When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Josie Robertson Plaza
Why Josie Robertson Plaza is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Josie Robertson Plaza is a stunning 28,000-square-foot outdoor public space that serves as the grand gateway to the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in New York City. Located at 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, this plaza is uniquely framed by the renowned David Geffen Hall, David H. Koch Theater, and the Metropolitan Opera House, making it a central hub for culture and the arts. One of the plaza’s most captivating features is the iconic Revson Fountain at its center, famous for its spectacular choreographed water shows that shoot water heights up to 40 feet, creating an enchanting atmosphere for visitors. The plaza has also been featured in multiple well-known movies, including "Moonstruck," "Ghostbusters," and "Black Swan." Beyond its beauty, Josie Robertson Plaza acts as a lively community space, hosting a variety of events such as free Metropolitan Opera broadcasts, National Dance Day celebrations with dancers of all ages, and immersive art installations like The GREEN and The Oasis, which includes NYC’s largest outdoor dance floor under a giant disco ball. The plaza is open to the public daily, offers Wi-Fi access, and is equipped with production power to support diverse performances and gatherings, making it an exceptional meeting spot for friends and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Here's what people think of Josie Robertson Plaza
As of recent, Josie Robertson Plaza holds a 4.8-star rating based on 904 reviews.
Visitors consistently praise Josie Robertson Plaza for its vibrant atmosphere, iconic setting, and the beauty of the Revson Fountain’s choreographed water shows. Many reviewers highlight how the plaza’s positioning among Lincoln Center’s famed venues creates a culturally rich environment perfect for socializing and attending events. Positive feedback often mentions the plaza as a welcoming, lively space with excellent lighting and sound for performances, and an ideal place to experience the arts outdoors. The accessibility and free public events add to its appeal, making it a favorite gathering spot for locals and tourists. On the other hand, some criticisms focus on occasional crowds during popular events, which can limit seating and quiet moments for visitors wanting a peaceful experience. Others note that weather can impact outdoor enjoyment since the plaza is entirely exposed to the elements. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall consensus is strongly favorable, with many users recommending Josie Robertson Plaza for both casual meetups and cultural excursions. It remains a beloved public landmark praised for blending artistic grandeur with community engagement, offering an unforgettable setting to enjoy New York City's dynamic performing arts scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Donna S
Beautiful open air plaza that has plenty of seating and shade. During the summer they have events going on and it gets busy. Highly recommend visiting to check out. Good place for a quiet lunch on the weekday. They provide lounge chairs around the fountain.
krutartha shah
The plaza is a lovely spot to relax anytime, but it's particularly delightful this summer thanks to the "The Green" exhibit, which aims to revive NYC after the pandemic. The exhibit has transformed the entire plaza with lush green astroturf, creating an ideal setting for a leisurely afternoon visit. Don't miss out on this temporary installation, as it will likely be removed in the fall. Additionally, there's a coffee and pastry stand available if you're in the mood for a quick snack.
Ronald Foster
This is one of my favorite plazas on the planet. The fountain has forever been a place of tranquility. Sometimes you can also experience some peaceful solitude, usually in the late evenings after the last Lincoln Center performance of the night.
M K
Beautiful plaza to hang out after a ballet concert. The inside is absolutely stunning with gigantic statues and high ceilings with people dressed up looking gorgeous. After coming here I really felt like I got to experience the arts that nyc has to offer.
Motti Lerer
In the summer we come many times for the Silent disco I truly recommend every tourist or any New Yorker to come and experience with that feels like.it starts usually around 9:30 p.m.
How to reach Josie Robertson Plaza
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Why Josie Robertson Plaza may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Josie Robertson Plaza with your friends? This remarkable outdoor space at Lincoln Center offers an unmatched combination of cultural vibrancy and social energy that makes it an ideal spot to gather. Located at the gateway to one of New York City’s premier performing arts complexes, the plaza is more than just a beautiful setting; it’s a dynamic public square where art, music, dance, and community intersect. The iconic Revson Fountain, with its mesmerizing choreographed water shows, provides a constantly changing spectacle that naturally draws people’s attention and creates an ambient centerpiece for any meetup. Whether you and your friends are culture lovers looking to soak in the atmosphere of world-class arts institutions, or simply seeking a lively and elegant place to hang out outdoors, Josie Robertson Plaza offers a captivating environment. Its large open space is perfect for casual mingling or more structured group activities. From spontaneous dance sessions under the giant disco ball to joining community singalongs or watching free live performances, the plaza seamlessly blends entertainment, social mingling, and scenic beauty. The plaza’s reputation as both a cultural hub and a welcoming social space is underscored by its exceptional 4.8 rating from nearly 900 reviews, attesting to the quality of experience guests enjoy there.
What kinds of activities can you and your group enjoy at Josie Robertson Plaza? The plaza is a lively stage for diverse experiences that cater to all interests and ages, making it perfect for meetups that want something beyond just a quiet environment. Foremost among its attractions is the Revson Fountain, which features spectacular choreographed water shows with jets reaching up to 40 feet high. These visually stunning displays occur daily and serve as an engaging centerpiece for visitors to relax around and take photos. In addition, the plaza is home to The GREEN, a participatory art installation that invites visitors to interact with contemporary art in a communal way. Perhaps the most exciting feature for group gatherings is The Oasis—the largest outdoor dance floor in New York City—complete with a massive 10-foot disco ball suspended above the space. The dance floor comes alive especially during Lincoln Center’s “Summer for the City” events, hosting live music, dance workshops, and social dance sessions in styles ranging from swing and salsa to hip hop and Afrobeats. This makes the plaza a unique destination for groups who want to enjoy active, music-driven social fun in an open-air setting.
