Playbill recently launched the Playbill Partner Hotels Booking Engine, which aims to help travelers find hotel deals in London and New York City. In tandem, we want to look at some of our favorite elements of “the greatest city in the world,” in the hopes we can help you discover new and exciting experiences. From entertainment to retail, special evenings out and more, let us help you explore the best this city has.

“A Bit O’ History”

New York City’s Theatre District is the epicenter for Broadway and off-Broadway theatres. From 40th Street to 57th Street, and from Sixth Avenue to Eights Avenue, the grid of the Theatre district boasts 41 Broadway theatres, and countless off-Broadway theatres and locations. It can be overwhelming to many that have never been to New York City before, and even mind-boggling when you realize that it is only one section on the island of Manhattan! 

The Theatre District got its start in 1836 when the mayor of the city at that time, Cornelius Lawrence, opened 42nd Street for residents and tourists to “move up town.” In 1883 (one year before Playbill got its start), the Theatre District began attracting theatre owners and restaurants, as a way of encouraging audiences to the area. Today, the district is filled with television studios, Broadway theatres, restaurants, hotels, Instagrammable attractions, bars/nightlife, commerce, and more. In 2023 alone, Times Square Alliance, a nonprofit organization that works to promote and improve Times Square, estimated 300,000 people a day (closer to 400,000 on many days) were in the Times Square/Theatre District alone, all connecting with the heart and soul of the city.

“What Can I Do In the Area?”

Playbill and Playbill Partner Hotels Booking Engine, the new site is built for travelers to find the best hotels and incentives in New York City and London, with easy access to theatre districts in both cities, have come up with five essential to-do’s for your next trip (or first time) in New York City’s Theatre District. Check out below how you can join in the history and fun of this excitingly diverse area of Manhattan.

5. Take a walk!

New York City is one of the best in the country for people who love to walk. With dedicated walking lanes in the Theatre District, these areas allow you to take in the sights, snap photographs, and enjoy one of the largest and most iconic skylines in the world. Plus, if you're a theatre fans, you can visit the many streets in the district named after theatre luminaries. If you have a bit more time on your trip, we also highly recommend taking in Central Park, known for its incredible walking paths in the heart of the city), and the iconic High Line—a public park built on a historic, elevated rail line where you can enjoy nature, spend time with friends, and enjoy a unique perspective of New York City. There is so much to see and do, only feet away.

4. Shop til you…show!

If you are coming to see a show on or Off-Broadway, you are only minutes away from incredible shopping areas in the heart of Manhattan. The area around Times Square boasts such popular stores as the Drama Book Shop (for theatre books), theatre gift shops One Shubert Alley and Theatre Circle, Disney, M&M's World, and the Hershey Store.

Other nearby areas for shopping include Fifth Avenue, home to hundreds of stores including internationally-renown Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman; Macy’s down on Seventh Avenue and 34th Street (home of the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade); Rockefeller Center with countless shops and restaurants, and a stunning city view at the Top of the Rock; Hudson Yards—New York City’s newest shopping and dining hub which is also next to world-class theatre, The Shed; and many more areas. All these areas are walkable to the Theatre District, for some shopping before you see a live show. P.S. Many Broadway theatres will even coat check your shopping bags for the duration of your performance!)

3. Dinner and dancing! 

There are hundreds of bars, restaurants and dining experiences right in the Theatre District, with provisions from countless nationalities, styles and prices. One area we always love to suggest to guests coming to the Theatre District for brunch, lunch and dinner is Restaurant Row. Conveniently located on West 46th St., between 8th and 9th Avenues, a short stroll will put you in front of dozens of restaurants right next to each other—from Japanese to Italian to a beloved piano bar (Don't Tell Mama). Looking for something else? Additional restaurants we highly recommend in the Theatre District are Gatsby’s Landing (New American cuisine), Bonito 47 (incredible Kosher fare), and Baires Grill (excellent Argentinian). In the mood for nightlife? Throughout the district, enjoy piano bars, speakeasy’s, and nightclubs—as well as iconic pizza and late-night diners. It's all a short walk away (sense a theme here?). 

2. Attend Broadway and Off-Broadway shows

One of the most exciting aspects of coming to NYC and the Theatre District is live theatre. From musicals to plays, ballet, opera, concerts, immersive experiences, and more, this city has an exceptional (and exciting) theatrical experience for everyone for and all ages. To learn more about what is playing in New York City and to book your tickets, check out our comprehensive list of shows on Playbill.com.

1. Stay at a great hotel 

“Finding a hotel in New York City or London can be overwhelming and full of costly mistakes," Playbill CEO and President Philip S. Birsh said in a statement. “Booking a room with the confidence of a seasoned traveler, receiving great benefits only a Playbill Travel client can get, and searching our curated list of excellent hotels affords guests a more enjoyable stay in these great cities.”  That is why we created the Playbill Booking Engine, powered by Travelwits, which allows you to discover the best hotels in both cities, with added benefits like hotel credits, free breakfasts, rewards points, and more. Check out the fantastic hotels in the Theatre District, which will help make your experience in New York City that much more unforgettable!

There is so much more to see, do and experience in the cite. We cannot wait to share more lists like this with you down the road. But for now, consider coming to New York City and enjoy the Theatre District and all it has to offer. And especially, come support one of America’s greatest art forms: live theatre!