The Barrymore first opened in 1928, and nearly a century later, it still holds onto the kind of appeal you don’t always find anymore. It was the last theater built by the Shubert family and the only one named after a performer. Ethel Barrymore was Broadway royalty, and the theater reflects that, elegant but understated, with just over 1,000 seats and a layout that makes every show feel intimate.

You won’t find massive LED screens or flashy gimmicks here. Instead, it’s all about the experience: the hush of the crowd as the lights go down, the creak of the curtain rising, and the sense that you’re sharing something special with everyone in the room. The decor is vintage in the best way: ornate moldings, glowing sconces, and just enough glamour to feel like you’re stepping into old-school New York.

Over the years, the Barrymore has hosted some seriously iconic productions. It opened with The Kingdom of God, starring Ethel herself, and from there welcomed plays like The Front Page and Death of a Salesman. 

One of the best parts about this venue? No matter what’s on the marquee, the space itself adds to the performance. It’s the kind of place where you can feel the history in the walls, but nothing about it feels dusty or dated. Each new show becomes part of its story.

You’re also in the thick of it here, just a quick stroll from Times Square, Shubert Alley, and all the buzz of the Theater District. There’s something so uniquely New York about walking to the theater, playbill in hand, surrounded by people dressed up for a night out. Whether it’s your first Broadway experience or your fifteenth, the excitement is contagious.

Before your show, grab a bite nearby. There’s no shortage of options. For a taste of new American flavors, The Glass House Tavern is right across the street from the theater and is perfect for a pre-theater dinner. If you’re craving hearty, no-frills Italian, Carmine’s is a classic. And if you just want a quick cocktail or dessert before heading in, there are plenty of cozy spots that’ll welcome you in.

If you’re staying at a hotel near Ethel Barrymore Theatre, you’re perfectly positioned to enjoy some of Broadway’s best without even needing to hop in a cab. You can plan your day around a show, grab coffee in the morning, walk the neighborhood, and ease into the evening with dinner and theater just steps away.

This spot is also ideal for solo travelers (theater makes a great solo activity), romantic nights out, or a family trip with teens who are ready for their first Broadway experience. It’s a relaxed, welcoming theater that still feels special, and it’s easy to work into your plans no matter how long you’re in town.