This guide of the best Broadway shows for kids was written by Alejandro Beltran, co-founder of New York Simply (an official partner of Apple Maps).
Broadway shows help imaginations run wild, and kids can’t help but be wide-eyed during the dazzling musical numbers, incredible set design, and riveting acting. There are family-friendly Broadway shows that span the gamut, captivating school-aged kids and teenagers who are too cool to take out their headphones alike. In this guide I tell you all about the best of the best and provide helpful tips, so let’s dive in!
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet), check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (10 Best Neighborhoods +3 to Avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
The Best Broadway Shows for Kids
Table of Contents: Best Broadway Shows for Families
Table of Contents: Broadway Family Guide
- Broadway Shows for Kids
- Tips for Visiting Broadway with Kids
- Saving Money on Broadway Tickets with a Family
- Best Broadway Shows for Little Kids: The Lion King
- Best Broadway Shows for 6-8 year olds: Aladdin
- Best Broadway Show for Tweens: & Juliet
- Best Effects in a Broadway Show for Kids: Harry Potter & The Cursed Child
- Best Broadway Shows for Teens: Back to the Future
- Best Show for Teens who “Don’t Have an Interest” in Broadway: Hamilton
- Wicked
- Off-Broadway Shows for Kids
- Sesame Street: The Musical
- Little Shop of Horrors
- Gazillion Bubble Shows
- Best Broadway Plays & Musicals for Kids
- Family-Friendly Broadway Shows NYC (Map)
Tips for Visiting Broadway with Kids
Pick the right show: Opt for musicals with familiar themes, catchy songs, and bright visuals. Consider their age and attention span. The last thing you want is eye-rolls from frustrated theater-goers because your kid is kicking, talking, and getting up every few minutes.
Prepare them beforehand: Briefly explain the show’s plot and theater etiquette (no talking or phones!), and answer any questions they might have. If you’re watching a Broadway show with kids who are easily startled, explain any scenes that might scare them or catch them off guard beforehand.
A Minimum Age isn’t Always a Recommended Age: Most Broadway theaters won’t let kids in under four. But, just because a child is allowed inside doesn’t mean the show is catered or suitable for them. You know your kids best, so choose shows that will entertain and cater to their interests.
Grab a Booster Seat: Consider asking for a booster seat if you attend Broadway with small children. Most booster seats fit underneath the seats, so if your child doesn’t need it, you can just set it aside.
Saving Money on Broadway Tickets
Kids’ Night on Broadway: Those with flexible schedules should try to make it to Kids’ Night on Broadway. The annual event allows kids to attend a Broadway show for free with a full-price paying adult. In 2024, the event took place on Feb 13. The 2025 dates are TBA.
Look Into Group Pricing: Various Broadway shows offer group pricing to those buying ten tickets or more. If you have a big family (or can responsibly round up your children’s friends), you can take advantage of the discounted tickets and often get the additional service fees waived!
Swing by the TKTS Booth: The TKTS Ticket Booth offers discounted same-day tickets to a wide range of Broadway and Off-Broadway shows, with prices typically 20% to 50% off. The booth is a popular destination for theatergoers and a good way to save money on Broadway shows with kids.
Consider Off-Broadway Shows: Off-Broadway shows are Broadway productions in smaller theaters, typically at lower prices. Parents can find high-quality, engaging performances for their children at a fraction of the cost, making for a more affordable family theater experience. I’ll add in some Off-Broadway shows for kids further down this post.
The Lion King
The Plot: The Lion King musical is based on the beloved Disney film. It tells the story of Simba, a lion cub destined to be king. After his uncle exiles him, Simba is rescued by Timon and Pumbaa and, with the help of his childhood friend Nala, sets out to reclaim his throne.
My Take: Thanks to the vibrant animal costumes, intricate set design, and energetic songs (including classics like Circle of Life and Hakuna Matata), the Lion King is one of the most entertaining NYC Broadway shows for kids. Most of the audience is full of families with young children, so if you’re kid is known for whispering through live performances, they probably won’t be the only one!
Website: The Lion King
Location: Minskoff Theatre, 200 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036
Runtime: 2 hours 30 minutes (including one intermission)
NYC Broadway Shows for Young Kids: Aladdin
The Plot: In this family-friendly Broadway musical, Aladdin discovers a magical lamp that gives him access to a genie who grants three wishes. He uses his wishes to win Princess Jasmine’s heart and defeat the villainous Jafar amidst dazzling sets and time-tested classic songs most of us grew up with.
My Take: Although Aladdin is recommended for ages 6+, I watched Aladdin with my best friend’s 5-year-old daughter and she was at the edge of her seat the entire show. The magic carpet scene is mind-blowing (the teenage girls sitting behind me audibly gasped), and the genie steals the show. This is one of the best kid-friendly Broadway shows in NYC, it’s very entertaining.
Website: Aladdin the Musical
Location: New Amsterdam Theatre, 214 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036
Runtime: 2 hours 30 minutes (including one intermission)
Best Broadway Show for Tweens: & Juliet
The Plot: & Juliet re-imagines Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet with a twist: Juliet survives and finds life post-Romeo less of a drag than expected. Taking charge of her fate, she sets out on a journey of self-discovery, traveling to Paris with her friends.
Along the way, she experiences new adventures, romance, and unforeseen turns, offering audiences a fresh and empowering take on the classic tale (because a girl’s life doesn’t end when her relationship does).
My Take: & Juliet is a great Broadway show for tweens and teens, given the musical’s romantic themes and cheeky humor. Although not overly explicit (there’s some swearing), the storyline may not resonate with young kids though.
Website: & Juliet
Location: Stephen Sondheim Theatre, 124 W 43rd St, New York, NY 10036
Runtime: 2 hours 30 minutes (including one intermission)
Most Interesting Special-Effects: Harry Potter & The Cursed Child
The Plot: Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a two-part play set nineteen years after the events of the Harry Potter series. It follows Harry Potter’s son, Albus Severus, who struggles with his family legacy. Along the way, he befriends Scorpius Malfoy and together they embark on a journey through time to correct past mistakes. The play explores themes of friendship, family, and the consequences of choices.
My Take: This Broadway show is a must-see for families who love the Harry Potter series, but (honestly) even those new to the wizarding world can enjoy the play. While there’s some debate among die-hard fans about certain plot elements, the stunning effects and incredible set design make it an unforgettable experience for all.
Website: Harry Potter & The Cursed Child
Location: Lyric Theatre, 214 W 43rd St, New York, NY 10036
Runtime: 3 hours 30 minutes (with an intermission)
NYC Broadway Shows for Teens: Back to the Future
The Plot: In Back to the Future, teenager Marty travels back to 1955 in a time machine inadvertently altering the course of his parents’ romance. As he attempts to fix their relationship and secure his own future, Marty must navigate the challenges of the past with the help of an eccentric scientist friend. The family-friendly Broadway musical follows the plot of the popular 1985 film of the same name.
My Take: Back to the Future stands out as one of the top Broadway shows for teens, featuring cool effects and cheeky humor. Even if you haven’t seen the movie, the lively dance numbers and witty, family-friendly humor make it an entertaining experience anyone can appreciate.
Website: Back to the Future The Musical
Location: Winter Garden Theatre, 1634 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
Runtime: 2 hours 40 minutes (with one intermission)
Best Show for Teens Who “Don’t Have an Interest” in Broadway: Hamilton
The Plot: Hamilton stands out as one of the top Broadway shows for families by making history entertaining through the story of Alexander Hamilton. With a mix of hip-hop, jazz, and traditional musical styles, it traces his journey from orphan to Founding Father. Exploring his friendships with figures like Thomas Jefferson and George Washington, as well as his rivalries and personal struggles, the musical offers an engaging portrayal of his extraordinary life.
My Take: Hamilton has broken the mold by using hip-hop, rapping, and spellbinding storytelling, captivating even those who may consider themselves “too cool” for theater. There are some curse words and themes of infidelity and war that may not be suitable for young children. However, teenagers will be thoroughly entertained throughout the nearly three-hour performance.
Website: Hamilton
Location: Richard Rodgers Theatre, 226 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036
Runtime: 2 hours 40 minutes (with one intermission)
Thought-Provoking Musical for Kids: Wicked
The Plot: Wicked offers a fresh take on The Wizard of Oz, focusing on the unlikely friendship between two young witches with contrasting personalities and fates. Elphaba, the misunderstood green-skinned girl, evolves into the infamous Wicked Witch of the West. While Glinda, the popular and bubbly girl, becomes the Good Witch. The musical delves into their formative years, examining themes of friendship, love, and misinterpretation.
My Take: Wicked has been one of the most popular Broadway shows in NYC for years, amassing over $2 billion in revenue since 2003. It presents a unique take on well-known characters and themes, appealing to tweens, teens, and adults alike.
While older audiences may appreciate it most, children as young as 7 or 8 can also find enjoyment in the production. Additionally, young fans of Ariana Grande may be drawn to the musical, especially with the anticipation of the upcoming film adaptation (where she will play Glinda).
