While interning in New York City, there are thousands of ways for interns to spend their free time. We recommend taking the time to see at least a couple of shows at these top New York venues. From comedy to jazz to live theater, there is so much great entertainment available in the Big Apple. It would be foolish not check out some of the best venues in New York City and take in some culture, whether you want to visit the New York theater district or discover a local band.
1) The Apollo
Often referred to as the soul of American culture, The Apollo Theater is historically the leading venue for Black performers in the United States. Based in Manhattan’s Harlem neighborhood, the construction of the Apollo was finished in 1914, though at that time, it was called Hurtig & Seamon’s New Burlesque Theater. Black patrons weren’t allowed in the theater until 1934 when it became the Apollo. Since then, world-class acts like Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, Ray Charles, and Aretha Franklin have performed at the theater. The theater is also known for having launched the careers of many Black performers, with Ella Fitzgerald being among the most well-known. Every year, around 1.3 million people visit the Apollo.
2) United Palace Theatre
Built in the 1930s, the United Palace Theatre was once a vaudeville stage. Now the hip venue books an eclectic array of musical acts like Bob Dylan, Adele, and Vampire Weekend. The glamorous renovated movie house feels like a palace, complete with chandeliers and shiny, golden halls. Located in northern Manhattan, the United Palace Theatre tends to draw in a slightly less touristy crowd - perfect if you want a more authentic New York show experience after you've finished work.
3) Madison Square Garden
Madison Square Garden is the place to see some of the world's top music acts. Anything but intimate, the giant basketball arena packs 20,000 seats for world-class performances by stars like Madonna and U2. Though slightly impersonal, Madison Square Garden is where you see the best of the best. Being a classic New York City venue, a concert at the garden is a must-do for interns abroad.
4) The Public Theater
Seeing a new show at The Public Theater will be a thrill for theater-loving interns in New York City. Known for showcasing new works by up-and-coming playwrights, the theater is the best place to see burgeoning artists hone their craft. The Public was opened in 1967 when it put on the world’s first production of the musical Hair. The Public Theater’s dedication to fostering new artists and works has made it a vital part of the contemporary American theater scene and, of course, a great place to see a show. The Public is also in charge of putting on Shakespeare in Central Park, which has featured performances by Meryl Streep, Al Pacino, Anne Hathaway, and other world-class actors.
5) Comedy Cellar
This popular stand-up venue is a staple of the New York City comedy scene. Booking huge names like Aziz Ansari along with hilarious local acts, the club is a great place to see amazing comedy. Despite the sweat and crowds that are inevitable on weekends, the Comedy Cellar is an excellent spot for a good laugh and will help you relax during your downtime throughout your internship.
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6) Radio City Music Hall
A true New York City treasure, Radio City Music Hall is a classic U.S. musical venue that's been nicknamed "The Showplace of the Nation". Recent bookings have included the likes of The Decemberists and Hozier. The beautiful concert venue is known for its stunning Art Deco style which gives performances an extra glam factor. This stunning location has also been used for illustrious ceremonies including the Tony Awards and the Grammy Awards, so you know it will make you feel like a star as you take a seat.
7) Carnegie Hall
Midtown Manhattan’s world-famous Carnegie Hall is one of the most prestigious venues on earth for classical and popular musical acts, each season putting on some 250 performances. The venue has a main hall, which seats close to 3,000 and two smaller halls along with archives and a museum.
8) Belasco Theatre
A night at the Belasco Theatre will transport you to a more elegant time, with beautiful, carved dark wood, stunning murals, and other decorative details that echo the Edwardian era. The Broadway theater opened in 1907 and designed by architect George Keister. Now, the theater is a staple of Broadway and has put on world-famous shows like The Crucible, Rocky Horror, Richard III, and Hedwig and the Angry Inch. It's one of the chicest ways to see a play in New York City.
9) Ars Nova
For affordable, quality Off-Off Broadway entertainment Ars Nova doesn’t disappoint. The theater puts on a solid selection of musical performances, cabaret, and comedy without charging an arm and a leg. The theater is especially known for “Showgasm”, its monthly variety show.
10) Cake Shop
Cheap cover and great acoustics are what the Cake Shop provides young music lovers. This respected yet grungy basement venue books up-and-coming bands looking to try out their new material. Based on the Lower East Side since 2005, Cake Shop gave bands like Dirty Projectors their start.
