The Lion King on Broadway

Written By Carol Weatherly

What to Know Before You Go

There is a reason The Lion King has been on Broadway for decades. It’s stage magic in the way only Disney can deliver — visually stunning, emotionally rich, and unforgettable. The show follows Simba’s journey from curious cub to rightful king of Pride Rock. Kids and adults will be captivated, and it’s absolutely worth experiencing at least once.

🎟️ Tickets & Cost

Let’s address the elephant in the room: ticket prices.

  • Typical range: $175–$300 per ticket

  • A family of three can easily approach $1,000

  • Orchestra seats are the most expensive, but not required for a great experience

🎭 Where to Sit

Orchestra

  • Ideal rows: E–I

  • Left aisle = elephant entrance

  • Right aisle = rhinos and birds

  • Center orchestra = balanced view

  • After the opening parade, all action is on stage — orchestra is not essential

Mezzanine Overhang

  • Great alternative to orchestra

  • Includes interactive action

  • Closer view than center mezzanine

Mezzanine & Above

  • Stunning visuals from higher up

  • Best for seeing the full stage pictures

  • Budget‑friendly without sacrificing quality

Bottom line: The theater is small. You will see and hear everything from any section.

💸 Pricing Category

This is a Special Occasion show unless you’re very wealthy. It is the most expensive show on Broadway.

🔻 Ticket Discounts

Discounts are rare.

Broadway Kids Program

  • Buy‑one‑get‑one‑free for NYC students ONLY.

  • Usually on a random Tuesday in February

  • Happens once a year and sells out fast

Resale Sites

  • Gametime and StubHub sometimes offer deals

  • But sometimes they’re more expensive than the box office

Lottery

👨‍👩‍👧 Who Is This For?

  • Adults

  • Kids above the age of six.

  • Use caution with children under six. Not only does the show not recommend this, but neither do I. Young kids may not remember the experience

🚇 Transportation

The Minskoff Theatre is located in Times Square.

Best options:

  • Subway: Ideal 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W, S to 42nd Street

  • Taxi: Fine, but Times Square traffic is slow and may make you late

  • Do NOT drive. It can be done but parking will cost you.

♿ ADA Information

Visit the official accessibility page: https://lionking.com/accessibility/

🎒 Packing List

Bring

  • Money/cards for snacks or souvenirs (optional)

  • Light sweater (optional)

  • Phone for tickets

Do NOT Bring

  • Recording devices beyond your phone

    • They actively monitor for filming

    • We saw someone escorted out

  • Outside food/drinks

  • Weapons

  • Large bags

🌟 Our Experience

The show is incredible — a true Broadway standout. Entry and seating were smooth, bathroom lines moved quickly, and ushers were helpful. Souvenirs and snacks are pricey, but proceeds support Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, which helps justify the cost.

✔️ Do

  • Be realistic about your budget

  • Eat before the show

  • Consider a matinee with kids (runtime: 2.5 hours)

❌ Don’t

  • Feel pressured to buy orchestra seats

  • Feel obligated to buy souvenirs — your Playbill is free

🗓️ Suggested Agenda

  • Keep your pre‑show schedule light — you paid a lot for these tickets

  • Explore Times Square, Bryant Park, or Central Park

  • Eat before the show

    • Restaurant Row (46th St) for sit‑down meals

    • Port Authority area for cheaper fast food

    • Subway (the sandwich shop) is our go‑to for something quick and not heavy

  • Arrive 30–40 minutes before doors open

    • Time for bathrooms, souvenirs, seat cushions, and finding your seats

  • Enjoy the show

  • If it’s a matinee, go to dinner afterward

Carol Weatherly
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