Website: Wicked the Musical
Location: Gershwin Theater, 222 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019
Runtime: 2 hours 45 minutes (with one intermission)
Off-Broadway Shows for Kids
Sesame Street: The Musical
The Plot: Sesame Street: The Musical is an Off-Broadway production that brings to life the beloved characters from the iconic children’s television show “Sesame Street.” The show combines classic Sesame Street songs with new tunes to create a lively performance. The characters encounter some lighthearted obstacles and silly situations that provide learning opportunities.
My Take: As one of the best kid-friendly Broadway shows, Sesame Street: The Musical caters to ages 3 and up. With familiar characters, catchy songs, and interactive elements, it almost always provides educational value, offering a nostalgic trip for parents as well.
Website: Sesame Street: The Musical
Address: Theater 555, 555 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036
Run time: One hour
Gazillion Bubble Shows
The Plot: The NYC Gazillion Bubble Show is an interactive experience perfect for all ages. Picture a world of giant, shimmering bubbles illuminated by colorful lights and music. The bubble artist wows the audience with incredible feats and massive bubble. The hour-long spectacle is full of wonder and a delightful outing for the whole family.
My Take: For a relaxed family outing, parents can’t go wrong with the Gazillion Bubble Show. Unlike a play, there’s no storyline to follow, so kids can simply enjoy the mesmerizing bubbles without the need for plot. This show is ideal for young children, as the bubble artist engages the audience by blowing bubbles into the crowd and inviting child volunteers on stage for some acts.
Website: Gazillion Bubble Shows
Location: Two Worldwide Plaza Condominium, 340 W 50th St, New York, NY 10019
Run time: One hour five minutes
Little Shop of Horrors
The Plot: In this Broadway show for families, Seymour, a clumsy florist, discovers a peculiar plant that thrives on human blood. He names it after his crush, Audrey, and the plant promises Seymour fame and wealth in exchange for feeding it. However, as Audrey II grows and demands more blood, Seymour grapples with a moral dilemma between his desires and the plant’s insatiable appetite.
My Take: Little Shop of Horrors, akin to classics like Frankenstein or Dracula, navigates the boundaries of child-appropriateness with a playful man-eating plant theme. While some squeamish children could find the show unsettling, many kids enjoy the thrill of watching “taboo” content. The fake plant and lighthearted musical numbers maintain an air of fantasy. Just note (spoiler) that the plant does eat one person. Those on the fence can always watch the 1986 movie version to gauge the plot and appropriateness.
Website: Little Shop of Horrors
Location: Westside Theatre, 407 W 43rd St, New York, NY 10036
Run time: 2 hours (with one intermission)
Best Broadway Musicals for Kids
- Best Broadway Shows for Little Kids: The Lion King
- Best Broadway Shows for 6-8 year olds: Aladdin
- Best Broadway Show for Tweens: & Juliet
- Best Effects in a Broadway Show for Kids: Harry Potter & The Cursed Child
- Best Broadway Shows for Teens: Back to the Future
- Best Show for Teens who “Don’t Have an Interest” in Broadway: Hamilton
- Best Musical for Kids that Also Teaches Life Lessons: Wicked
- Sesame Street: The Musical
- Gazillion Bubble Shows
- Little Shop of Horrors
Family-Friendly Broadway Shows NYC (Map)
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Broadway Shows in NYC
“The Lion King” is widely regarded as the best Broadway show for kids due to its captivating storyline, stunning visuals, and timeless music.
The best Broadway shows for tweens typically include energetic and engaging productions such as “Hamilton,” “Wicked,” and “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.”
The best Broadway shows for teens often encompass themes of self-discovery, empowerment, and social relevance, with popular choices including “Hamilton” and “Wicked.”
Yes, some Broadway theaters provide booster seats for young children to ensure they have a better view of the stage during the performance.
Most Broadway shows have a minimum age of four years old to attend the theater.
More Helpful Broadway Articles
- 10 Brilliant Broadway Shows in New York City (For All Interests)
- TKTS Ticket Booth Guide: 12 Tips & Things to Know About the Broadway Ticket Booth
- 20 Epic Things to Do in Times Square (Perfect for First Time Visitors)
More NYC Guides
- 30 Best Things to Do in New York City (For First Time Visitors)
- 25 Unique Things to Do in New York City
- 20 Epic Things to Do in New York City with Teens (You Won’t Soon Forget!)
- 15+ EPIC Things to Do in New York City With Kids
And there you have it, my friends. I hope you enjoyed my roundup of the best Broadway shows to watch with kids. Enjoy the shows, let me know what you think.
Until next time, cheers!
Leave a Reply