The Public Theater: A Stage for Groundbreaking Performances
Experience groundbreaking theater at The Public Theater, a historic NYC landmark and home to innovative performances and accessible art for all.
The Public Theater, founded by Joseph Papp in 1954, is a New York City landmark dedicated to making theater accessible to all. Housed in the historic Astor Library building, it has premiered numerous iconic productions and continues to be a vital cultural hub.
A brief summary to The Public Theater
- 425 Lafayette St, New York, Manhattan, New York, 10003, US
- +1212-539-8500
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check out the Public's website for information on rush tickets and other discount programs to save on performances.
- Arrive early to secure your spot, especially for popular productions, as the theater's intimate spaces fill up quickly.
- Explore the surrounding neighborhood, which is filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops, to enhance your visit.
- Consider attending a performance at Joe's Pub, the Public's cabaret-style venue, for a more intimate and unique experience.
- Take advantage of the Public's free Shakespeare in the Park during the summer months for a quintessential New York City experience.
Getting There
-
Subway
The Public Theater is easily accessible by subway. From the West Side, take the R or W train (yellow line) to the 8th Street Station. From the East Side, take the 6 train (green line) to the Astor Place Station. Both stations are within a short walking distance of the theater. A single subway ride costs $3.
-
Bus
Several bus lines stop near The Public Theater. You can take the M2, M3, or M8 to 8th Street and 4th Avenue; the M5 or M6 to 8th Street and Broadway; the M15 to 2nd Avenue and 9th Street; or the M101 or M102 to 8th Street and Cooper Union. All these stops are a short walk from the theater. The cost of a single bus ride is $2.75.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Manhattan. A short taxi ride from Penn Station to The Public Theater typically costs between $12 and $16, depending on traffic. Note that prices may surge during peak hours.
-
Parking
Street parking near The Public Theater can be challenging to find, but it is sometimes available on Lafayette Street and the surrounding area. Several parking garages are within walking distance, including locations on Lafayette Street between East 3rd Street and East 9th Street. Expect to pay around $19-$45 for 2 hours of parking at a nearby garage. Garages include 403 Lafayette St Parking and 85 Wanamaker Place Parking.
Discover more about The Public Theater
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Cooper Union : Foundation Building
0.1 km
Discover the historic Cooper Union Foundation Building, a symbol of free education and architectural beauty in the heart of Manhattan.
NoHo Historic District
0.3 km
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of NoHo Historic District, where classic architecture meets modern creativity in the heart of Manhattan.
New York Marble Cemetery
0.4 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of the New York Marble Cemetery, a hidden gem in Manhattan's East Village, perfect for history enthusiasts.
Washington Mews
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting Washington Mews, a charming cobblestone street in Manhattan, where history and beauty intertwine in New York City.
E 12th St
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant charm of E 12th Street in Manhattan, where art, culture, and culinary delights await every visitor.
New York City Marble Cemetery
0.6 km
Explore the serene New York City Marble Cemetery, a historic oasis in Manhattan filled with stunning marble monuments and rich stories.
280 Mulberry St
0.6 km
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Mulberry Street, a must-visit destination in Little Italy, New York City.
Ayer Building
0.6 km
Experience the architectural beauty and rich history of the Ayer Building in Manhattan, a must-visit for any history and architecture enthusiast.
The House Of Death
0.6 km
Explore the intriguing history and stories behind The House of Death, a fascinating historical landmark in the vibrant Greenwich Village of New York City.
Greene St
0.7 km
Discover the artistic charm and vibrant atmosphere of Greene Street, a notable street in Manhattan perfect for shopping, dining, and exploring NYC culture.
Prince St
0.7 km
Explore Prince Street, a vibrant Manhattan thoroughfare filled with unique shops, art galleries, and delicious dining options that capture New York's spirit.
101 Avenue A
0.8 km
Explore the architectural beauty of 101 Avenue A, a landmark in Manhattan that embodies New York's dynamic urban landscape and rich cultural history.
Church of St. Anthony of Padua
0.8 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of the Church of St. Anthony of Padua, a historic landmark in Manhattan offering spiritual solace and stunning architecture.
365 6th Ave
0.8 km
Discover the architectural beauty of 365 6th Ave in the heart of Manhattan's vibrant West Village, where history meets modern life.
The Bowery
0.9 km
Explore The Bowery, a historic Manhattan landmark where vibrant culture meets rich history in the heart of New York City.
Unmissable attractions to see
Joe's Pub
0.0 km
Discover the heart of New York City's nightlife at Joe's Pub, where live music meets culinary delight in an intimate setting.