Why is Josie Robertson Plaza perfect for group meetups and social gatherings? Its spacious 28,000 square feet of beautifully maintained plaza make it large enough to comfortably accommodate small and large parties alike. The Plaza’s location at Lincoln Center places it amidst several world-renowned performing arts venues such as the David Geffen Hall, the David H. Koch Theater, and the Metropolitan Opera House, which often provide free or ticketed cultural events nearby, allowing groups to extend their experience seamlessly from outdoor socializing to indoor world-class performances. The plaza offers free public Wi-Fi, which is convenient for coordinating activities, sharing moments on social media, or even organizing impromptu group presentations or meetups. Additionally, the plaza’s accessibility is well thought out, with easy subway and bus connections nearby, and accommodations for people with mobility needs, making it simple for diverse groups of friends or families to gather. Its ambiance is characterized by charming urban design features like the grand staircase, artful lighting, and open green spaces, all combining to create a versatile environment suitable for casual meetups, celebrations, or more formal events like cocktail receptions or product launches.
How accessible is Josie Robertson Plaza for visitors and groups traveling together? The plaza is located on the west side of Columbus Avenue between West 63rd and 64th Streets, right at Lincoln Center’s entrance, making it highly accessible both geographically and for public transportation users. Visitors can reach the plaza easily via several subway lines, including the accessible 1 train at West 66th Street and the A, B, C, D, and 1 trains at 59th Street–Columbus Circle, all equipped with elevators. This accessibility is a boon for groups that rely on public transit or have members with mobility challenges. Moreover, several bus lines (M5, M7, M10, M11, M66, and M104) stop close to the plaza, ensuring multiple options for group travel from different parts of the city. For visitors using Access-A-Ride services, a designated drop-off point near the David H. Koch Theater offers convenient access for those with special transportation needs. The plaza also supports easy pick-up and drop-off on Columbus Avenue between 62nd and 65th streets, which can be essential for group rendezvous and departures. Collectively, the excellent transit links and thoughtful accommodations make Josie Robertson Plaza a hassle-free venue for friends or family to meet.
What special events make Josie Robertson Plaza a standout venue for communal experiences? The plaza is a cultural hub that regularly hosts a wide variety of public events designed to bring people together in celebration of music, dance, and the arts. One annual highlight includes Lincoln Center’s National Dance Day, where hundreds of dancers of all ages and skill levels gather around the Revson Fountain for free dance lessons, creating an inclusive, festive atmosphere ideal for groups looking to engage actively. The plaza also serves as the site for the Metropolitan Opera’s free Live in HD broadcasts, where viewers can enjoy acclaimed opera productions in an open-air setting while socializing. Another poignant event is the annual Table of Silence Project on September 11, which gathers hundreds of dancers performing a peace ritual, fostering a powerful collective experience. The plaza’s outdoor dance floor, called The Oasis, frequently transforms into a glowing, vibrant party space during summer months, highlighted by live DJs, dance styles from salsa to Afrobeats, and community dance workshops. These events naturally encourage groups of friends or families to participate together, making memories against the backdrop of one of NYC’s most iconic cultural landmarks.
What makes the ambiance at Josie Robertson Plaza so inviting for gatherings? Beyond its cultural significance and event programming, the plaza itself offers an unparalleled blend of architectural elegance, urban nature, and interactive elements that create a welcoming atmosphere. The presence of the Revson Fountain with its dramatic water choreography provides a soothing yet exciting visual and auditory backdrop. The plaza’s grand staircase and wide-open layout offer plenty of space to spread out, sit casually, or stage group photos and activities. Beautiful lighting installations and the giant disco ball suspended above The Oasis add magic to nighttime gatherings, turning the space into a luminous playground that reflects and amplifies the energy of groups dancing or celebrating together. The plaza’s greenery and open sky create a refreshing break from the city’s hustle without sacrificing the vibrant energy of Manhattan. Together, these elements support a relaxed yet festive mood that fosters connection and enjoyment for friends and families seeking a memorable meetup spot.
How can groups make the most of a visit to Josie Robertson Plaza? Planning your meetup at the plaza allows you to customize the experience depending on your group’s interests and schedule. Arriving in the afternoon lets you enjoy the fountain’s choreographed water shows in natural daylight, stroll around the plaza, and take in the art installations. Booking your visit during Lincoln Center’s seasonal events calendar means you can participate in free dance lessons, concerts, or film screenings. For groups looking to combine cultural outings with social time, attending a performance at an adjoining venue like the Metropolitan Opera before or after meeting at the plaza creates a rich, full-day experience. The availability of public Wi-Fi means small groups can organize impromptu games, share playlists for a spontaneous dance session, or arrange video calls with absent friends. Snacks and drinks are easily accessible from nearby restaurants and cafes, making it convenient to gather around the plaza for casual refreshments. Overall, Josie Robertson Plaza’s combination of natural beauty, cultural programming, and urban convenience ensures every group can find something special to enjoy.
In summary, Josie Robertson Plaza is an exceptional venue for friends or family seeking a memorable social meetup in New York City. Its perfect marriage of iconic artistic surroundings, impressive outdoor installations like the Revson Fountain and The Oasis dance floor, along with an active calendar of free public events, provides diverse ways to engage and connect. State-of-the-art accessibility and transit options make it simple for people to come together, while the plaza’s ambiance encourages anything from relaxed conversations to full-on dance parties. Whether you want to rally a group for a cultural afternoon or a lively summer night under the disco ball, Josie Robertson Plaza offers a vibrant, inclusive space that will leave everyone with lasting memories. With a near-perfect 4.8 rating and rave reviews from thousands of visitors, this dynamic Lincoln Center gateway is truly a top-tier destination for meetups that combine entertainment, beauty, and conviviality.