If you’re visiting New York City and want to see a Broadway or Off-Broadway show without breaking the bank, the TKTS Booth is your best friend. Known for offering same-day discounted tickets (up to 50% off), a TKTS Booth Tour teaches you how to navigate the system, avoid lines, and score great seats — all while soaking in the theater culture of Times Square.
Here’s your full guide to a TKTS Booth Tour in NYC! 🎭🗽✨
📍 What Is the TKTS Booth?
The TKTS Booth is operated by the Theatre Development Fund (TDF) and offers same-day discounted tickets to:
- 🎭 Broadway shows
- 🎭 Off-Broadway performances
- 🎶 Plays, musicals, and some special events
🎟️ Discounts are typically 30–50% off regular ticket prices.
📌 Where Are the TKTS Booth Locations?
✅ 1. Times Square (Main Booth)
📍 Duffy Square – 47th St. & Broadway
🪜 Famous for the red steps above the booth
🕒 Hours:
- Mon–Sat: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM (evening shows)
- Wed & Sat: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (matinees)
- Sun: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
✅ 2. Lincoln Center Booth
📍 David Rubenstein Atrium at 62nd & Broadway
🕒 More low-key location with shorter lines
⏰ Open: Tuesday–Saturday, 11:00 AM–6:00 PM
✅ 3. South Street Seaport Booth (Lower Manhattan)
📍 Front & John Streets
⏰ Seasonal hours — check tdf.org for updates
🗺️ TKTS Booth Tour – What You’ll Learn
- ✅ How the booth works and what’s available
- 📲 How to check the digital board or TDF app for show listings
- 🎭 Insider tips on show popularity, seating, and best times to go
- 📸 History of the red steps, a Broadway icon in themselves!
❓ TKTS Booth Tour – FAQ
1️⃣ Do I need to book a tour to use TKTS?
❌ No tour required — you can walk up anytime during open hours.
📍 But guided walking tours of the Theater District often include a TKTS stop, explaining how to use it.
2️⃣ What kind of discounts can I get?
💰 Discounts range from 30% to 50% off the full price
🎟️ Prices vary by show, day, and availability
3️⃣ Which shows are available?
📋 Inventory changes daily and hourly
❌ Some blockbuster shows (Hamilton, The Lion King) may not be available
✅ But many great musicals and plays often are, including:
- Chicago
- Hadestown
- MJ the Musical
- Moulin Rouge!
4️⃣ How do I know what’s playing today?
📱 Download the TKTS app or check the digital board at the booth for real-time updates
5️⃣ Can I choose my seats?
🪑 You’ll be offered best available seats at the time of purchase
✅ Seating quality varies — but usually excellent for the price
6️⃣ How early should I arrive?
⏰ For best options:
- Arrive 30–60 minutes before opening, especially on weekends
- Shorter lines on rainy days or weekdays
7️⃣ Can I use a credit card?
✅ Yes — TKTS accepts major credit cards and cash
8️⃣ Is the red steps area just for tickets?
🪜 No! The red steps are a public space — open to everyone
📸 Great for photos, people-watching, and taking in Times Square
✅ Bonus Tips
- 🎭 Pair your TKTS visit with a Theater District walking tour
- 🧁 Grab a cookie at Schmackary’s or a snack at Junior’s nearby
- 📱 Sign up for TDF e-news for updates and tips
- 👟 Wear comfy shoes — the line can stretch, but it moves quickly!
🎟 Want help choosing a show, finding the best time to visit TKTS, or pairing your experience with a Broadway Tour?
Let me know! I’ll help you plan an unforgettable night in the glow of Times Square, with the thrill of live theater and a deal you’ll love 🎭🗽💡
🎟️ TKTS Booth Tour – FAQ
The TKTS Booth is a legendary part of the New York City theater experience, offering same-day discounted tickets to Broadway and Off-Broadway shows. Whether you’re planning a spontaneous night out or want to learn how it all works, this TKTS Booth Tour FAQ has you covered! 🎭🗽✨
1️⃣ What is the TKTS Booth?
The TKTS Booth (run by the Theatre Development Fund) offers:
- 🎟️ Same-day discounted tickets
- 💰 Savings of 30–50% off regular prices
- 🏙️ Access to top Broadway and Off-Broadway shows
2️⃣ Where is the main TKTS Booth located?
📍 Times Square – Duffy Square
- 47th Street & Broadway
- Under the famous red steps
🕒 Hours:
- Mon–Sat: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM (evening shows)
- Wed & Sat: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (matinees)
- Sun: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
3️⃣ Are there other TKTS locations?
Yes! Two additional booths:
- ✅ Lincoln Center (David Rubenstein Atrium)
📍 62nd & Broadway | Quieter & indoors - ✅ South Street Seaport (Lower Manhattan)
📍 Front & John Streets | Seasonal hours
4️⃣ How much can I save?
💵 Most tickets are 30–50% off
Prices vary by show, seating, and availability
5️⃣ Which shows are available?
🎭 The lineup changes daily — but typically includes:
- Chicago
- Hadestown
- MJ the Musical
- Moulin Rouge!
📱 Download the TKTS app or check the digital board in Times Square for real-time updates
6️⃣ Do TKTS tickets include the big-name shows?
🔍 Sometimes. Blockbusters like Hamilton or The Lion King are rarely discounted
✅ Many popular shows are offered, especially classic musicals and plays
7️⃣ Can I pick my seat?
🪑 You can’t choose exact seats, but TKTS offers best available at the time of purchase
🎟️ Seats are often very good, especially for the price
8️⃣ How early should I arrive?
⏰ For best selection:
- Arrive 30–60 minutes before the booth opens
- Weekdays = shorter lines
- Rainy days = less crowded
9️⃣ What do I need to bring?
- ✅ Valid ID (recommended)
- 💳 Credit/debit card or cash
- 🎒 Small bag (Times Square has security checks nearby)
🔟 Do I need a guided tour to use TKTS?
❌ No — the booth is open to the public
🗺️ However, Broadway walking tours often include a TKTS stop to explain how it works, the history, and insider tips
✅ Bonus Tips
- 📱 Use the TKTS app for up-to-date show listings before heading to the booth
- 📸 The red steps above the Times Square booth are a great photo op
- 🍪 While waiting, grab a snack at Schmackary’s or people-watch in Times Square
- 🎭 Pair your ticket with a Broadway Shows Tour for a full theater day
🎟 Need help picking a show, understanding the booth schedule, or creating a full Broadway itinerary?
Let me know! I’ll help you navigate the lights, the lines, and the legends of Broadway like a pro 🎭✨🗽
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