Delacorte Theater: A Cultural Gem in Central Park
Discover the Delacorte Theater in Central Park - a unique outdoor venue for world-class Shakespeare performances and unforgettable experiences.
The Delacorte Theater, located amidst the lush surroundings of Central Park, is a renowned outdoor venue celebrated for its captivating performances and unique setting. Open since 1962, this iconic theater hosts the annual Shakespeare in the Park festival, showcasing some of the Bard's most beloved plays, often featuring both established stars and emerging talent. The theater's design harmonizes beautifully with its natural surroundings, allowing audiences to enjoy world-class performances under the open sky, surrounded by the vibrant greenery of the park. With a seating capacity of nearly 1,800, visitors can experience both the thrill of live theater and the beauty of nature simultaneously. Accessing the Delacorte Theater is easy, and it offers a magical experience, especially during the summer months when performances are held in the evening. Although the theater is temporarily closed, it has earned a reputation for its commitment to providing free tickets to the public, making it an affordable cultural outing. For visitors looking to immerse themselves in the arts, this venue is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy exceptional performances in a picturesque setting. The experience of watching a play as the sun sets and the stars come out is truly unforgettable, creating lasting memories for both locals and tourists alike. Plan your visit early to secure your tickets, as they are distributed on the day of the performance on a first-come, first-served basis. Bring a blanket or a picnic to enjoy before the show, and don't forget to explore the beautiful pathways of Central Park that surround the theater, adding to the charm of your visit.
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure your free tickets as they are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in Central Park before the show for a complete outdoor experience.
- Check the performance schedule in advance to plan your visit around your favorite plays.
- Dress in layers, as evening temperatures can drop even during summer performances.
A brief summary to Delacorte Theater
- 81 Central Park W, New York, Manhattan, New York, 10024, US
- +1212-967-7555
- Visit website
Getting There
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Train
To reach the Delacorte Theater in Central Park, first make your way to the Greenwich train station. Take the Metro-North Railroad New Haven Line towards Grand Central Terminal. The journey will take approximately 50 minutes. Once you arrive at Grand Central Terminal, follow the signs to the 42nd Street exit. After exiting, walk towards 42nd Street and take the 7 train (subway) at the 42nd Street – Times Square station towards Flushing – Main Street. Get off at the 5th Avenue – Bryant Park stop. From there, walk north on 5th Avenue until you reach Central Park. Enter the park at the 59th Street entrance and continue walking west until you reach the Delacorte Theater at 81 Central Park West.
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Bus
If you prefer to take the bus, from the Greenwich train station, catch the Connecticut Transit bus number 10 towards Stamford. Transfer to the Metro-North Railroad at Stamford Transit Center. Board the New Haven Line train to Grand Central Terminal. Once at Grand Central, take the MTA subway 7 train from the 42nd Street – Times Square station towards Flushing – Main Street. Disembark at the 5th Avenue – Bryant Park stop. Walk north on 5th Avenue to Central Park, enter at the 59th Street entrance, and then head west to the Delacorte Theater located at 81 Central Park W.
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Bicycle
For those looking to cycle, rent a bike from one of the local rental shops in Greenwich. From there, take the scenic bike route along the waterfront towards the Greenwich train station. Follow the route to the Greenwich Avenue, and then take the Metro-North Railroad New Haven Line towards Grand Central Terminal. Upon reaching Grand Central, secure your bike (if possible), and walk to 42nd Street to catch the MTA subway 7 train towards Flushing – Main Street. Get off at the 5th Avenue – Bryant Park stop, walk north to Central Park, and find the Delacorte Theater at 81 Central Park W.
Landmarks nearby to Delacorte Theater
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The Obelisk
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Alexander Hamilton Monument
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Graffiti in the city
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The San Remo
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Metropolitan Museum Historic District
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Upper West Side/Central Park West Historic District
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5th Ave
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Bethesda Terrace
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The Dakota
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Daniel Webster Monument
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Park Avenue Historic District
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Church of the Heavenly Rest
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W 72nd St
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Women's Rights Pioneers Monument
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Indian Hunter