A Broadway show is a must when vacationing in New York City and you’ll be happy to know that all of the New York City Hilton Club properties are within walking distance of the theater district. High ticket prices can be a barrier. While it requires planning and luck, there are options other than paying full retail price.
First, at least a week before you plan to attend a show, check playbill.com’s list of lotteries and rush tickets, also known as day‑of tickets. Broadway ticket lotteries are random drawings that allow theatergoers to purchase a limited number of discounted tickets for specific performances, and Playbill provides the most complete overview of participating shows and discounts. Second, be flexible. These methods usually list only a general seating section, with exact seats assigned after purchase.
During our last trip in May, my son and I entered lotteries for seven shows. We won the discount lotteries for “Gypsy,” “The Play That Goes Wrong” and “Hadestown.” They all had great seats, strong performances and tickets heavily discounted from full price. The highest price we paid was $65 for “Gypsy” — we enjoyed a phenomenal performance by Broadway legend Audra McDonald.
Top Broadway Ticket Lotteries
Most lotteries and discount purchases are limited to two tickets. If there are multiple members of your party, everyone should enter. You can always turn down the tickets if you win too many. You usually donot know exactly where you are sitting until you pay for the lottery.
Create an account and track when to enter by show. Winners are usually announced the day before the show.
Create an account and check what’s available. Their lotteries can run up to a week before the show.
TodayTix, a downloadable app, has a limited selection of lotteries along with discount and rush tickets.
Additional Broadway Ticket Lotteries
Some shows run their own lotteries. For example, the “Hamilton” lottery requires downloading the show-specific app. But “Hamilton” tickets are $10 each if you win front-row seats, so it’s worth entering even if the odds of winning are long.
Where To Find Discount Broadway Tickets
Today Tix
Review the TodayTix app the day before the show to see which productions offer rush tickets and are available for purchase. Open the app at 9 a.m. sharp and have quick fingers. I've had excellent success with this method. The tickets vary in price but they’re generally half off full retail price.
Some theater box offices will sell tickets in person on the day of the show. The Playbill list will tell you which ones. This method can entail standing in line and getting a ticket is not a given. I recommend arriving about an hour early.
TKTS Booth
The TKTS Booth in Times Square is great if you’re willing to wait in line. Tickets tend to be half-price. There is an app that lists the available shows. A printed list is also posted on the theater windows the day of the show. As a bonus, if you’re new to New York City, the line is a great place to people-watch.
This app is a third-party discount reseller, so prices vary widely. Once you download the app, you can set alerts for individual shows and check availability. All purchases are handled via the app, and it is recommended by theater nerds.
StubHub has deals available, especially last minute. I paid $80 for a seat to “The Lion King” about noon on the day of show last fall. Like with the Theatr app, prices will vary from show to show and day to day.
All this organization will take patience and organization but the rewards are excellent.
Key Takeaways
Save on Broadway Tickets With Smart Planning: You can secure seats without paying full price. Start by checking playbill.com’s list of lotteries and rush tickets about a week before your desired show date.for exploring the Austrian Alps, Hallstatt and Dachstein Mountain.
A rental car offers the most flexibility: for alpine villages, lakes and scenic viewpoints.
Know Ticket Lottery Platforms: Create accounts on Telecharge, Luckyseat and TodayTix to stay informed about upcoming lotteries and available shows.
Try in-Person Rush at Box Offices: Some theaters offer same-day tickets at the box office, but it may require waiting in line. Arrive about an hour early for the best shot at getting seats.
Patience Pays Off: Staying organized and persistent in your search for Broadway tickets can lead to excellent rewards and unforgettable theater experiences.
FAQs
Q: Are all Hilton Club properties in New York City close to the theater district?
A: All New York City Hilton Club properties are within walking distance of the theater district, making it convenient for Guests to see a Broadway show during their stay.
Q: How far is Hallstatt from Schladming?
A: Hallstatt is about a 1.5-hour drive from Schladming, depending on traffic and route.
Q: What is a Broadway ticket lottery?
A: A Broadway ticket lottery offers a chance to win the opportunity to purchase show tickets at a discounted price, usually limited to two tickets per winner.
Q: What time should I try to buy rush tickets on the TodayTix app?
A: Open the TodayTix app at 9 a.m. sharp on the day before the show you want to attend and be ready to purchase quickly, as these tickets are limited and in high demand.
Q: Are there other apps or websites for Broadway discounts?
A: In addition to TodayTix, you can try the Theatr app, which allows alerts for favorite shows and discount offers, and StubHub, which often has last-minute deals.
