Palace Theatre

The Basics

The best way to experience the Palace Theatre is by seeing a show. Most visitors prebook tickets to secure seats or stop by the nearby TKTS booth to see if same-day show tickets are available. If you're not visiting the theater for a show, you can always pass by on a Theater District tour. Private tours are a great way to hear classic Broadway stories and see the city's landmark houses.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Leave the luggage at home—if your bag can't fit easily with you at your seat, it won't be allowed in the theater.

• Make sure to arrive on time, since latecomers are seated at the back of the theater, at the discretion of management.

• The theater offers wheelchair seating in the orchestra, rear mezzanine, and balcony sections; companion seats are available.

• Refreshments are offered at the theater, at bars on the main lobby, mezzanine, and balcony levels.

How to Get There

The most convenient way to get to the theater is by subway. Take the N, R, Q, or W train to the 49th Street station, or the B, D, or F train to the 47th–50th Streets Rockefeller Center station. Find the theater a short walk from either subway stop, at 1564 Broadway, just north of Times Square.

When to Get There

As with most Broadway theaters, the Palace Theatre stages multiple shows weekly and is typically dark one day each week. If you're visiting for a show, make sure to arrive early to pick up your tickets and grab a drink before the performance. Expect more ticket availability earlier in the week—since weekend performances are most popular—and during New York's slowest season for visitors, from January through March.

What to See Around Broadway

Since the Theater District is packed with must-see attractions, you can make the most of your visit to the Palace Theatre by exploring Broadway. Let your feet lead the way as you pass dozens of landmark theaters. Be sure to stroll through the heart of Times Square—at the intersection of Seventh Avenue and Broadway—and stop at the historic New York Public Library, located on bustling 42nd Street.

How early should I get to the Palace Theatre?

It’s a good idea to come early—you need plenty of time to clear the metal detector and security screening. Doors at the Palace Theatre generally open around one hour before the performance starts. Coming early also leaves time to check out the theater’s beaux-arts interior, plasterwork, and elegant lobby.

How much do tickets to the Palace Theatre usually cost?

Broadway tickets at the Palace Theatre range by show and seating options, but tickets often cost hundreds of US dollars, especially for great seats. Discounted ticket types like standing room and rush tickets may be available—students can sometimes get discounts, too.

What is the cheapest day of the week to see a show at the Palace Theatre?

The cheapest Palace Theatre shows tend to be weekday matinees, so budget-minded theater fans should look for afternoon tickets on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Other money-saving strategies include same-day tickets, standing room–only tickets, and in-person ticket lotteries.

What is the dress code for a show at the Palace Theatre in New York City?

Come as you are: There’s no dress code at the Palace Theatre. Theatergoers here wear everything from casual garb to evening dress, with one major exception—opening nights. Those are big events for performers and audiences alike. For many attendees, dressing up is part of the fun.

What has played at the Palace Theatre in New York?

The Palace Theatre has a star-studded history. Since 1913, the Broadway theater has hosted some big names and big shows: Lauren Bacall played in Applause and Woman of the Year, George Hearn starred in La Cage aux Folles, and Richard Kiley appeared as Don Quixote in Man of La Mancha.

How many Broadway theaters are there in New York?

There are more than 40 Broadway theaters operating in New York City, but that number fluctuates. To count as a “Broadway theater,” a venue must generally have more than 500 seats and a Manhattan location between 41st and 54th streets, and between Sixth and Eighth avenues.

Ways to explore

The best way to experience the Palace Theatre is to see a show. Reserve tickets in advance for the best seat selection and prices, or if your schedule is flexible and you want to take a chance, you can book same-day rush tickets at a fraction of the price.

If you’re not visiting the theater for a show, you can always pass by on a Theatre District tour. These walking tours are a great way to hear classic Broadway stories and see the city’s landmark houses. You might also pass by the theater on tours of Midtown Manhattan and Times Square or as part of a hop-on hop-off bus tour.

Accessibility

The theater offers wheelchair-accessible seating and assistive listening devices; companion seating is available.

Age limits

Children under age 5 are not allowed inside the venue.

What to pack

Pack light to breeze through security, only bringing essentials.

What to wear

There’s no dress code, so dress up or down to your comfort level. Bring a light layer, as the theater can get chilly.

Not allowed

Outside food and beverages, smoking, large bags and luggage

Amenities

Restrooms, concessions

Address

Palace Theatre is located near the center of the action in Midtown Manhattan, just a few blocks north of Times Square. It’s easy to access from throughout the city by taxi or public transit.

Driving

Driving in crowded Midtown Manhattan is often more stressful than it’s worth. If you do drive, use a parking app like SpotHero to reserve parking in advance.

Public transportation

The subway is the easiest way to get to the Palace Theatre. It’s roughly a 5-minute walk from Times Sq 42 St (N, Q, R, W, 1, 2, 3, 7) and a 10-minute walk from 42 St-Port Authority Bus Terminal (A, C, E).

Best times to visit

Afternoon matinees typically have smaller audiences and more kid-friendly crowds. Arrive at least 15 minutes before curtain call to get settled.

Best days to visit

Expect more ticket availability earlier in the week, as weekend performances are generally more popular.

Best months to visit

Visit during New York City’s shoulder seasons in late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October) for the best weather and least competition for tickets.

Special events

For the best deal on tickets, visit during Broadway Week to score 2-for-1 promotions to some of the season’s biggest shows.