Frequently asked questions about Broadway Show tickets

No. Broadway theatres accept e-tickets shown on your phone. When you make your booking you’ll usually receive a PDF or mobile ticket by email. You can display it at the venue entrance on your device, or print it out if you prefer. (Always check your booking for any special instructions about printing or will-call pickup.)

Yes. Look for seasonal or early-bird offers on Headout. Discounts (like student or senior rush tickets) are sometimes available through lotteries or box-office rushes. You can also sign up for Headout’s newsletter to get notified of deals.

Most Broadway tickets are sold as non-refundable. In general, we do not refund or credit for personal cancellations. Always double-check the specific cancellation policy before booking. (If a show is cancelled by the producers, Headout will offer you a refund or a rebooking option.)

Usually not. Standard Broadway tickets cannot be changed once purchased. Unlike tour bookings, Broadway tickets are date- and time-specific. Always make sure your dates are correct before confirming the order.

Most often, you won’t need to “collect” anything – simply show your e-ticket at the door. If your email confirmation indicates “Box Office Pickup”, head to the theatre’s box office a bit before showtime and present your booking confirmation and photo ID. The box office staff will verify and give you physical tickets if needed.

Your ticket covers one performance of the show on the date, time, and seating level you selected. It includes entry to the theatre and your assigned seat. (Some special experiences or meal packages can be added separately, but the basic ticket is just for the show and the seat.) If you have any add-ons like a souvenir program or meal, make sure to check your itinerary for details.

Broadway shows are priced in US dollars, but our global website often lets you select your local currency (EUR, INR, GBP, etc.) for payment. Just choose your preferred currency from the menu or during checkout. On your confirmation, the final charge will be shown in that currency (with a conversion rate). Of course, the ticket’s face value is still in USD.

No – We do not add extra booking fees or hidden charges for Broadway tickets. The price you see (fare + taxes) is what you pay. Just note that NY State and City taxes are included in the price, so the total may be a bit higher than the base ticket price.

Some Broadway shows offer same-day discount tickets (often called rush, lottery, or standing room tickets). These are sold at reduced prices shortly before curtain time. Availability varies by show and day: a few tickets might go on sale when the box office opens (sometimes at half-price or $27–$40 average). To try for these, show up early at the theatre box office or enter the show’s official lottery (many Disney shows and Hamilton have digital lotteries). If you win or queue up in time, you can grab those discounted last-minute seats.

Broadway theatres generally open about 1 hour before showtime. For an evening performance, expect theatre doors to open around 6:30–7:00 PM (for an 8 PM show). Matinee days (usually Wed/Sat/Sun) open around 12:30–1:00 PM. It’s best to arrive early to find your seat and settle in.

Last admission varies by theatre policy, but generally, you must be seated before the show starts. If you arrive late, the usual practice is: latecomers may be asked to wait until a suitable break (often intermission) before entering. The theatre may hold you at the door until a natural pause, so you won’t miss something critical during a scene change. To avoid delays, aim to be there at least 15–20 minutes before the curtain.

You might be held at the door until an appropriate moment in the show. Arrive early to avoid missing any part.

Broadway has no strict dress code. Both casual and dressy attire are accepted. You’ll see audiences in everything from jeans and nice tops to cocktail attire. A smart-casual outfit is a safe bet (think nice jeans or slacks and a collared shirt), but don’t feel you must wear formal wear. That said, some people do dress up for evening shows, especially on opening nights or special events. Ultimately, comfort is key, so wear what makes you feel good for the occasion.

Small personal items like purses, backpacks, or shopping bags are allowed, provided they fit under your seat. All bags will be briefly searched at entry, so be prepared to open them. However, large luggage or suitcases are not permitted, and there is no public luggage storage on site. Most Broadway theatres have a coat-check (usually for a few dollars) where you can store coats, jackets, and sometimes strollers or small bags. Strollers in particular are generally not allowed inside the seating area; if you must bring one, check with the box office about coat-check storage (some theatres can accommodate them).

Unlike some London West End theatres, Broadway houses do not typically offer self-service lockers for luggage. What’s available instead is a coat-check closet. Many theatres will check a coat or personal item at the door for a nominal fee. If you have a lot of gear, it’s best to plan to leave extra bags at your hotel or with friends, rather than rely on theatre storage.

Typically no, but some venues may offer storage. Contact the theatre directly if you are travelling with an infant.

Outside food/drink is generally not permitted. You may bring a sealed bottle of water, but full meals or open containers will be stopped at security. Most theatres have an on-site concession stand or lobby bar where you can buy snacks and beverages (including alcoholic drinks) before and during intermission. Taking small snacks (like candy or gum) is possible in many theatres, but it’s safest to plan on eating before or after the show.

