Palladium Times Square

Palladium Times Square New York City: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Palladium Times Square is a central fixture in New York City’s live entertainment scene. Located at 1515 Broadway, in the heart of Times Square, this iconic venue fuses historical legacy with state-of-the-art amenities, making it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. From its origins as the Loews Astor Plaza Theatre to its current role as a diverse events hub, Palladium offers unforgettable experiences—whether you’re attending a high-energy concert, a comedy show, or a private event. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know before your visit, including history, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, transportation tips, and nearby attractions.

For the latest updates and event schedules, consult the official Palladium Times Square website. For a broader understanding of the neighborhood’s cultural significance, explore resources from the Times Square Alliance.

Introduction and Overview
History and Cultural Significance
Visiting Information
Venue Features and Experience
Special Events and Programming
Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Call to Action
References

History and Cultural Significance

Origins and Early Development

Times Square, originally known as Longacre Square, transitioned from a carriage district into a world-renowned entertainment hub (Times Square Alliance). The venue at 1515 Broadway first gained fame as the Loews Astor Plaza Theatre, which opened on June 26, 1974. Built three stories below street level, it was a pioneering underground movie palace that featured a 1,440-seat auditorium and cutting-edge projection and sound technology for its time (Cinema Treasures).

The Astor Plaza Era (1974–2004)

For three decades, the Astor Plaza Theatre hosted blockbuster premieres, including “Star Wars,” “Superman,” and “The Matrix.” Its unique escalator entrance and vibrant interior became legendary among moviegoers. When the movie theater closed in 2004, it marked the end of a cinematic era but paved the way for new forms of entertainment (NYPL Blog).

Transformation into a Live Performance Venue

In 2005, the venue was reimagined as a live events space by renowned architect David Rockwell, reopening as Nokia Theatre Times Square. Over the years, its names changed—Best Buy Theater, PlayStation Theater, and ultimately Palladium Times Square in 2021—each era expanding on its legacy with live music, comedy, and special events (Cinema Treasures).

Cultural Impact

Today, Palladium Times Square hosts a broad spectrum of performances, from international music acts and comedy to community festivals and private galas. Its design delivers both intimacy and spectacle, underscoring its vital role in Times Square’s ongoing cultural renaissance (Palladium Times Square Events).

Visiting Information

Visiting Hours

Palladium Times Square operates on an event-based schedule and does not have standard daily opening hours. Doors typically open 60–90 minutes before each event. Always check the official event calendar for current dates and times.

Tickets and Pricing

Tickets are available online through the Palladium Times Square website, Ticketmaster, and other authorized platforms. Prices generally range from $30 for general admission to over $150 for premium seating, depending on the event and seat selection. Advance purchase is strongly recommended, as popular events frequently sell out.

Accessibility

The venue is fully accessible, offering wheelchair-friendly entrances, elevators, designated seating, and accessible restrooms. For specific accommodations, contact the box office in advance (Times Square NYC Accessibility).

Getting There

Located at the intersection of Broadway and 44th Street, Palladium Times Square is easily accessed via public transportation:

Subway: N, Q, R, W, 1, 2, 3, 7, S, A, C, and E trains stop at or near Times Square–42nd Street (Times Square NYC Plan Your Visit).
Bus: Multiple MTA bus lines serve the Times Square area.
Car: Several parking garages are available, but parking is limited and expensive. Public transit or ride-sharing is recommended.
On Foot: The area is pedestrian-friendly, ideal for exploring nearby attractions.

Venue Features and Experience

Palladium Times Square blends contemporary architecture with functional versatility. The main auditorium features a large standing-room orchestra section plus rear seating, accommodating up to 2,200 guests (Wikipedia). Two private mezzanines offer VIP vantage points, while a wrap-around lounge with three bars ensures convenient refreshment options (Tagvenue).

A signature feature is the 85-foot LED marquee, among the largest in Times Square, used for both event promotion and live video feeds (New York Theatre Guide). The venue’s technology includes world-class sound, lighting, and live broadcast capabilities, making it a preferred site for concerts, theatrical productions, and televised events (Wanderlusting K).

Amenities include:

Multiple full-service bars
Spacious lounge areas
Accessible restrooms and elevators
Private event customization (Palladium Times Square Rental)

Special Events and Programming

Palladium Times Square maintains a dynamic calendar, hosting:

Concerts spanning rock, pop, hip-hop, jazz, and more
Stand-up comedy shows
Theatrical performances
Broadcast and digital events
Corporate functions and private galas
Cultural and community events (Palladium Times Square Events)

Notable past performances include Brit Floyd’s “P>U>L>S>E,” Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland, and the Heisman Trophy ceremony (Wikipedia). While guided public tours are not regularly offered, private events may include behind-the-scenes access.

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

Best Times to Visit:
Weekday events and off-peak hours can offer a less crowded experience.

Dining:
Times Square boasts a diverse culinary scene, including Carmine’s Italian Restaurant, Junior’s Cheesecake, and a range of international eateries (Times Square Dining Guide).

Nearby Attractions:

Broadway theaters
Bryant Park
The New York Public Library
Madame Tussauds New York
Rockefeller Center (NYC Go Historic Sites)

Accommodations:
Many hotels, from luxury to budget-friendly, are within walking distance (Times Square Hotels).

Safety:
Times Square is heavily policed and monitored, but visitors should remain vigilant and secure personal belongings (New York Dearest).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are Palladium Times Square’s visiting hours?
Event-based; doors usually open 60–90 minutes before each show. See the official event calendar for specifics.

How do I buy tickets?
Purchase via the official website, Ticketmaster, or at the box office when available.

Is the venue accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, with accessible entrances, seating, elevators, and restrooms. Contact the box office for special accommodations.

Are there guided tours?
Public tours are not regularly available, but private event clients may arrange access.

What are some nearby attractions?
Broadway theaters, Bryant Park, the New York Public Library, Madame Tussauds, and Rockefeller Center.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Palladium Times Square is a vibrant symbol of New York City’s enduring entertainment legacy, offering world-class performances in a dynamic, accessible setting. Whether you’re a music fan, theater lover, or simply exploring Times Square, the venue promises a memorable experience at the crossroads of culture and innovation. Plan your visit by checking event schedules, securing tickets in advance, and taking advantage of the neighborhood’s rich offerings.

Stay updated on upcoming events and visitor tips by downloading the Audiala app and following Palladium Times Square on social media. For more insights on NYC attractions, explore related articles and resources linked below.