Carnegie Hall

The Basics

The best way to visit Carnegie Hall is by attending a performance at one of its three venues. On the way inside, visitors enjoy the building's unique details. Known for its Renaissance Revival exterior, complex carvings, and world-class acoustics, Carnegie Hall is a work of art in itself.

On a guided tour, discover walls packed with signed photographs, theater ephemera, and multimedia installations about the storied space. Many hop-on hop-off bus tours pass Carnegie Hall, and it is often included in multiattraction passes, which cover entry into dozens of New York sites. Some passes even offer skip-the-line access—but be sure to check in advance.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The iconic performance space is a must for theater, dance, and music lovers.

• History buffs enjoy the Rose Museum, which chronicles the history of Carnegie Hall.

• Offerings are diverse—and ticket prices vary by performance—so check the calendar.

• Photography is not allowed during performances.

• Carnegie Hall has a café, museum, and gift shop.

How to Get There

Carnegie Hall is located at 881 Seventh Avenue, at 57th Street, in Midtown Manhattan. To arrive by subway, take the N, Q, or R train to the 57th Street–Seventh Avenue station. Otherwise, take the F train to 57th Street or the B, D, or E to Seventh Avenue. Several buses also stop nearby, including the M5, M7, M10, M20, M31, M57, and M104.

When to Get There

Music performances are generally held in the evening, but plan to arrive early to find your seats, get settled, and visit the coat check. For tours, arrive in the late morning or early afternoon. And to enjoy the Rose Museum, visit anytime between 11am and 4:30pm, or before a performance.

Stick Around After the Performance

Consider the Mix and Mingle series if you're in the mood for socializing and sipping a drink or two. After the concert, patrons gather in the Parterre Bar and enjoy a free drink and refreshments at a 45-minute postconcert soiree. The performers have also been known to pop by to say hello.

How can I buy tickets for a performance at Carnegie Hall?

There are three ways to purchase tickets for performances at Carnegie Hall. You can buy tickets online through the official website for the venue, call their phone line to make purchases over the phone, or visit the Carnegie Hall Box Office in person and get them there. Same-day rush tickets are only available for sale in person for sold-out Carnegie Hall Presents concerts.

What types of tours are available at Carnegie Hall?

Public and private tours of Carnegie Hall are available for people who wish to learn about this historic landmark and hear behind-the-scenes stories from performances past. Tickets for public tours are released weekly every Friday afternoon and can be booked in advance online. However, additional tickets are reserved for purchase at the Box Office.

Can I visit Carnegie Hall without attending a performance?

Yes, you can visit Carnegie Hall even if you don’t have a performance ticket. You can visit the Rose Museum at Carnegie Hall to see exhibits with items from the venue’s history. Alternatively, you can learn about the history of Carnegie Hall from a guide as you take a public or private tour of the building and its performance halls.

Is there a dress code for Carnegie Hall?

No, there is no mandated dress code for Carnegie Hall. The venue recommends that you dress however you feel comfortable and that casual or business outfits are perfectly acceptable. There is a coat check if you don’t wish to bring rainjackets or coats into the auditorium with you.

What is so special about Carnegie Hall?

Carnegie Hall is considered one of the most prestigious performance venues in the world and is celebrated for its acoustics and long history of hosting many of the finest performers in the world. It has hosted classical and popular music performances since 1891, with lauded names such as Tchaikovsky, Judy Garland, and the Beatles performing here.

Are bags allowed in Carnegie Hall?

Attendees and tour guests can generally bring small bags and handbags to Carnegie Hall. Large, bulky bags and luggage are not permitted inside the auditoriums and cannot be stowed at coat check, so you must store these items somewhere other than at the venue.

Ways to explore

The best way to experience Carnegie Hall is by attending a performance in one of its three venues—booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, as shows often sell out. If you’re not seeing a concert, a guided tour offers a fascinating look behind the scenes. Carnegie Hall is also a stop on many hop-on, hop-off bus routes, and is often included in multi-attraction passes. To explore midtown with ease, consider a pedicab or luxury golf cart tour—or opt for a vintage car tour for a more nostalgic experience.

Accessibility

All of the concert halls are wheelchair-accessible, with accessible restrooms and courtesy wheelchairs by reservation only.

Age limits

There are no age limits, but adults are asked to use discretion when bringing children.

What to pack

Contactless payment method, small bag

What to wear

There’s no strict dress code, so a comfortable, smart-casual outfit works, and closed-toe shoes and layers are a good idea.

Not allowed

Taking photos or videos during performances, oversized bags

Amenities

Restrooms, gift shop, café, museum

Address

Ask how to get to Carnegie Hall, and you may hear: “Practice, practice, practice.” Otherwise, take the subway, bus, or a taxi; some visitors also come here during hop-on, hop-off or guided walking tours. It’s on 57th Street and Seventh Avenue in Manhattan.

Driving

Driving to Carnegie Hall isn’t generally recommended due to midtown traffic and limited parking. Nearby options include Cityspire Garage, Impark on West 56th Street, and LAZ Parking on West 57th Street, all within a short walk of the venue.

Public transportation

By subway, take the N, Q, or R train to 57th Street/Seventh Avenue. Alternatively, take the F train to 57th Street/Sixth Avenue or the B, D, or E train to Seventh Avenue.

Best times to visit

Concerts are usually in the evening. Book ahead and arrive early to find your seat, get settled, and use the coat check if needed. For tours, aim for late morning if you can.

Best days to visit

Weekdays tend to be less crowded, making it easier to select good seats for your chosen show.

Best months to visit

The hall is great year-round, though the spring and early fall are particularly lovely times to visit New York.

Special events

Special events occur throughout the year, often starting each season with an Opening Night Gala featuring cocktail receptions and a black-tie affair. Be sure to check the events calendar before visiting.