Original Broadway poster of Roberta musical from 1933

New Amsterdam Theatre

New Amsterdam Theatre Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide

New York City Historical Sites
Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction: History, Significance, and Visitor Experience

Located at the very heart of Manhattan’s Theater District, the New Amsterdam Theatre is a dazzling testament to Broadway’s enduring legacy and one of the most significant architectural landmarks in New York City. Since its opening on October 26, 1903, the theatre has been celebrated for its exceptional Art Nouveau interiors, designed by Henry Beaumont Herts and Hugh Tallant, and for hosting legendary productions like the Ziegfeld Follies. Following a period of decline, the theatre was meticulously restored by The Walt Disney Company in the 1990s, reviving its original grandeur and securing its place as a cultural hub for modern audiences with hit shows like Aladdin (New Amsterdam Theatre Official Website; EverGreene; WhiteMAD).

From its pioneering use of steel framing to its symbolic decorative program charting New York’s growth, the New Amsterdam Theatre is more than a performance venue—it’s an immersive journey through the city’s theatrical and architectural history. Its proximity to Times Square, Bryant Park, and the New York Public Library further enriches the visitor experience.

This guide provides everything you need to plan your visit, including hours, ticketing, accessibility, travel tips, and details on special events and tours.

Discover the New Amsterdam Theatre: A Must-See Historical Gem
Visiting the New Amsterdam Theatre: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility
Historical Overview
Nearby Attractions and Dining
Special Events and Tours
FAQ
Plan Your Visit
Summary & Visitor Tips
References

Historical map of Manhattan's Bromley Plate 65 from 1930 featuring Wallack's Theatre on 42nd Street east of Eighth Avenue

Facade of the Candler Building at 224 West 42nd Street, New York City, with the New Amsterdam Theatre showing signage for the 1913 production Oh! Oh! Delphine

Vintage poster for the 1916 Midnight Frolic Ziegfeld Follies

West view of New Amsterdam Theater on 42nd Street in New York before renovation in 1985

New Amsterdam Theater on 42nd Street in New York City in 1905

New Amsterdam Theater on 42nd Street, New York City, 1905

Balcony floor plan of New Amsterdam Theatre in New York City as originally built in 1903

Interior of New Amsterdam Theatre showing novel arrangement of boxes in the auditorium

42nd Street entrance of the New Amsterdam Theatre

First floor plan of New Amsterdam Theatre in New York City as originally built in 1903

Main foyer of the New Amsterdam Theatre with art deco design

Interior foyer of the New Amsterdam Theatre with ornate decor and lighting

New Amsterdam Theatre main auditorium seating from stage, circa 1906

Still from 1924 American comedy film The Great White Way showing choreographer Ned Wayburn coaching Mabel in a dance rehearsal atop New Amsterdam Theatre NYC

Discover the New Amsterdam Theatre: A Must-See Historical Gem

Visiting the New Amsterdam Theatre is essential for anyone interested in Broadway, architecture, or New York’s storied past. Whether you attend a show or simply admire its Art Nouveau splendor, the theatre offers an unparalleled combination of artistry, history, and entertainment.

Visiting the New Amsterdam Theatre: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility

Visiting Hours:
The theatre opens one hour before each performance and closes shortly after the show ends. Guided tours and special event hours may vary; always check the official website or box office for the most current information.

Tickets:
Purchase tickets online via official platforms such as Aladdin the Musical, at the box office, or through authorized vendors like Ticketmaster. Prices depend on the show, seat location, and performance date. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular performances.

Accessibility:
The New Amsterdam Theatre is fully accessible, featuring step-free entry, elevators, wheelchair and companion seating, accessible restrooms, and assisted listening devices. Service animals are welcome. For accessible seating, contact the box office at 212-282-2900 (Aladdin the Musical).

Travel Tips:

Public Transit: Times Square–42nd Street Station serves multiple subway lines (1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W, A, C, E). Numerous bus routes also stop nearby.
Parking: Paid garages are available; pre-booking is advised due to limited street parking.
Arrival: Arrive 30–45 minutes before curtain to pass through security and find your seat.

