Best NYC Itinerary for Broadway Fans

Among the best things to do in NYC is to see a Broadway show. For some, seeing as many Broadway shows as possible is their number one reason to visit NYC. If you are a Broadway fan, there are many awesome theatre-themed things to do in NYC before, between, and after shows. Let’s explore the many ways you can experience Broadway in NYC and put together the perfect NYC itinerary for your perfect trip.

Best Hotel in Times Square

There are tons of hotels in Times Square, but only one hotel that was created by a Broadway set designer!

Located in the heart of the theatre district, the Civilian Hotel offers affordable luxury. It was designed by David Rockwell, who has been the architect for many NYC buildings, and also designed the set for Hairspray, Falsettos, Pretty Woman, On The Twentieth Century, Catch Me If You Can, Tootsie, and many many many more.

David Rockwell drew upon his extensive theatrical experience to design Civilian. Large stage curtains, costume sketches, wardrobe hangers, and more, decorate the rooms. One area of the bar is filled with Broadway props and costumes, and you can even see mock-up models of Rockwells set designs. It’s perfect for any Broadway fan.

NYC Morning Activity – The Museum of Broadway

Take a trip to the Museum of Broadway before the crowds come. The Museum of Broadway is full of interactive exhibitions that lead you through the history of Broadway. You can step onto the sets of your favorite shows, learn secret behind-the-scenes information, and even get to witness the mechanics of Broadway backstage. The museum is also full of self-proclaimed “theatre nerds” who can answer any of your questions, and even recommend the best Broadway shows to see. How long should you plan to spend in the Museum of Broadway? Expect to spend 2 hours in the Museum of Broadway, though the biggest theatre fans could probably stay as long as 4 hours and have a great time.

Afternoon Lunch – Ellen’s Stardust Diner

Ellen’s Stardust Diner is one of the best-known and most popular of all the restaurants in Times Square. The food is standard American diner fare, but the entertainment is second-to-none. The waiters double as entertainers, boldly belting out Broadway tunes while deftly delivering giant milkshakes to your table. Ellen’s Stardust Diner is an absolute NYC must-see for Broadway fans.

Post-Lunch Broadway Up Close Tour

One of the best things to do in NYC, especially if you’re a Broadway fan, is to take a Broadway Up Close tour. Broadway theatres are full of secrets, and Tim Dolan has dedicated his life to uncovering them, to share with you. To propel his passion, he created Broadway Up Close, a tour company sharing his love of theatre with the world. All of his tour guides are actors who can share great insider info about showbiz, as well as uncover a lot of fascinating theatre history. When you’re done, visit the Broadway Up Close gift shop. This is one of the best places to buy theatre souvenirs in NYC, and it’s literally right in the middle of Times Square!

Dinner – Sardi’s

For decades, Sardi’s has been the place to see and be seen in the Broadway community. The walls are covered with caricatures of Broadway celebrities. It’s every Broadway star’s dream to be honored with their portrait on the walls of Sardi’s. Speaking of dreams, Broadway’s highest honor, the Tony awards, was first dreamed up within Sardi’s walls!

See a Broadway Show

Naturally any true Broadway fan needs to see a Broadway show while visiting NYC. There are currently 42 Broadway theatres, so there’s truly something for everyone. If you’re hoping for discount Broadway tickets, check out the TKTS booth in Times Square, the TodayTix app, or each individual show’s rush policies.

What to Do in Times Square – After a Broadway Show

After attending a Broadway show, stroll proudly into Times Square and see yourself shining on a Times Square billboard. Seeing your photo on our Times Square billboard will make you feel like a Broadway star. How much does it cost to rent a Times Square billboard? It starts at $150 per day. It’s way more affordable than you might think, to be on a billboard in Times Square.

At 11:57, you can see the Midnight Moment. The Midnight Moment is when all the billboards in Times Square sync up to display a grand-scale LED work of art. It’s three minutes of pure magic, and it is the perfect pairing with seeing yourself on the Welcome to Times Square billboard.