When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
The Hudson Theatres
Why The Hudson Theatres is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Hudson Theatres, located at 141 West 44th Street in New York City, stands as Broadway's oldest surviving theatre, proudly opening its doors in 1903. This venue offers a remarkable setting steeped in rich theatrical history, making it an exceptional place to meet up with friends for a cultural night out. Originally designed with a spacious lobby over 100 feet long and 30 feet wide, it was renowned for its stunning triple-dome Tiffany ceiling, creating an elegant and inviting atmosphere. The theatre has hosted luminaries such as Ethel Barrymore, Douglas Fairbanks, William Holden, and Helen Hayes, reflecting its prestigious legacy. Since its reopening as an active Broadway theatre in 2017, The Hudson Theatre continues to blend classic charm with modern theatrical productions, offering a captivating experience for theatre lovers and social groups alike. Its location just off Times Square provides easy access and adds to the vibrant ambiance, perfect for pre-show dinners or post-show discussions. The theatre’s spacious layout and beautifully preserved interior make it an ideal venue for friends to share memorable moments immersed in New York’s iconic performing arts scene.
Here's what people think of The Hudson Theatres
As of recent, The Hudson Theatres holds a 4.6-star rating based on 258 reviews.
Reviews from visitors and theatre-goers consistently praise The Hudson Theatres for its stunning historic architecture, including the beautifully restored Tiffany ceiling and elegant lobby space, which contribute to a unique atmosphere not commonly found in modern venues. Many positive reviews highlight the theatre’s comfortable seating, excellent acoustics, and the high quality of the productions staged there, which range from classic plays to contemporary works. Patrons also appreciate the theatre’s convenient location near Times Square, making it easy to coordinate meetups and enjoy nearby dining and entertainment options. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional issues with limited accessibility for people with mobility challenges and the relatively smaller size of the venue compared to larger Broadway theatres, which might not appeal to those seeking expansive seating or large-scale productions. A few have noted that ticket prices can be on the higher side, reflecting its prime location and Broadway status. Overall, the consensus shows that The Hudson Theatre offers a richly historic and enjoyable experience, making it well worth visiting for groups of friends eager to enjoy Broadway in a venue that both honors tradition and delivers quality performances.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kimberly Alfrey
This is a fabulous theatre! They are combined with really cute and lovely coffee shop as well. Everyone that works at the coffee shop, box office and theatre are so helpful and kind too! I just saw SAW THE MUSICAL there and the space is comfortable and so spacious and awesome really awesome vibe and style. The play was a great production and the crew had a great set, lighting, sound and everything. The cast was absolutely fantabulous!!! The acting, singing, dancing, stunts and performance was hilarious, funny, clever, fun, silly and they played with the audience perfectly! I can’t wait to see other plays here!!!
Jennifer M
The Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy event was spectacular. The theater provides an intimate venue, where you feel really immersed in the performances. The actors were amazing, the drinks, were tasty, and the MC was hilarious.
Nicole Luna
Beautiful, intimate event! I went to both part one and part two of the Edgar Allan Poe speakeasy. The drinks are delicious and the actors are superb. Everyone seemed to really enjoy this event.🖤
Colleen Cardoso
Went to see Saw the Musical. It was GREAT. Acting was great singing was good. Theater seats uncomfortable. Would definitely go back but get an aisle.seat.
David Gabriel
What a fantastic night! Also, more theatres need built in coffee shops. Just remember, when the signs say "No food or drink allowed in the theatre," that doesn't mean "I can probably sneak in this latte no problem." The unlit stairs are not ADA standard and there's a non-zero percent chance you and your coffee accidentally topple on stage at the actress's feet. Hypothetically. Small, intimate, every seat had a good view of the stage. The chairs themselves are comfortable and generously spaced apart. The sound and lighting worked very well. Coffeeshop prices were reasonable. Room got a little warm, so if you run hot like me, wear layers. Parking was tricky, so we got there early and walked a bit. (We Saw Saw the Musical the Unauthorized Parody. Picture taken from the front row- that's how close we were!)
How to reach The Hudson Theatres
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Why The Hudson Theatres may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Hudson Theatres with your friends? The Hudson Theatres offer a uniquely intimate and engaging environment that transforms a simple outing into a memorable social experience. Whether you want to catch a local production, a musical, or even a parody show, this venue provides excellent sightlines and seating arrangements ensuring no one in your group misses a beat. Its small-to-mid size, accommodating up to 99 attendees, creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for feeling connected not just with the performance on stage but also among your friends. Located in Los Angeles’ vibrant Hollywood district on Santa Monica Boulevard, it’s easily accessible and surrounded by lively eateries and nightlife spots, adding flexibility for pre- or post-show gatherings. Also, the availability of free on-street parking and valet options minimizes the hassle usually associated with downtown trips, making it a stress-free meet-up point. This blend of easy logistics, intimate theater experience, and proximity to other attractions make The Hudson Theatres an ideal rally spot to share laughs, thrills, and cultural moments with your nearest and dearest.
What types of activities and performances can groups enjoy at The Hudson Theatres? This venue specializes in a diverse array of theatrical performances tailored to various tastes, including local productions, musicals, comedic parodies, and dramatic plays. Its three distinct stages—the Mainstage Theatre with 99 seats and a modified thrust stage, the Backstage Theatre featuring brick walls and rolling flats, also with 99 seats, and the more intimate Guild Theatre with only 43 seats—offer flexible spaces that can host both large and smaller-scale shows. This variety allows groups to pick a performance that suits their interest, from immersive one-woman shows to productions like “Saw The Musical” or playful pop culture parodies. Moreover, many events are ticketed, often attainable online with ease, making planning ahead for a group outing effortless. The intimate settings encourage lively discussions and shared reactions, enhancing the social experience. Additionally, some performances feature special guest stars or unique show themes, adding a one-of-a-kind entertainment edge very appealing for a memorable outing with friends or family.