Historical Overview

Origins and Development

The New Amsterdam Theatre was commissioned by Marc Klaw and A.L. Erlanger as part of the northward migration of New York’s theatre district. Its debut production, Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, set a precedent for artistic excellence (Classic New York History).

Architectural Significance

Standing out in the Broadway district, the New Amsterdam’s facade blends Beaux-Arts grandeur with Art Nouveau details. The use of gray limestone, red brick, and a triple-height segmented arch creates a dramatic street presence. An 11-story office tower above the theatre highlights its pioneering structural steel frame (Loving New York; Wikipedia).

Inside, the theatre boasts one of America’s most complete Art Nouveau interiors, featuring flowing lines, organic motifs, and elaborate decorative schemes. Murals and reliefs in the lobby and auditorium celebrate Shakespearean plays, Wagner’s operas, and New York’s transformation from Dutch colony to global metropolis (EverGreene; WhiteMAD).

The Aerial Gardens Rooftop Theater

Opened in 1904, the Aerial Gardens provided a unique rooftop venue for summer performances. Scenic designer Joseph Urban’s 1915 renovation enhanced its whimsical appeal.

The Ziegfeld Follies Era

From 1913 to 1927, the theatre became synonymous with Florenz Ziegfeld’s Follies, featuring luminaries like Fred Astaire and Fanny Brice.

Cinema Transition and Decline

The theatre shifted to cinema in 1937 and closed in 1985, reflecting Times Square’s broader decline.

Disney’s Restoration and Revival

The Walt Disney Company led a painstaking restoration from 1995 to 1997, reviving original marble, terracotta, and mirrored features. Its reopening with The Lion King sparked a new era, and it remains home to hit productions like Aladdin (EverGreene).

Nearby Attractions and Dining

Attractions:

Times Square
Bryant Park
New York Public Library
Madame Tussauds

Dining:

Carmine’s: Family-style Italian
Junior’s: Famous cheesecake
The Modern: Upscale American cuisine

Special Events and Tours

The New Amsterdam Theatre occasionally offers guided tours and special events highlighting its rich history and architecture. Tours are most often available during Broadway Week or special cultural festivals. For up-to-date offerings, check the official website.

FAQ

Q: What are the theatre’s opening hours?
A: Box office is open Monday–Friday 9:00 AM–8:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM–8:00 PM, Sunday 10:00 AM–6:30 PM. Showtimes vary—see the official schedule.

Q: How do I purchase tickets?
A: Buy tickets online, at the box office, or via authorized sellers. Group rates are available.

Q: Is the theatre accessible?
A: Yes, the theatre offers step-free access, elevators, accessible seating, restrooms, and assistive services.

Q: Are children allowed?
A: Yes; every guest requires a ticket. The recommended minimum age for Aladdin is 6.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, especially during special events. Check the official website for current tour offerings.

Plan Your Visit

Address: 214 W 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036 (Google Maps)
Box Office Phone: 212-282-2900
Official Website: New Amsterdam Theatre
Show Information: Aladdin Musical

Visitor Tips

Book tickets early for best availability.
Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to showtime.
Use public transportation for convenience.
Explore nearby attractions for a full Midtown experience.
Check health and safety guidelines before your visit.

Summary & Visitor Tips

The New Amsterdam Theatre is more than a stage for Broadway shows—it is a monument to New York City’s cultural evolution and architectural innovation. From the Beaux-Arts facade to the Art Nouveau interiors and its pioneering technological features, every detail tells the story of Broadway’s golden age and its vibrant revival. Visitors enjoy seamless accessibility, a variety of ticketing options, and proximity to iconic New York attractions.

For the best experience:

Purchase tickets in advance.
Review the show schedule.
Utilize public transit.
Explore guided tours and special events.
Use the Audiala app for updates and exclusive offers.

Whether you’re attending a performance, admiring the architecture, or exploring NYC’s historical sites, the New Amsterdam Theatre is an unmissable destination (New Amsterdam Theatre Official Website; Classic New York History).