If you’re headed to a Broadway show, plan to arrive about 30 minutes before curtain time. This gives you time to pass through security, locate your seats, and settle in without rushing. If you need to pick up or exchange tickets at the box office, or you’re attending a crowded performance, aim for 45 minutes to an hour early to avoid delays. Tips to streamline your visit
- Check your exact start time on your ticket and build a buffer for subway or traffic.
- If you have a mobile or printed ticket, arrive with enough time to have it scanned and to find your seats comfortably.
- For late-arriving guests, some theaters seat during a respectful pause or intermission, but seating policies vary by show and venue, so it’s best to be early.
- If you’re attending a matinee, expect earlier start times (commonly around 2:00 PM); for evening shows, start times typically range from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM, depending on the production.
If you want, share your show name, start time, and theater, and the exact date of your visit, and it can help tailor the arrival plan (including possible pre-show dining or concessions nearby).
