How to Get Discount Tickets to Broadway Shows

Attending Broadway shows is one of the major attractions for both visitors to New York City and for locals. Unfortunately, Broadway tickets are increasingly expensive. Luckily, there are several ways to secure tickets to top Broadway shows at discount prices.

Most Broadway shows have rush ticket policies, which allow you to purchase cheap same-day tickets for shows. Realize, though, that there are an extremely limited number of Broadway show tickets available through this process. The most popular Broadway shows hold a lottery for their limited availability rush tickets. Other Broadway shows just require that you show up early and be willing to wait on line for hours.

Rush tickets to Broadway shows are generally located in the first two rows of the orchestra or are obstructed view tickets further back or in the balcony. Sometimes standing room only tickets are also available to Broadway shows through this process. Some Broadway shows restrict their rush tickets to students, but one student can usually buy two tickets with their ID. Rush ticket prices are some of the best for Broadway shows - usually $20 - $30.

Another same-day ticket option for Broadway shows is the TKTS booth. There are two TKTS booth locations - one in Times Square and one at the South Street Seaport. The TKTS booth offers heavily discounted tickets to Broadway shows that still have seats available for that day's performances. Generally prices for tickets to Broadway shows are 30% - 60% off at the TKTS booth. If you are interested in buying your tickets through the TKTS booth, it's best that you read up on several Broadway shows in advance and have a list of shows you are interested in. Some Broadway shows won't be available at all, and many will sell out very quickly. If you choose the TKTS option for your discount Broadway show tickets be prepared to wait on line for several hours.

Finally, discount Broadway show tickets are also available through a TDF membership. This method of getting discount tickets to Broadway shows has several advantages including the ability to get tickets far in advance; occasional access to shows with extremely limited availability, and the luxury of purchasing from the comfort of your computer. Membership in TDF is, however, limited to members of certain unions, arts professionals, full-time students or teachers, senior citizens, employees of not-for-profit organizations, members of the military and clergy.

If you qualify, yearly TDF membership is $25, and prices for Broadway tickets as well as tickets to special dance and music events range from $20 - $36.