Secrets of Broadway & Times Square Tour
Take a stroll through the New York City era from 1904 to the present day, with a deep dive into the Roaring Twenties. Walk in the footsteps of the greatest Broadway and Vaudeville performers and see the locations associated with their lives and theaters. Learn about the history of Times Square across the last 125 years as it was transformed. If you are a fan of American history, old theater stories, and silent movies, this is the tour for you.
The tour provides an overview of the history of Broadway, Vaudeville, New York performers, and Times Square. The history of Prohibition, the Actors Strike of 1919, the rise and demise of Vaudeville, and the colorful stories of the Ziegfeld Follies are also reviewed. We talk about the boom year before and after WWII, the demise of the area, and it’s rebirth into a multi-billion dollar industry.
The walk begins in Shubert Alley between Forty-fourth and Forty-fifth streets, next to the Shubert Theatre and covers the Times Square neighborhood. See the locations of the theaters, hotels, restaurants, and landmarks tied to the lives of personalities such as Fanny Brice, Enrico Caruso, George M. Cohan, W.C. Fields, George and Ira Gershwin, Hugh Jackman, Patti LuPone, Nathan Lane, the Marx Brothers, Lin Manuel Miranda, and Flo Ziegfeld. Among the stops are the New Amsterdam Theatre and Lunt-Fontanne Theatre (both still standing) and former locations of the Earl Carroll Theatre and the New York Theatre.
Tour Highlights:
- See classic Broadway theatres;
- Visit the locations where the stars performed and lived;
- See secret spots and learn U.S. history;
- Learn about New York in the era before WWII;
- Explore the architectural and historical stories of the buildings;
- Find out about popular venues and locations today;
- Learn about notable landmarks.
Meeting Point:
Shubert Alley
225 W 44th St
New York, NY 10036
In front of the Shubert Theatre, Shubert Alley (44th Street between 7th and 8th avenues).
This tour is designed for tourists, locals, families, and groups of friends. You’ll visit more than thirty locations and come away with a new appreciation for the area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much walking is there?
About 1.5 miles (30 blocks).
What should I bring?
Bottle of water;
Camera;
Sunscreen;
Extra cash as we end the tour where food and drinks may be purchased.
Does the tour start and end at the same place?
No. The guide will direct you to your next destination.
What is the closet subway station?
The closest subway Times Square/42nd Street (1/2/3/N/R/Q/W trains). Five minutes walk to meeting point.
Where do I meet the guide?
In Shubert Alley. Look for Big Apple Fanatics Tours Sign.
Do we go inside any buildings?
Yes. We tour inside buildings open to the public.
What should I wear?
Dress smart casual, with comfortable walking shoes.
What about inclement weather?
The tour operates rain or shine, snow, or heat. In the case of severe weather forecast, you will receive an email from Big Apple Fanatics Tours 24 hours before the tour begins.
Are there bathrooms along the way?
Yes. There are also restrooms along the route.
How long is the tour?
Approximately two hours.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, dogs are allowed. Only service dogs are allowed in restaurants.
Is the tour appropriate for kids?
Yes it is great for families.
Can I book a private tour?
Yes, reach out here to book a charter tour for 2 to 50 people.