NYC: Magic Show for All Ages – Broadway Magic Hour (Times Square)

When it comes to entertainment in New York City, there’s no shortage of options, but many are geared more toward adults or require hefty ticket prices. We’ve taken a close look at the Broadway Magic Hour, a family-friendly magic show held in the heart of Times Square that promises fun, amazement, and plenty of audience participation — all for just $25 per person. Whether you’re traveling with kids or just young at heart, this performance offers a delightful way to break up your sightseeing with some laughter and awe.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the affordable price point makes it accessible for most families. Second, the near-constant audience engagement keeps everyone involved and entertained. Lastly, the prime Times Square location makes it easy to fit into your busy NYC itinerary. The only consideration? If you’re expecting a high-end illusion show, you might find the tricks somewhat scripted and more focused on comedy and crowd interaction — but that’s part of the charm for many. This show is ideal for families, groups with children, and anyone looking for a lighthearted break from the city’s hustle that’s suitable for all ages.

Good To Know:

• Affordable fun at $25 per ticket with a duration of about 1.5 hours.
• Family-friendly, with engaging magic tricks and audience participation.
• Central Times Square location makes it easy to integrate with sightseeing plans.
• Suitable for children aged 6 and up, but enjoyable for adults as well.
• Rain or winter days perfect for entertainment indoors.
• Reviews highlight the show’s humor, astonishing tricks, and engaging magicians.

An In-Depth Look at Broadway Magic Hour

The Setting: A Cozy, Family-Friendly Venue in Times Square

Broadway Magic Hour takes place at The Broadway Comedy Club, a venue known for its comedy shows but equally suited for magic performances aimed at a broad audience. The space is accessible with elevator access and ADA-compliant bathrooms, making it welcoming for families with strollers or those with mobility needs. The show is scheduled for Saturday afternoons at 2:00 pm, which is a smart choice, allowing families to enjoy the performance without sacrificing their sightseeing plans later in the day.

The Shows and Their Highlights

The magic show is hosted by master magicians Jim Vines and Carl Mercurio. Their blend of mind-reading, illusions, comedy, and audience participation creates an atmosphere that’s lively but also intimate enough for kids to feel involved. Reviewer comments emphasize how engaging the magicians are, with one noting, “The magicians were super funny and engaging,” and another mentioning, “the tricks and illusions were astonishing.”

A typical performance lasts about 1 hour, with some reviews mentioning that the show is geared toward children but still very enjoyable for adults. Kids particularly love the audience participation, with several reviews mentioning that children laugh, scream, and marvel at the tricks. One reviewer even pointed out how the show’s humor is tailored to a younger crowd, with a parent remarking, “Kids seemed to thoroughly enjoy the show.”

What to Expect During the Itinerary

The show kicks off promptly at 2:00 pm, with an energetic introduction from the magicians. Expect to see a mix of grand illusions, close-up magic, and comedy routines designed to captivate both children and adults. Audience participation is a big part of the experience, with kids often being brought up on stage to assist with tricks. One reviewer shared, “If you want to volunteer, arrive early,” which hints at the show’s interactive nature.

The performance is designed to be fast-paced and lively, with magic tricks that are visually impressive and humor that appeals to a broad age range. Although some reviews mention that the tricks might come from magic stores, the genuine amusement and surprise factor remain high, especially because of the charismatic performers.

The Venue and its Comfort

The Broadway Comedy Club, the venue for the show, is well-suited for families. It’s located near Times Square, meaning you can easily include this show as part of your sightseeing day. The venue offers elevator access and ADA-compliant bathrooms, ensuring convenience for all visitors. The intimate setting facilitates a close-up view of the magic tricks, which many reviewers appreciated.

The Value for Money

At $25 per ticket, the show offers a lot of value for families looking for affordable entertainment. The reviews emphasize how the experience creates lasting memories, with one stating, “It was entirely worth it and very fun.” With the duration of 1.5 hours, the show strikes a balance between being engaging without feeling overly long.

