25 All-Time Best Broadway Shows​ in NYC for 2025 & Beyond

The best Broadway shows in NYC span the horizon of entertainment and provide individuals and families with a fantastic evening at the theater and plenty of incredible memories. They introduce people to significant moments of history, tell tales of love and loss, share stories of bravery and make us laugh and cry. There are options for families, adult-friendly comedies, powerful love stories, heart-stopping tragedies and so much more. Deciding which show to see is often tricky. After all, there are many fantastic options and incredibly talented casts to be found in the theaters on Broadway.  

Which Broadway show is the best right now? What are the most exciting and best off-Broadway shows worth checking out? We’re all about sharing information and helping you to make the right decision before purchasing your tickets! Check out this list of the all-time best Broadway shows in NYC. 

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• Best Broadway Shows in NYC
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Best Broadway Shows in NYC

1. Wicked

Friendship, bravery, diversity, misunderstanding and acceptance are all part of the plot for Wicked, one of the best Broadway shows for anyone who seeks a tale about an empowered woman and an unlikely friendship between the misunderstood and ever-green Elphaba and pretty-in-pink, oh-so-popular Glinda. Their story begins when they are thrown into a roommate situation that neither of them wants at Shiz University and continues as their paths diverge in front of the Wizard of Oz. They jointly and separately confront their morality and goals.  

The fantasy musical is a re-telling of Wizard of Oz, focusing on the Wicked Witch of the West and how she became such a feared and hated woman in Oz. This one easily lands in the top 10 Broadway musicals in modern times. If you enjoyed the movie, see Wicked live to experience its origins on the stage and an incredible cast of characters sharing a heartfelt tale that blends comedy and tragedy. This is one of the best Broadway shows for a family-friendly night out. While some themes are more adult, it is appropriate for audience members ages eight and up. 

2. Hadestown

Hadestown is a New Orleans jazz-inspired modern retelling of the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. This addition to the list of best Broadway shows is a Tony Award winner that intertwines love, sacrifice and the perils of capitalism. It’s the story of Orpheus, a gifted but naive poet who falls in love with Eurydice, a young woman struggling to survive in poverty. Hades and Persephone’s complicated love story is also featured throughout the production, narrated by Hermes.

The hauntingly beautiful score shows off the impressive vocal range of the cast, capturing emotions including hope and despair. The themes of this folk opera and musical are complex, so it is most suitable for older teens and adults. If you want an extraordinary date idea in NYC, purchase tickets for this show. Its inventive staging, heartfelt story of hope and love and Grammy-winning score make Hadestown one of the best Broadway shows for a breathtaking theatrical experience.

3. Six: The Musical

The six wives of Henry VIII form a band and take center stage in this contemporary, pop concert-style musical to tell their stories, compete for the most tragic tale and reclaim their voices in history. Six is one of the best Broadway shows for anyone who loves a rocking good time. The entire cast, including the band, is female, making this an extraordinary female-empowered production. 

Six: The Musical is filled with infectious lyrics, lights, music, dancing, laughter, tears and fun. The themes are centered around the strength of women in trying times, making this among the best Broadway shows for audience members age ten and up and a terrific choice for an indoor activity in NYC or team building activity in NYC for a group of women who want to better understand some often overshadowed yet significant female historical figures.  

4. Hamilton

The ten-dollar founding father makes his Broadway debut in Hamilton, one of the best Broadway shows for history buffs, musical theater enthusiasts and anyone who loves a story of love, loss and the strength of this great nation under tumultuous times. The story centers around Hamilton’s life and features other important characters, namely Burr, the man who killed him, and the Schuyler sisters, his wife Eliza being one of them. The mix of hip-hop music, rap and Americana makes this one of the best Broadway shows for the whole family to enjoy.

5. & Juliet

Spend an evening at the theater answering the question: what if Juliet survived? & Juliet is a comedic reimagining of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” where Juliet chooses to rewrite her story to one that is not so wrapped up in her love for Romeo. As she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, she finds a new path toward self-love, freedom, and happiness. She realizes a lot about her true potential and the challenges that others face along the way. 

This is one of the best modern Broadway shows, featuring an infectious pop soundtrack from Max Martin’s catalog. The upbeat music, colorful costumes, neon-lights-filled stage and inclusive themes and empowering story make this one of the best Broadway shows if you are searching for a family-friendly musical for ages ten and up. 

6. The Book of Mormon

Two young Mormon missionaries travel to Uganda, facing culture shock and challenges as they try to convert locals. Throughout their journey, they hilariously question their own beliefs. The Book of Mormon is one of the best Broadway shows for an adult night out and for anyone who loves satirical comedy. Mature themes make this one best suited for audience members aged 16 and up. The show pushes boundaries and might make you question some of your beliefs while providing plenty of laughs for anyone who loves a South Park style of comedy.

7. Harry Potter and The Cursed Child

Set 19 years after the original and iconic Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is one of the best Broadway shows that is not a musical. It follows Harry’s son, Albus, as he makes friends, starts his school journey, grapples with his family’s legacy and embarks on a time-bending adventure with an unexpected ally and best friend. 

This play is one of the best Broadway shows for Potterheads and audience members of all ages looking for a show filled with magic, mystery and dazzling, awe-inspiring special effects. This is more of a play than a musical, so it’s also a great choice if you're searching for a unique variation to the more typical Broadway shows.

8. The Twenty-Sided Tavern

For anyone who plays Dungeons & Dragons or those looking for an interactive theater experience, The Twenty-Sided Tavern is a must-see that celebrates the 50th anniversary of what is arguably the world’s most popular and influential role-playing game.

This is one of the best Off-Broadway shows currently in production. Audience members roll the dice to help shape the story of brave adventurers as they fight mythical creatures and help save their town. Every night tells a different tale because the audience’s participation is pivotal to how this best Broadway show unfolds.

Twenty Sided Tavern is one of the best Off-Broadway shows for fans of fantasy ages 12 and up. If you enjoy audience participation and a one-of-a-kind production that puts you in the heart of the story, this one is a must-see. 

9. The Lion King

Disney’s beloved 1994 animated classic comes to life on the stage in the stunningly beautiful production of The Lion King. Filled with sunset colors, African symbolism, popular songs and an empowering tale of love, loss, friendship and courage, The Lion King is one of the best Broadway shows for audiences of all ages. 

Children and adults will sing along and cheer as massive puppets walk through the aisles toward the stage and invite audience members to sing along as Simba journeys through the African savanna from lion cub to king. Tickets to the production are a fantastic experience gift in NYC, and this emotionally packed best Broadway show provides an evening that the entire family can enjoy as you sing along to classics like “Can You Feel the Love Tonight,” “Hakuna Matata” and “The Circle of Life.” 

10. The Great Gatsby

Spend an evening enjoying one of the best Broadway shows when the cast of The Great Gatsby brings the glitz and glamour of the Jazz Age to life on the stage. Through a lavish set, evocative music and a thoughtful script adapted from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s timeless classic by the same name, The Great Gatsby tells the tale of Jay Gatsby’s obsessive pursuit of Daisy Buchanan amidst themes of love, ambition and the elusive American Dream.

The Great Gatsby musical production is appropriate for audience members ages 13 and up due to adult themes, including infidelity. It’s one of the best Broadway shows for classic literature and jazz music fans. 

11. Aladdin

Another one of Disney’s popular animated classics joins the list of best Broadway shows and takes the stage with an incredible soundtrack, beautiful special effects and colorful costumes, props and sets. Aladdin is a timeless tale of an otherwise unknown boy who finds his place in the world. He begins as a common thief, finds a genie, woos Princess Jasmine and battles the villainous Jafar to become the hero. This show is appropriate for all ages and ideal for Disney fans and anyone who loves spectacle and magic. 

12. Chicago

Chicago is a satirical best Broadway show filled with crime and celebrity set in the Jazz Age with big dance numbers and impressive chorus lines. It follows Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly as they experience losses and wins while navigating the corrupt legal system to achieve fame. Mature themes and innuendos make this show best suited for audience members ages 13 and up. 

This is one of the best Broadway shows for fans of classic musicals and dark humor. You will love the choreography, classic hits and quintessential Broadway experience. 

13. MJ the Musical

According to Britannica, Michael Jackson was one of the world's most popular and influential entertainers in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. He revolutionized dance, touring productions and music videos. He also transformed popular music in the 1980s. Celebrate the life and legacy of this pop music sensation with tickets to MJ the Musical. 

The show focuses on his unique creative process and timeless hits during the 1992 Dangerous World Tour. Fans call this one of the best Broadway shows for anyone who appreciates Michael Jackson’s legendary dance moves and memorable songs. The four-time Tony Award winner is ideal for fans of this pop star, ages ten and up and those searching for electrical performances and choreography. 