The Subway is usually the quickest and cheapest way. Almost every Broadway theatre is just a block or two from a subway station. For example, the Times Square–42nd Street complex (serving the 1,2,3,7, N, Q, R, W, S lines) is right in the middle of the theatre district, as are nearby stops like Port Authority (A,C,E) and 49th Street (N,R,W). Use a smartphone transit app (Google Maps or Citymapper) to find the exact route. Bus service is also available in Midtown, and New York cabs or ride-shares (Uber/Lyft) can drop you off near the theatre, but traffic in the Times Square area can be very heavy.

Driving is not recommended due to congestion. Times Square (42nd–47th Streets) is notorious for traffic, so if you drive you should plan extra time. On-street parking is extremely limited. There are many parking garages nearby, but they tend to be very expensive – often $40–$50 for just a few hours. If you must drive, consider booking a parking spot in advance via an app like SpotHero or Parking.com to save time and money. Also look for lots a few blocks further from the centre of Times Square, which may be cheaper. Many visitors find it easier to take public transit or a shuttle from the airport rather than tackle Manhattan parking.

For tourists: You can take the JFK AirTrain (to the E subway line at Jamaica Station, which goes to Midtown) or Newark AirTrain (to NJ Transit/Amtrak at Newark Penn Station, then PATH or subway) to reach Manhattan. Once in Manhattan, transfer to one of the Midtown lines mentioned above to get to the theatre. LGA (LaGuardia) has no direct rail link – you can bus or taxi to a subway stop. Given traffic, many travelers prefer a subway or airport shuttle over a taxi. (You’ll need a MetroCard or contactless payment (OMNY) for subway/bus fares – each ride is $2.90.)

Yes – every Broadway house offers wheelchair-accessible seating. However, many older theatres do not have elevators beyond the ground floor. This usually means only the Orchestra (main floor) level is accessible. If you book accessible tickets in advance, you will get a seat on the orchestra level and a reserved companion seat next to it. (If you need to transfer out of your wheelchair, an usher will move your wheelchair to a designated spot.) Accessible restrooms are available in most theatres, typically on the ground or orchestra level. If your specific show’s theatre is very old, it may have limited accessible features, so it’s wise to call ahead or check the theatre’s official site if you have special requirements.

Many Broadway shows provide accommodations. For hearing loss, some performances have captioned (closed-caption displays) or ASL-interpreted performances. Assistive listening devices (like audio headsets) are offered free of charge at most theatres – just ask an usher. A few venues (e.g., Gershwin Theatre) have installed hearing loops that work with hearing aids. For patrons who are blind or visually impaired, some performances offer audio description headsets (organised by programs like TDF’s TAP). You can call the Theatre Development Fund or check tdf.org to see which upcoming shows have audio-described or signed performances.

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ticket sellers are required to provide a free companion seat when needed to accommodate a person with a disability. In practice, wheelchair-accessible tickets sold online typically come with a second (companion) seat included. For other disabilities, policies vary by theatre, but many will add a companion ticket at no extra charge. Always mention the need for a companion when booking, and check each venue’s policy – some venues may require proof of disability for the free companion seat.

Yes. Service dogs (and miniature horses) trained to assist a person with a disability are welcome in Broadway theatres. Broadway in Chicago (for example) explicitly permits ADA-defined service animals, and the same ADA rules apply on Broadway. Emotional support pets or animals not trained for a task are not allowed. Always advise the theatre in advance if you will be attending with a service animal, and keep the animal under control and quiet during the performance.

If a performance is officially canceled by the theatre, Headout will notify you of your options. You would typically be offered either a full refund or an exchange to another performance (if available). If you fail to attend a paid show (no-show), tickets are generally non-refundable. Always keep an eye on your email/phone for any schedule changes as your show date approaches.

Theatre schedules and casts are subject to change. It’s common for understudies or replacements to take over roles during a show’s run. Cast changes (even major stars) do not entitle you to a refund or change of ticket. If a particular performer is a must-see for you, try to attend early in that actor’s engagement; otherwise enjoy the show as advertised.

Previews are “practice” performances held before the official opening night. If your ticket is for a preview, the show may not be 100% polished yet – the cast and crew often make last-minute tweaks based on audience feedback. Previews are usually priced slightly lower than regular shows. Attending a preview can be fun if you don’t mind a few rough spots, and you may even catch parts of the show that get changed for the official run. (Check your ticket: preview dates are noted in advance.)

In New York, “Broadway” refers to productions in large theatres (500+ seats) located in the Theatre District around Times Square. These are the big musical and play houses. “Off-Broadway” shows are in smaller venues (100–499 seats) and can be anywhere in Manhattan; they often feature experimental or new works. (There’s also “Off-Off-Broadway” for even smaller theatres.) Tickets for Off-Broadway tend to be cheaper, but our Headout Broadway listings are all 500+ seat venues – in other words, actual Broadway.

