If you’re looking for a lively, family-friendly entertainment option in the heart of New York City, the Broadway Magic Hour show is a wonderful choice. Located in Times Square, this one-hour magic performance combines mind-bending illusions, comedy, and audience involvement—making it engaging for kids, teens, and grown-ups alike. With a reputation backed by praise from outlets like Time Out NY and The NY Daily News, this show promises an authentic, lively taste of NYC entertainment that’s more than just a quick distraction.

What we love about this show is how interactive it is—your family becomes part of the magic, which can be surprisingly memorable. Plus, it’s a great value for the experience, especially considering the show’s accessible price point and the chance to capture plenty of photos and videos. The 2 most appealing features? First, the talented magicians, Jim Vines and Carl Mercurio, who combine skill with humor and charm. Second, the audience participation, which keeps everyone on their toes and adds a genuine sense of fun.

One thing to keep in mind is that timing can be important—arriving 30 minutes early is recommended to secure preferred seating, which can make a difference if you have little ones or special needs. This experience is ideally suited for families with kids of all ages, as well as groups or couples looking for casual entertainment close to Times Square’s buzz.

Key Points

Ideal for all ages: Kids, teens, parents, and grandparents enjoy the show together.
Interactive performance: Audience participation makes the magic more memorable.
Convenient location: In the heart of Times Square, perfect for after sightseeing or before dinner.
Flexible booking: Reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Duration: Just 1 hour, making it a perfect quick break from busy city exploration.
Photo-friendly: You’re welcome to take photos and videos, capturing the magic moments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Broadway Magic Hour Show

We like that this show is carefully designed to appeal across generations. It’s a compact, one-hour experience, but packed with enough magic, comedy, and mind-reading tricks to keep everyone entertained. The venue is right in Times Square, making it an easy addition to a day filled with sightseeing, shopping, and sightseeing.

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The Main Acts and Highlights

The performers, Jim Vines and Carl Mercurio, are seasoned magicians who blend world-class illusions with comedy and audience interaction. Their act features grand illusions, mind-reading, and comedy routines that are suitable for all ages. The show is praised for its family-friendly approach, ensuring that children are engaged without anything inappropriate.

Along With watching the magic unfold, the audience is encouraged to participate actively. This element elevates the experience from passive watching to active involvement, making it more memorable—something both kids and adults appreciate. One reviewer noted, “The audience becomes the real star,” which speaks to how inclusive and engaging the show is.

The Venue and Practicalities

You’ll find the entrance easily, with a welcoming host at the front door. The show is wheelchair accessible and designed with comfort and convenience in mind. To get the best seats, arriving about 30 minutes early is recommended—this way, you can secure a good spot and settle in before the show starts.

The Experience

Expect a lively, high-energy environment filled with spectacular illusions that defy explanation. The magicians use audience participation to heighten the excitement, and there’s plenty of opportunity for photos and videos, so you can relive the magic long after the last trick. As one reviewer shared, “We loved every single second of it,” especially the interactivity.

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The Cost and Value

While ticket prices are not explicitly stated in the provided data, the value lies in the quality of entertainment and accessibility. A one-hour show in Times Square, with top-notch magicians and audience involvement, offers a memorable experience without the hefty price tag of bigger Broadway shows. The flexibility to reserve and pay later adds to the appeal, especially for travelers with dynamic plans.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This show is perfect if you’re seeking something light, fun, and engaging in Times Square. It’s well-suited for families with children, who will enjoy the interactive tricks and comedy. It also works well for groups of friends or couples wanting a quick, energetic break from the city’s hustle. Those who appreciate skilled performers and dislike overly commercialized attractions will find this a refreshing experience.

If you want a family-friendly activity that offers genuine entertainment and some impressive illusions, this show ticks all those boxes. It’s especially recommended if you enjoy authentic, unscripted moments—since the audience is part of the magic—and if capturing fun photos is important to you.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Arrival and Seating

Getting there early is a smart move. Arriving 30 minutes prior ensures you can pick your preferred seats and settle in comfortably. The venue is in a prime Times Square location, making it convenient if you’re already nearby, perhaps after visiting landmarks like the Rockefeller Center or strolling along 7th Avenue.

The Show Itself

The hour-long performance is divided into several segments, each showcasing different types of illusions. Jim Vines tends to lead with sleight-of-hand tricks and comedic routines, while Carl Mercurio handles the larger grand illusions. The interactive element invites the audience to assist with tricks, which keeps energy high and makes the magic personal.

Audience Participation

This is where the show really shines. As one happy guest put it, “The audience becomes the real star,” emphasizing how engaging and inclusive the performance feels. Kids especially love being part of the act, which adds a genuine sense of wonder and fun.

Photos and Videos

Unlike many performances where capturing the magic is discouraged, here you’re encouraged to take photos and videos. This means you can relive these moments later and share the fun with friends and family, making it a more memorable souvenir.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The venue is wheelchair accessible, which is a considerate feature for travelers with mobility concerns. Remember to arrive early to get the best seats, and plan on spending about an hour in this lively, energetic environment.

The Cost and Comparing Value

Although ticket prices are not explicitly detailed, considering the length (just 1 hour) and the quality of the talent, this show is an excellent value for money. In a city known for big-ticket Broadway shows, this performance offers a high-quality, intimate experience that won’t break the bank—especially with the option to reserve now and pay later.

Why it’s Worth It

You get access to top-tier magicians, audience participation, and a family-friendly environment—all within the bustling Times Square ambiance. It’s a great way to experience NYC’s entertainment scene without the expensive price tag of a full Broadway production.

Final Thoughts

This Broadway Magic Hour show is a fantastic pick for families, couples, or groups wanting a fun, energetic, and interactive experience. The talented performers, combined with the engaging environment and easy location, make this a memorable addition to any NYC itinerary. It offers a genuine taste of the city’s famed entertainment—light, lively, and full of surprises.

If you’re after an activity that’s fun for all ages, easy to fit into a busy day, and offers plenty of photo opportunities, this show deserves a spot on your list. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for something different, it’s a charming, lively, and well-reviewed show that will leave everyone smiling.

FAQ

Is advance booking required?
Yes, purchasing tickets in advance is necessary to secure your spot, especially during peak times.

How long is the show?
The show lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick, enjoyable break in your busy sightseeing schedule.

Can I take photos or videos during the show?
Absolutely. You’re encouraged to take as many photos and videos as you like, which makes it easier to capture the magic.

Is it suitable for young children?
Yes, the show is specifically described as family-friendly and suitable for kids, teens, and adults.

Is the venue accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience comfortably.

What time should I arrive?
Arriving about 30 minutes before the scheduled start is recommended to get preferred seating and settle in.

Can I cancel my tickets?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the show for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

In a nutshell, the NYC Broadway Magic Hour show is a lively, family-oriented experience that combines skillful illusions with humor and audience involvement. Perfectly situated in Times Square, it offers a memorable, photo-friendly, and affordable dose of NYC entertainment that appeals across generations.