Why is The Hudson Theatres perfect for group meetups? The layout and facilities of The Hudson Theatres make it exceptionally accommodating for groups wishing to gather and enjoy quality time together. With the theatre operating three separate stages, it can cater to different group sizes and preferences without compromising comfort or intimacy. The Mainstage and Backstage theatres each seat 99 guests, ensuring enough room for small to medium groups, while the Guild Theatre offers a super cozy venue when the meetup is more about a personal and engaging theatrical experience. Importantly, the theatre allows outside catering and BYO (bring your own) alcohol, giving groups the freedom to customize their food and drink experience fitting their social vibe, a rare and attractive amenity for an arts venue. Nearby parking options, including free street parking and paid valet, contribute to an easy arrival and departure, crucial for groups. The staff is also renowned for professional and quick communication, making event coordination smooth and stress-free. All these factors combine to create an environment where group interactions before, during, and after shows flow naturally and enjoyably.
What amenities and services enhance a group’s experience at The Hudson Theatres? Besides the excellent cultural offerings, The Hudson Theatres provide practical amenities that significantly enhance group visits. The venue includes three dressing rooms for performers, maintaining a professional feel to productions, which translates into quality shows for audiences. For guests, the intimate seating ensures a comfortable viewing experience; no seat is deemed bad, so everyone in your group enjoys clear sightlines. The venue also has robust audiovisual capabilities, especially in the Guild Theatre known as the Hudson Screening Room, equipped with top-notch A/V technology perfect for screenings or multimedia performances. Catering options are flexible — you are welcome to bring in your own food and alcohol or use the in-house catering, depending on what fits your group’s needs best. Its location in Hollywood places it near many dining and entertainment venues, offering endless options to extend the meetup beyond the show itself. Additionally, the theater is clean, quiet, and well-maintained, creating a pleasant ambiance that enhances the overall experience.
How accessible and convenient is The Hudson Theatres for a group meetup? Accessibility and convenience are major reasons why The Hudson Theatres excel as a meetup venue. Situated in the heart of Hollywood on Santa Monica Boulevard, it benefits from excellent public transport connections and road access. Many visitors find it easy to get here whether by car or subway, with ample street and paid parking options nearby, crucial for groups who might be coming separately. The proximity to iconic LA landmarks and neighborhoods further encourages planning a day or evening around the theater visit. Ticket booking is straightforward to do online, allowing groups to secure seats and plan gatherings smoothly. The venue’s staff is praised for their professionalism and responsive communication, which helps in addressing any group-specific requests or inquiries well ahead of time. Arriving slightly early is hassle-free with valet parking, meaning less waiting and more bonding with friends or family before the curtain rises. Altogether, these conveniences ensure your group’s time at The Hudson Theatres is enjoyable from start to finish.
What is the atmosphere and vibe at The Hudson Theatres for social gatherings? The Hudson Theatres embody an atmosphere that is both intimate and vibrant, making it conducive to sociable gatherings. Unlike massive auditoriums that can feel impersonal, the small-to-medium seating capacities create an inviting environment where the energy from the stage and the audience is palpable and shared. This intimacy helps groups to engage together emotionally and intellectually with the performances, helping forge memorable connections around the experience. Reviews from visitors highlight the calm, clean, and well-organized nature of the space, with attentive staff and easy seating transitions playing a key role in maintaining comfort and flow. The architectural charm, including brick walls in the Backstage Theatre and raised stages in the Guild Theatre, add character that enhances the overall vibe. Audiences often comment on the “no bad seat” quality, which fosters an inclusive feeling throughout the group. This setting is ideal for gatherings where entertainment and interaction blend seamlessly, making it a top choice for meetups aimed at creating lasting impressions.
How does The Hudson Theatres compare with other local entertainment venues for group events? Compared to other cultural venues, The Hudson Theatres stand out for their focused intimacy, flexible stage options, and user-friendly policies for groups. Many theaters are either very large or heavily commercialized, which can detract from the feeling of connection among friends or family. The Hudson balances a professional ambiance with a welcoming feel, not overwhelming in scale yet equipped with quality production resources. The allowance for external catering and BYO alcohol is uncommon in similar theatres, empowering groups to tailor their experience more personally. Parking and location remain competitive advantages, making it easier for groups to gather from across the city without excessive travel stress. Additionally, the venue’s consistent positive feedback on communication and customer service gives it an edge in terms of reliability for event organizers. Overall, The Hudson Theatres offer an attractive middle ground between grandeur and intimacy that many other venues can struggle to achieve, making it especially well suited for meaningful social outings.
What steps should groups take to plan a successful meetup at The Hudson Theatres? To ensure a smooth and fun gathering at The Hudson Theatres, groups should start by exploring the show schedule well in advance to pick a performance that suits everyone’s tastes and availability. Due to the intimate seating, purchasing tickets early is recommended to secure the best seats together, especially in the Mainstage or Backstage Theatres, which seat up to 99 people. Decide if you want to bring your own food and drinks or use the in-house catering; both options are supported, and the venue manager can provide useful guidance on catering logistics and amenities. Arranging transportation and parking options is crucial—opt for valet or nearby paid lots if available and consider carpooling for convenience and reduced costs. On the event day, planning to arrive at least 15 minutes early will help your group settle in comfortably without rush. Lastly, communicating any special needs or group requests directly with the venue’s staff beforehand helps tailor the experience perfectly. Following these steps maximizes the enjoyment and ease of meetups at this exceptional theater space.