When people talk about the best Broadway musical, a live theatrical performance combining music, song, dance, and drama, typically performed in New York City’s theater district. Also known as musical theatre, it’s not just about flashy costumes or big vocals—it’s about stories that stick with you long after the curtain falls. The title doesn’t go to just any show. It goes to the one that makes you feel something, that sells out months in advance, and that keeps people coming back year after year. Right now, that’s Hamilton, a groundbreaking hip-hop retelling of American founding father Alexander Hamilton’s life, created by Lin-Manuel Miranda. It’s not just popular—it’s a cultural moment. Tickets for Hamilton regularly top $2,000, making it the most expensive Broadway show, a production whose premium seating commands record-breaking prices due to high demand and limited availability. Why? Because it’s fresh, fast, and feels like nothing else on stage.
But Hamilton isn’t the only player. The longest running Broadway show, a musical that has performed continuously on Broadway longer than any other in history. is The Phantom of the Opera. It’s been running for over 35 years, and people still line up for it. Then there’s Wicked, which pulls in crowds with its powerful songs and emotional story. These shows aren’t just entertainment—they’re events. People plan trips around them. They save for months. They buy tickets for birthdays, anniversaries, or just because they want to feel something real. And that’s what makes a musical truly the best—it doesn’t just perform. It connects.
What you won’t find in the headlines? The quiet flops. The shows that lost millions. The ones that closed after a week. Those matter too, because they show what doesn’t work. And that’s why the posts below give you the full picture: what’s hot, what’s overpriced, what’s worth your time, and what’s just noise. You’ll see real numbers, real stories, and real advice from people who’ve been there. Whether you’re planning a trip to New York, looking for a gift idea, or just curious why everyone’s talking about one show and not another—this collection cuts through the hype. You’ll walk away knowing not just which musicals are big, but why they are—and how to make the most of it without overspending.
Discover the top Broadway musicals you must see in 2025, from the revolutionary Hamilton to the haunting Hadestown. Find out which shows deliver unforgettable stories, music, and performances.