Going to the theatre is a great way to spend some quality time with family. It's a shared experience parents and kids can both enjoy which, unlike a movie night, gives everyone a break from their screens. So don't miss out on the best Broadway shows for kids in New York right now, and get Broadway tickets now.
Taking children to family-friendly shows is also the best way to instill in them a love of live entertainment which could last their whole life — and maybe even spark a desire to get involved in the arts themselves!
Not every Broadway show is best for families. A show like Chicago, though well-known, might not be appropriate for kids. But not all Broadway shows for kids are created equal, either. Some family-friendly shows are targeted at toddlers, some are better suited for middle schoolers and older, and some are meant to be enjoyed by all ages, young and old, depending on their length and subject matter.
We've answered all your questions about what families should expect at shows on Broadway and how to best prepare for a day at the theatre with your kids. Then, to help you decide among the best Broadway shows for families, read below for details on each show's content, length, and what to look out for.
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How old does my child need to be to attend a Broadway show?
Children ages 4 and older are allowed to attend Broadway shows. Broadway theatres do not permit children younger than 4 to enter, as very young children may not be able to sit through long shows and/or may make noise that can disturb other audience members.
Age limits may vary at Off-Broadway shows. Check your desired show's page on New York Theatre Guide, or else the venue's website, to ensure your child may attend.
How to dress your kids for the theatre
Broadway theatres don't have a set dress code, so you can dress your kids however you (or they) would like. If your family trip to the theatre is a special occasion, you can dress your children up in fancier clothing, but if you all want to wear everyday shirts and jeans, that's acceptable, too. Especially for kids, the most important thing is that their outfit is comfortable so they don't get irritated mid-show. That said, avoid dressing your children in clothes or shoes that light up or make noise.
If your kid is a big fan of a show and wants to wear a costume or other clothing inspired by the characters, that's perfectly fine! Just make sure your child is comfortable in the outfit and that it doesn't include anything — like noisy accessories or a tall headpiece — that would interfere with other audience members' experience.
How early do I need to get to the theatre with kids?
It's best to get to the theatre early, especially with kids. We recommend arriving at the theatre about 30 minutes early, so you and your kids will all have time to use the bathroom, buy concessions, and find your seats before the show starts.
Arriving early also gives you and the kids time to walk around the theatre — kids may be fascinated by the ornate decorations, the snacks and merchandise, and all the people, especially if they're in a theatre for the first time. Give them time to take it all in so they're not distracted when the show begins!
What to expect when going to the theatre with kids
Bags will be checked at the door, so be sure you aren't carrying any snacks or drinks for your kids. Most theatres will confiscate outside food, but concessions are available for purchase at Broadway theatres.
You can likely expect large crowds at a Broadway show, so make sure your kids don't get lost in the crowd while you're walking through the theatre to your seat, the bathroom, or the merchandise table. Kids might get easily distracted by the snacks, the fancy decorations in the theatre, or other kids.
On the flip side, a lot of activity goes on in a theatre both before and during the show: loud noises, movement, and bright lights. If the stimulation ever becomes too much for your child, you can step out into the lobby or bathroom with them at any time. However, you might not be allowed back into the theatre until intermission or a certain timed entry point during the show.
But above all, you can expect fun! Seeing a story come to life with your kids is an experience unlike any other. You can expect lively dancing, music, and storytelling that will take you and your kids to a whole different world for a few hours, and you'll come away with a memory you'll all share.
Can I bring large bags or strollers to a show?
Some Broadway theatres do have coat checks for bulky items. However, not all Broadway theatre coat checks will store extremely large bags or strollers. It is recommended that patrons leave these items at home if possible, as there is little room to store them at your seat.
Can I bring my own snacks into the show for my kids?
Each theatre's concessions policy is different. Some theatres allow outside concessions, while others will confiscate outside food and drink at the door. Still others only allow water bottles inside. Check the website of the theatre you're attending to find out its policy.
Can my kids meet the performers?
Kids are sometimes able to meet Broadway performers at the stage door after the show; some actors will come out to sign programs and take pictures. This is not guaranteed, though. It is up to each performer whether they want to greet fans after a show and is subject to change without warning at each performance.
Where can my family and I eat before Broadway a show?
There are tons of restaurants near Broadway theatres to choose from. Read our recommendations for the best Theatre District eateries for a pre- or post-show meal.
Additionally, check out our guides to where to get pre-show fast food and post-show dessert.
Do Broadway shows accommodate children with disabilities?
Broadway theatres have specific seating available for wheelchair users, and most also offer captioning and assisted listening devices. Certain shows do, however, have specific performances that feature closed captions, sign language interpretation, or a "relaxed" experience with minimal sensory stimuli.
These are not offered regularly at most Broadway shows, but certain shows have minimal flashy stimuli that is accessible to children with sensory limitations.
Learn more about accessibility measures at each Broadway theatre. For additional accessibility inquiries, contact your show's venue.
Why you should take kids to a Broadway show
There are so many reasons to take your kids to a Broadway show, or any live theatrical experience. For one, theatre is a great form of screen-free fun — they'll get all the immersive entertainment of an online game, and all the stories and songs that a children's movie or TV show has to offer, without staring at a screen. Your children might even see their favorite story come to life!
Broadway and Off-Broadway theatre can also be a part of a larger family outing. You can't talk to your family much during a show, but you can make a whole day of your trip — go to other New York attractions, go shopping, and grab a meal. Combined with your trip to the theatre, all these activities will make for a memory that you and your kids can all share and cherish.
Plus, taking children to the theatre while they're young can instill a lifelong passion for the arts, whether as a performer or a spectator. So when you do take your kids to Broadway, which show do you choose? Read below to learn more about the best Broadway shows for kids in 2025 and family-friendly Off-Broadway shows playing right now.
