Thinking about adding some family-friendly fun to your trip to New York City? The Broadway Magic Hour offers a lively, engaging magic show designed to entertain both kids and adults alike. It’s a neat way to take a break from sightseeing and enjoy some lighthearted entertainment in the heart of Manhattan.
What we love about this experience is its affordable price point—just $25 per person—making it an accessible treat for families. Plus, its location near Times Square means it fits conveniently into most sightseeing plans. That said, the show’s emphasis on audience participation and kids’ humor might not appeal to everyone, especially those seeking a more sophisticated or impromptu magic experience.
This show is ideal for families with children aged 6 and up, or for anyone wanting a relaxed, fun-filled afternoon that combines magic, comedy, and a sense of wonder. If you’re in town with kids or simply looking for a lively, interactive show that won’t break the bank, Broadway Magic Hour could be just what you need.
Key Points
- Family-friendly entertainment suitable for children and adults
- Near Times Square, making it easy to include in your NYC sightseeing itinerary
- Affordable price at $25, offering good value for a 1.5-hour show
- Audience participation makes for memorable moments
- Ideal for rainy or winter days when outdoor plans might be limited
- Engaging magic and comedy that appeals to all ages, with positive reviews highlighting its fun and humor
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Contents
- Key Points
- An Overview of Broadway Magic Hour’s Appeal
- What to Expect During the Show
- The Venue and Convenience
- The Value for Money
- Insights from Guest Reviews
- Practical Details and Tips
- Who Should Consider This Tour?
- The Sum Up
- FAQ
- Our Top Picks in New York City
- More Shows & Entertainment in New York City
- More Tour Reviews in New York City
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in New York City we have recnetly reviewed
An Overview of Broadway Magic Hour’s Appeal
The Broadway Magic Hour is a lively, family-oriented magic show hosted at The Broadway Comedy Club, just a short walk from Times Square. This experience features master magicians Jim Vines and Carl Mercurio, who combine impressive illusions with hilarious comedy. It’s designed to be interactive, with audience participation adding an element of unpredictability and shared fun.
The show lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a perfect quick break between more packed sightseeing adventures. Its mid-afternoon timing—starting at 2:00 pm—also makes it a great option for families looking to enjoy a relaxed, entertaining activity before heading back to their hotel or exploring more of the city.
The price point of $25 per ticket is quite reasonable, especially considering the show’s tier of entertainment. It includes a general admission ticket with no hidden fees, and the venue’s accessibility—near public transportation, elevator access, and ADA-compliant bathrooms—ensures comfort for all guests.
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What to Expect During the Show
The itinerary is straightforward but packed with fun. Upon arrival at The Broadway Comedy Club, you’ll find a cozy, theatrical setting where the magic unfolds. The show is led by talented magicians who perform a variety of tricks—mind-reading, grand illusions, and audience participation—that are suitable for children and adults alike.
Many reviews mention the intriguing tricks and the comedic banter that keeps the atmosphere light and engaging. Reviewers have noted that the show is geared toward children, but still enjoyable for grown-ups. The magicians’ personalities shine through, making the experience more than just a series of tricks; it’s a shared adventure that sparks laughter and amazement.
Audience participation is a large part of the fun. Some reviews mention getting involved as volunteers, which adds a personal touch and creates memorable moments. The show’s interactive nature encourages children to feel involved and part of the magic.
The Venue and Convenience
The show takes place at The Broadway Comedy Club, which is close to Times Square, making it an easy addition to any city exploration. The venue boasts elevator access and ADA-compliant bathrooms, making it accessible for travelers with mobility concerns.
Timing-wise, arriving at 2:00 pm allows you to fit the show neatly into a day of sightseeing. The show’s duration of about 90 minutes means you won’t be tied up for hours, leaving plenty of time for other activities afterward.
Since the ticket is a mobile ticket, entry is smooth and contactless, reducing waiting times and making the process straightforward, especially for busy travelers.
The Value for Money
At just $25, the Broadway Magic Hour offers excellent value, especially considering the quality of entertainment and its family-friendly nature. It’s a cost-effective way to add a memorable experience to your NYC itinerary without spending a fortune.