Although snacks and drinks are not included, the Broadway Comedy Club offers a kid-friendly menu and adult beverages for purchase, making it convenient to grab a quick snack or drink during the intermission or before the show.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

Multiple reviews highlight how the show appeals to varied age groups. One reviewer shared that even a grandfather loved the show, saying, “He absolutely loved it,” and mentioning the audience participation kept everyone involved. Another noted, “I’ve never seen our kids laugh so hard,” illustrating how the humor, though kid-centric, also resonates with adults.

A parent pointed out, “The show was appropriate for all ages, and my children loved it,” emphasizing its suitability for a wide age range. The interactive nature and lively personalities of the magicians make it especially memorable, with some reviewers describing the magicians as “super funny and engaging.”

Interestingly, a few comments mention that the tricks might seem somewhat scripted or from magic stores — this shouldn’t deter you, as the main draw is the fun atmosphere and genuine reactions they evoke. As one review said, “It’s more about the comedy and audience participation than pure illusion,” which is perfect for families seeking lighthearted entertainment.

Practical Details: Transportation, Timing, and Accessibility

Getting to the Broadway Magic Hour is straightforward. The venue is near public transportation, making it simple to reach from most parts of Manhattan. The show begins at 2:00 pm, giving you the flexibility to plan your morning sightseeing beforehand.

The venue’s facilities are ADA compliant, and elevator access ensures that even families with strollers or visitors with mobility challenges can comfortably attend. Since the show lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, it’s a manageable length for kids’ attention spans and makes it easy to slot into a busy day of exploring.

Pricing is reasonable at $25 per person, considering the quality of entertainment and the family-friendly environment. Unlike many NYC shows, this is a budget-conscious choice that doesn’t compromise on fun.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This is an excellent choice for families seeking an indoor activity during rainy or cold days, or simply for those wanting a break from sightseeing. It’s particularly suited for children aged 6 and above, but adults will find it just as entertaining, especially the humor and crowd interactions. It’s also a good pick for groups celebrating birthdays or special occasions, thanks to its interactive nature.

If you value close-up magic, humor, and a lively atmosphere in a convenient, central location, Broadway Magic Hour is worth your time. Keep in mind, if you’re expecting a highly polished, impromptu magic show, some tricks might seem more scripted — but many visitors find that added humor and audience participation make the experience more memorable.

The Sum Up

Broadway Magic Hour offers a surprisingly affordable, family-oriented magic experience in the midst of Times Square’s bustling energy. The show’s engaging hosts, interactive tricks, and convenient location make it an ideal activity for families, groups with children, or anyone craving some light entertainment during their NYC trip.

The mix of astonishing illusions and humorous crowd participation ensures laughs for all ages, while the accessible venue and reasonable price point add to its appeal. If you’re looking for a fun, relaxed way to enjoy a few hours indoors — especially during colder or rainier days — this show hits the mark.

While it may not be a high-end illusion extravaganza, the genuine joy and memorable moments created here are what make Broadway Magic Hour a worthwhile addition to your New York itinerary. It’s a perfect pocket of entertainment for families, with enough magic and humor to delight both kids and grown-ups alike.

FAQ

Is the ticket price per person?
Yes, tickets are $25 per person and include general admission to the show.

How long is the show?
The performance lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Can I purchase snacks or drinks?
Snacks and drinks are not included in the ticket price, but the Broadway Comedy Club offers a kid-friendly menu and adult beverages for purchase.

Is the venue accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the venue has elevator access and ADA-compliant bathrooms, making it suitable for all guests.

What is the showtime?
The show starts at 2:00 pm on Saturday afternoons.

Is the show suitable for children?
Yes, the show is designed to be family-friendly and suitable for children ages 6 and up.

Can I expect audience participation?
Definitely. Audience participation is a key part of the show, with children often helping out with magic tricks.

Are there any cancellations or refunds I should be aware of?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the event are non-refundable.

In summary, if you’re after an entertaining, affordable, and family-friendly activity in Times Square, Broadway Magic Hour provides a lively dose of magic, humor, and memorable moments that appeal to both kids and adults alike.