When you think of NYC, what do you think of? Broadway comes to my mind.
I’ve been to over 10 shows and still going strong. It’s such an iconic piece of the city, just like the Empire State Building. That’s why everyone attends and the prices never drop - but I’m here to tell you how to score some deals, whether you’re visiting from out of town or a resident/permanent tourist like myself.
First up: Headout
This is one of my favorite ways to find discounted Broadway tickets, because it requires little effort on my part. Headout has a site or an app to browse shows for the night of or months in advance. Click on the program you’d like to see, choose your date, and pick your seats. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3!
And here’s the best part: once your seats are reserved, you’ll get an email with instructions on where to find your Headout Host. All you have to do is get to the show a little early (which you should do anyway) and meet your host, who will hand you your tickets right outside the theater. It really is hassle-free.
Another great thing about Headout: other tours and attractions are available on this site in cities all over the world, so it’s like a one-stop shop for whatever you’re feeling.
I used Headout to buy Spongebob Squarepants tickets for $50 only a couple hours before the show went on. And since I know you’re wondering, yes, it was wonderful. Definitely a must-see!
Runner Up: Lotteries
If you’re just in the mood to see some Broadway but not set on the show, date or time, lotteries may be the best option for you. Lotteries can be done in person (rush tickets) or digitally.
Going to be around the area? Rush the theater! You can show up 2 hours before the show and put your name in a bucket. If your name is drawn, you must be there to purchase the tickets.
There are a TON of digital lotteries, I’ll link some below. Most lotteries have the same rules: sign up and if you win, you have 1 hour to purchase the discounted tickets through the email link. If you’re going this route, cross your fingers and be sure your email notifications are on! What’s great about these lotteries is that the tickets are very cheap - I’m talking like as low as $20-$35. But it isn’t guaranteed. So weigh your options.
TodayTix - very popular site & app for cheap tickets.
Playbill Broadway Rush - this pretty much lists every possible way to get discounted tickets.
Broadway Lottery - this lottery is updated as shows with discounted tickets become available.
NY Broadway Lottery - daily lotteries and rush ticket schedules.
Broadway Wiz Lottery - all the digital lotteries you can enter in one place.
Broadway for Broke People - pretty explanatory haha!
Next up: TKTS
If you know anything about New York City, you know about the TKTS stairs, located in the heart of Times Square (47th St and Broadway). Well, right underneath them are the TKTS booths - where you can stand outside and purchase . This is the classic way to buy discounted Broadway tickets, but it does require your time. This means the earlier you can get there, the better.
Almost all the Broadway shows are there, usually at 50% off. I saw my first Broadway show, Phantom of the Opera, by standing in the TKTS line and getting same-day theater tickets.
Last but not least: Follow your favorite artists.
Let me explain. A lot of Broadway hits, like Waitress and Kinky Boots, have small runs with artists you listen to and/or watch every day. If you’re following these artists, they usually send out a promo code to get discounted tickets to the show they’re starring in. What’s better than seeing a Broadway show with your favorite artist at a discount? Exactly.
Here’s my story - I am a die-hard Panic! At The Disco fan. The singer, Brendon Urie, was cast as Charlie Price, the lead of Kinky Boots. For his 3 month role, he provided a promo code to his fans for half off tickets. And you bet your bottom dollar I scooped those right up. Besides it being one of the best shows I’ve ever seen, I was able to wait outside after the show and get his autograph. (cue my inner crying fangirl)
Yep, that’s Brendon Urie’s signature (singer of Panic! At The Disco).
And in case you’re wondering, here are all the shows I’ve seen so far:
-Phantom of the Opera (2 times, because yes, it’s that good)
-Wicked
-Cats
-Chicago
-Anastasia
-Kinky Boots
-Book of Mormon
-Spongebob Squarepants
-Mean Girls
-The Lion King
Next on my list: King Kong.
Now all you have to ask yourself is, “Which way to the stage?”