How to Get Discounted Broadway Tickets: Smart Ways to Save on Shows

Think Broadway tickets have to cost a fortune? Think again. With a little know-how, you can catch the hottest shows without burning through your budget. From rush tickets to lotteries and smart apps, here’s how to score discounted Broadway seats—and still get all the magic of the stage.

1. TKTS Booths: Same-Day Deals

If you’re looking for last-minute Broadway bargains, TKTS booths are your go-to spot. Run by the Theatre Development Fund (TDF), these booths offer up to 50% off select Broadway and Off-Broadway shows—just for the day of the performance.

Locations: The most famous booth is in Times Square, but you can also find them at Lincoln Center and South Street Seaport. Each booth lists available shows and discounts in real-time on digital boards, so you know exactly what’s on offer before you step up to the counter.

How to use:

• Check the TKTS app or website for current listings and wait times.
• Head to a booth early—lines can get long, especially at Times Square.
• Be flexible. Not all shows are available every day, but you’ll find plenty of gems at great prices.

Expect a fun, spontaneous experience—and a big discount on some of Broadway’s best performances. Perfect for adventurous theatre-goers ready to roll with what’s on stage today.

2. Rush Tickets: First-Come, First-Served Bargains

Want cheap seats and don’t mind an early start? Rush tickets are one of Broadway’s best-kept secrets. These first-come, first-served tickets are sold at the theatre’s box office on the day of the show—usually for $30 to $50.

How it works:

• Each show has its own rush policy, but most release a limited number of discounted tickets when the box office opens.
• You’ll need to arrive early—sometimes as early as 8 or 9 AM—to snag a spot in line, especially for popular shows.
• Some theatres are cash-only for rush sales, so it’s smart to bring cash just in case.

Rush tickets can be in various locations—sometimes front row, sometimes mezzanine—but they always offer great value. Some shows even offer digital rush via apps like TodayTix, letting you skip the line and grab deals from your phone.

It’s a bit of a hustle, but the payoff? Amazing seats at a fraction of the cost. Perfect for early birds who love live theatre and a good deal.

3. Broadway Lotteries: Try Your Luck

If you’re feeling lucky, Broadway lotteries are your shot at scoring amazing seats for as little as $10 to $40. Many top shows, including blockbusters like Hamilton, Wicked, and The Lion King, offer lotteries to fill a handful of seats at deep discounts.

Types of Lotteries:

• Digital lotteries are the most common—enter online (usually the day before or morning of the show) and cross your fingers. Apps like TodayTix and individual show websites host many of these.
• In-person lotteries still exist for some shows. Arrive at the theatre a few hours before curtain, put your name in the hat, and wait for the drawing. It’s a bit of a scene, but fun if you’ve got the time.

Winners can purchase up to two tickets, and while you can’t choose your seats, they’re often front row or prime spots. Just be ready to act fast—if you win, you usually have a short window to pay and pick up your tickets.

Lotteries are a game of chance, but when it works, it’s the ultimate Broadway bargain.

4. Standing Room Only: Cheap Seats for Sold-Out Shows

Can’t find a seat? Standing Room Only (SRO) tickets are a clever way to catch a sold-out show without spending big. These tickets are offered at a lower price—usually under $40—and let you watch the performance from designated standing areas at the back of the theatre.

How it works:

• SRO tickets are typically sold only when the show is sold out of regular seats.
• You’ll need to buy them at the theatre’s box office, often on the day of the show, and sometimes right before curtain time.
• Space is limited, so it’s smart to arrive early and ask if SRO will be available for that performance.

While you won’t have a seat, many standing sections offer excellent views, and the experience is surprisingly comfortable for short shows or passionate fans. Plus, you’ll get to see blockbuster hits like Hamilton or The Book of Mormon at a fraction of the cost.

It’s a fun, budget-friendly option—especially if you don’t mind being on your feet for a few hours.

5. Discount Apps and Websites

If you want Broadway deals without the lines or the luck, discount apps and websites are your best bet. These platforms make it easy to score promo codes, flash sales, and limited-time offers—all from the comfort of your phone or laptop.