Many reviews highlight how much fun the show is, with parents and grandparents alike commenting on how kids laugh and enjoy themselves—and adults find the tricks and humor charming. One reviewer mentioned, “The magicians were super funny and engaging,” and many noted that the audience participation made the show feel personalized and lively.
For families, this is a great way to break up busy sightseeing days with a relaxed, entertaining activity that everyone can enjoy together.
Insights from Guest Reviews
The show receives high praise, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5. Reviewers consistently mention the child-friendly content, engaging magic tricks, and funny performers.
One parent shared, “Our kids (ages 5, 6, and 11) loved it—they were laughing, amazed, and totally engaged the whole time.” Another guest noted, “It was a great experience for the grandkids, and even the adults enjoyed the humor.”
Some reviewers did note that the tricks are probably from a magic store, but most found the interactive and comedic aspects outweigh any minor illusions’ simplicity. The venue’s proximity to Times Square and the affordable ticket price are often highlighted as key positives.
Practical Details and Tips
- Start time is 2:00 pm, so plan to arrive a few minutes early to settle in and perhaps snag a good seat.
- The ticket is mobile, so make sure your phone is charged.
- Snacks and drinks are available for purchase at the venue, although outside food isn’t permitted.
- Most travelers can participate, and those with mobility concerns will appreciate elevator access and ADA-compliant bathrooms.
- Arriving early might increase your chances of being selected as a volunteer for magic tricks, adding to the fun—some reviews suggest getting there early if you want to be part of the show.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This show is perfect for families with children aged 6 and above who want a fun, interactive experience. It’s also suitable for older adults seeking a relaxed, light-hearted afternoon activity. If you’re in town on a rainy day or winter afternoon, it offers a warm, indoor escape that still feels exciting.
However, those looking for sophisticated or high-stakes magic might find this show a bit simple or scripted. The humor and tricks are very much aimed at kids and families, making it less ideal for adults seeking a serious magic experience.
If your group enjoys interactive comedy and illusion, and you want something light, affordable, and close to Times Square, this experience likely hits the mark.
The Sum Up
The Broadway Magic Hour offers a lively, family-friendly magic show right in the heart of Manhattan. For just $25, you get a 1 hour 30-minute dose of amazing illusions, comedy, and audience participation, making it a wonderful break from the hustle of sightseeing. The show’s accessibility, affordability, and engaging performance make it a strong choice for families, grandparents, or anyone looking for a relaxing, fun indoor activity.
While it’s not aimed at the most serious magic fans, the show’s emphasis on fun and interaction means you’ll likely leave with a smile—and maybe a few magical memories. If you’re visiting New York with children or just want an affordable, lively entertainment option, Broadway Magic Hour is worth considering.
NYC: Magic Show for All Ages – Broadway Magic Hour (Times Square)
“Great show for the family. Small venue. Seating is based on first to arrive so the early birds get the front row seats.”
FAQ
Is this show suitable for all ages?
Yes, the show is designed to be family-friendly, with content suitable for children aged 6 and up. It also appeals to adults, making it a good option for multi-generational groups.
How long is the show?
The performance lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you a relaxed but entertaining experience without taking up your whole afternoon.
What’s the price of a ticket?
Tickets are $25 per person, which is quite reasonable given the entertainment value and central location.
What do I need to bring?
A mobile ticket for easy access, and perhaps some cash or card for snacks or drinks available for purchase at the venue.
Is the venue accessible?
Yes, the Broadway Comedy Club offers elevator access and ADA-compliant bathrooms, suitable for travelers with mobility concerns.
Can I participate in the magic tricks?
Yes, audience participation is encouraged and is part of the fun, so arriving early might increase your chances of being called on stage.
What should I expect at the venue?
A cozy, theatrical atmosphere where skilled magicians perform a variety of illusions combined with comedy, ensuring both kids and adults are entertained.
This show stands out for its value, accessibility, and family-friendly magic, making it a fun, budget-friendly addition to any NYC trip. Whether you’re seeking a break from sightseeing or a memorable activity to cap off your day, Broadway Magic Hour offers a lively performance that’s worth booking.
