Summer in the city is a blast, but only if you're prepared for what to expect weather-, transport-, and crowd-wise. Here are some practical planning tips to help you plan your best summer theatre trip.
Arrive to theatres early in the summer.
Firstly, you'll beat the heat for longer if you're inside sooner. But more importantly, summer is a busy vacation season, so theatres are more likely to be packed. Arrive early so you don't have to wait in a long line to enter the theatre. If you beat the line, you'll have plenty of time to use the bathroom and find concessions before the show starts.
Make pre-show restaurant reservations well in advance.
The 2-3 hours before a show begins are always popular times to eat at a Theatre District restaurant no matter what season it is. But with more people in the city in the summer, there's even more competition for those prime tables.
If there are specific restaurants you're set on going to, make restaurant reservations in advance as you plan your theatregoing itinerary. This is especially true if you want to eat outdoors, as outdoor seating is often more limited than indoor seating.
Leave wiggle room between shows.
Shows happen at all times in New York, particularly on weekends. Children's shows can start as early as 10 a.m., and adult-oriented events can start at 9 p.m. or later. (Most shows have a 7 or 8 p.m. evening show and, on weekends, a 2 or 3 p.m. matinee.) Depending on how you plan, you can absolutely fit two or even three shows into a single day!
But be sure you leave time in between to get between venues, especially if they're not within walking distance — you don't want subway delays or taxi traffic to make you miss your show. It's also good to leave time to eat between shows, even if that just means grabbing a snack or a slice on the go.
Get familiar with New York City transportation options near your theatre.
The good news is that all but one Broadway theatre is located near Times Square, and more than a dozen subway lines stop at or near Times Square. No matter what neighborhood you're staying or visiting other attractions in, you'll be able to get to Broadway theatres pretty easily. If you're staying in the Times Square area, you can just walk everywhere you need to go!
But if you are going between neighborhoods, it's good to know exactly which subway lines you'll be taking beforehand. As a backup, in case a subway is down or delayed, research what other means of public transportation — like buses — are available in your desired area. Taxis and Ubers are always around as well, but keep in mind that you'll need to build in extra time in case of rush hour or weekend traffic.
Read our full guide to how to get to each Broadway theatre by car, bus, and subway.
Pack sunscreen, water, and snacks for your theatregoing trip.
Sunscreen is important for protecting yourself during outdoor shows, or for when you're walking outside in the city from place to place. Water and snacks are also key for staying energized and hydrated throughout your day, especially on very hot days — you wouldn't want heatstroke to ruin your theatregoing plans!
Packing refreshments will also save you from spending time and money at theatre concessions stands. Check your theatre's website before you go, however, to be sure outside concessions are allowed in.
