NYC Broadway Tour: Backstage Stories & Theater Secrets

New York City , United States of America

NYC Broadway Tour: Backstage Stories & Theater Secrets

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(118 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore Broadway’s legendary past and its hidden backstage world. Walk through iconic theatres and learn how Broadway rose from vaudeville to global fame. Step inside a real rehearsal studio and discover the performers, crew, and creatives who bring the magic to life. This isn’t just a tour—it’s a tribute to the soul of Broadway.

Available options

Private Tour

Small Group Tour

What's included

Visit a working rehearsal studio and catch a glimpse of live classes or rehearsals (when available)

Discover the history and hidden stories of iconic Broadway theaters

Guided walking tour of Times Square and the Broadway Theater District

Experience the buzz and bright lights of Times Square

Explore Off-Broadway venues in a vibrant NYC neighborhood

Hear insider tales, theater traditions, and Broadway legends from a local expert

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Start in Times Square and explore iconic theaters with your local guide, hearing the stories behind Broadway’s most legendary shows.

Just a stone's throw away from Times Square lies the lesser-known Duffy Square. This is where the TKTS Booth is located, and where hundreds of people enter daily ticket lotteries, making it an essential part of the Broadway experience for the public!

Stop 3

Broadway is everything you could imagine - bright lights, colorful posters, marquees adorned with your favorite performers' names, and historic, iconic theaters. This is where fame is made, hits are born, and creativity thrives! On this tour, we'll walk down Broadway, while your guide provides you with the historical background of the theaters you pass by and the productions that have graced the avenue over the years.

Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Richard Rodgers Theatre, named after the famous composer of musicals, such as ‘Oklahoma!’, ‘The Sound of Music’, ‘The King and I’, and ‘South Pacific’. Since 2015, it has been the home of Lin Manuel Miranda's critically acclaimed musical ‘Hamilton’.

Stop 5 Pass by

Listen out for the music of the night as you stroll by one of the largest theatres on the strip. The Majestic Theatre has a rich history, hosting productions like ‘The Music Man,’ ‘Camelot,’ and ‘The Wiz.’

Stop 6 Pass by

This theatre, open since 1913, has been a staple on Broadway and has hosted the Tony Awards over the years. It boasts a history of productions, plays, and famous performers.

This theatre company specialises in developing writer-focused plays and productions. With a history of captivating audiences with engaging characters, the theatre is known for the Tony Award-winning musical ‘Dear Evan Hansen’.

This collection of theatres operates as a hub for up-and-coming theatre companies, offering everything from rehearsal space to tech support.

This venue plays host to more plays than musicals, and has showcased Pulitzer Prize winners Driving Miss Daisy and The Flick.

Visit a working rehearsal studio and gain insight into the performers, choreographers, and crew who bring Broadway to life—often unseen, but essential to every show.

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

25 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

93 reviews

5★

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Does this tour run in all weather conditions? The tour operates year-round and will proceed rain or shine, unless weather conditions are deemed unsafe.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible? Accessibility may vary depending on the route and studio availability. Please reach out ahead of time to confirm specific needs.

What should I wear for the tour? Please dress comfortably and casually in weather-appropriate attire. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes suitable for walking.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels? The tour involves moderate walking and is suitable for most fitness levels. If you have mobility concerns, please contact us in advance.

Will we go inside any theaters or rehearsal spaces? When available, the tour includes a visit to a working rehearsal studio where you may observe live classes or rehearsals.

Is this tour child-friendly? This is a child-friendly experience. Children under the age of 6 may join free of charge when accompanied by a paying adult.

Meeting point

Your tour will meet in front of the Father Duffy Statue - Father Duffy Square, 200 W. 47th St., New York, NY 10036

Important notes

Additional Information
In the event of a site closure, we will do our best to replace it with a similar alternative.
The included visit to a rehearsal studio requires climbing 3 flights of stairs with no available elevator. Please be prepared for this, as opting out and waiting for the group outside will impact your tour experience.

Child Policy
Please inform us if you’ll be bringing a child under the age of 6.

Dress Standards
Comfortable shoes for walking are recommended.

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About New York City

New York City, often referred to as the cultural capital of the world, is a sprawling metropolis that never sleeps. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, Broadway shows, and diverse neighborhoods, NYC offers an unparalleled urban experience that blends the historic with the modern.

Top Attractions

Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and democracy, the Statue of Liberty is a must-visit. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for close-up views and a visit to the museum.

Historical 3-4 hours $18.50 (grounds access), $21.70 (pedestal access), $24.10 (crown access)

Central Park

A vast urban park offering a green escape in the heart of the city. Enjoy walking paths, boat rentals, and various attractions.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (some attractions have fees)

Times Square

The bustling heart of NYC, known for its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Entertainment 1-2 hours Free (shows and shopping have separate costs)

Empire State Building

An iconic Art Deco skyscraper offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours $44 (Main Deck), $74 (Top Deck)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing over 2 million works of art.

Museum 3-5 hours $25 (suggested admission)

Brooklyn Bridge

An iconic suspension bridge offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

New York-style Pizza

Thin-crust pizza with a wide, foldable slice. Toppings vary but often include pepperoni, mushrooms, and sausage.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Bagel with Lox

A classic NYC breakfast consisting of a toasted bagel topped with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and often capers or red onion.

Breakfast Contains dairy and fish.

Cheesecake

Creamy, rich cheesecake, often served with fruit toppings or chocolate sauce.

Dessert Contains dairy.

Pastrami on Rye

Thinly sliced pastrami piled high on rye bread, often served with mustard.

Lunch Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Central Park Kayaking in the Hudson River Rock climbing in the Bronx Spas and wellness centers Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through botanical gardens Museum visits Broadway shows

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions in full swing. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Russian, Hindi
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) / EDT (GMT-4) (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

NYC is generally safe, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air

John F. Kennedy International Airport • 24 km (15 miles) from downtown
LaGuardia Airport • 13 km (8 miles) from downtown

By train

Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal

By bus

Port Authority Bus Terminal, Greyhound Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is the most efficient way to get around NYC. It operates 24/7 but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Manhattan Brooklyn Queens Bronx Staten Island

Day trips

Niagara Falls

650 km (400 miles) • Overnight

A breathtaking natural wonder featuring three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Washington D.C.

370 km (230 miles) • Full day

The capital of the United States, offering iconic landmarks, museums, and government buildings.

Philadelphia

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

A historic city known for its role in the American Revolution and its vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

New Year's Eve in Times Square • December 31 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade • Fourth Thursday in November NYC Pride • Late June

Pro tips

Use a MetroCard for easy and discounted subway and bus rides
Walk as much as possible to explore the city and its neighborhoods
Try street food for a quick and delicious meal on the go
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper for real-time navigation and transit information