A Theatrical NYC Outing at non-Broadway Prices

A Broadway outing with our whole family is difficult for a couple of reasons. One, with six year old boys, I sit in my seat worrying the whole time the squirming will start to annoy the people behind us. Two, for the cost, we would be better off renting a movie and going on a family vacation. I have two favorite spots in NYC, which when combined, have us singing all the way home, feeling like we had an adventure, and not breaking the bank.

Escape the Room venues are interactive theatrical type events, wherein you try to do exactly what the name says … escape the room. It isn’t scary, nor does it make you feel claustrophobic — two of my concerns going in. Ten year olds were able to participate fully, but even littler kids can have fun with the game just by being there. For about $30 – 40 per person, you get an hour of fun, confusion and laughs. You have a few different location choices, as they are becoming more popular and are popping up around town. We escaped from the theater room at the downtown location of Escape the Room NYC.

Many times you can find one of these outings on Groupon so check there before you leave.

Escape the Room NYC
107 Sutton Place &
31st and 5th Avenue

Escape Entertainment
39 West 32nd Street

Clue Chase
1114 Avenue of the Americas (@42nd Street)

If you actually get out of the room, head over to Ellen’s Stardust Diner. The waitstaff are all aspiring Broadway stars and sing their hearts out while you eat decent diner style grub and wonder why they aren’t on the big stage. You will be entertained the entire time. It is a load of fun and my kids all love it. They don’t take reservations, but it is worth the wait. If you can plan on getting there during Broadway show times, you will have a better shot at getting a table right away. The food is reasonably priced considering location and the talent of the waitstaff.