NYC Walking Tour: Broadway History and Culture

Broadway’s theatrical performances date back as far as 1750, when actors/managers Walter Murray and Thomas Kean established a resident theater company on Nassau Street. They presented Shakespeare plays and ballad operas, which served as the start of the theater in New York City. Today, Broadway performances are presented in 40 professional theaters with 500 or more seats in each.

Meet this tour’s thespian guide at the TKTS ticket booth in Times Square to begin a behind-the-scenes look at the theater industry. Learn about the history of Broadway and hear some fascinating stories about the performances and stars that have graced its stages.

Stop at One Shubert Alley, Broadway’s oldest and most exclusive gift store. There’s Sardi’s restaurant, the toast of Broadway for more than 90 years. Check out the caricatures of showbiz celebs on the walls of this legendary Times Square Continental eatery. Walk down 42nd Street, home to many a Broadway theater. Visit the Hotel Edison NYC, surrounded on all sides by Broadway theaters, and the Church of St Mary the Virgin, aka Smokey Mary’s, a New York City landmark known for its use of incense at services. And finally, check out the bronze statue depicting American composer, playwright, actor and producer George M. Cohan.

The tour is a perfect precursor to seeing any Broadway show.