The Ultimate NYC Broadway Guide 2025
March 01 2025
New York City and Broadway go hand in hand, offering a world of dazzling performances where stories come to life on stage. Whether you're a seasoned theater enthusiast or experiencing NYC Broadway for the first time, 2025 is set to deliver an unforgettable lineup of beloved classics and exciting new productions. From legendary venues to must-see performances, our ultimate Broadway guide will help you plan the perfect theater experience in the heart of NYC. And with a stay at Hotel Beacon NYC, you’ll always be just moments away from showtime. Let’s dive into the timeless classics and fan-favorite productions that are guaranteed to amaze you.
Must-See Broadway Classics in 2025
Broadway wouldn’t be Broadway without its legendary long-running shows. If you haven’t seen these classics, it is time you check them off your list:
A Broadway staple since 1997, The Lion King remains a spectacle of breathtaking puppetry, African-inspired rhythms, and an unforgettable score by Elton John and Tim Rice. A great choice for families and first-time Broadway visitors. The show goes on at Minskoff Theatre.
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton continues to draw crowds with its groundbreaking storytelling and infectious hip-hop beats. If you haven’t witnessed this cultural phenomenon yet, make it a priority to visit Richard Rodgers Theatre in 2025.
Celebrating over two decades on Broadway, Wicked tells the untold story of the witches of Oz. With stunning visuals and powerhouse vocals, this production is a must-see for musical lovers. Tickets available at Gershwin Theatre.
If you love razzle-dazzle and timeless Fosse choreography, Chicago remains a top pick. This high-energy musical brings classic drama to life at Ambassador Theatre with unforgettable show tunes like "All That Jazz."
Exciting New & Upcoming Broadway Shows to Look Out for in 2025
If you're craving fresh stories and innovative productions, you're in for a treat! New York City's theater scene is set to deliver some of the most exciting and highly anticipated shows in 2025. Whether you're a fan of gripping dramas, catchy musicals, or reimagined classics, there's something for everyone. Here’s a curated list of the must-see upcoming Broadway productions:
Stranger Things: The First Shadow
Fans of the wildly popular Netflix series Stranger Things will be thrilled to know that the Upside Down is coming to Broadway’s Marquis Theatre! This prequel dives into the origins of the supernatural world we know and love. Set in the 1950s, this stage adaptation promises to bring the eerie suspense and supernatural thrills to life, as we discover how the events in Hawkins, Indiana began. Get ready for a mind-bending experience that will bring the show's signature blend of nostalgia and mystery to the stage.
Shakespeare’s Othello is a classic tragedy — while the play itself is centuries old, the 2025 Broadway production at Barrymore Theatre promises a fresh take on this iconic story. With an all-star cast (including Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhall) and an innovative direction, this adaptation is sure to captivate audiences with its timeless themes and emotional depth. Fans of Shakespeare will not want to miss this thrilling revival.
Get ready for a toe-tapping, heartwarming experience with Boop! The Musical. Based on the beloved character Betty Boop, this Broadhurst Theatre show brings the iconic flapper to life in an all-new musical format. With jazz-age tunes, dazzling choreography, and Betty's signature sass, Boop! will transport audiences to a world of glitz, glam, and fun — this one’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
The Last Five Years tells the poignant story of a couple’s relationship, spanning from their first meeting to their eventual breakup. What makes this Hudson Theatre production stand out is its unique structure: the story is told from both perspectives, with one character moving forward in time and the other moving backward. Watch it for emotions, heart-wrenching songs, a deep exploration of love, and of course star Nick Jonas.
Ahoy, theater-lovers! Pirates! The Penzance Musical brings Gilbert and Sullivan’s classic The Pirates of Penzance into the modern era with a fun and fresh twist. This new Todd Haimes Theatre adaptation promises to mix the charm of the original operetta with updated music, witty dialogue, and some surprising contemporary influences. Expect plenty of swashbuckling, catchy tunes, and over-the-top fun as these Broadway-bound buccaneers take over the stage.
John Proctor is the Villain takes a bold new approach to The Crucible by reimagining the infamous Salem witch trials through the lens of a modern high school classroom. In this play, a group of students explores the classic text, but the twist lies in how they reframe the story, giving John Proctor a new, villainous role. This innovative and thought-provoking Booth Theatre production is sure to spark conversation about history, power dynamics, and the way we reinterpret the past.
In Old Friends, legendary playwright Michael Jacobs brings together a group of long-time friends as they reunite after years apart. The show is a heartwarming exploration of friendship, love, and the changes life brings as we grow older. Expect laughter, tears, and a sense of nostalgia as these characters rediscover the bonds that tie them together. If you’re looking for a show that celebrates life’s most important relationships, Old Friends will surely tug at your heartstrings. Tickets are available at Samuel J. Friedman Theatre.
Insider Theater Tips for the Best Broadway Experience
To make the most of your Broadway adventure, here are a few tips that might be helpful:
Book Tickets Early
Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your tickets in advance via official sites like Telecharge or TodayTix to avoid overpriced resellers.
Look for Rush and Lottery Tickets
If you’re flexible, many Broadway shows offer rush tickets and digital lotteries for discounted last-minute seats. Check each show’s official website for details.
Dress Comfortably but Stylishly
Broadway doesn’t have a strict dress code, but smart-casual attire is recommended.
Explore Pre- or Post- Show Dining Near the Theaters
Make it a full Broadway night by dining at iconic theater district spots like Joe Allen, Sardi’s, or Glass House Tavern and more before the show.
Stay Close to Broadway at Hotel Beacon NYC
After an unforgettable night on Broadway, retreat to the comfort of Hotel Beacon NYC. Located in the Upper West Side. Our hotel offers spacious, apartment-style studios and suites perfect for guests exploring NYC and its theater scene. With easy subway access and a relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere, Hotel Beacon is the ideal home base for your Broadway getaway. Plus, staying with us gets you access to the Beacon Theater in our neighborhood — explore the upcoming events and shows here.
Book your stay now and make your NYC theater trip truly unforgettable!