Astor Place Theatre
0.0 km
Experience the captivating performances of the Blue Man Group at the iconic Astor Place Theatre in New York City, a must-visit for arts enthusiasts.
Merchant's House Museum
0.2 km
Discover the Merchant's House Museum, a historical landmark in Manhattan that reveals the rich tapestry of 19th-century New York life through its preserved artifacts.
McSorley’s Old Ale House
0.2 km
Experience the historic charm of McSorley’s Old Ale House, one of New York City’s oldest pubs, serving traditional ales since 1854.
The Museum of Interesting Things (advance appt only)
0.2 km
Discover the quirky and extraordinary artifacts at The Museum of Interesting Things in Manhattan, a unique journey through history's curiosities.
The Ukrainian Museum
0.2 km
Explore the rich heritage of Ukraine at The Ukrainian Museum, a cultural haven showcasing art, history, and community in the heart of Manhattan.
Orpheum Theatre
0.4 km
Experience the magic of live performance at Orpheum Theatre, a historic cultural landmark in the heart of Manhattan, New York City.
SHOWFIELDS Noho
0.4 km
Explore SHOWFIELDS Noho in Manhattan, where shopping meets art and creativity—an unmissable destination for every tourist in New York City.
Webster Hall
0.4 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Webster Hall, a historic live music venue in Manhattan offering unforgettable concerts and vibrant nightlife.
St. Mark's Church in-the-Bowery
0.4 km
Explore St. Mark's Church in-the-Bowery: A Historical Episcopal Church and Cultural Landmark in the Heart of Manhattan.
Bowery Poetry Club
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant world of spoken word and poetry at Bowery Poetry Club, a cultural gem in New York City’s creative landscape.
St Marks Pl
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant energy of St. Marks Place in New York City, where culture, cuisine, and creativity collide in the heart of the East Village.
Strand Book Store
0.5 km
Discover The Strand Book Store, a literary treasure in Manhattan with over 18 miles of books and a vibrant event scene. A must-visit for all book lovers.
Washington Square Arch
0.5 km
Experience the grandeur of the Washington Square Arch, a historic landmark in New York City, surrounded by vibrant culture and rich history.
Washington Square Park
0.5 km
Explore Washington Square Park, a vibrant cultural hub in New York City, featuring lush landscapes, historic monuments, and lively street performances.
Essential places to dine
Cathédrale Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience exquisite French-Mediterranean cuisine at Cathédrale Restaurant in Manhattan's East Village - where every meal is a culinary journey.
SAINT RESTAURANT BAR & SPEAKEASY
0.4 km
Discover the exquisite American cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Saint Restaurant Bar & Speakeasy in Manhattan—an unforgettable dining experience awaits.
Beetle House
0.4 km
Discover Beetle House: A Tim Burton-inspired restaurant blending steakhouse classics with innovative vegan cuisine in NYC's East Village.
The Black Ant
0.4 km
Discover The Black Ant: A unique fusion of authentic Mexican flavors and creative cocktails in the heart of Manhattan.
Duane Park
0.5 km
Experience the allure of Duane Park: where gourmet dining meets captivating live performances in the heart of Manhattan.
Gotham Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience the pinnacle of American fine dining at Gotham Restaurant in Manhattan, where culinary artistry meets elegance.
The Musket Room
0.6 km
Experience exquisite New American cuisine amidst a tranquil garden setting at The Musket Room in Manhattan.
The Cabin NYC
0.9 km
Discover the flavors of New American cuisine at The Cabin NYC - where comfort meets culinary creativity in Manhattan.
Balthazar
0.9 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Balthazar - where Parisian charm meets New York City vibrancy.
Carriage House NYC
1.0 km
Experience innovative New American cuisine in an elegant setting at Carriage House NYC - a culinary gem in Manhattan's vibrant dining scene.
One if by Land, Two if by Sea
1.0 km
Discover romance and fine American cuisine at One if by Land, Two if by Sea - New York City's iconic dining gem.
Wildair
1.0 km
Experience innovative New American cuisine at Wildair, a must-visit culinary destination in Manhattan's vibrant Lower East Side.
Sveta
1.0 km
Discover Sveta: A modern Ukrainian restaurant offering exquisite brunch and cocktails in NYC's vibrant heart.
Craft
1.0 km
Experience Craft: Where Seasonal Ingredients Meet Modern American Cuisine in Manhattan's Fine Dining Scene.
Gramercy Tavern
1.1 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine at Gramercy Tavern, where seasonal flavors meet elegant dining in the heart of Manhattan.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Evolution Store
0.3 km
Explore The Evolution Store in Manhattan for unique gifts, natural wonders, and a perfect blend of art and science.
