White Plains Performing Arts Center

The Basics

One of the most celebrated performance spaces in Westchester, WPPAC draws plenty of patrons for its self-produced and professional productions that span genres. The best way to experience WPPAC is to see a live performance. Since many shows have limited runs, buy tickets in advance to ensure you get seats. The center also offers numerous youth acting programs, including one-day workshops—check the WPPAC website for details.

Things to Know Before You Go

• A WPPAC mainstage production, many of which feature actors from Broadway, is a must for theater lovers.

• Dine before the show in downtown White Plains, at one of several restaurants within walking distance of WPPAC.

• Theater doors open 30 minutes before the show.

How to Get There

The Metro-North Railroad is your best option for visiting WPPAC, if you don’t have a car. Travel time is about an hour on the Harlem Line, from Grand Central Terminal in New York City to the White Plains station. If you don’t mind some traffic, driving is also a good option. The performing arts center is located off Route 22, on Martine Avenue. Park on level 5 in the municipal parking lot.

When to Get There

Arrive early for a performance, so you have enough time to pick up your tickets at the theater box office. Expect more traffic—and crowding on the train—during peak commuting hours, so add a buffer to your travel time before an evening show. For fewer crowds, opt for a weekday matinee.

Visiting the Bronx Zoo

The Bronx Zoo is a world-renowned New York attraction, and since it’s on the same Metro-North line as WPPAC, you can make a day of it: stop by the zoo in the afternoon, then enjoy an evening performance in White Plains. Don’t miss the giant cats in the African Plains exhibit, and the colorful insects in the Bug Carousel. Save time by hopping aboard the Zoo Shuttle, which transports visitors around the park.

Ways to explore

The White Plains Performing Arts Center hosts a mix of professional-level productions, including self-produced Broadway-style musicals, national touring acts, comedy shows, and family entertainment. Tickets can be purchased online or through the box office, and group reservations are available.

Before or after your show, take advantage of the venue’s convenient location inside City Center, where you’ll find restaurants, stores, and parking. While WPPAC doesn’t offer tours or backstage experiences, sometimes it hosts community events and post-show discussions, so check the theater calendar.

Accessibility

On the third floor, the theater is fully accessible via elevator and walkway from the street. Accessible seating is available; contact the box office in advance for special accommodations. The balcony is only accessible by stairs.

Age limits

All ages are welcome, but some productions feature mature content. Suggested age guidelines are provided when possible; parental discretion is advised.

What to pack

Small bags with essentials only

What to wear

Smart-casual attire; dress in layers for indoor comfort

Not allowed

Photography, professional recording equipment, large umbrellas (check venue signage)

Amenities

Coat check, concessions (snacks, soft drinks, beer, and wine, all permitted at your seat), water fountains, restrooms by the box office

Address

The White Plains Performing Arts Center is on the third floor of City Center, at City Place in downtown White Plains. It’s easily accessible by car, train, and bus, making it a convenient destination for regional and NYC–area audiences.

Driving

Take I‑287 to Exit 6 (NY‑22 South) toward downtown White Plains. Continue through nine stoplights, turn right onto Martine Avenue, and enter the City Center municipal garage on Level 5. Walk across the enclosed pedestrian walkway to reach the theater.

Public transportation

Take Metro‑North’s Harlem Line from Grand Central to White Plains Station, then a quick taxi or rideshare (5 minutes) or a Bee‑Line Bus right to City Center. Bee‑Line routes including the 1, 11, and other downtown lines stop near City Center; from the City Center/City Place stop, walk southeast a few minutes to the theater entrance.

Best times to visit

Most performances begin in the evening, so check your ticket for showtime and arrival info. The lobby doors open about 30 minutes before curtain, giving you time to settle in without rushing.

Best days to visit

Shows take place throughout the week, with slightly lighter attendance on weekday evenings (Tuesday–Thursday). Weekend performances tend to draw larger crowds.

Best months to visit

During the spring and fall, the theater features regional premieres and Broadway-style productions. These months typically offer the widest variety of shows and best ticket availability.