Hayes Theatre

The Basics

Built in 1912, and at the time called the Little, the Helen Hayes Theatre is a tiny venue with a big mission. Expect to see plays by contemporary Americans—a unique offering when compared to neighboring Broadway theaters. The Hayes’ shows are popular, so purchase tickets in advance. If you’re an architecture enthusiast, check out the theater’s neo-Georgian styling and red brick exterior.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Helen Hayes Theatre was once home to the Merv Griffin Show.

• Arrive on time—latecomers are seated only at suitable performance breaks, at the discretion of theater management.

• Because of the theater’s compact size, most seats offer a great view, but legroom may be limited.

• The theater has an ADA accessible entrance at the stage door, and accessible seating in the orchestra and mezzanine levels.

How to Get There

The best way to get to the theater is by subway. Take the 7, N, Q, R, W, 1, 2, or 3 line to the Times Square–42nd Street stop, or the A, C, or E train to 42nd Street–Port Authority Bus Terminal. The theater sits on West 44th Street, between Seventh and Eighth avenues, across from Shubert Alley.

When to Get There

The Helen Hayes Theatre box office is open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 8pm, and Sunday from 12pm to 7:30pm. Performances are staged Tuesday through Sunday. Because weekend shows are most popular, it can be easier to secure tickets for earlier in the week.

Where to Find Discount Broadway Tickets

Theater aficionados know that Broadway shows are beyond compare but typically come at a high cost. For the best-priced tickets on Broadway—complete with real-time price comparisons—stop by the TKTS booth in the heart of Times Square, on Seventh Avenue and West 47th Street. Arrive at the booth early to snag good seats, discounted between 20 and 50 percent off the face value, with service charges included.

Ways to explore

The Hayes Theatre presents a rotating slate of plays and limited-run musicals, each requiring an admission ticket. No standalone theater tours are offered—visitors can only experience the space by booking show tickets.

Though the venue is small, it offers modern amenities and reserved seating across two levels. Walking tours of Broadway occasionally include details on the Hayes’ architecture, neo-Georgian design, and its place as Broadway’s smallest active venue. Plan to arrive early to navigate crowds, explore nearby dining options, and settle in before the performance begins.

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible entrances are available via the Stage Door entrance, with ramps in the lower lobby. Both the orchestra and mezzanine levels offer wheelchair and companion seating, and an elevator connects to the mezzanine.

Age limits

All guests must have a valid ticket to enter. Children under 4 are not permitted inside the theater.

What to pack

Bring essentials in a small bag—no coat check is available.

What to wear

Opt for smart-casual attire and dress in layers, as the space is air-conditioned.

Not allowed

Photography, recording equipment, and cell phones during performances

Amenities

Concessions offer food and drink, including wine and beer, available at the bar. Unisex restrooms are located on both the mezzanine and lower levels. Assisted listening systems are also provided.

Address

The Hayes Theatre sits between Broadway and Eighth Avenue, in Midtown Manhattan’s Theater District. It’s accessible by several subway lines and bus routes.

Driving

Midtown driving is congested, and parking is limited. Taxis or rideshares are the easiest option for drop-off near the venue.

Public transportation

When taking the subway, walk about five minutes from the 42 St-Port Authority Bus Terminal on the A, C, E lines. It’s also within 6–7 minutes of Times Square 42 St served by 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W. M20 and M104 buses stop at Eighth Avenue and W 46th Street; the M104 also stops at SEventh Avenue & W 44th Street—both a short walk.

Best times to visit

It’s always best to arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime. Evening performances usually start at 7pm with matinees on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Best days to visit

For lighter crowds and better seating, opt for weeknight performances (Tuesday–Thursday).

Best months to visit

Spring and fall months usually offer new productions, but musicals and plays run year-round.