Random Accessories
0.3 km
Explore Random Accessories - a unique gift shop in Manhattan filled with distinctive treasures, jewelry, and baby items for every traveler.
Forbidden Planet
0.5 km
Explore Forbidden Planet, New York's premier comic book store, featuring an extensive selection of comics, collectibles, toys, and pop culture treasures.
Cloak & Dagger
0.5 km
Discover unique vintage fashion, jewelry, and accessories at Cloak & Dagger, the must-visit boutique in Manhattan's vibrant shopping scene.
Angela's Vintage Boutique
0.5 km
Explore Angela's Vintage Boutique in Manhattan for unique vintage apparel and sustainable fashion treasures that tell a story.
Shop Untitled NYC
0.7 km
Discover unique and trendy fashion pieces at Shop Untitled NYC, a must-visit destination for style aficionados in New York City.
Exit9 Gift Emporium
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Exit9 Gift Emporium, a must-visit shop in Manhattan for all your shopping needs.
MoMA Design Store
0.9 km
Explore the MoMA Design Store in Manhattan for unique gifts, art books, and modern home goods inspired by contemporary design.
Assembly New York
0.9 km
Explore Assembly New York, a vibrant boutique offering unique clothing, accessories, and local designer finds in the heart of Manhattan.
Mystique Boutique NYC
1.0 km
Explore a unique selection of women's fashion at Mystique Boutique NYC, where style meets individuality in the heart of Manhattan.
What Goes Around Comes Around
1.2 km
Explore timeless fashion at What Goes Around Comes Around, a vintage clothing store in Manhattan offering curated pieces for passionate shoppers.
IF SOHO NEW YORK
1.2 km
Explore high-end fashion at IF SOHO NEW YORK, where luxury meets the vibrant spirit of downtown Manhattan's retail scene.
Lovewild Design
1.3 km
Explore Lovewild Design in Manhattan for a whimsical shopping experience filled with unique gifts, artisanal candles, and delightful children's books.
Top Hat
1.3 km
Explore Top Hat in Manhattan, a charming gift shop offering unique home goods, artisanal products, and unforgettable souvenirs.
Niu Shop
1.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local artistry at Niu Shop, a hidden gem in Manhattan's vibrant streets.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Burp Castle
0.3 km
Discover Burp Castle in Manhattan, a whimsical bar with a medieval theme offering an extensive selection of beers in a cozy atmosphere.
KGB Bar
0.3 km
Experience KGB Bar in Manhattan - a cultural haven blending art, literature, and vibrant nightlife with affordable drinks.
Juke Bar
0.6 km
Discover the lively Juke Bar in Manhattan, NYC, a must-visit cocktail bar offering expertly crafted drinks and a unique underground atmosphere.
Death & Co East Village
0.7 km
Experience the finest in cocktail craftsmanship at Death & Co East Village, a cocktail bar that redefines nightlife in Manhattan.
Hidden Lane Bar
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Hidden Lane Bar in Manhattan, where crafted cocktails and lively events create unforgettable memories.
Please Don't Tell
0.7 km
Explore the secretive allure of Please Don't Tell, a premier cocktail bar in New York City's East Village, renowned for its artisanal drinks and intimate ambiance.
The Up & Up
0.7 km
Discover The Up & Up, Manhattan's stylish cocktail bar offering inventive drinks in a chic and inviting atmosphere, perfect for any night out.
Sweet & Vicious
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Sweet & Vicious, a lively bar in Manhattan offering creative cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere.
Mother's Ruin
0.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and creative cocktails at Mother's Ruin, a must-visit cocktail bar in the heart of Manhattan, NYC.
Old Town Bar
1.0 km
Experience the charm of Old Town Bar, a historic gastropub in Manhattan offering delicious food, craft beers, and a lively atmosphere.
Kind Regards
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Kind Regards, a unique bar in Manhattan offering creative cocktails and an eclectic atmosphere.
Little Branch
1.1 km
Experience the charm of Little Branch, Manhattan's upscale cocktail bar offering exquisite drinks and an intimate ambiance perfect for nightlife lovers.
Attaboy
1.1 km
Experience the art of cocktail crafting at Attaboy, Manhattan's premier cocktail bar known for its bespoke drinks and intimate ambiance.
Employees Only
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Employees Only, Manhattan's premier cocktail bar and lounge, renowned for its innovative drinks and delicious cuisine.
The Copper Still Chelsea
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at The Copper Still, Chelsea's premier bar and restaurant destination.
