for yourself.
My take: Since premiering in 2019, Hadestown has been nominated for 14 Tony Awards (winning 8, including Best Musical). Tragic and beautiful, this is one of the most riveting musicals on Broadway in New York City. There’s so much to unpack here, from palpable anguish to the faint glimmer of hope and belief in second chances, the show is thought-provoking and beautiful.
Website: Hadestown
Location: Walter Kerr Theatre, 219 W 48th Street
Good to know: The production uses strobe lights, so if you’re sensitive to flashing lights then Hadestown might not be the best New York City Broadway show for you to catch.
Chicago
The plot: Set in the roaring 1920s, a blend of crime and drama, this popular NYC Broadway show is based on true story, which only adds to the intrigue. The story follows two murderesses locked up in Cook County Jail, Roxie and Velma. Roxie, a housewife with dreams of stardom, and Velma, a seasoned nightclub performer, find themselves on death row together and fight for the fame that will keep them from the gallows.
My take: The show is a satirical look at the corruption of criminal justice and the concept of the celebrity criminals. Chicago is the longest running Broadway show in New York City (the Phantom of the Opera held the title before closing in 2023) for a reason. Sleek and polished, albeit somewhat tired, it’s the most iconic show on Broadway, making it a must-see for theater-lovers.
Website: Chicago
Location: Ambassador Theatere, 219 W 49th Street
The Funniest Shows on Broadway
The Book of Mormon
The plot: The brainchild of Trey Park and Matt Stone (South Park), this popular NYC Broadway show follows a pair of Mormon missionaries tasked with converting a remote Ugandan Village. Profanity, vulgar humor and complete disregard for political correctness makes this one of the most controversial Broadway shows in New York City.
My take: If you’re a fan of raunchy humor, you’re going to love this. Personally, this isn’t my style of humor (I’m not a South Park fan), but I was cracking up throughout the performance. The lead characters are exciting to watch and the playful nod to the church’s disapproval of gay marriage was impossible not to appreciate (“Turn it Off” was my favorite number, so funny!).
Turn it Off Lyrics (Quick Snippet)
When you start to get confused
Because of thoughts in your head
Don’t feel those feelings!
Hold them in instead
Turn it off, like a light switch
Just go click!
It’s a cool little Mormon trick!
We do it all the time
When you’re feeling certain feelings
That just don’t seem right
Treat those pesky feelings
Like a reading light
When I was in fifth grade
I had a friend, Steve Blade (Ooh, Steve Blade)
He and I were close
As two friends could be (We could be close)
One thing led to another
And soon I would discover (Wow!)
I was having really strange feelings for Steve
I thought about us, on a deserted island (We’re all alone)
We’d swim naked in the sea
And then he’d try and…
WOAH! Turn it off!
Like a light switch
There it’s gone
Good for you!
My hetero side just won!
I’m all better now
Boys should be with girls
That’s heavenly father’s plan
So if you ever feel
You’d rather be with a man
Turn it off!
Website: The Book of Mormon
Location: Eugene O’Neill Theatre, 230 W 49th Street
Spamalot
The plot: Seated at the round table of jesters, this musical comedy was inspired by Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Brace yourself for foolish humor, flying cows, French taunters and the stunning Lady of the Lake. Spamalot has returned to Broadway in NYC following a record-breaking sold-out run in Washington DC.
My take: Spamalot is one of the funniest Broadway shows in New York City. How do I know? I was sore (from laughing) the day after the show, however, it’s caters to a very specific British-style of humor. We saw Spamalot because my husband grew up watching Monty Python (and loves it!), but I didn’t, so I kept my expectations low. If you loved Monty Python, you’re going to love this popular NYC Broadway Show!
Website: Spamalot New York City Broadway
Location: St. James Theatre, 246 West 44th Street
Sweeney Todd
The plot: Sweeney Todd is the age-old story of a psychotic throat-slitting barber and the resourceful pie shop owner who wreak havoc on Fleet Street in London. When this avant garde musical debuted in the 1970s, it shocked audiences with its vivid portrayal of revenge, murder and cannibalism — yet somehow, the show became wildly successful and had audiences in stitches.
My take: Led by an antihero and Machiavellian villain, seeing Sweeney Todd on Broadway in New York City is a wild experience. A roller-coaster of emotions, the outlandish characters are not relatable (they’re not supposed to be), yet it’s easy to get swept away by the often comedic tragedy of it all. The hurt, the misunderstanding, the shame and the intense desire for something different (sans serial murder, of course), who can’t relate to that?
Website: Sweeney Todd
Location: Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, 205 W 46th Street
Kimberly Akimbo
The plot: A lonely teenage girl named Kimberly suffers from a condition that causes her to age quickly. As a teenager, she looks like a 70-year-old woman, but is resolved to find happiness in a world where time isn’t on her side. From nursing her high school crush to managing disappointing parents, the musical is beautifully adapted from Lindsay Abaire’s play by the same name.
My take: Winner of the 2023 Tony Award for Best Musical, I’m reluctant to put Kimberly Akimbo into my “funny NYC Broadway shows” category because it’s heartwarming, thought-provoking and equally funny. I laughed hard, but also found myself getting emotional in certain scenes. The narrative perfectly blends the absurd plot with a poignant reminder of the passing of time, it’s a NYC Broadway show you won’t easily forget.
