It's on 2 of my lists. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.
- AddressMinskoff Theatre, 200 W 45th St, New York, NY
- From my guide, updated September 2026.
The Plot. An adaptation of Disney’s animated classic, Lion King follows Simba, a young lion cub destined to be king. After the death of his father, Simba grapples with his destiny and struggles to rediscovers his purpose. Exiled and consumed by guilt, Simba befriends Timon and Pumbaa and sets out to reclaim the throne while learning about resilience along the way.
My take. Blending breathtaking puppetry, vibrant costumes, and powerful music by Elton John and Tim Rice, the entire performance is visually stunning. With captivating storytelling and awe-inspiring stagecraft, Lion King is one of the most entertaining family-friendly Broadway shows in New York City.
You don’t need a reservation to have the best meal of your trip.
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.