Magic with a side of comedy. I love how Broadway Magic Hour turns you and your kids into part of the action with audience participation, not just passive watching. I also love the combo of mind-reading and hilarious comedy delivered by Jim Vines and Carl Mercurio.

The setting works especially well for a winter or rainy-day plan in Manhattan, and it fits neatly around your Times Square sightseeing since the show starts at 2:00 pm. At $25 per person for general admission, it feels like a solid value for a real theatrical performance that’s designed for ages 6 to 106.

One thing to consider: seating is based on first to arrive, so if you want the best views, you’ll need to show up early rather than rolling in right at showtime.

Key things to know before you go

• Times Square location, easy to pair with sightseeing: You’re near major transit, so this fits day-plans well.
• Jim Vines and Carl Mercurio perform together: Mind-reading, comedy, and grand illusions for all ages.
• The audience becomes part of the show: Expect interactive moments, not just stage tricks.
• Small venue feel and first-come seating: Early arrival increases your odds of front-row sightlines.
• Mobile ticket and quick entry: You’ll have a ticket you can access on your phone.

Broadway Magic Hour at the Broadway Comedy Club: What you’re really buying

This is a one-show stop for families looking for a fun NYC activity that doesn’t require a lot of planning. Broadway Magic Hour runs for about 1 hour, with the overall outing listed at around 1 hour 30 minutes, so you should plan for a little extra time to get seated and settled.

The core of the experience is straightforward: mind-boggling magic plus comedy, with audience participation that makes it feel personal. The performers—Jim Vines and Carl Mercurio—aim for a show that can hold the attention of kids and still keep adults in on the joke.

You’re also in a practical spot: the show is near Times Square, and the venue is close to public transportation. That matters because NYC days can balloon fast, and having a plan that stays simple is a win.

Timing and price: Why $25 can be a smart NYC move

The ticket is $25 per person for general admission, and the show is about 1 hour long. In practice, that price lands in the category of entertainment you can actually justify mid-trip, especially if you’re traveling as a family and you want everyone doing the same thing at the same time.

The biggest value move here is timing. A 2:00 pm start on weekend afternoons gives you a “second-act” option when mornings get eaten by museums, walking, or just the chaos of NYC logistics.

And because the venue is near Times Square, you can often build the rest of your day around it instead of treating the show like a separate expedition. If you’re dealing with winter weather or rain, a structured indoor plan is often the easiest day-saver you’ll find.

Your performers: Jim Vines and Carl Mercurio

Jim Vines and Carl Mercurio headline Broadway Magic Hour, and the show blends mind-reading with hilarious comedy. That mix is a nice balance for families because it gives kids something to react to, while adults still get plenty to enjoy.

One small but memorable detail: after the show, there’s time to meet and take photos with the performers if you’d like. That’s the kind of add-on that can turn a good hour into a lasting trip memory, especially for younger kids who love interacting with real people rather than just watching from the dark.

If you’re going with grandparents or a mixed-age group, the show’s intended age range—ages 6 to 106—also suggests the pacing and comedy are built to work across generations.

Inside the show: mind-reading, comedy, and big illusions

Expect a fast-moving performance with grand illusions, mind-reading, and audience interaction. The show is designed so the audience becomes the real star, which means your group might get called in or asked to participate during the performance.

For families, this is often the difference between a show kids like and a show kids remember. If your child gets restless in long seated activities, the built-in interaction can help break the monotony and keep attention from drifting.

For adults, the best part is the variety. Magic that’s paired with jokes tends to land better because you’re not only waiting for the trick—you’re also sharing the humor in real time. Just be ready to follow along when the magician shifts from stage work to audience involvement.

Seating and arrival strategy: front-row depends on you

This venue is small, and seating is based on first to arrive. That’s great news if you’re the early type, because you’ll have a real shot at closer seats.

If you want a better view for kids—especially if younger children have shorter sightlines—arriving early is your easiest lever. You don’t need to overthink it: just treat the show like a “get there a bit ahead” kind of event.

Also, with first-come seating, it helps to have a quick plan for your group: decide whether you’ll prioritize being close to the stage or being centered for an even view. When the venue is compact, those choices can make a noticeable difference.

Snacks and drinks: plan for purchases on site

Admission includes your general ticket, but snacks and drinks are not included. The Broadway Comedy Club offers a kid-friendly menu and adult beverages for purchase, so you can keep everyone fed without turning your show into a food mission.

If you’re traveling with kids, it’s smart to arrive with the mindset that they may want a small snack during the break-or-before mood. Having options on site keeps the family experience smooth, rather than forcing you to step out for food mid-performance.

If adults in your group want a drink, it’s available for purchase too. That flexibility is useful when you’re trying to make the whole family happy without splitting up.

Where this fits in a Times Square day

Because the show is near Times Square and starts at 2:00 pm, you can treat it as a dependable block of indoor fun between outdoor sightseeing. This is especially useful if your day has a lot of walking and you need something that doesn’t change based on weather.

A good strategy: plan your main outdoor time earlier, then treat Broadway Magic Hour as your reset button. The show’s format is built for broad appeal, so it works even if not everyone in your group is a dedicated magic fan.

If you’re visiting in winter, a 2 pm indoor show can also help you dodge that late-afternoon “we’re tired and cold” stretch. You’ll still get to enjoy Times Square energy, just from a comfortable, seated setting when the weather turns.

Accessibility and comfort: easier than you’d expect for NYC

Broadway Magic Hour is set up to be manageable for a wide range of visitors. Service animals are allowed, and the venue has elevator access and ADA compliant bathrooms. It’s also near public transportation, which helps when you’re juggling strollers, mobility needs, or simply trying not to fight traffic and lines.

Most people can participate, and the show’s all-ages framing (ages 6 to 106) suggests the pacing and format are meant to be inclusive. In a city where accessibility details can make or break a plan, it’s reassuring when the basics are already handled.

Should you book Broadway Magic Hour?

Book it if you want a family-friendly NYC activity that’s easy to fit near Times Square, especially on a rainy day or during winter. The $25 price for general admission is a fair trade for a full hour of stage magic with comedy and interaction, led by Jim Vines and Carl Mercurio.

Skip it only if your group strongly prefers quiet, non-participatory entertainment. Because this is designed around audience involvement, some people just don’t love being pulled into the moment.

If you’re traveling with kids, bring your sense of humor and aim for a front-row view by arriving early. When the audience becomes part of the show, that little bit of planning pays off quickly.

FAQ

How long is the Broadway Magic Hour show?

The magic show is about 1 hour long. The overall experience is listed at approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Where does the show take place?

It’s performed at The Broadway Comedy Club in the heart of Manhattan, near Times Square.

What time does it start?

The start time is 2:00 pm.

What is included with the ticket price?

Your ticket includes general admission.

Do I need to bring snacks?

Snacks are not included. The Broadway Comedy Club offers a kid-friendly menu and adult beverages for purchase.

What age range is this show for?

The show is designed for ages 6 to 106.

Is seating reserved?

No. Seating is based on first to arrive, so earlier arrival helps you get better spots.

Can I get a refund if plans change?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time for a full refund.

Is the venue accessible?

Yes. Elevator access and ADA compliant bathrooms are available, and service animals are allowed.