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

If you’re heading to New York City and looking for an activity that can entertain both kids and adults alike, the Broadway Magic Hour at Times Square could be just what you need. This 1.5-hour magic show held at the Broadway Comedy Club promises an engaging mix of illusions, comedy, and audience involvement, making it a great pick for families, groups of friends, or even solo travelers wanting a lighthearted break from sightseeing.

What really caught our eye about this experience is how it’s designed as a family-friendly event that’s accessible and fun for all ages. Plus, at only $25 per ticket, it offers good value considering the quality of entertainment packed into that hour and a half. On the flip side, since the show is scripted and geared towards a younger crowd, those expecting impromptu, mind-blowing magic might find it a bit predictable. Still, if you’re after a lively, enjoyable performance near Times Square, this one checks quite a few boxes.

This tour suits visitors wanting a casual, entertaining break from busy sightseeing days—especially if the weather isn’t cooperating or you’re traveling with kids who need a slightly more relaxed activity. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy comedy, magic, and a good dose of audience participation without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Family-friendly: Designed to entertain children and adults alike, with audience participation that engages everyone.
• Convenient Location: Held near Times Square, making it easy to fit into your NYC itinerary.
• Affordable Price: At $25, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy a show that’s packed with tricks and humor.
• Short & Sweet: Lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a manageable outing even on busy sightseeing days.
• Good for All Ages: From young kids to grandparents, everyone tends to find the show enjoyable.
• Rain or Shine: An ideal activity for winter or rainy days, especially if outdoor plans are on hold.

What You Can Expect From This Magic Show

The Venue & Setup

The Broadway Comedy Club, located right in the heart of Manhattan, provides a cozy yet lively environment for the show. With elevator access and ADA-compliant bathrooms, it’s accessible for most attendees. The venue is small enough to foster intimacy and audience interaction, but not so cramped that you feel overwhelmed. The show runs on weekend afternoons, starting at 2:00 pm, perfect for an early entertainment option that lets you continue sightseeing afterward.

The Itinerary & Highlights

The main event, known as the Broadway Magic Hour, features master magicians Jim Vines and Carl Mercurio. The show is a lively mix of mind-reading, grand illusions, comedy, and audience participation, making every act engaging. Both magicians are praised for their charisma and humor, which help keep the mood light and funny. Reviews highlight how kids thoroughly enjoy it, with many remarking that their children laugh and marvel at the tricks.

The audience becomes part of the show, with volunteers often called up front for some fun magic moments. This interaction is one of the show’s strongest points, making it memorable for kids and adults alike. The tricks are described as intriguing, with a few tricks standing out as particularly astonishing—though some reviews note that the magic is scripted, and tricks might come from a magic store rather than impromptu sleight of hand.

The Performance & Content

The show combines magic tricks, comedy, and audience participation, creating a festive atmosphere. Kids will love the visual illusions and the humor geared toward their sense of fun, while adults can appreciate the cleverness and wit of the magicians. Several reviews mention how the show’s humor is suitable for children but still enjoyable for grown-ups, with one attendee remarking, “I laughed a lot too and loved seeing our kids delight.”

While some noted that the tricks are scripted, the overall experience remains highly entertaining. The show’s pacing is brisk, and the magicians keep the energy high throughout the 90-minute duration.

Value for Money

At $25, this experience offers excellent value for a light-hearted show in such a central location. You get to see professional magicians perform a variety of illusions, participate in the show, and enjoy a fun afternoon that doesn’t require a huge time commitment. Considering the crowd’s positive reactions and the high ratings (91% recommend), many find it worth the price.

Accessibility & Practical Considerations

The show is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals or mobility needs, thanks to elevator access and ADA-compliant bathrooms. Most travelers can participate, and the proximity to public transportation makes it an easy add-on to your busy NYC plans.

What Could Be Improved?

Some reviewers mention that the tricks are somewhat scripted and that the magic might not be as impromptu or surprising as traditional, more spontaneous magic performances. If you’re a die-hard magic fan expecting a more mysterious or “raw” experience, you might find this show somewhat predictable. However, if you’re after a fun, engaging show suitable for kids and families, this is unlikely to be a dealbreaker.

The Reviews in a Nutshell

Many visitors praise the show for its captivating tricks, humor, and suitability for all ages. One reviewer shared, “Our kids laughed and enjoyed themselves so much,” while another said, “The magicians were super funny and engaging.” Several highlight how the show is an excellent activity on a rainy day or winter afternoon, with some mentioning that even grandparents loved it.

A few less enthusiastic comments note that the tricks may seem scripted and that the show is more entertainment than a pure magic showcase. But overall, the positive feedback far outweighs the negatives, and most mention that they would return for another round.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This show is a natural choice for families with young children looking for a fun outing that combines magic and comedy. It also suits couples or groups of friends wanting a light, entertaining break from sightseeing. If you’re traveling solo and love magic or comedy, you’ll still find plenty to enjoy here.

However, if you’re a magic enthusiast seeking mind-blowing, unscripted illusions, this might not meet your expectations. The scripted nature of the show, combined with audience participation, means some tricks are predictable, but the overall vibe is cheerful and engaging.

FAQs About Broadway Magic Hour

Is this show suitable for young children?
Yes, it is designed to be family-friendly, with tricks and humor geared toward kids aged 6 and up, but still enjoyable for adults.

How long is the show?
The performance lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a manageable activity during your sightseeing day.

What is the price of a ticket?
Tickets are $25 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the quality of entertainment and central location.

Where is the show held?
It takes place at the Broadway Comedy Club, near Times Square, in Manhattan.

Can I participate in the magic tricks?
Audience participation is a key part of the show, and volunteers are often called on stage, so you might get a chance to be part of the magic.

Is the venue accessible?
Yes, the venue provides elevator access and has ADA-compliant bathrooms, making it accessible for most travelers.

Are snacks available?
Not included in the ticket price, but the club offers a kid-friendly menu and adult beverages for purchase.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the show for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Broadway Magic Hour in Times Square offers a lively, family-friendly magic show at a very accessible price. It’s a perfect way to break up a busy day of sightseeing, especially if the weather isn’t cooperating or you want a more relaxed activity. The show’s engaging tricks, humor, and audience participation make it enjoyable for kids and adults alike.

While some might find the tricks somewhat scripted, it doesn’t detract from the fun, and the overall energy is infectious. If you’re after a lighthearted, well-reviewed magic show with good views of Times Square, this experience is worth considering.

Whether you’re traveling with children or just looking for a fun NYC activity, this show is a budget-friendly, entertaining choice that guarantees some memorable laughs and surprises.

In summary, if you value a family-friendly atmosphere, engaging performances, and a perfect location near Times Square, Broadway Magic Hour should be on your list. It’s an easy, enjoyable way to enjoy some classic magic and comedy without overextending your sightseeing schedule.