14. The Outsiders

The Outsiders is adapted from S.E. Hinton’s novel and explores the lives of rival teen gangs — the Greasers and the Socs — and the bonds that unite them amidst hardship, periods of discovery and violence. The narrative is emotional and character-driven, and the story is a true coming-of-age classic. Themes of violence and class struggle are evident in the production, so reserve this show for adults and teens. It is one of the best Broadway shows for anyone who enjoys powerful performances, impactful solos and a richly woven story that defined a generation. 

15. Gypsy

Follow the determined stage mother, Mama Rose, as she pushes her daughters to stardom, entirely focusing on her daughter Gypsy Rose Lee’s rise to the top. This is one of the best Broadway shows for complex character studies, and it contains unforgettable songs like “Everything’s Coming Up Roses” and “Let Me Entertain You.” Gypsy is suitable for young teens and adults and is considered to be a once-in-a-generation theatrical event. 

16. Cabaret

Set in 1930s Berlin, Cabaret explores the hedonistic world of the Kit Kat Klub against the backdrop of rising Nazi power, focusing on the denizens of the club and specifically the story of singer Sally Bowles and her doomed love affair. It’s based on John van Druten's play and Joe Masteroff's book.  

Mature themes and sexual content are ever-present in this boudoir-style production, so it is best suited for audience members over 16. This is one of the best Broadway shows for anyone who loves haunting themes, unforgettable soundtracks and a timeless story with provocative themes and relevance. 

17. Redwood

Redwood is a poignant tale and contemporary play exploring race, identity and family through the lens of a biracial couple’s discovery of their ancestral roots. It's a moving yet humorous reflection on personal history. Idina Menzel, best known as the original Glinda in another of the best Broadway shows, Wicked, makes her long-awaited comeback as Jesse in the original Redwood cast. 

Fans searching for a fresh, poignant perspective on modern identity and relationships and those who appreciate a visually stunning and immersive musical will love Redwood. It is one of the best Broadway shows for musical theater fans ages 16 and up due to its mature content and themes. 

18. Othello

Shakespeare’s tragedy of love, jealousy and betrayal follows Othello, an ever-ambitious Moorish general, as his ensign, Iago, manipulates him into a downward spiral of envy and mistrust that ultimately destroys his relationship with his beloved wife, Desdemona. The original cast of this addition to the best Broadway shows list includes well-known actors Jake Gyllenhaal and Denzel Washington. But it's always best to check the playbill to see if any actors have changed.

Mature themes throughout the production make this musical best suited for audience members ages 14 and up. It's the ideal choice for anyone who loves a moving production with intense performances and deeply emotional themes. 

19. English

English is a heartfelt comedy and one of the best Broadway shows to see for culture vultures. It unfolds in a classroom filled with Iranian students attempting to learn English as a second language. It explores the struggles and triumphs of this group of immigrants, bringing up themes of identity, belonging and cultural assimilation. 

Humor and heart are central to this addition to the list of best Broadway shows, and it is the ideal choice for anyone who hopes to enjoy a timely and poignant tale of the immigration experience in America. The show is family-friendly, but some complex themes are best suited for audience members over 12 years of age. 

20. Elf the Musical

When a human is raised by Santa’s elves at the North Pole, what could possibly go wrong? Elf the Musical follows the comedic tale of Buddy, who sets off on an adventure to New York City to find his true father after figuring out that he is not actually an elf. 

This is one of the best Broadway shows for families and holiday fun, as it's appropriate for all ages. It’s adapted from the popular 2003 movie of the same name starring Will Ferrell. See it if you enjoyed the movie or love a lighthearted, laugh-filled production that will remind you of the importance of family, love and holiday magic. It's a good watch if you're into Christmas movie trivia or love Christmas movies for kids.

21. Sunset Boulevard

Adapted from Billy Wilder’s 1950 classic film, Sunset Boulevard shares the tale of Norma Desmond, an ambitious silent film star yearning to return to the big screen. She forms a complex relationship with struggling screenwriter Joe Gillis, and their intertwined relationship leads to tragedy. 

In this mesmerizing rendition, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard is reimagined by six-time Olivier-winning and Tony-nominated director Jamie Lloyd. Mature themes make this an ideal show for teens and adults. It is among the best Broadway shows in production for anyone who loves classic tales, opulent sets and haunting melodies. 