Website: Kimberly Akimbo (playing through April 28, 2024)
Location: Booth Theater, 222 W 45th Street
Best Broadway Shows for Kids
The Lion King (Ages 6+)
Celebrating 26 years on Broadway, The Lion King is a visually extravagant retelling of the Disney classic. What makes this Broadway musical special for families is the magical blend of visuals, imaginative costumes and puppetry brings the African savanna to life on stage, transporting children to a world of adventure and wonder.
The score features memorable songs by Elton John and Tim Rice, like “Circle of Life” and “Hakuna Matata.” Catchy and entertaining, everyone in the audience is tempted to sing along. After seeing it for myself, I can confirm that the Lion King is one of the best shows on Broadway for kids.
Website: The Lion King
Address: Minskoff Theatre, 200 W 45th Street
Wicked (Ages 8+)
Offering a unique twist on the classic tale of The Wizard of Oz, Wicked is the most spellbinding Broadway show in New York City. Set in the magical land of Oz, the story unfolds the unlikely friendship between two young witches with radically different personalities and destinies.
There’s Elphaba, the misunderstood, green-skinned girl who grows up to become the infamous Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda, the bubbly, popular girl who becomes the Good Witch. The musical delves into their early years, exploring themes of friendship, love, and misunderstanding. “Wicked” cleverly re-imagines the backstory of Oz, challenging our perceptions of good and evil.
The hit Broadway musical is renowned for its powerful score and fascinating look at how stories and characters we thought we knew can be seen in a whole new light. Since debuting in 2003, Wicked has become one of the most popular Broadway shows in New York City for kids. It’s also the highest grossing show on Broadway, exceeding $2 billion in revenue.
Website: Wicked
Address: Gershwin Theater, 222 W 51st St, New York
& Juliet (10+)
We all know the story of Romeo & Juliet, the two impassioned lovers who die because they can’t live without the other. Well, & Juliet is a fun twist on the classic. The story follows Juliet, as she continues living life without Romeo’s unnecessary drama.
Unlike the other musicals mentioned on this list, & Juliet is a jukebox musical, which means the production doesn’t have an original score (they play popular, well-known songs). The show opened in 2022, but has quickly become one of its most popular New York City Broadway musicals for kids.
Fun and high-energy, with an easy plot to follow, the musical is ideal for those who think the fun starts when the guys leave. There’s a few f-bombs sprinkled throughout, so the show may not be suitable for kids under 10 years old.
Website: & Juliet
Address: Stephen Sondheim Theatre, 124 W 43rd Street
Aladdin (Ages 4+)
Colorful and high energy, Aladdin is one of the best Broadway shows in NYC for kids. The musical follows Aladdin’s story from thieving-peasant to the magic lamp and his love affair with Princess Jasmine. The upbeat music and lively choreography make the show tolerable for parents, while kids will find themselves engrossed.
I watched Aladdin with my best friend’s 5-year old daughter, who was at the edge of her seat the entire show. The magic carpet scene is mind-blowing (the teenage girls sitting behind me audibly gasped) but the Genie steals the show.
Website: Aladdin
Address: New Amsterdam Theater, 214 W 42nd Street
Buying Discounted Tickets to Broadway Shows (The Right Way)
Broadway shows are sometimes prohibitively expensive. However, there are a few helpful tips for saving money on Broadway tickets, giving you a chance to see the best Broadway shows in NYC at a fraction of the price. Let’s cover the three options worth knowing about.
The TKTS Booth in Times Square
The TKTS booth in Times Square (and Lincoln Center) is operated by a non-profit that strives to make theater more accessible by selling (legitimate) discounted same-day tickets to Broadway shows in NYC. Simply show up in person (you can check availability in advance online) to see which performances have last-minute tickets available.
Local’s Advice: Ticket availability is updated throughout the day, so I suggest downloading the TKTS App. While you can’t purchase tickets online (all sales must be done in-person), you’ll be notified whenever tickets becomes available, so you can get in line ASAP.
How the Broadway Lottery System Works
The most popular Broadway shows in New York City often have a lottery system in place. With some patience (and a lot of luck), you can score deeply discounted tickets ($30-50). The lottery system works well for locals that have time to spare. But, if you’re visiting New York and have a specific show you’d like to see, you shouldn’t rely on the lottery system. Instead, I’d suggest buying tickets ASAP because the best New York City Broadway shows are notorious for selling out (looking at you, Hamilton).
Rush Tickets
A lot of Broadway shows in New York City (though not the most popular performances) offer same-day rush tickets at steeply discounted prices. These aren’t typically the best seats in the house (for example, you might be sandwiched in-between two groups) but sometimes you can get lucky! I scored $100 tickets for Lion King this way, the experience was worth every penny.
Depending on the show, some places make you go to the box-office in person, others offer digital tickets. The Playbill website is a great resource for finding rush tickets.
What is a Broadway Show, Anyways?
With all the fuss about Broadway, you may be wondering what exactly is a Broadway show? In the simplest form, Broadway Shows are performances that take place in the Theater District in Midtown Manhattan (between 40th and 54th Streets). There’s 41 theaters located near Broadway Street and when a performance debuts at one of these theaters, it’s considered “going on Broadway.”
Best Broadway Shows in New York City (Post Summary)
In sum, these are the Broadway shows in NYC:
- Hamilton
- Moulin Rouge
- Some Like It Hot
- Sweeney Todd
- & Juliet
- Hadestown
- The Book of Mormon
- Aladdin
- Wicked
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And there you have it! I hope you enjoyed my quick roundup of the best Broadway shows in New York City. Let me know your thoughts below, cheers!
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