Entertainment · Lincoln Square
Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
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Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts is a 16-acre campus on Manhattan's Upper West Side, comprising over 30 indoor and outdoor performance venues. It is the heart of New York City's cultural scene, hosting the Metropolitan Opera, New York Philharmonic, New York City Ballet, and the Juilliard School, among others. Visitors can attend world-class opera, ballet, symphony concerts, theater, and film screenings. The architecture is stunning, with the iconic Metropolitan Opera House featuring a grand chandelier and colorful Chagall murals. The outdoor Josie Robertson Plaza, with its central fountain, is a popular gathering spot. Guided tours offer behind-the-scenes access to rehearsal spaces and historic theaters.
Don't miss
- Attend a performance at the Metropolitan Opera House, known for its crystal chandeliers
- See the New York City Ballet perform at the David H. Koch Theater
- Take a guided tour to see the Vivian Beaumont Theater and the Juilliard School
- Enjoy free outdoor concerts and films at the Damrosch Park bandshell in summer
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
You don't need a tour to visit — entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inNYC Central Park Self-Guided Walking Tour4.8★ · 28 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$15 per personSee dates →
Most bookedCentral Park Pedicab Guided Tours5★ · 8,054 travelers1–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$42 per personSee dates →
Top ratedNYC: Greenwich Village Food Tour with 6 Locals Favorites Dishes5★ · 1,888 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$98 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Know before you go
- Dress code is generally smart casual; some patrons dress formally for opera or ballet.
- Silence phones and refrain from photography during performances.
- Dine at nearby restaurants on Columbus Avenue or grab a quick bite at the Lincoln Ristorante on campus.
- Rush tickets and student discounts are often available for same-day performances.
A bit of history
Lincoln Center was built as part of the Lincoln Square Renewal Project in the 1950s–60s, opening in 1962. It replaced a working-class neighborhood and became a model for urban cultural development. The complex was designed by renowned architects including Eero Saarinen and Philip Johnson.
Common questions
Can I visit without attending a performance?
Yes, you can explore the public plazas and take a guided tour. The campus is open daily.
Are there free events?
Yes, Lincoln Center offers free outdoor concerts, movie screenings, and dance performances, especially in summer. Check their calendar.
How do I get rush tickets?
Rush tickets are sold day-of at the box office for select performances, often at a discount. Arrive early.
Is there parking?
Yes, there are several parking garages nearby, but rates are high. Public transit is recommended.
Can I take photos?
Photography is allowed in public areas but not during performances. Flash is prohibited.
Are tours available in languages other than English?
Guided tours are primarily in English, but audio guides may be available in other languages. Check in advance.
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