22. Operation Mincemeat

Hilarious, chaotic and bursting with energy, Operation Mincemeat is the tale of the twisted secret mission that won World War II. This witty musical is based on actual events and recounts the ingenious British intelligence operation to deceive the Nazis about the Allies’ invasion plans. 

History buffs and anyone who enjoys offbeat comedy will appreciate this humorous addition to the best Broadway shows list. It is perfect for audience members over 10, filled with clever humor and includes plenty of toe-tapping songs dispersed throughout the sharp, attention-grabbing storyline. 

23. Stranger Things: The First Shadow

Fans of the hit Netflix television series Stranger Things are excited about the 2025 production of Stranger Things: The First Shadow. This show is a prequel to the popular Netflix series and explores some of the backstories of our favorite Hawkins, Indiana, characters. People are just living their normal, everyday lives until a new student arrives. Henry Creel and his family find that fresh starts aren’t always so easy. 

The special effects and jaw-dropping storyline of this addition to the best Broadway shows list will keep you on the edge of your seat and transport you back to the beginnings of Stranger Things. Young teens and adults who appreciate horror elements and special effects will likely enjoy this show. Parents should use caution based on the child’s comfort level with fear elements and supernatural figures when deciding whether or not this is the best Broadway show for a family’s evening out in NYC.

24. Boop! The Musical

Boop! The Musical is an animated adventure that brings the iconic and sassy-sweet figure Betty Boop to the stage. This is one of the best Broadway shows to see if you're searching for a love story filled with lights, color, upbeat music, big dance numbers and fun choreography set in the iconic Jazz Age. The lighthearted script tells the amusing yet thoughtful tale of a woman working to understand fame, self-image and societal expectations as she tries to take a day off from stardom and finds herself immersed in an entirely new, color-filled world in New York City. 

This head-bopping musical is family-friendly and highly energetic. The vintage feel makes for a fun presentation and one of the best Broadway shows that everyone will enjoy as they realize that we are all capable of amazing things. Boop-oop-a-doop!

25. Purpose

The influential Jasper family have held important positions as civil rights leaders, pastors and congressmen for decades. However, there are secrets in their closets. When the youngest son, Nazareth, returns home to Illinois with an uninvited friend beside him, the family is forced to reckon with its faith and Black radicalism. Purpose is one of the best Broadway shows of 2025 and a powerful play that tells the tale of the Jasper family with spirit, intrigue and the heart of the family as central components of the storyline.  

Given the mature themes and language in this Broadway production, the show is appropriate for audience members over the age of 16. It is one of the best Broadway shows for anyone interested in a rich and provocative story about advocacy, racial disparities and injustice. 

Best Broadway Shows FAQs

What Is the #1 Broadway Show of All Time?

The Lion King, a Disney classic, ranks in the top 10 Broadway musicals of all time by a measure of gross revenue and audience attendance, beating out one of the best Broadway shows right now, Wicked. This blockbuster hit has earned over $1.8 billion on Broadway alone (2025), with touring revenue significantly increasing this figure. Over 110 million fans have enjoyed seeing the show live. It has been performed in multiple countries and languages across the globe. 

What are the top 10 shows on Broadway?

The top 10 Broadway musicals right now include classic productions and visionary newer arrivals to the theater scene in New York City. The shows cater to a wide range of audiences and blend incredible musical scores with audience-capturing storylines. Some of the best Broadway shows are adapted from books and movies, while others have gone on to productions on the big screen and included well-known actors in their original casts.

The list of best Broadway shows contains these musicals:  

1. Wicked
2. The Lion King
3. Hamilton
4. Elf the Musical
5. Sunset Boulevard
6. The Outsiders
7. Aladdin
8. MJ the Musical
9. Gypsy
10. The Great Gatsby

Broadway is more than a tourist spot in NYC or a collection of historic theaters; it is the beating heart of the Big Apple’s incredible art scene, where young actors' dreams come alive on the big stage and under the glow of marquee lights. Whether you're drawn to the dazzling spectacle of some of the best Broadway shows and musicals, the raw emotion of powerful dramas, the allure of dark comedy or the timeless appeal of classic productions Off-Broadway, there is something for everyone on the Great White Way.

The selection of best Broadway shows engages the mind with the allure of storytelling, musical scores and unimaginable vocal ranges, offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences that resonate long after the final curtain falls. So, find your seat in a Broadway theater, where every performance invites you to laugh, cry and feel inspired — because in New York City, the best Broadway shows are on stage right now. Which one of these shows will you experience next? 

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