Yes, many Broadway shows have Sunday performances, especially in the afternoon (matinees). However, like in London, Sunday schedules can be irregular. Traditionally, many shows have a matinee on Sunday (often at 2 or 3 PM) and then a quieter evening (some have an evening show, but fewer than on other days). The big Broadway “dark” day is Monday – most theatres are closed Monday nights. Always check the exact day/time on your ticket: if it’s Sunday, it’s probably a 2pm matinee (but sometimes 3pm or 6:30pm for certain shows).

Outside meals and open drinks are not allowed. You may carry a sealed water bottle. Live performances ask that you don’t eat full meals inside. (Also, absolutely no photography or recording during the show) All Broadway theatres have concessions where you can buy snacks and drinks – it’s best to enjoy those either before the show or during intermission.

Age restrictions vary by production, but there is one firm rule: children under 4 years old are generally not allowed into Broadway theatres. This is a standard policy (it’s too disruptive and unsafe for very young kids). For older kids, each show sets its own recommended age. For example, The Lion King and Wicked often say suitable for ages 6 and up, while some edgier shows may suggest 10+. Always check the show’s official info. If you bring a child, note that every person (any age) needs a ticket to enter.

No. As with most theatres worldwide, no photography or video recording is permitted during Broadway performances. This is to avoid distracting others and to protect copyright. You may take pictures in the theatre lobby before and after the show, but once the performance begins you must turn off all devices and stow them. (You can use your phone before the curtain rises or during intermission.)

First, retrace your steps in the theatre (lobby, restroom, your seat). If you still can’t find it, contact the theatre’s lost and found or box office immediately – they keep any items left behind at the end of the night. If you’ve already left, try calling the theatre the next day (contact info is often on their website). Headout cannot retrieve lost items, so do keep your valuables secure during the show.

All Broadway theatres are smoke-free (that includes e-cigarettes). Smoking is only allowed on the street or outside theatre buildings.

Some long-running Broadway musicals are very family-friendly. Classic kid-favorites include Disney’s The Lion King, (Broadway’s) Wicked, Aladdin, and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. These shows have enchanting effects and relatively gentle content. (Keep in mind each has an age recommendation, but none will admit under-4.) Other fun family options are School of Rock or Mary Poppins when on tour, though the big Disney titles and Wicked* are reliably popular choices. If you have tiny kids, check for matinee performances, which tend to be more relaxed.

Most Broadway productions last about 2 to 3 hours, including one intermission. Some plays may be slightly shorter, and some spectacles (or Hamilton plus overture) can approach 3 hours. When you buy tickets, the runtime is typically listed on the show’s info page. Plan for the full experience: for a 2.5-hour show, you’ll be at the theatre at least that long (plus an extra 30 minutes before and after for seating and exits).

Broadway’s top draws tend to be a mix of classic hits and new buzzworthy titles. In recent years, the highest-grossing and most popular shows have included The Lion King, Wicked, and Hamilton. (Hamilton, for example, has remained a cultural phenomenon since 2015.) Other long-running favorites are Phantom of the Opera, Chicago, and The Book of Mormon.

As early as possible. Broadway shows can sell out, especially the hits. It’s common to book months in advance for the best seats and prices. Headout’s booking platform lets you buy tickets as soon as they go on sale, and often shows availability for the upcoming year. If you try to book last-minute, your options may be limited or more expensive. That said, some shows do release tickets gradually, and lottery/rush tickets can be a way to see a show without early booking – but for guaranteed seats and choice pricing, book early.

• Broadway shows usually run 8 times a week on a fixed schedule. A common pattern is:
  
• Sunday: 2:00 PM (or 3:00 PM) matinee
  
• Monday: Closed (no performances)
  
• Tuesday: Evening show around 7:00 PM
  
• Wednesday: Matinee (2:00 PM) and evening (8:00 PM)
  
• Thursday: Evening show (8:00 PM)
  
• Friday: Evening show (8:00 PM)
  Note: Some shows may shift times slightly (for example, some playhouses use 7:00 PM starts instead of 8:00 PM on certain nights). But the above is the typical weekly schedule. Always check your ticket; the curtain time is printed there. If you have a matinee, arrive early – seating usually begins about 30 minutes before the start.

To choose a Broadway show, you can read reviews on sites like Playbill, NewYorkTheatreGuide, or BroadwayWorld. Major newspapers (The New York Times, etc.) also review openings. In practice, most tourists simply look for buzz or ask friends. You can also check out our reviews guide to know more about latest shows.

Broadway ushers do not expect tips (the staff is paid), so tipping is not required. Also, always check the theatre’s official website or your booking confirmation a day in advance for any last-minute schedule or entrance changes (e.g., security lines or alternate entrances). Most importantly, arrive relaxed and be ready to enjoy one of the world’s premier live theatre experiences!