And how to score cheap tickets
One of the classic things to do in New York City is attending a Broadway performance! But, what's the best way to purchase tickets? Is it possible to save some money? Check my tips:
The traditional way is to check the play's or musical's official website and click on the tickets link. If you don't want to buy in advance - which is a bit risky depending on the season - it's worth going to the theater box office.
How to buy cheap Broadway tickets
There are two common ways to get cheap Broadway tickets: rush tickets or lottery. Rush tickets are tickets sold on the same day of the show, with a discount, for performances on the same day. They are available when the theater box office opens – usually in the morning – and are limited to two tickets per person. Once you know when the box office opens, arrive early cause there's limited availability.
Another way to get cheap tickets is by lottery and the winners get up two tickets for $35 each in average. And most of the plays and musicals have an online lottery, which is so convenient. Just enter your name and info and keep an eye on your email.
The best source to know what is the cheapest ticket available for every performance is the website Broadway on a budget. It provides a lot of information, such as the location, times, and how to get cheap tickets – rush or lottery tickets. You will find information on how to proceed in cases of lottery or rush, including the link to enter. So, just save this website.
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TodayTix offers tickets for all the plays and musicals, including some off-broadway options. It's easy and convenient and sometimes they have great deals!
TKTS
TKTS is the box office behind the red stairs in Times Square and sometimes there have good deals – up to 80% off – but the problem is that you lose a lot of time in lines. What few people know is that TKTS has another location in New York – Located in the David Rubenstein Atrium at 61 West 62nd Street - offering tickets for Same-Day Matinee and Evening Performances and Next-Day Matinee Performances.
Broadway Roulette
Choose a specific date and number of tickets (up to 6) on Broadway Roulette, set a preference for a musical or play, and exclude up to four shows you don’t want to see. On the day of the performance, Broadway Roulette “spins the wheel” and sends you a great show that matches your criteria — and it's $59 per person plus fees. This is guaranteed: so it’s good to have an open mind. Do your research about the musicals and plays.