Best Broadway Shows for Families

These Broadway (& Off-Broadway) shows are great choices for families

By Heather Cross

Updated 08/14/15

These Broadway shows are perfect for family outings because they will entertain both children and parents alike. It is recommended that children be at least 6 years old before you bring them to Broadway shows -- it's important that your children don't disrupt other audience members or misbehave during the performance.

Keep in mind, all people in your party (regardless of age) will need their own ticket, but there are many ways to save on Broadway tickets. In January and February, Kids' Nights on Broadway offer adults a free ticket for children 6-18 with each full-paying adult ticket.

More: Best NYC Attractions for Families | Free Things for Families to Do in NYC

  • 01 of 05

    Aladdin

    James Monroe Iglehart as the genie in Aladdin
    ••• James Monroe Iglehart as the genie in Aladdin. Photo by Cylla von Tiedemann

    Disney brings another classic film to Broadway in a spectacular production that will entertain parents and children alike. The show features a lot of the humor that made the movie so appealing, as well as lots of beautiful choreography and familiar tunes.
    Official Website: Disney's Aladdin: The Musical

  • 02 of 05

    The Lion King

    Lion King
    ••• Lion King. Sean Gallup/Getty Images

    This musical features amazing costumes and many scenes where the performers dance and move through the aisles, which is sure to excite children and parents alike. The music is mesmerizing, and while visually the show doesn't resemble Disney's The Lion King it's entrancing and perhaps better for it.
    Official Website: Disney's The Lion King on Broadway

  • 03 of 05

    Matilda

    Matilda on Broadway
    ••• Matilda on Broadway. Walter McBride/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

    Based on the classic children's book by Roald Dahl’s, this musical follows the journey of Matilda Wormwood as she looks beyond her family for someone who appreciates her bookish and caring nature.
    Official Website: Matilda The Musical

  • 04 of 05

    Wicked

    Wicked the Musical
    ••• Wicked the Musical. Matthew Peyton/Getty Images

    If your children enjoyed The Wizard of Oz, Wicked tells the story that proceeds from the Wicked Witch of the West's perspective. While the book might be a bit dark for children, the musical is family-friendly and includes excellent performances and music throughout.
    Official Website: Wicked: The Untold Story of the Witches of Oz

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  • 05 of 05

    Blue Man Group

    Blue Man Group
    ••• Blue Man Group. Jemal Countess/Getty Images

    This highly entertaining Off-Broadway show features three silent performers miming their way through a variety of hilarious skits. The smart performances of the Blue Men will entertain kids and adults alike.
    Official Website: Blue Man Group in NYC