Top Picks:

• TodayTix – Known for same-day ticket deals and digital lotteries, this app is user-friendly and great for grabbing seats at lower prices.
• BroadwayBox – Offers a treasure trove of promo codes for many Broadway and Off-Broadway shows. Just find a code, apply it at checkout, and save big.
• TDF (Theatre Development Fund) – For members, TDF offers heavily discounted tickets. Membership is open to students, teachers, retirees, and more.
• Goldstar – Great for Broadway and local theatre deals, with easy browsing and regular specials on a variety of shows.

Booking is quick and seamless, whether you’re on mobile or desktop. And with these tools in your pocket, you can stay updated on the latest bargains and never miss a great show at a great price.

6. Group and Student Discounts

Broadway loves a crowd—and if you’re going with friends or classmates, group discounts can save you serious cash. Many shows offer special rates for groups of 10 or more, making it perfect for school trips, family outings, or just gathering your theatre-loving crew. The more the merrier—and cheaper!

Students, bring that ID. Several shows and box offices offer student discounts if you show a valid student ID. You can also check out TIX4STUDENTS, a membership-based platform that gives you access to discounted Broadway tickets exclusively for students. Membership is low-cost and totally worth it if you’re hitting multiple shows.

Some productions also extend senior discounts—though less common, it’s worth asking at the box office or checking show-specific policies. These offers vary but can lead to big savings for those 60 and up.

So whether you’re in school, planning a group night, or enjoying your golden years, Broadway’s got a discount with your name on it.

7. Special Promotions and Seasonal Sales

If you time it right, you can grab Broadway tickets at unbeatable prices thanks to special promotions and seasonal deals. One of the biggest savings events? Broadway Week. Held twice a year (usually in January/February and September), this promo offers 2-for-1 ticket deals on some of the hottest shows in town. It’s a perfect chance to see more, for less.

Beyond Broadway Week, keep an eye out for holiday deals and flash sales. Around Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other big shopping events, many shows drop limited-time discounts—sometimes announced with little warning.

The best way to stay in the know? Sign up for newsletters from ticketing platforms like TodayTix, BroadwayBox, and TDF. Subscribers often get early access to deals, special promo codes, and insider news on upcoming offers.

By jumping on these seasonal specials, you can enjoy the magic of Broadway without the usual price tag. Just act fast—these deals don’t stick around for long!

Tips for Timing Your Purchase

When you buy your Broadway tickets can be just as important as where. Smart timing can mean the difference between paying full price or scoring a serious deal. Here’s how to pick the perfect moment to save.

Best days to buy? Aim for Tuesday or Wednesday performances. These midweek shows tend to have lower demand, so ticket prices are often cheaper compared to weekend nights. Matinees, especially on Wednesdays, can also offer better deals and more availability.

Avoid weekends if you’re on a budget. Friday and Saturday night shows are the most popular—and the most expensive. If you must see a weekend show, check for Sunday evening performances, which can sometimes be priced lower.

Buy early or last-minute. Planning ahead? Snag tickets as soon as they go on sale for the best selection and price. Feeling spontaneous? Last-minute deals through apps or box offices can drop prices for unsold seats, especially on the day of the show.

Timing is everything. A little flexibility with your calendar can go a long way toward keeping your Broadway night both magical and affordable.

Beware of Hidden Fees

That ticket price might look sweet—until you hit checkout. Hidden fees can sneak up fast, turning a bargain into a budget-buster. Here’s how to keep your eye on the total and avoid paying more than you should.

Always check the total price before you confirm. Some platforms advertise low base prices but tack on hefty service fees, delivery charges, or processing costs at the last second. What seemed like a deal can suddenly double in price if you’re not paying attention.

Compare platforms for fee transparency. Sites like TickPick show you the full price upfront—no surprises. Others, like StubHub or Vivid Seats, may add fees, but they usually break them down clearly so you can decide if it’s worth it. Take a moment to check multiple sites—you might find the same ticket cheaper elsewhere once fees are included.

To avoid overpaying online, consider buying directly from the box office when possible. No online service fees, just the straight ticket price. And always beware of shady sites with unclear pricing—if they won’t show the full cost until the end, it’s a red flag.

Stay sharp, and you’ll keep your Broadway budget in check—no nasty surprises needed.