Heading to a Broadway show is an unforgettable experience, but getting around New York City can feel overwhelming if it’s your first time. From finding the right subway stop to knowing how early to arrive, these tips and tricks will help guide you through the Theatre District with ease so you can focus on making the most of your experience.
Navigating the City to Get to the Broadway Theatres
When in doubt, Google Maps is your best friend! Whether you’re looking for landmarks, restaurants, or trying to navigate the subway, it can make getting around much easier. If you need quick directions, simply enter your desired location in the search bar, click enter, and select the person icon for walking directions. For help navigating public transportation, click the train icon to see which train to take, and where to get off.
Parking for Broadway Theatres
Broadway Direct has partnered with SpotHero to provide guests with convenient and affordable parking. To see which lots are closest to your theatre, visit our Broadway Theatres page, select your theatre, and navigate to Patron Services for detailed parking information. For an example, check out the parking details for the Minskoff Theatre.
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Tips & Tricks for Getting to Broadway Theatres
Arrival time: Plan to get to the theatre around 30 minutes early, so you can go through bag checks, find your seat, and settle in without stress. If you need to pick up tickets at the box office, arrive at least 45 minutes early.
What to Bring: It is recommended to pack light in small bags as large bags may be searched or not allowed at all. Be sure you have no outside food or drinks as they are not allowed.
Dress Etiquette: Broadway theatres do not have a strict dress code. Oftentimes theatres may be kept cold, so make sure to bring layers! Check out our full guide guide on what to wear at this link here.
Inside the theatre: Theatre lobbies are often small, so lines for restrooms and concessions can get long. It’s best to use the restroom before the show rather than waiting until intermission. If you need help finding your seat, ushers are always happy to point you in the right direction.
For more specific questions, visit our Help Center.
The Subway to Get to Broadway Theatres
A question many ask before making their way to the theatre is how do I navigate public transport. The subway is one of the quickest and most efficient methods to get to the theatre. Below are some popular theatres, as well as their closest subway stops!
- Closest subway stops: Times Square – 42nd St. (S, 1, 2, 3, 7)
- Walking Time: ~5 minutes
- Very close to Times Square and is quick and convenient from most lines.
- Closest subway stops: 50th St. (C, E, 1)
- Walking Time: ~3 minutes
- Easily accessible from 50th St. and is one of the closer theaters to the subway.
- Closest subway stops: 50th St. (C, E) or 49th St. (N, R)
- Walking Time: ~2–4 minutes
- Very close to both stops, however, the N/R stop is slightly further but still convenient.
- Closest subway Stops: 50th St. (C, E) or 49th St. (N, R)
- Walking Time: ~2–4 minutes
- Short walk from either subway and is highly accessible.
- Closest subway stops: 50th St. (C, E) or 49th St. (N, R)
- Walking Time: ~2–4 minutes
- Central location in Times Square with multiple subway options.
- Closest subway stops: Times Square – 42nd St. (N, Q, R, 1, 2, 3, 7) or 42nd St. (A, C, E)
- Walking Time: ~3–5 minutes
- Very convenient with multiple subway options to make it easy to reach from anywhere in the city.
- Closest subway stops: 42nd St.–Times Square (N, Q, R, W, 1, 2, 3, 7, S) or 34th St. – Herald Sq. (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W)
- Walking time: ~5–7 minutes
- Located just south of Times Square with several subway options nearby.
- Closest subway stops: 50th St. (C, E) or 7th Ave (B, D)
- Walking Time: ~3–4 minutes
- Good access from both lines and is a slightly longer walk from the 7th Ave line.
- Closest subway stops: Times Square – 42nd St. (N, Q, R, 1, 2, 3, 7)
- Walking time: ~2–3 minutes
- One of the most central theaters, right in the heart of Times Square.
- Closest subway stops: 50th St. (C, E) or 49th St. (N, R, Q)
- Walking Time: ~5–6 minutes
- Further from the subway compared to other theaters so plan extra walking time.
- Closest subway stops: 50th St. (C, E, 1) or 49th St. (N, R)
- Walking Time: ~3–4 minutes
- Very close to Times Square and the central location makes it easy to reach.
For further information on more Broadway houses, visit our Broadway Theatres page to explore our full list of venues.
Good Eats Near Broadway Theatres
It’s always a good idea to grab a bite to eat before seeing a show. Check out our dining guide with recommendations for the best places to eat in the Theatre District. From casual quick bites to sit down experiences, this list has it all. For a classic Broadway experience, head to Sardi’s. The legendary spot is known for its caricature-lined walls of Broadway icons. Or, if you’re craving a deal, the Italian restaurant Becco is a local favorite with hearty pastas and a great atmosphere.
With a bit of preparation, your journey to Broadway can become an unforgettable part of experiencing this incredible city. These tips will help you arrive ready to enjoy every moment. Get your tickets now with Broadway Direct!
