
Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) New York City
Iconic cultural hub in Brooklyn, hosting world-class theater, dance, opera, and a renowned independent cinema.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) New York City
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic cultural hub in Brooklyn, hosting world-class theater, dance, opera, and a renowned independent cinema.
"A must-visit for film lovers and performing arts enthusiasts seeking unique and high-quality cultural experiences."

🎬 Film Start Times
Movies at BAM Rose Cinema start promptly at the advertised time, with short previews. Arrive a few minutes early!
🚇 Navigate NYC Subway
Use the NYC subway to reach BAM easily. Look for green signs to enter stations; red signs are exit-only.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

BAM Rose Cinema
BAM Peter Jay Sharp Building
Catch independent films, documentaries, and classics in a setting praised for its film selection and screening quality.

Harvey Theater
651 Fulton Street
Experience world-class opera, dance, and theater in this stunningly restored, opulent 1904 venue.

Howard Gilman Opera House
BAM Peter Jay Sharp Building
A grand stage hosting a wide array of performing arts, from contemporary dance to theatrical premieres.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Explore BAM's Diverse Venues
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎬 Film Start Times
Movies at BAM Rose Cinema start promptly at the advertised time, with short previews. Arrive a few minutes early!
🚇 Navigate NYC Subway
Use the NYC subway to reach BAM easily. Look for green signs to enter stations; red signs are exit-only.
🍽️ Cheap Eats Nearby
Explore Middle Eastern spots on Atlantic Ave or try Bites of Xian for noodles. Food carts near the Apple Store are also options.
♿ Open Caption Screenings
BAM Rose Cinema offers open caption screenings, a legal requirement for all NYC theaters.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎬 Film Start Times
Movies at BAM Rose Cinema start promptly at the advertised time, with short previews. Arrive a few minutes early!
🚇 Navigate NYC Subway
Use the NYC subway to reach BAM easily. Look for green signs to enter stations; red signs are exit-only.
🍽️ Cheap Eats Nearby
Explore Middle Eastern spots on Atlantic Ave or try Bites of Xian for noodles. Food carts near the Apple Store are also options.
♿ Open Caption Screenings
BAM Rose Cinema offers open caption screenings, a legal requirement for all NYC theaters.
🎭 Check Venue Details
BAM has multiple theaters. Confirm your event's specific venue (Harvey, Gilman, Rose Cinema) before you go.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise BAM for its exceptional film programming at the Rose Cinema and the grandeur of its historic theaters like the Harvey. The diverse range of performances and commitment to independent cinema are major draws. However, some find navigating the multiple venues and understanding specific show details can require extra attention.
"Nothing to complain about. This is a beautiful music Hall, it's like walking into the past. Staff was friendly and efficient. Easy to get to by train. Seats we're tiny, leg room tight, and cushions uncomfortable. But the show was so good, you don't even think about it."
Benny Chan
"MLK Day Event 2025 - the event focused more on political speeches than music. Beautiful choir and dance performances. Amazing speech by Carlotta Walls LaNier of the Little Rock Nine.
I was on the 3rd row of balcony seating. Good view but it's hard to see the centre of the stage if someone's in the seat front of you."
Sagar Bhatt Karia
"I visited this historical theatre in Brooklyn for an outstanding production of A Streetcar Named Desire starring Paul Mescal. I loved the lobby which also hosted an art gallery. The theatre was intimate and rich with historical details. The neighborhood was rich with restaurants and shopping opportunities."
M Nathaniel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
BAM is easily accessible via the NYC subway. Several lines stop nearby, including the B, Q, R, 2, 3, 4, 5, and D trains to Atlantic Av-Barclays Ctr, or the C and G trains to Lafayette Av.
While street parking can be challenging in Brooklyn, there are several parking garages near BAM. Consider using a ride-sharing service or public transit for convenience.
The Atlantic Av-Barclays Ctr station is a major hub and a convenient stop for most BAM venues. The Lafayette Av station is also close for specific locations.
Many NYC subway stations are not yet accessible with elevators or ramps, which can make navigating with a stroller difficult. Check the MTA website for station accessibility information.
Depending on your starting point in Manhattan and the subway line you take, BAM is typically a 20-40 minute subway ride away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official BAM website, in person at the BAM Box Office, or by phone. For special promotions like NYC Broadway Week, check their site for details.
BAM sometimes participates in city-wide promotions like NYC Broadway Week, offering 2-for-1 tickets. They also have a membership program that provides presale access and discounts.
The BAM Box Office hours typically vary, but they are generally open on weekdays and Saturdays. It's best to check the official BAM website for the most current hours before visiting in person.
Age restrictions vary by performance. It's advisable to check the specific event details on the BAM website for any age recommendations or requirements.
For popular shows and film screenings, tickets can sell out in advance. While some tickets might be available at the door, it's highly recommended to purchase them ahead of time to guarantee entry.
🎫 🎬 Onsite Experience
