
Imperial Theatre New York
A historic Broadway gem, the Imperial Theatre NYC offers classic architecture and intimate performances in the heart of the Theater District.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, good for shows

Imperial Theatre New York
Best Time
Fewer crowds, good for shows

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Broadway gem, the Imperial Theatre NYC offers classic architecture and intimate performances in the heart of the Theater District.
"Absolute gem of a venue. Great seats throughout."

🎯 Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Popular Broadway shows like 'Chess' and 'Bad Cinderella' sell out fast. Book your tickets in advance to guarantee your spot!
🚗 Factor in Parking Time
Parking near the Imperial Theatre NYC can be tough. Give yourself ample time to find parking or consider public transit.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Broadway Productions
Main Stage
Experience legendary musicals and plays that have graced the Broadway stage, from classic revivals to new hits.

Herbert J. Krapp Architecture
Auditorium
Admire the stunning, historic architecture designed by Herbert J. Krapp, known for its classic Broadway theatre design.

Intimate Viewing Experience
Seating Areas
Enjoy a great view from almost any seat, with comfortable seating and excellent acoustics for an immersive performance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Arrive Early for Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Popular Broadway shows like 'Chess' and 'Bad Cinderella' sell out fast. Book your tickets in advance to guarantee your spot!
🚗 Factor in Parking Time
Parking near the Imperial Theatre NYC can be tough. Give yourself ample time to find parking or consider public transit.
✨ Enjoy the Historic Ambiance
The Imperial Theatre is a beautiful, historic venue. Take a moment to appreciate its classic Broadway charm before the show.
🥂 Drinks Allowed Inside
You can take your purchased beverages into the theatre, making for a more comfortable viewing experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Popular Broadway shows like 'Chess' and 'Bad Cinderella' sell out fast. Book your tickets in advance to guarantee your spot!
🚗 Factor in Parking Time
Parking near the Imperial Theatre NYC can be tough. Give yourself ample time to find parking or consider public transit.
✨ Enjoy the Historic Ambiance
The Imperial Theatre is a beautiful, historic venue. Take a moment to appreciate its classic Broadway charm before the show.
🥂 Drinks Allowed Inside
You can take your purchased beverages into the theatre, making for a more comfortable viewing experience.
🪑 Comfortable Seating
Reviewers consistently praise the comfortable seating and great views from most locations in the theatre.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Imperial Theatre for its beautiful historic architecture, comfortable seating, and excellent acoustics, making almost every seat a great view. The friendly staff and the ability to take drinks into the theatre are also highlighted positives. However, parking in the area is frequently cited as a significant challenge.
"Saw my granddaughter in a play. The theater is very clean, comfortable seating, alcohol and non alcoholic beverages for sale and nice bathrooms. Almost every seat is great! Parking is difficult. Get there early!"
Carol Watson
"Went to see our favorite East Coast entertainer Jimmy Rankin from Cape Breton! Nice theatre, old style, comfortable seats, great views of the stage and friendly staff. Bar is nice as well. You can take your drinks into the theatre with you which is nice. Jimmy was awesome as always, sound in the theatre was great. We will go back for another concert for sure."
Alan Withers
"Absolute gem of a venue. Great seats throughout. We attended Afrique en Cirque and it was fantastic. We sat on the left side and row E which is a decent spot.
Should probably opt for the middle instead of the sides but either way the seats are solid.
The sound and lighting in the theatre are great as well.
I definitely recommend seeing a show here.
5/5."
MJG
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Imperial Theatre NYC is conveniently located in the heart of the Theater District. Many subway lines stop nearby, including the 1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, W, and 7 trains at Times Square-42nd Street. Driving is an option, but parking can be difficult and expensive; consider using a parking garage or rideshare service.
Absolutely! Public transportation is highly recommended for reaching the Imperial Theatre. The extensive subway system makes it easy to get to the Theater District from anywhere in the city. Check MTA schedules for the most up-to-date routes and times.
Parking near the Imperial Theatre can be a challenge. It's best to arrive early to secure a spot or pre-book parking through a service like SpotHero or ParkWhiz. Many garages are available in the surrounding blocks, but they can fill up quickly, especially for evening shows.
The area around the Imperial Theatre is generally accessible, with sidewalks and crosswalks. However, navigating busy streets during peak times can be challenging. For specific accessibility needs regarding public transport, consult the MTA's accessibility information.
The Imperial Theatre is located just a short walk from Times Square, making it easily accessible for those exploring the iconic area. You can typically walk there in under 5-10 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for shows at the Imperial Theatre NYC can be purchased through official ticket vendors like Ticketmaster, Telecharge, or directly from the theatre's box office. Many Broadway shows also offer lottery or rush ticket options for last-minute deals.
Showtimes vary depending on the production, but generally, you can expect evening performances Tuesday through Sunday, with matinee performances on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Always check the specific show's schedule for exact times.
It's possible to get same-day tickets, especially through rush policies or lotteries for certain shows, but it's not guaranteed. For popular productions, booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred seats.
The Imperial Theatre has a seating capacity of approximately 1,400 to 1,700, depending on the specific configuration for each production. This size offers an intimate feel while still accommodating a significant audience.
Age restrictions vary by show. Most Broadway productions are suitable for a general audience, but some may have content or themes recommended for older children or adults. It's always best to check the specific show's advisory information before purchasing tickets.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The Imperial Theatre boasts a classic, historic Broadway atmosphere. Reviewers often describe it as a 'gem of a venue' with comfortable seating and great acoustics, offering an intimate and enjoyable viewing experience.
Yes, the Imperial Theatre offers concessions, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. You can often take your drinks into the theatre with you, enhancing your overall experience.
While most seats offer good views, many reviewers suggest opting for the middle sections rather than the far sides for the best perspective. Row E is mentioned as a decent spot, but generally, the theatre's design ensures solid views from most locations.
The Imperial Theatre generally provides accessible seating options. It's recommended to contact the box office directly when booking tickets to discuss specific needs and ensure a comfortable experience.
The Imperial Theatre hosts a variety of Broadway productions, including musicals and plays. It has a rich history, having premiered shows like 'Dreamgirls' and recently hosting revivals of 'Chess' and 'Bad Cinderella'.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography and videography are generally prohibited inside the Imperial Theatre during performances to avoid distracting performers and other audience members. However, you can usually take photos of the theatre's interior and exterior before the show or during intermission. Always check for specific venue policies.
The exterior of the Imperial Theatre, with its classic marquee and signage, makes for great photos, especially at night when it's lit up. The surrounding Theater District also offers many vibrant backdrops for pre- or post-show photos.
Yes, flash photography is strictly prohibited inside the theatre during performances. The bright flashes can disrupt the actors and the audience's experience. Ensure your phone's flash is turned off if you plan to take any photos.
Typically, you can take photos of the stage and auditorium before the performance begins, provided there is no specific announcement against it. This is a great opportunity to capture the grandeur of the theatre. However, once the show is about to start, all cameras should be put away.
Official production photos and videos are usually released by the show's press team and can be found on their official websites, social media channels, and Broadway news sites. These are the best sources for high-quality, professional imagery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When choosing a show, check for age recommendations and content advisories. For families with very young children, consider shows specifically marketed as family-friendly. Arriving early is crucial, not just for parking but also to allow children time to settle in without feeling rushed. The theatre does offer concessions, which can be a nice treat for kids, but be mindful of the show's runtime to plan for any necessary bathroom breaks.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider purchasing tickets directly from the box office or official vendors to avoid inflated third-party prices. If parking is a concern, opting for public transportation is a much more economical choice than paying for a garage. While food and drink inside the theatre can add up, you can often bring in beverages purchased there, which might be slightly more affordable than elsewhere.
💖 Couples & Date Nights
Consider booking seats in the middle sections for the best shared viewing experience. You can enhance your date night by arriving a bit early to enjoy a drink at the theatre's bar before the show begins. Afterwards, the vibrant Theater District offers numerous dining options to cap off your evening.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Broadway History
Over the decades, the Imperial Theatre has been the stage for groundbreaking shows. It premiered the original Broadway production of the iconic musical 'Dreamgirls' in 1981, a show that went on to win multiple Tony Awards and was later adapted into a successful film. More recently, the theatre has hosted highly anticipated revivals, such as the 2023 production of 'Chess', starring Aaron Tveit and Lea Michele, which returned the musical to its original Broadway home. The theatre also recently hosted the musical 'Bad Cinderella', showcasing its continued relevance in presenting contemporary and classic Broadway entertainment.
Attending a show at the Imperial Theatre offers more than just entertainment; it's an immersion into Broadway's storied past. The theatre's architecture, with its ornate details and classic proscenium arch, transports you to a different era of theatrical grandeur. This historical significance, combined with its reputation for excellent acoustics and comfortable seating, makes the Imperial Theatre a must-visit destination for any theatre enthusiast exploring the Imperial Theater NYC.
Navigating Your Visit: Tips from the Community
Once inside, the Imperial Theatre New York is praised for its comfortable seating and excellent sightlines. Reviewers consistently note that 'almost every seat is great!' and that the sound quality is superb. You can even take your purchased beverages into the auditorium, adding to the relaxed atmosphere. While the theatre itself is a gem, remember that the surrounding area can be bustling, so factor in extra time for navigating crowds, especially before and after a performance. The theatre's historic charm is a significant part of the experience, so take a moment to appreciate the architecture before the show begins.
For those looking to capture memories, remember that photography is typically restricted during the performance to ensure an uninterrupted experience for everyone. However, you can usually take photos of the theatre's exterior and interior before the show starts. The Imperial Theater NYC offers a quintessential Broadway experience, blending historical ambiance with top-tier performances, making it a memorable destination for any visitor.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit