NYC Trip Guide: Broadway
New York City —if you can make it there, you can make it anywhere. On Broadway, you can explore a new world of musical wonders. Whether you are a lover of the performing arts, have a passion for storytelling or an eye for costume design, Broadway has it all. So, how can you experience the magic of Broadway in a single weekend?
Here is your guide for the perfect trip to NYC’s most musical district.
Pick the Show
Source: Pinterest
The first thing to do is go straight to Broadway.com to see what shows are playing. There is a performance schedule that details what times and dates each show is happening. You can figure out what works best for your schedule, whether that is during a break or a free weekend.
As to what musical you should go see, this is a choose-your-own-adventure ordeal. Do you want to have a friend like the Genie in “Aladdin?” Give your shot at “Hamilton?” Fly high and defy gravity with Elphaba in “Wicked?” It’s completely up to you!
The Edge tip: Broadway tickets can get very costly, so we suggest buying them in advance to avoid price inflation. As the saying goes, the early bird catches a seat at the matinee.
2. Book Your Travel Plans
Source: Booking.com
Book your travel plans as soon as you schedule your showtimes. Like with Broadway seats, doing it in advance would be our recommendation (inflation is no joke, guys).
If you are going solo, reach out to friends and family who live around the NYC area to spend the night with to save some money. If you are traveling as a group, look up available Airbnbs or hotel rooms to split. That way, you get to save money and have a fun sleepover with your friends!
For cost-efficient deals, check out Expedia, Priceline and Booking.com for group rates and flight discounts. Fly high with these low-cost flights!
3. Build on the Broadway Experience
Source: Museum of Broadway
Most showtimes don’t start until late in the afternoon, so take some time to check out the bustling city life of NYC. There are many popular places near the Theatre District to visit before your show such as Rockefeller Center, Times Square and Radio City Music Hall. If you want to stick to the theater theme, we recommend going to the Museum of Broadway.
Located on West 45th Street, this gallery presents all of Broadway’s history and its impact on NYC culture. The Museum of Broadway showcases various aspects of the iconic theater scene, from insightful timelines to awe-inspiring artifacts from famous musicals. Take a journey to the past in this fabulous menagerie of Broadway history.
4. Take a Bite of the City’s Cuisine
Source: Carmine’s
Who knew grand musical performances could whip up such an appetite? Luckily for you, there are multiple restaurants near Broadway to go to before and after the musical for you and your grumbling stomach’s convenience.
If you are craving Italian, Carmine’s is the prime choice. This classic restaurant offers mouth-watering Southern Italian cuisine in family-sized portions (their Chicken Parmesan alone is enough to feed four to five people!). With Carmine’s hearty meals and friendly atmosphere, you and your friends will feel like a part of one big Italian family dinner.
Another eatery we at The Edge recommend is the Broadway Lounge. Not only do they provide gourmet food and exceptional service, but the restaurant offers panoramic views of Times Square. You can admire the breathtaking scenery of the heart of NYC while dining on delicious dishes and signature cocktails if you are 21+.
For more dining options, go to Broadway.org to see their map of restaurants near the Theatre District.
5. It’s Showtime!
Source: Pinterest
The moment you have been waiting for: your Broadway show. Arrive at the theater an hour before to avoid long lines. Swing by concessions for drinks and snacks to nibble on during the show. Buy a little knick-knack from the souvenir stand to remember your time there. Go to your seat, turn off your devices and kick back for the curtains to draw back. The rest is up to you to enjoy.
Do us at The Edge one favor: promise to love every moment on Broadway. That’s all we ask of you!
DM us photos of your theatrical adventure at @theedgemag on Instagram!