BAM Rose Cinema is renowned for its curated selection of independent films, documentaries, foreign cinema, and classic movies, often featuring 35mm screenings.
Yes, BAM Rose Cinema offers open caption screenings, which are on-screen subtitles. This is a legal requirement for all theaters in New York City.
BAM comprises several distinct venues, including the historic Harvey Theater, the Howard Gilman Opera House, and the BAM Rose Cinema. Ensure you know which venue your event is in.
BAM typically has concessions available for purchase, offering snacks and beverages. For more substantial meals, there are numerous dining options in the surrounding Brooklyn neighborhoods.
The stage door situation at BAM can vary by production. For specific information, it's best to inquire at the venue or check online forums where attendees might share details.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
For affordable and delicious options, consider Middle Eastern restaurants on Atlantic Avenue, Bites of Xian for noodles, or the food carts located in front of the Apple store on Flatbush Avenue.
While BAM itself primarily offers concessions for snacks and drinks, the surrounding Fort Greene and Downtown Brooklyn areas are packed with diverse dining establishments, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.
The area around BAM boasts a wide variety of cuisines, including Middle Eastern, Chinese, Thai, and American fare. You'll find options to suit almost any craving.
Many restaurants and food carts in the vicinity of BAM stay open late, especially on performance nights, offering convenient options for a post-show meal.
For a pre-theater meal, explore the numerous restaurants on Lafayette Avenue or Fulton Street. Many offer pre-fixe menus or quick service to accommodate showtimes.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography and videography are prohibited inside BAM theaters during performances to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. Check specific venue policies for film screenings.
The exterior architecture of BAM's historic buildings, especially the Harvey Theater, offers great photo opportunities. The surrounding Brooklyn streets also provide a vibrant urban backdrop.
Photography is typically not allowed during film screenings at BAM Rose Cinema. The focus is on the cinematic experience, and flash photography can be disruptive.
While personal photography for non-commercial use is usually permitted in public areas outside the performance spaces, it's always best to confirm with BAM staff if you have specific plans.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for exterior shots of BAM's impressive architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, consider the proximity to affordable dining options nearby, as mentioned in the tips, to make the outing more budget-friendly. Navigating the subway with strollers can be challenging, so checking station accessibility beforehand is advisable if you plan to use public transport.
🎬 Cinephiles and Film Buffs
Beyond the film selection, the BAM Rose Cinema offers practical advantages like prompt start times and the availability of open caption screenings, catering to a broad audience. The surrounding area also provides excellent opportunities for pre- or post-film discussions over a meal at one of the many diverse eateries.
🎭 Theater and Dance Enthusiasts
When attending a performance, be sure to confirm which venue your ticket is for, as BAM has multiple distinct spaces. For those interested in specific productions, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular shows or limited runs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic BAM Rose Cinema Experience
When planning your visit to the BAM Rose Cinema, remember that screenings tend to start precisely at the advertised time, with only brief previews. This means arriving a few minutes early is crucial to avoid missing any part of the film. The cinema is equipped with multiple screens, ensuring a good variety of films are available. The overall atmosphere is one of appreciation for cinema, making it a rewarding destination for serious film lovers.
For those who rely on subtitles, the BAM Rose Cinema is a great choice as it consistently offers open caption screenings. This commitment to accessibility ensures that a wider audience can enjoy the films. The cinema is located within the BAM Peter Jay Sharp Building, making it convenient to combine a film screening with other cultural events happening at BAM.
Navigating Brooklyn and BAM
When using the subway, pay attention to station signage. Look for green signs indicating entrances where you can access the platforms, while red signs typically mark exit-only points. Understanding the subway map is key to efficient travel within the city.
Beyond the subway, the area around BAM offers a vibrant urban landscape. While parking can be difficult and expensive, there are garages available. For a more local perspective, exploring the surrounding streets can reveal hidden gems, from street art to unique shops, as highlighted by local creators.
Culinary Delights Around BAM
When planning a pre- or post-performance meal, you'll find a plethora of choices. From casual cafes to more upscale dining experiences, the streets around BAM are dotted with restaurants serving various cuisines, including Chinese, Thai, and American. Many establishments offer pre-fixe menus or efficient service, perfect for those with showtimes to catch.
While BAM itself provides concessions for snacks and beverages, venturing out into the surrounding Fort Greene and Downtown Brooklyn areas will offer a much broader culinary adventure. This makes BAM not just a destination for the arts, but also a gateway to exploring Brooklyn's dynamic food scene.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit