There's a reason Simba's story continues to draw in crowds year after year: It's an amazing production with gorgeous sets, unique puppetry and a moving score from Elton John and Tim Rice. Most importantly, the cast is fresh and the musical numbers are sharp. This isn't some faded, tired musical for out-of-towners—it's for lovers of the theater, and seeing The Lion King live is something like a rite of passage for New York kids. Unconvinced? Ask the 100 million+ audience members worldwide who've seen the performance. Ages 8 and up.
Theater is a big part of what makes New York shine. This city is bursting with talent that even the youngest among us can appreciate, and at the best Broadway shows for kids, everyone in your crew will be captivated. The Lion King, with its dancing wildlife and catchy songs, is a perennial favorite, but Disney aficionados will also get a kick out of the magical tale of Aladdin. At Wicked, you can visit the land of Oz and its conflicted green-skinned protagonist; at Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, you can enter an entirely different world of witches and strange creatures. While it may not seem like a great choice for younger viewers, Come From Away is a heartfelt show that older kids will be glad they saw, as is the teen musical drama Dear Evan Hansen. In 2021, these long-running hits are joined by newbies including Six and Mrs. Doubtfire.
RECOMMENDED: More theater for kids in NYC
If you've already caught these shows or are looking for something a little different, you won't have to go far: Be sure to explore our favorite Off Broadway shows for kids, too, where the stories can be just as memorable as their Broadway counterparts and the talent equally impressive. Make the day more memorable by hitting up one of our favorite fun restaurants for kids or the best family friendly restaurants before or after the show.
Just remember that all theaters, on Broadway and off, currently require proof of full COVID vaccination for audience members 12 and older. If your kids are under 12, they will need to show a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of the performance or a negative antigen test taken within six hours of the performance. You can find a complete list of the rules here. Also, masks must be worn inside Broadway theaters at all times, unless you are eating or drinking.