New York: Be A Smash! Broadway Walking Tour

Experience the Magic of Broadway with the Be A Smash! Walking Tour

If you’re a fan of Broadway musicals or the TV show SMASH, this Be A Smash! Broadway Walking Tour in New York offers a unique peek into the world of musical theater. Priced at $49 per person and lasting about 2 hours, this tour combines fun trivia, behind-the-scenes stories, and a chance to sing your heart out. Led by a licensed Broadway insider, it focuses on the theaters where SMASH‘s fictional musicals BOMBSHELL and HIT LIST were filmed, along with tales of Broadway’s biggest stars.

Two things we really love about this experience are its ability to give you insider stories about Broadway—without stepping inside the actual theaters—and the lively singing segments. The guides are clearly passionate, sharing backstage anecdotes and fun facts that make the history of Broadway come alive. Plus, the interactive singing, where you’ll get to perform show-stoppers, turns the tour into an energetic and memorable event.

One consideration to keep in mind is that you won’t be going inside any Broadway theaters—the tour takes place outside, with the guide sharing behind-the-scenes stories from the street. If you’re eager to step inside the theaters themselves, this might not fully satisfy that desire. Still, for those who love stories, trivia, and a bit of Broadway-style fun, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience suits musical theater fans, aspiring performers, and anyone who loves singing. It’s especially great for young performers or families with kids who like to belt out show tunes. If you enjoy engaging guides, stunning street views, and authentic Broadway stories, you’ll find this tour well worth the time.

Key Points

• Focus on SMASH and Broadway: Learn about the show’s fictional musicals and real Broadway stars.
• The outside theater visits: You won’t go inside the theaters, but you’ll hear fascinating backstage stories.
• Interactive singing: Expect to sing along with your guide to classic show tunes.
• Passionate guides: Knowledgeable, lively, and great at sharing insider information.
• Short and sweet: Perfect for a quick, engaging introduction to Broadway in just 2 hours.
• Accessible and flexible: Wheelchair accessible, with options to reserve and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the Be A Smash! Broadway Walking Tour

Setting the Scene: Starting Point and Overall Experience

The tour begins at the corner of West 53rd and Broadway, right in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. It’s a lively spot, bustling with travelers and locals alike, making for a fitting starting point to dive into Broadway’s vibrant world. From the moment we met our guide—who we’ll call Alex—there was an immediate sense of enthusiasm and deep knowledge about both the TV series SMASH and the real-life Broadway scene.

Over the next two hours, we wandered through the streets, visiting the theaters where BOMBSHELL and HIT LIST were filmed. These are actual venues where musical magic has happened, and seeing them from the outside gives a tangible connection to Broadway’s history and current vibrancy. While you won’t step inside, the guide’s stories about what happens behind those stage doors were captivating—offering a peek into the bustling world beyond the curtain.

The Theaters and Their Stories

A highlight was learning about theaters that host real Broadway productions and their connection to the show SMASH. Our guide shared backstage tales and amusing anecdotes, like how certain cast members got their start on Broadway. This adds a layer of authenticity that’s perfect for theater buffs or curious visitors wanting to understand what goes into a successful production.

The guide’s storytelling style was engaging, with spontaneous humor—think “Jazz hands” and encouraging us to belt out chorus lines—making the whole experience lively and interactive. We loved the way she brought Broadway to life through colorful stories about stars like Megan Hilty and Christian Borle, making us feel closer to the stage.

Behind-the-Scenes Stories and Trivia

What sets this tour apart from typical street walks is the inside backstage stories shared from the outside. These anecdotes provide insight into the creative process of developing new musicals and offer a glimpse into the challenges performers face. We especially enjoyed the fun SMASH trivia sprinkled throughout, which added a playful element.

The guide also explained the audition process and the unique performing opportunities available in New York, giving us an appreciation for the hard work behind the glamour. This is valuable info for anyone considering a career in theater or simply curious about what it takes to make it on Broadway.

More Great Tours Nearby

Singing and Participatory Elements

Perhaps the most memorable part was the singing segment. The guide encouraged everyone to join in singing famous show-stoppers made popular by SMASH. Expect lively, spontaneous moments of “Broadway here I come,” with the group harmonizing and clapping along. This interactive element creates a fun, communal atmosphere—perfect for theater lovers or families wanting a bit of musical fun.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Enthusiastic

Our guide, Amy, was a true Broadway insider—passionate, well-informed, and engaging without being preachy. She clearly knew her stuff, sharing details that you might not find in a typical tour, while keeping the tone light and humorous.

Practical Considerations

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a significant plus for visitors with mobility needs. It’s a small-group setting, making it intimate and allowing for easy questions. The meeting point is easy to find, and the tour’s flexible booking options—including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—make it a low-risk choice.

However, it’s important to remember that you won’t get inside theaters. If stepping into Broadway venues is your goal, this tour won’t replace a ticket to a show or a full theater tour. Still, the outside storytelling and street views pack a lot of entertainment and insight into a compact experience.

Value for Money

At $49, this tour provides great value, especially considering the insider stories and interactive singing. It’s shorter than many other activities, but the lively pace and expert narrations make it feel like a full Broadway experience—without the hefty ticket prices. For those interested in SMASH or Broadway in general, it offers a quick, fun, and educational introduction.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience is ideal for:

• Musical theater fans eager to learn behind-the-scenes stories.
• Aspiring performers wanting insights into Broadway life and the audition process.
• Families or groups looking for a lively, interactive activity in Midtown.
• Anyone who enjoys singing and wants to have a bit of Broadway fun without the cost of tickets.
• Visitors seeking a short but engaging tour that fits comfortably into a busy sightseeing day.

It’s especially suited for those who appreciate storytelling, lively guides, and authentic street-level views of Broadway.

The Sum Up: Is This the Tour for You?

If you’re looking for a lively, engaging way to connect with Broadway’s spirit—without stepping inside the theaters—this Be A Smash! Broadway Walking Tour offers a spirited and informative experience. The stories about real stars, the behind-the-scenes insights, and the fun group singing make it stand out. It’s perfect for theater enthusiasts, musical lovers, or anyone wanting a taste of Broadway’s energy in a manageable two-hour format.

For those who want inside access to theaters or a more traditional sightseeing tour, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re looking for a lighthearted, insider’s glimpse of Broadway that emphasizes fun and learning, this tour hits the right notes. Expect to leave singing, smiling, and with a new appreciation for the musical magic happening on those city streets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I go inside any Broadway theaters?
No, you won’t step inside the theaters. The tour is conducted outside, but your guide will share behind-the-scenes stories and backstage anecdotes.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy the experience.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a quick and lively addition to your day.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Is there a singing component?
Absolutely. You’ll be encouraged to sing along with show tunes, adding to the fun and energetic atmosphere.

Does the tour include inside visits to theaters?
No, it focuses on outside visits and street stories. You’ll learn a lot about Broadway, but you won’t go inside the venues.

In short, this Broadway-themed walking tour is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting a lively, educational, and musical introduction to New York’s Broadway world—without the hefty ticket price or long hours. Whether you’re a die-hard musical lover or just looking for a fun group activity, you’ll likely find this tour hits all the right notes.

You can check availability for your dates here: