Highlights

Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, the largest and most ambitious performing arts complex in the world, spans 16.3 acres between Columbus Circle and West 66th Street and is the dynamic economic engine for Lincoln Square, hosting over five million visitors annually. Lincoln Center represents the highest standards of excellence and is home to the following diverse resident arts organizations.

The Metropolitan Opera, known colloquially as “The Met,” is one of the world’s premier opera companies and a defining feature of Lincoln Square. Established in 1883, the Met has earned a global reputation for its grand productions, exceptional performers, and commitment to innovation. Its home at Lincoln Center, inaugurated in 1966, is adorned with Marc Chagall’s striking murals, The Triumph of Music and The Sources of Music, which set the stage for the artistic brilliance inside.

The New York Philharmonic brings world-class orchestral music to the stage at David Geffen Hall in Lincoln Center. As the oldest symphony orchestra in the United States, it has been enchanting audiences since 1842 with performances ranging from classical masterpieces to contemporary compositions. Whether you’re a devoted music enthusiast or experiencing the Philharmonic for the first time, attending a concert is a must when exploring all that Lincoln Square has to offer.

The New York City Ballet (NYCB), one of the world’s foremost dance companies, brings unparalleled artistry and innovation to Lincoln Square. Founded in 1948 by legendary choreographers George Balanchine and Lincoln Kirstein, NYCB is celebrated for its distinctive style, extraordinary dancers, and groundbreaking choreography. Its home, the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center, offers a stunning setting for the company’s diverse repertoire.

Jazz at Lincoln Center (JALC) is where the energy, soul, and spirit of jazz come alive in Lincoln Square. Founded in 1987 and led by the legendary Wynton Marsalis, JALC is housed in the spectacular Frederick P. Rose Hall at Deutsche Bank Center, offering a front-row seat to the world’s best jazz performances.

The Shops at Columbus Circle, located in the iconic Deutsche Bank Center (formerly the Time Warner Center), is a premier shopping, dining, and lifestyle destination in the heart of Lincoln Square. This upscale complex offers an array of luxury retailers, including fashion, beauty, and home décor brands, alongside an exceptional culinary lineup featuring celebrated restaurants including Per Se, Masa, Bad Roman, and Twin Tails as well as fast-casual options including Shake Shack, Tartinery, and Bāng Bar. Visitors can also enjoy breathtaking views of Central Park from the complex’s spacious interiors, making it a perfect spot to relax and explore.

Fordham University’s Lincoln Center campus is an integral part of Manhattan’s Lincoln Square neighborhood, blending education, culture, and community. This urban campus hosts Fordham College at Lincoln Center, the Gabelli School of Business, and the distinguished Fordham Law School. Featuring modern facilities like the Lowenstein Center and McKeon Residence Hall, the campus provides students with an exceptional environment for learning and living, just steps away from iconic landmarks such as Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts and Central Park. Fordham’s presence in the neighborhood enhances the area through academic, cultural, and community engagement, contributing to the unique character of Lincoln Square. Note: Fordham’s Intercampus Shuttle service, commonly known as the “Ram Van,” provides a safe, convenient option for students to travel between Rose Hill and Lincoln Center campuses.

Kaufman Music Center is a cornerstone of arts and education in Lincoln Square, offering a dynamic range of programs that inspire creativity and excellence. Home to the renowned Special Music School, a public school for musically gifted students, and the Lucy Moses School, New York’s largest community arts school, the center serves as a hub for budding and accomplished artists alike. Its Merkin Hall, known for its superb acoustics, hosts an array of performances, from classical and contemporary music to thought-provoking talks and family-friendly events. With its commitment to fostering talent and enriching the community, Kaufman Music Center is a vital part of Lincoln Square’s cultural landscape.

The American Folk Art Museum, located in the heart of Lincoln Square, celebrates the creativity and cultural heritage of self-taught artists from around the world. Established in 1961, the American Folk Art Museum captures artists’ personal experiences and exhibits 8,000 works of art spanning four centuries and nearly every continent. Experience the essence of American art inspired by its rich history and resilient culture to adapt hand-made artistry and customize crafts that are remarkably original. The museum invites visitors to explore its diverse collection of folk art, which includes textiles, paintings, sculptures, and more. Free and open daily from 11:30 AM to 6:00 PM, the American Folk Art Museum is a welcoming space for art enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking inspiration.

The TKTS Lincoln Center booth, located at 61 West 62nd Street between Broadway and Columbus Avenue, inside the David Rubenstein Atrium, offers same-day discounted tickets to a wide range of Broadway and Off-Broadway performances. The TKTS Lincoln Center booth opened in 2016 and is operated by TDF – a not-for-profit organization dedicated to sharing the power of the performing arts with everyone. Located in a convenient setting in Lincoln Square, it’s a great option for theatergoers looking to score deals. With knowledgeable staff and real-time availability, TKTS Lincoln Center makes it easy to discover and enjoy New York City’s vibrant theater scene at a reduced price. It is typically open Tuesday–Saturday, 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM, offering a shorter line compared to Times Square. Tickets can also be purchased for next-day matinees.