If you’re planning a trip to New York City and looking to catch a Broadway show, you might be wondering about the best ways to get Broadway tickets. With so many options available, deciding which method to use can be overwhelming and confusing. But worry not because, in this article, I will break down the pros and cons of the top ways to score those coveted tickets and share my experiences with you.
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Option 1: Online ticket vendors
One of the most popular ways to buy Broadway tickets is through online ticket vendors such as Ticketmaster or Broadway.com. These websites make browsing shows, selecting seats, and purchasing tickets easy without leaving your couch. Plus, they often offer discounts and promotions that can save you money.
Pros:
- Easy and convenient to use
- Plenty of options are available
- Potential for discounts and promotions
Cons:
- Service fees and other charges can add up quickly
- Popular shows may sell out quickly
- Limited availability of same-day tickets
Option 2: Box office
Be careful of scalpers who not only may gouge you and even try to sell you a fake ticket. BTW, anyone trying to sell tickets in a public space OR sell, give, or transfer any ticket to another person for sale in a public space must have a Ticket Seller license.
Pros:
- No service fees or additional charges
- Opportunity to see the seating chart and choose your own seats
- Personal interaction with theatre staff
Cons:
- Limited availability of same-day tickets
- You may have to wait in line, especially for popular shows
- Box office hours may not be convenient for everyone
Option 3: TKTS booth*
The TKTS booth in Times Square offers discounted tickets to Broadway shows that day. You can get up to 50% off the regular price of tickets, which is a great deal if you’re flexible about which show you want to see. This is best for those with time and who want a last-minute deal.
Pros:
- Discounted tickets available
- Opportunity to see a show you might not have otherwise considered
- The line moves quickly and efficiently
Cons:
- A limited selection of shows is available
- No guarantee of getting tickets for the show you want to see
- Lines can be long, especially during peak tourist season
Option 4: Lottery
Many Broadway shows offer lotteries, which give you a chance to win tickets at a discounted price. You can enter the lottery online or in person; winners are randomly chosen.
Pros:
- Discounted tickets available
- Opportunity to see a popular show at a lower price
- Exciting and suspenseful
Cons:
- No guarantee of winning tickets
- It can be time-consuming to enter
- It may require multiple entries to win
Option 5: Rush tickets
Some shows offer rush tickets, which are last-minute tickets sold at a discounted price. You can purchase these tickets in person at the box office on the day of the show. Online ticket provider T
Pros:
- Discounted tickets available
- Opportunity to see a popular show at a lower price
- Exciting and spontaneous
Cons:
- No guarantee of getting tickets
- Must be willing to take a risk and show up without tickets
- Limited availability and may sell out quickly
Now that you know the pros and cons of the top ways to get Broadway tickets, which is right for you? Online ticket vendors might be your best bet if you’re looking for convenience and flexibility. This is my preference.
If you’re willing to wait in line and want a personal touch, the box office might be the way to go. If you’re on a budget and don’t mind taking a chance, the TKTS booth, lottery, or rush tickets might be the perfect option.
I use online Broadway ticketing apps.
The two that I find have the best prices are TodayTix and SeatGeek. TodayTix has various city locations, not just in the USA. They also have rush tickets (be online at 9 am as they sell out fast) and a lottery. Because I am trying to go to as many shows as I can afford, I tend to get the cheapest which are up in the “gods.” The lottery is excellent if you have a fixed date and don’t care which Broadway Show you see. The fees are high, but what I save is worth it.
SeatGeek can be a bit pricier, but they also list concerts and sports events.
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*NOTE: I met a lovely lady from LA recently. Barbara spent most of her time travelling and was in NYC for two weeks, intent on seeing 16 plays! She also was not concerned about prices since she only wanted seats up front. Not that she was a fool. Each morning she went to the TKTS booth in Times Square to get her tickets for that day.
