Lincoln Center, New York City - silhouette of woman standing front of building during night time
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Lincoln Center

4.8
·21k reviews·New York, United States

A world-renowned performing arts complex hosting opera, ballet, theater, and jazz with iconic architecture and vibrant public spaces.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Free outdoor events & festivals

CrowdMedium
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Lincoln Center, New York City - silhouette of woman standing front of building during night time

Lincoln Center

Best Time

Summer evenings

Free outdoor events & festivals

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A world-renowned performing arts complex hosting opera, ballet, theater, and jazz with iconic architecture and vibrant public spaces.

4.8
(21k reviews)

"Lincoln Center is a must-visit for its incredible performances and stunning architectural beauty."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤫 Secret Public Bathrooms

Discover hidden public restrooms in Alice Tully Hall and the MYT for a convenient break. :toilet:

🎟️ Discounted Tickets

Check out the indoor TKTS booth for great deals on same-day Broadway shows. Skip the lines! :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Summer for the City Festival

Summer for the City Festival

Various locations within Lincoln Center

Enjoy free outdoor events, food, and performances during the summer months. A vibrant community celebration!

Indoor TKTS Booth

Indoor TKTS Booth

Inside Lincoln Center

Score same-day discounted Broadway tickets without braving the elements or long queues. A true NYC gem!

Broadway Theater Archives

Broadway Theater Archives

Lincoln Center Theater on Tape Archives

Access recordings of Broadway shows by appointment. A fantastic way to experience theater history!

Silent Disco

Silent Disco

Lincoln Center Plaza

Dance the night away to your own beat with headphones at these fun, free events. Pure joy!

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Save

For discounted tickets, explore the indoor TKTS booth at Lincoln Center, often with shorter lines than Times Square.TikTok+1 Consider rush tickets or lotteries for popular shows, and check local listings like West Side Rag for event updates.Reddit

Dress Code & Timing

While there's no strict dress code, avoid being overly casual.Reddit Arrive 15-30 minutes before showtime to find your seats and read the program.Reddit Lincoln Center is a large campus, so factor in walking time.

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Free outdoor events & festivals
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds at TKTS
Crowd
Low
When
Showtime evenings
Why
Experience live performances
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

broadway bootleg hack @lincolncenter . . #broadway #broadwayslimetutorial #nyc #lincolncenter
@sara.r.matin
13.4K likes • 102.4K views

🤫 Secret Public Bathrooms

Discover hidden public restrooms in Alice Tully Hall and the MYT for a convenient break. :toilet:

🎟️ Discounted Tickets

Check out the indoor TKTS booth for great deals on same-day Broadway shows. Skip the lines! :ticket:

Hope i dont regret sharing this! #fyp #FastTwitchContest #nyc #broadwaymusicals #broadwaytiktok #timessquare #broadwaytok #theater #theatertiktok #broadwaytok #theater #theatertiktok #theatertok
@thebroadwayblog
4.5K likes • 49K views
A moment of stillness before the movement begins. Each year, the Table of Silence Project 9/11 opens with a ritual led by @KoshinPaleyEllison and @ChodoRobertCampbell, founders of the @NewYorkZenCente...
buglisidance
530 likes • 8.7K views

🎶 Free Concerts & Events

Many free performances and festivals happen, especially during summer. Check schedules! :musical_score:

🎭 Theater Archives Access

Book an appointment to watch recordings of Broadway shows. A unique cultural experience! :movie_camera:

First steps on the plaza. Rehearsals are underway for the Table of Silence Project 9/11, as dancers and drummers gathered for the first time this week on the Josie Robertson Plaza at Lincoln Center. ...
buglisidance
439 likes • 10.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🤫 Secret Public Bathrooms

Discover hidden public restrooms in Alice Tully Hall and the MYT for a convenient break. :toilet:

🎟️ Discounted Tickets

Check out the indoor TKTS booth for great deals on same-day Broadway shows. Skip the lines! :ticket:

🎶 Free Concerts & Events

Many free performances and festivals happen, especially during summer. Check schedules! :musical_score:

🎭 Theater Archives Access

Book an appointment to watch recordings of Broadway shows. A unique cultural experience! :movie_camera:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Campus

Wander through the plazas and discover hidden gems like Riverside Park South. :park:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(21k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Lincoln Center's world-class performances and stunning architecture. The 'Summer for the City' festival is a highlight for its free events and vibrant atmosphere. While ticket prices can be high, the indoor TKTS booth and other discount options offer accessible ways to enjoy the arts. Some find navigating the large campus a bit daunting.

"I had the chance to visit Lincoln Center during the Summer Festival, and it was a fantastic experience. Despite all the events being free, everything was impressively well-organized and professionally run. I haven’t had the chance to attend a jazz performance there yet, but I’ve heard it’s an amazing venue for that too — it’s definitely on my list for next time!"

Nurdan Kilincoglu

"I went to a Summer for the City event at Lincoln Center and man, did I have a blast. The energy was amazing with nonstop dancing, great music, and good vibes all around. The crowd was full of friendly people just enjoying the moment. It felt like the heart of New York came alive right there. I’m definitely looking forward to more events in the future. Highly recommend checking it out if you’re in the city."

Hassan Hashi

"Attended Swan Lake at Lincoln Center from the balcony and it was absolutely breathtaking. Even from up high, the view was perfect and the performance felt deeply immersive. The dancers were mesmerizing, and the orchestra brought the story to life in the most powerful way.

It was my first time seeing a full-length ballet, and I was genuinely amazed. The elegance, the emotion, the energy unforgettable.
Lincoln Center knows how to create magic."

Yuvi

What People Like

World-class performances
Stunning architecture
Free summer events

What People Dislike

High ticket prices
Large campus navigation

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lincoln Center is easily accessible by subway. The 1 train stops at 66th Street-Lincoln Center, and the A, B, C, D, 1, 2, 3 trains stop at 59th Street-Columbus Circle. Several bus lines also serve the area.TikTok

Yes, there are several parking garages near Lincoln Center, including one directly beneath the complex. However, parking can be expensive, so public transportation is often recommended.TikTok

Yes, Lincoln Center is about a 15-20 minute walk north of Times Square. It's a pleasant walk, especially during good weather.TikTok

Absolutely! You can find public restrooms in Alice Tully Hall and the MYT (Metropolitan Opera House).TikTok These are often less crowded than other public facilities.

The campus is quite expansive. Walking is the best way to experience it. Consider exploring the plazas, fountains, and the nearby Riverside Park South for a more relaxed experience.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The indoor TKTS booth at Lincoln Center offers same-day discounted tickets for many Broadway and Off-Broadway shows, often with shorter lines than the Times Square location.TikTok+1 You can also explore rush tickets, lotteries, and digital rush options for potential savings.Reddit

Linctix is a program offering discounted tickets for Lincoln Center performances, often for those aged 35 and under. Check the Lincoln Center website for current eligibility and availability.Reddit

It's generally recommended to arrive 15-30 minutes before showtime to find your seats and settle in.Reddit For popular shows or free events with first-come, first-served seating, you might need to arrive much earlier.Reddit

There is no strict dress code for most performances at Lincoln Center. While you can wear anything from casual to semi-formal, it's considered bad manners to dress overly sloppily.Reddit

Yes, Lincoln Center has a Theater on Tape archive where you can watch recordings of Broadway shows by appointment. It's a unique opportunity to experience theater history.TikTok

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

Lincoln Center is home to numerous venues, including the Metropolitan Opera House, David Geffen Hall, David A. Koch Theater, Vivian Beaumont Theater, Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater, Alice Tully Hall, and the Claire Tow Theater.Reddit

Yes, especially during the summer months, Lincoln Center hosts 'Summer for the City' which features many free outdoor events, concerts, and performances.TikTok+1 Keep an eye on their schedule for other free offerings throughout the year.

The Josie Robertson Plaza is a large, central outdoor space at Lincoln Center, often used for public events, performances, and gatherings. It's a prominent feature of the campus.Instagram

The Film Society at Lincoln Center is a renowned cinematic institution that hosts film festivals, screenings, and retrospectives throughout the year. It's a must-visit for film enthusiasts.Reddit

Absolutely! The campus itself is architecturally significant and offers beautiful public spaces, fountains, and art installations. You can also visit the David Rubenstein Atrium for information and sometimes free events.TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Lincoln Center offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. Many are located within the performance halls or on the plaza.TikTok

You can find a range of cuisines, including American, Italian, and international options. During events like 'Summer for the City,' food trucks and pop-ups offer diverse culinary experiences, like tacos from Habanero Pibil.TikTok

Dizzy's Club Coca-Cola (now often referred to as Dizzy's Club) is a premier jazz venue located within Frederick P. Rose Hall at Lincoln Center, offering stunning views of Central Park.Reddit

Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the performance halls. There are concessions available for purchase within the venues.

While dining within Lincoln Center can be pricey, the surrounding Upper West Side neighborhood offers a wide array of more budget-friendly restaurants, cafes, and delis.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies vary by venue and performance. Generally, flash photography is prohibited during performances. It's best to check the specific rules for the venue or event you are attending.

The Josie Robertson Plaza with its fountains and iconic architecture is a popular spot. The David Rubenstein Atrium also offers striking modern design. The exterior views of the various halls are also photogenic.Instagram

No, taking photos or videos during performances is strictly prohibited to avoid disturbing the artists and audience. This applies to most professional theater and music venues.TikTok

Yes, drone usage is generally prohibited in and around Lincoln Center due to security and safety regulations. Always adhere to local airspace rules.

Popular shots include the grand architecture of the plazas, the fountains, people enjoying outdoor events during 'Summer for the City,' and candid moments of performers or attendees.Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lincoln Center offers a variety of family-friendly programming, especially during its 'Summer for the City' festival, which often includes free outdoor activities and performances suitable for all ages.TikTok+1 While many Broadway shows have age restrictions, check the specific show's guidelines. The vast plazas are great for kids to explore, and the presence of public restrooms in key venues is a major plus.TikTok Consider looking for matinee performances or family-oriented productions at venues like the Vivian Beaumont Theater.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, Lincoln Center offers excellent opportunities. The indoor TKTS booth is your best friend for discounted same-day tickets.TikTok+1 Keep an eye out for free events, particularly during the summer 'Summer for the City' festival,TikTok and explore rush ticket or lottery options for popular shows.Reddit The campus itself is free to explore, and nearby neighborhoods offer more affordable dining options.

🎶 Jazz Aficionados

🎭 Theater Enthusiasts

Lincoln Center is a paradise for theater lovers, boasting multiple venues for Broadway and Off-Broadway productions, opera, and ballet.Reddit Take advantage of the indoor TKTS booth for discounted tickets TikTok+1 and explore rush/lottery options for popular shows.Reddit Don't miss the chance to access the Theater on Tape archives for a unique look at theatrical history.TikTok The Vivian Beaumont Theater and Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater are particularly noted for their excellent seating and intimate atmosphere.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Lincoln Center's Performance Venues

Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts is a sprawling complex housing some of the world's most prestigious artistic organizations. Key venues include the Metropolitan Opera House, home to the iconic opera company; David Geffen Hall, the primary venue for the New York Philharmonic; and the David A. Koch Theater, which hosts the New York City Ballet and the American Ballet Theatre.Reddit Each venue offers a distinct architectural style and acoustic experience, catering to a wide range of artistic disciplines.

Beyond these major halls, Lincoln Center features intimate spaces like the Vivian Beaumont Theater and the Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater, both part of the Lincoln Center Theater, which present acclaimed Broadway and Off-Broadway productions. Alice Tully Hall is celebrated for its exceptional acoustics, making it a premier destination for chamber music and recitals.Reddit The Claire Tow Theater and Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater offer more experimental and intimate theatrical experiences.

For jazz enthusiasts, Dizzy's Club in Frederick P. Rose Hall provides world-class live jazz performances with breathtaking views of Central Park.Reddit The David Rubenstein Atrium serves as a central gathering space and often hosts free events and performances, making it a vibrant hub for visitors. Understanding these distinct venues can help you choose the perfect performance and venue for your visit.

Unlocking Ticket Deals and Access

Securing tickets for performances at Lincoln Center can be done in several ways, with varying levels of cost savings. The indoor TKTS booth located within Lincoln Center is a fantastic resource for same-day discounted tickets, often with significantly shorter lines than its Times Square counterpart.TikTok+1 This is an excellent option for spontaneous theater-goers looking for a deal.

For those planning ahead, exploring rush tickets and lottery drawings can yield substantial savings on popular shows.Reddit Many shows offer rush seats on the day of the performance, while lotteries are typically held the day before. Websites like Playbill and TodayTix often list comprehensive information on these opportunities.Reddit Additionally, programs like Linctix offer discounted tickets to eligible individuals, often targeting younger audiences.Reddit

For free events, especially during the 'Summer for the City' festival, tickets are often first-come, first-served. In these cases, arriving early is crucial to guarantee entry.Reddit Always check the official Lincoln Center website or contact their Guest Experience department for the most up-to-date information on ticketing policies and availability.Reddit

Beyond the Stage: Free Events and Hidden Gems

Lincoln Center is more than just a collection of theaters; it's a vibrant public space offering a wealth of free activities and experiences. During the summer, the 'Summer for the City' festival transforms the plazas into a hub of free concerts, outdoor movie screenings, dance parties, and culinary delights.TikTok+1 These events are a fantastic way to experience the energy of Lincoln Center without a ticket.

A lesser-known but highly practical tip is the existence of public bathrooms within venues like Alice Tully Hall and the Metropolitan Opera House (MYT).TikTok These facilities are often well-maintained and less crowded than public restrooms elsewhere in the city. For those seeking a quiet escape or a different perspective, exploring Riverside Park South, adjacent to Lincoln Center, offers scenic walkways and piers with fewer tourists than Central Park.Reddit

Furthermore, the Theater on Tape archives provide a unique opportunity to watch recordings of past Broadway productions by appointment, offering a deep dive into theatrical history.TikTok The David Rubenstein Atrium also frequently hosts free performances and events, serving as an accessible entry point to the Lincoln Center experience.

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