Winter Garden Theatre

The Basics

The Winter Garden Theatre seats 1,498 on two levels. It was converted to a theater in 1911 by the Shubert Brothers, in a venue designed by William Albert Swasey to resemble an English garden. It was remodeled in the 1920s by famed Broadway architect Herbert J. Krapp and again after Cats closed in 2001. The larger-than-usual stage allows you to get closer to the action.

Although you need tickets to a show to fully experience the theater, you can admire this Broadway gem from outside on a Times Square tour or a tour of the Theater District.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Children under the age of 4 are not allowed inside the theater.

• Cell phones, cameras, recording devices, and other electronic devices cannot be used during performances.

• Outside food and drinks are not permitted.

• There are no escalators or elevators in the theater.

• Assistive devices for hard of hearing and visually impaired guests are available.

• The theater is not fully wheelchair accessible, but there are designated wheelchair areas.

How to Get There

The Winter Garden Theatre is located on Broadway, between West 50th and 51st streets. By subway, take the C or E to 50th Street; 1 to 50th Street; or N, Q, R, or W to 49th Street.

When to Get There

The theater’s box office hours depends on the show, but it is typically open from 10am to 8pm Mondays through Saturdays, and 10am to 6pm on Sundays. It’s best to arrive early as there may be lines for the box office, coatroom, or concessions. Latecomers are seated at the theater’s discretion.

Winter Garden Theatre History

The Winter Garden Theatre has been part of the Shubert Organization longer than any other theater. Originally built by William K. Vanderbilt in 1896 to be the second American Horse Exchange, the theater has been converted into a movie house twice and undergone several major renovations. From 2002 to 2007, the theater was known as the Cadillac Winter Garden.

Ways to explore

The Winter Garden Theatre seats approximately 1,500 patrons across two levels. In 1911, it was converted into a theater by the Shubert Brothers, and it was designed by William Albert Swasey to resemble an English garden—hence the name. It was remodeled in the 1920s by famed Broadway architect Herbert J. Krapp and again after Cats closed in 2001. The larger-than-usual stage allows patrons to get closer to the action.

Although you need tickets to a show to fully experience the theater’s interior, you can admire its exterior on tours of Times Square or the Theater District.

Accessibility

The theater is partially wheelchair accessible, with wheelchair and companion seating located in the orchestra section. Assistive listening and closed captioning devices are available for deaf and hearing-impaired guests. There is a wheelchair accessible restroom.

Age limits

Children under the age of 4 are not permitted in the theater. Some shows have age restrictions or guidance, so check before booking.

What to pack

Water bottle, card or cash to purchase snacks or memorabilia

What to wear

Smart casual attire and pack a light sweater, as the theatre is air conditioned and can feel cool.

Not allowed

Video or audio recording, photography, outside food and drinks

Amenities

Restrooms, concessions, water fountain, air conditioning, coat check

Address

The Winter Garden Theatre is located on Broadway, between West 50th and 51st streets. It is easily accessible by subway lines and bus routes. Taxis are readily available in the area, as are rideshare services.

Driving

There are many parking garages in the Theater District; the nearest parking lots are Icon Parking and Central Parking. It is also easy to get a taxi or a rideshare to the theater.

Public transportation

The theater is easily accessible by subway and bus. By subway, take the C or E to 50th Street, 1 to 50th Street, or N, Q, R, or W to 49th Street. The nearest bus stops are Seventh Avenue/West 50th Street (M7, M20 lines) and Eighth Avenue/West 50th Street (M104 line).

Best times to visit

Evening shows are typically at 7pm, and matinees are at 1pm or 2pm. Plan to arrive around 30 minutes before showtime to find your seats, buy snacks, and admire the theater’s interior.

Best days to visit

Shows are typically on Tuesday through Saturday evenings, plus matinees on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Check the schedule for current availability.

Best months to visit

January through March tend to boast the best availability for shows.

Special events

The theater often hosts limited-run productions.