Viator · group up to 12 pax

NYC Broadway Tour: Backstage Stories & Theater Secrets

4.9(129)New York City1 hour
VIATOR4.9(28)TRIPADVISOR4.9(101)

Description

Explore Broadway’s legendary past and its hidden backstage world. Walk through iconic theatres and learn how Broadway rose from vaudeville to global fame. Step inside a real rehearsal studio and discover the performers, crew, and creatives who bring the magic to life. This isn’t just a tour—it’s a tribute to the soul of Broadway.

Tour Options

Private Tour
Small Group Tour

Itinerary

5 min

Your tour begins outside the historic Winter Garden Theatre, directly beneath its iconic marquee. From here, you’ll make your way into Times Square, an area once known as Longacre Square—a lively, rough‑around‑the‑edges district that was transformed in the early 20th century into the dazzling heart of American theatre.

10 min

Just a stone's throw away from Times Square lies the lesser-known Duffy Square. This is where the TKTS Booth is located, and where hundreds of people enter daily ticket lotteries, making it an essential part of the Broadway experience for the public!

50 min

Broadway is everything you could imagine - bright lights, colorful posters, marquees adorned with your favorite performers' names, and historic, iconic theaters. This is where fame is made, hits are born, and creativity thrives! On this tour, we'll walk down Broadway, while your guide provides you with the historical background of the theaters you pass by and the productions that have graced the avenue over the years.

Pass by

Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Richard Rodgers Theatre, named after the famous composer of musicals, such as ‘Oklahoma!’, ‘The Sound of Music’, ‘The King and I’, and ‘South Pacific’. Since 2015, it has been the home of Lin Manuel Miranda's critically acclaimed musical ‘Hamilton’.

Pass by

Listen out for the music of the night as you stroll by one of the largest theatres on the strip. The Majestic Theatre has a rich history, hosting productions like ‘The Music Man,’ ‘Camelot,’ and ‘The Wiz.’

Pass by

This theatre, open since 1913, has been a staple on Broadway and has hosted the Tony Awards over the years. It boasts a history of productions, plays, and famous performers.

Pass by

This theatre company specialises in developing writer-focused plays and productions. With a history of captivating audiences with engaging characters, the theatre is known for the Tony Award-winning musical ‘Dear Evan Hansen’.

Pass by

This collection of theatres operates as a hub for up-and-coming theatre companies, offering everything from rehearsal space to tech support.

Pass by

This venue plays host to more plays than musicals, and has showcased Pulitzer Prize winners Driving Miss Daisy and The Flick.

50 min

Visit a working rehearsal studio and gain insight into the performers, choreographers, and crew who bring Broadway to life—often unseen, but essential to every show.

Highlights

Visit a working rehearsal studio and catch a glimpse of live classes or rehearsals (when available)
Discover the history and hidden stories of iconic Broadway theaters
Guided walking tour of Times Square and the Broadway Theater District
Experience the buzz and bright lights of Times Square
Explore Off-Broadway venues in a vibrant NYC neighborhood
Hear insider tales, theater traditions, and Broadway legends from a local expert

What's included

Included
Visit a working rehearsal studio and catch a glimpse of live classes or rehearsals (when available)
Discover the history and hidden stories of iconic Broadway theaters
Guided walking tour of Times Square and the Broadway Theater District
Experience the buzz and bright lights of Times Square
Explore Off-Broadway venues in a vibrant NYC neighborhood
Hear insider tales, theater traditions, and Broadway legends from a local expert
Not included
Gratuities
Food and drinks

Traveller Ratings

4.9
129 reviews
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120
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Important Information

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Does this tour run in all weather conditions? The tour operates year-round and will proceed rain or shine, unless weather conditions are deemed unsafe.
  • Is the tour wheelchair accessible? Accessibility may vary depending on the route and studio availability. Please reach out ahead of time to confirm specific needs.
  • What should I wear for the tour? Please dress comfortably and casually in weather-appropriate attire. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes suitable for walking.
  • Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels? The tour involves moderate walking and is suitable for most fitness levels. If you have mobility concerns, please contact us in advance.
  • Will we go inside any theaters or rehearsal spaces? When available, the tour includes a visit to a working rehearsal studio where you may observe live classes or rehearsals.
  • Is this tour child-friendly? This is a child-friendly experience. Children under the age of 6 may join free of charge when accompanied by a paying adult.

Reviews(129)

4.9
Based on 129 verified reviews
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