Lincoln Center is a performing arts complex in Manhattan that hosts concerts, opera, ballet, and theater year-round

Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts sits on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, between 62nd and 66th Streets. It is not a single venue but a campus of nine buildings, each housing a different resident company. The New York Philharmonic performs at David Geffen Hall; the Metropolitan Opera performs at the Met; New York City Ballet and American Ballet Theatre use the David H. Koch Theater; and the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts is also located there. Other resident organizations include the Juilliard School, the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, and Lincoln Center Theater.

The complex opened in 1962 and was built as part of urban renewal in what was then a neighborhood of tenements. Today it is one of the largest performing arts centers in the United States and draws millions of visitors annually. The plaza itself is free to enter and often hosts outdoor performances and events, especially during the summer months.

Key Takeaways

  • Lincoln Center contains nine separate buildings, each with its own resident company, so the venue you visit depends on which organization is performing.
  • The New York Philharmonic performs at David Geffen Hall, the Metropolitan Opera at the Met, and ballet companies at the David H. Koch Theater.
  • Tickets are purchased directly from each resident company's box office or website, not from a single Lincoln Center ticket office.
  • The outdoor plaza is open to the public year-round and often hosts free performances, especially during summer festivals.

How to find out what is performing and when

Lincoln Center's official website (lincolncenter.org) lists events across all resident companies in one searchable calendar. You can filter by date, organization, or type of performance. Each resident company also maintains its own website with full schedules, cast information, and reviews.

The New York Philharmonic's website shows concert dates and programs at David Geffen Hall. The Metropolitan Opera's website lists opera performances at the Met. New York City Ballet and American Ballet Theatre each post their own season schedules. If you are unsure which organization is performing on a given date, the main Lincoln Center calendar is the fastest way to check.

You can also call Lincoln Center's main information line or visit the box offices in person. Box office hours vary by organization, but most are open during business hours and in the hours before evening performances.

How ticket prices and availability work

Ticket prices vary widely depending on the organization, the performance, and the seat location. A New York Philharmonic concert might range from $25 to $150 per ticket. Metropolitan Opera tickets typically cost more, often $30 to $300 or higher. Ballet performances and theater productions have their own pricing structures. Premium seats near the stage cost more than seats in the back or upper balcony.

Availability changes constantly as performances approach. Popular shows, especially opening nights or performances by famous artists, sell out weeks or months in advance. Less popular dates or matinee performances may have tickets available closer to the performance date. Each resident company manages its own inventory, so you must check the specific organization's website or call their box office to see what is available on the date you want.

Many organizations offer discounts for students, seniors, and people with disabilities. Some also offer rush tickets—deeply discounted seats sold on the day of performance—though availability is not may provide. Check each organization's website for their specific discount programs.

Getting to Lincoln Center and parking

Lincoln Center is located at 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023. The nearest subway stations are 66th Street–Lincoln Center (served by the 1, 2, and 3 trains) and 72nd Street (served by the 1, 2, and 3 trains). Both are within a five-minute walk. The complex is also accessible by bus; several routes serve the Upper West Side.

Parking on the street in this neighborhood is difficult and often requires a permit. Several parking garages are located nearby, including one beneath Lincoln Center itself. Prices vary but typically range from $15 to $30 for a few hours, depending on the garage and time of day. If you are driving, arriving early to allow time for parking is wise, especially on weekends or for popular performances.

What to expect when you arrive

Arrive at least 30 minutes before the performance starts, especially if you are unfamiliar with the building. You will need to find the correct entrance for the performance you are attending—each resident company has its own box office and entrance. Signs throughout the plaza direct you to each building.

Security screening is standard at all venues. You may be asked to open bags and pass through a metal detector. Weapons, including pocket knives and certain tools, are not allowed. Most venues prohibit outside food and drinks, though some allow sealed water bottles.

Dress code varies by performance. Concerts and opera typically draw formal or business-casual attire, though casual clothing is not prohibited. Theater and ballet performances are more relaxed. Check the specific organization's website if you are unsure what to wear.

Outdoor events and the plaza

The Lincoln Center plaza is open to the public and free to enter. During summer months, the center hosts Mostly Mozart, a festival of classical music performances, many of which are free or low-cost. The plaza itself often hosts outdoor concerts, dance performances, and film screenings, especially from June through August.

The plaza includes fountains, seating areas, and restaurants. It is a popular gathering spot for New Yorkers and tourists. Even if you are not attending a ticketed performance, you can spend time on the plaza, watch street performers, or catch an outdoor performance if one is scheduled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy tickets at the box office in person?

Yes. Each resident company has its own box office, and you can purchase tickets in person during business hours. Box office locations and hours are listed on each organization's website. Buying in person allows you to ask questions about seating and may reveal last-minute discounts or rush tickets not shown online.

What is the best way to find out about free performances?

The Lincoln Center website lists free events in its calendar. The Mostly Mozart festival in summer includes many free performances. You can also follow Lincoln Center's social media accounts or sign up for their email newsletter to receive announcements about free events and outdoor performances.

Are there restaurants or food options at Lincoln Center?

Yes. Several restaurants and cafes are located on the plaza and inside the buildings. Options range from casual to upscale. Most venues also have concessions stands inside selling snacks and drinks. Prices are higher than outside restaurants, so eating before you arrive can save money.

Can I bring children to performances?

Yes, though some performances are better suited to children than others. The New York City Ballet's Nutcracker is popular with families. Many organizations offer family-friendly performances and matinees. Check the specific organization's website or call the box office to ask whether a particular performance is appropriate for the age of your child.

What should I do if I need to cancel or exchange my ticket?

Cancellation and exchange policies vary by organization and ticket type. Most allow exchanges for a different performance date at the same venue, though fees may explore. Refund policies are stricter and often depend on how close the performance date is. Check the specific organization's website or call their box office before purchasing to understand the policy.