Getting to a concert early enough is crucial to ensure you don’t miss the opening acts and can get settled in before the headliner takes the stage. When it comes to a show at the iconic Radio City Music Hall in New York City, there are some specific tips to follow to make sure you arrive with plenty of time to spare.
When Doors Open
The first key piece of information you’ll need is when the doors open. This varies by show but is typically 1-2 hours before the advertised start time of the concert. Radio City will announce the exact doors opening time on their website and on the ticket. You’ll generally want to plan to arrive 30-60 minutes before doors open to ensure you’re in line in time.
Earlier For Popular Shows
For very high demand or sold out shows, some fans may start lining up hours before the doors open. If the event you’re attending is a hot ticket, you may want to plan for this and arrive 2-3 hours early just to be safe. Getting there super early allows you to claim your spot at the front of what’s sure to be a long line outside.
Know Your Entry Procedure
Radio City has very specific entry procedures in place for concerts that are important to note:
- All bags and purses will be searched before entering
- No professional cameras with detachable lenses or external flash units are permitted
- You must have a printed or mobile ticket ready to be scanned
- Latecomers will only be seated at the discretion of management
Knowing these rules and having any bags inspected early will prevent you from being held up during the crunch right before doors open.
Plan Your Transportation
Radio City Music Hall is located in midtown Manhattan, which means getting there via public transportation is typically the best option. Extra travel time should be budgeted depending on which method you take:
- Subway: 10-15 minutes walk from nearest stations (49th St, 50th St, Rockefeller Center)
- Bus: Buses drop off on 6th or 7th Ave, 5-10 mins walk to venue
- Train: 15-20 mins walk from Penn Station or Grand Central
- Car: Budget 30-45 mins to find parking near venue
Knowing precisely how long your chosen transit option takes will ensure no last minute rushing to get to the venue.
Prepare For Long Lines
Even with an early arrival time, you should mentally prepare for waiting in long lines outside and inside Radio City. Bringing snacks, staying hydrated, and having fully charged phones can make the wait more bearable. Portable phone chargers and items like pocket hand warmers also come in handy for cold weather shows.
Dress Appropriately
Radio City Music Hall is an indoor venue, so you won’t necessarily have to brave the elements outdoors for too long. Still, dressing for the weather while you wait in line is advised. Have extra layers on hand in case it’s chilly outside or overly air conditioned inside. Also wear comfortable shoes if you’ll be on your feet for hours.
Factor In Facility Limitations
As a historic venue, Radio City does have some facility limitations to keep in mind:
- Narrow aisles make navigating to your seat challenging
- Limited restroom capacity can cause long lines
- Food and beverage options are minimal inside
Getting to your seat quickly and using the restroom before the show starts is recommended based on these limitations.
Scope Out Your Seat Location
Radio City Music Hall has a very expansive seating area across three levels: orchestra, mezzanine, and balcony. Locate your seat ahead of time on the detailed venue seating chart and get oriented on the best route to access it.
Tip: Sections 102-106 in the middle orchestra will put you closest to the stage.
Purchase Merchandise Early
Concertgoers always want to buy artist merchandise as keepsakes. At Radio City, the merchandise booth tends to get cleaned out quickly. Prioritize buying merch right when you arrive before the good stuff sells out.
Bring Cash For Tips
You’ll want to tip ushers and coat check staff at a venue like Radio City. Come prepared with smaller bills and single dollar bills to discretely tip staff as needed.
Be Flexible
Despite the most careful planning, things can sometimes go awry when attending a show in NYC. Transportation delays, crowds, and other surprises are always a possibility. Staying flexible and going with the flow will allow you to still enjoy your concert experience.
Conclusion
Attending a concert at Radio City Music Hall is an unforgettable experience for any music fan. While an early arrival requires some forethought and strategy, it allows you to soak up the iconic venue’s atmosphere and get situated before the main act takes the stage. Use the tips provided above to determine your ideal arrival time and have a smooth, stress-free entry into the concert.