Quick Answer
It is recommended to arrive at the theater at least 30-60 minutes before showtime for The Lion King on Broadway. This allows enough time to collect tickets, get through security, find your seat, and get settled before the show starts. Some key tips:
- Arrive earlier if possible on weekends, holidays, or evening shows when crowds are larger.
- Allow extra time if you need to pick up tickets at will call.
- Go through security as early as possible to avoid long lines right before showtime.
- Locate your seat ahead of time so you aren’t rushing when the show starts.
- Factor in time needed if you plan to get drinks or snacks before being seated.
With big crowds and long lines at popular shows like The Lion King, an early arrival ensures you don’t feel rushed or miss the opening act. 30-60 minutes ahead is ideal, but some may want to arrive even earlier to fully enjoy the experience.
Checking In and Picking Up Tickets
If you already have your tickets in hand, you can proceed directly to security lines and theater entry. However, those needing to pick up tickets from the box office will want to add extra time. Here are some tips for checking in and retrieving tickets:
- Locate the box office upon arrival – there may be specific windows for ticket pickup.
- Have your confirmation number and payment method ready to provide.
- Pick up all tickets in your party at the same time to avoid repeat visits.
- Double check ticket accuracy before leaving the window.
- Hold tickets securely to avoid loss before entry.
- Box office lines may be long right before showtime, so come earlier if possible.
Will call pickup is a quick process if you’re prepared with necessary information and IDs. Arrive 45-60 minutes early for will call to ensure sufficient time for pickup and security. For large groups, designate one person to retrieve everyone’s tickets together. Rush hour for the box office is 30-60 minutes before curtain when lines peak, so build in plenty of leeway if getting tickets last minute.
Going Through Security
After getting tickets, the next step is passing through security screening to enter the theater lobby. Security lines for popular Broadway shows can get quite lengthy, so proper timing is key. Here are some pointers for sailing through security:
- Look for signs directing you to the appropriate security queue.
- Have your tickets ready to scan or show staff.
- Limit what you carry to avoid extensive bag searches.
- Prepare to open coats or jackets for quick inspection.
- Leave prohibited items (weapons, pepper spray, large bags, etc.) at home or in your car.
- Watch for designated lines for families or guests needing special accommodations.
- Give yourself up to 30 minutes to clear security if lines are at their peak.
The best times to hit security are right when doors open 90 minutes before showtime, or in the 30-45 minutes before start while crowds are still entering. Lines tend to swell during the half hour prior to curtain as everyone rushes in at once. Allow extra time for security checks if carrying large purses, camera bags, gifts, or other bulky items.
Finding Your Seats
Entering the main theater space, you’ll want time to get oriented and find your specific seats. Ushers can assist, but you’ll save time by scoping out directions and your location ahead of arrival. Here are some tips for locating your seats smoothly:
- Have your tickets out to check section, row, and seat numbers.
- Find signposts pointing you to the right section.
- Look for ushers who can provide directional guidance.
- Proceed to your row and find your designated seat numbers.
- Count seat numbers carefully to avoid confusion.
- Allow 5-10 minutes for the seating search process.
- Take a picture of the seat numbers on your phone for easy reference.
Ideally you’ll want to be settled in your seats at least 10-15 minutes before showtime. This gives a buffer if you get turned around seeking seats and ensures you won’t be disruptive to others as the show starts. If arriving close to showtime, ask ushers immediately for quickest routing so you don’t miss the opening act. Having a smart phone pic of your seat info helps minimize confusion.
Getting Drinks and Snacks
Many theatergoers like to grab drinks or snacks during their visit. If you plan to hit the concession stands, be sure to leave time for lines here as well:
- Check the venue website or app for concession items and pricing.
- Bring cash or cards for payment.
- Factor 10-15 minutes for concession stand lines.
- Opt for bottled beverages instead of fountain drinks to avoid spills.
- Balance food that’s neat and easy to eat during the show.
- Aim to finish eats and drinks prior to the show starting.
The lobby bars tend to be most crowded during the 30 minutes leading up to showtime. If possible, head to the bar as soon as you arrive or after you’ve been seated to beat the rush. It’s best to limit food and drink during the actual performance so you don’t disturb neighboring patrons. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy refreshments without cutting it too close to curtain time.
Where to Enter for Seating
Broadway theaters are usually laid out with multiple entrances to access seating areas. This info is good to know in advance to avoid last minute confusion:
- Check your ticket for indicated entrance (often Rear Mezzanine, Balcony, Orchestra, etc.)
- Find the correct door based on your ticket’s seating zone.
- Signs or ushers can direct you to the right entry spot.
- Stay left or right based on directional signs or ushers’ gestures.
- Proceed to your section, row, and seat number once inside.
- Ask staff for clarification if you get turned around.
You want just 1-2 minutes max for entering and getting to your seat once inside. Study the venue seating chart and ticket info to know exactly where your door is located. This prevents accidentally entering the wrong section and having to double back. With multiple access points, ushers are available to keep traffic moving smoothly.
When to Arrive for Matinee vs. Evening Shows
Showtime makes a difference in optimal arrival windows. Here’s how early you may want to show up based on matinee vs. evening performances:
- Matinees – Arrive 30 minutes before curtain.
- Early Evening (shows starting between 6-7 pm) – Arrive 45 minutes early.
- Primetime Evenings (shows starting between 7-8 pm) – Arrive 60 minutes early.
- Late Night (shows starting after 8 pm) – Arrive 45 minutes in advance.
In general, matinees and early shows draw smaller crowds, so 30 minutes ahead is usually sufficient. Primetime evening performances are busiest, so allocate a full hour for ticket pickup, security, seating, etc. Late nights tend to be less crowded as well, but 45 minutes allows a nice buffer. Gauge your arrival window based on showtime, day of week, holidays, and whether any rush policies are in effect.
Allow Extra Time for Weekends, Holidays, and Rush Seats
Certain high-traffic dates call for earlier arrivals. Here are scenarios where extra lead time is wise:
- Fridays – End of work week brings larger theater crowds.
- Saturdays – Most popular show nights on Broadway.
- Sundays – Large matinee and evening turnout.
- Holidays – Heavier attendance around holidays like Christmas.
- Rush Seats – Longer lines for unreserved discount seats.
- Tourist Seasons – More crowds during peak tourism times.
An extra 15-30 minutes before curtain helps offset busier lobbies and longer lines on weekends, holidays, summers, and rush nights. If sightseeing or dining pre-show, allow even more time to account for NYC crowds and transportation. Knowing the calendar can clue you in to arrive earlier as needed.
Building in a Buffer for Traffic, Parking, Weather
Travel time to the theater also factors into your arrival plans. Here are some timing considerations regarding transit:
- Research parking locations and pricing to budget time and costs.
- Allow 30-60+ minutes to find parking in NYC areas.
- Take public transportation when possible to avoid traffic.
- Check subway maps and schedules to gauge transit time needed.
- Factor extra time if traveling during rush hours.
- Account for 10-15 minutes to walk to theater from parking or transit stops.
- Leave a buffer for weather like rain, snow, extreme heat or cold.
Rush hour, scarce/pricey parking, weather delays, and walking distance all increase transit time. If driving or taking the subway, calculate total travel time and build in 20-30 minute cushion on top to prevent late arrivals. For especially far journeys or unpredictable conditions, arriving extremely early provides reassurance.
Key Timing Tips and Summary
To summarize key tips for an ideal arrival timeline:
- Retrieve tickets at least 45-60 minutes early if picking up at box office.
- Get through security 30-60 minutes before showtime when lines are shorter.
- Find your seats 10-15 minutes early to settle in before start.
- Limit food/drink time to 10-15 minutes pre-show to beat rush.
- Add 15-30 minutes buffer on high traffic dates or conditions.
- Check transit maps/schedules and allow 20-30 minute cushion.
- Aim for 30-60 minutes pre-curtain depending on factors like showtime.
Arriving an hour or more before The Lion King provides a low-stress theater experience. You’ll have time to collect tickets, get seats, use restrooms, buy snacks, and page through the playbill without feeling rushed. While 30 minutes early may work for off-peak shows, prime evenings, weekends, and holidays call for ample lead time. Being well-prepared and aware of crowds leaves you ready to relax and enjoy some top-quality Broadway entertainment.
Conclusion
When attending a popular, long-running Broadway show like The Lion King, arriving 30-60 minutes prior to showtime ensures a smooth, stress-free theater experience. This provides sufficient buffer to pick up tickets, make your way through security, find your specific seats, use the restroom, grab drinks or snacks, and get settled before the performance begins.
Aim for the earlier end of the 30-60 minute arrival window for evening performances, weekends, holidays, and other high traffic dates when lines and crowds are heavier. Factor in extra transit time as well in a city like New York. Rushing creates unnecessary anxiety, while having plenty of lead time allows you to take everything in at an enjoyable, leisurely pace.
With valuable Broadway tickets in hand for a bucket list show like The Lion King, you want ample opportunity to soak in the ambiance and full spectacle. By planning your arrival timeline wisely, you can focus on the magic of the theater with peace of mind that you’ll be in your seat well before the opening act. Enjoy every precious moment with smart, savvy timing that sets you up for a positively roaring good time.