Jazz at Lincoln Center

Jazz at Lincoln Center is undoubtedly one of New York City’s most iconic tourist spots. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this unique place in the world. We will guide you through a series of sections covering everything from its history and architectural features to practical tips for visiting. Additionally, you’ll find useful information on how to get there using the city’s subway system, nearby attractions you shouldn’t miss, and the best options for dining and shopping in the vicinity. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an architecture enthusiast, you’ll find everything you need here to make the most of your experience in this unique area of the city.

Jazz at Lincoln Center is much more than just a concert hall within the Lincoln Center complex: it’s the pulsating heart of jazz in New York City 🎷, a place dedicated to inspiring and growing a global audience for jazz through performance, education, and advocacy. Known worldwide for its stunning venues and renowned resident orchestra, this place represents the sophisticated and rhythmic soul of American music.

Located in Frederick P. Rose Hall, at the corner of Broadway and 60th Street, overlooking Columbus Circle and Central Park, Jazz at Lincoln Center is an essential visit for music and culture lovers. Whether attending a world-class concert, enjoying an intimate session in a jazz club, or simply admiring the views, its unique atmosphere makes for an unforgettable experience. ✨

Why Visit Jazz at Lincoln Center?

Visiting Jazz at Lincoln Center means immersing yourself in the excellence of world jazz. It’s an iconic New York City landmark that celebrates this American art form with unparalleled dedication. Here you’ll find performances by legendary musicians and rising stars, innovative educational programs, and an energy that resonates with the history of jazz. 🎶

Its cultural significance is undeniable: it is home to the acclaimed Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra led by Wynton Marsalis and has hosted countless jazz icons on its stages. Furthermore, its facilities, like the Rose Theater and The Appel Room, offer exceptional acoustics and spectacular city views, creating an unparalleled setting for music.

Jazz at Lincoln Center is also a vibrant center for learning and community. Beyond concerts, it offers a wide range of educational programs for all ages. If you want to feel the true essence of jazz in a world-class environment, this is the place. 🎺

How to Get to Jazz at Lincoln Center by Subway?

Main Stations

The main station providing direct access to the Jazz at Lincoln Center area is 59th St–Columbus Circle, located directly beneath the complex. This station is a major transportation hub, connecting several key subway lines and providing easy, direct access. 🚇

Subway Lines to Jazz at Lincoln Center

Jazz at Lincoln Center is excellently connected by the New York City subway, with several lines stopping at the 59th St–Columbus Circle station. The lines that take you directly to this destination are:

1 (red line)
A, C (blue lines)
B, D (orange lines – check schedules/days of service)

How to Get to Jazz at Lincoln Center from:

Central Park / Upper West Side

If you are in the southern part of Central Park or on the Upper West Side, simply take the 1, A, B, C, or D line southbound to the 59th St–Columbus Circle station. You’ll be there in just a few stops.

Lower Manhattan (Wall Street / World Trade Center)

From Wall Street or World Trade Center, you can take the 1 line (northbound) or the A or C line (northbound) directly to 59th St–Columbus Circle.

Brooklyn (DUMBO / Williamsburg)

From DUMBO, take the A or C line towards Manhattan directly to 59th St–Columbus Circle. If coming from Williamsburg, you can take the L line to Union Square and transfer to the N, Q, R, W line (yellow) to 57th St-7th Ave and walk a bit, or take the G line to Hoyt-Schermerhorn and transfer to the A or C.

Queens (Long Island City / Flushing)

If coming from Long Island City, you can take the E line to 7th Ave-53rd St and walk, or transfer to the B or D at 7th Ave-53rd St to 59th St-Columbus Circle. From Flushing, take the 7 line to Times Sq–42 St and transfer to the 1 line (northbound).

Harlem

From Harlem, you can take the 1, A, B, C, or D line southbound directly to 59th St–Columbus Circle.

Airports (JFK / LaGuardia / Newark)

From JFK Airport, take the AirTrain to the Howard Beach station and transfer to the A line (Manhattan-bound) to 59th St–Columbus Circle. From LaGuardia, take the Q70-SBS bus to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave and then the E or F line to conveniently transfer to lines going to Columbus Circle. From Newark, take NJ Transit to Penn Station, and then the A, C, or 1 line (northbound).

What to Do at Jazz at Lincoln Center?

Jazz at Lincoln Center is a must-visit destination for music lovers, offering unique experiences centered around jazz. From world-renowned concerts to intimate settings with breathtaking views, every corner has something special to offer. 🎹

Enjoy World-Class Performances

The heart of JALC is its live performances. You can attend concerts by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis in the elegant Rose Theater, or enjoy various artists in The Appel Room, famous for its spectacular glass wall overlooking Central Park and the skyline. 🌃

Visit Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola

For a more intimate experience, visit Dizzy’s Club. This club offers top-tier jazz performances nightly, along with a Southern-inspired menu and stunning views. It’s the perfect spot for a sophisticated, rhythm-filled evening. 🍽️🍸

Explore the Ertegun Jazz Hall of Fame

Take some time to visit the Ertegun Jazz Hall of Fame, which celebrates jazz legends. Through interactive and multimedia exhibits, you can learn about the lives and music of the greats who have shaped this musical genre. 🏆

Participate in Educational Programs

If you’re looking to deepen your knowledge, JALC offers pre-concert talks, workshops, and family programs like WeBop. Check their calendar to see which educational events coincide with your visit. 📚

Admire the Views and Architecture

Simply walking through Frederick P. Rose Hall is an experience. Admire the modern architecture, jazz-related artwork, and, of course, the unparalleled views of Columbus Circle and Central Park from its public spaces and venues. 🏙️

Attractions Near Jazz at Lincoln Center

Jazz at Lincoln Center is situated in a prime location at Columbus Circle, surrounded by some of New York City’s most prominent cultural and leisure attractions. If you decide to explore the surroundings before or after your visit, you’ll find plenty to see and do within walking distance.

The Lincoln Center Complex

Right next door, the main Lincoln Center campus houses world-renowned institutions such as the Metropolitan Opera, the New York City Ballet, and the New York Philharmonic. You can stroll through its iconic plaza with the fountain or even attend another artistic performance. 🎭🎻

Central Park

Across the street is the southwest corner of Central Park. It’s the perfect starting point for a relaxing walk, visiting Strawberry Fields (the John Lennon memorial), or simply enjoying a green respite in the middle of the city. 🌳🚶‍♀️

Museum of Arts and Design (MAD)

Located directly on Columbus Circle, the Museum of Arts and Design celebrates contemporary and historical craft, art, and design. Its exhibitions are often innovative and visually engaging. 🎨

The Shops at Columbus Circle

This elegant indoor shopping mall, located in the same building as JALC (Deutsche Bank Center), offers high-end stores, boutiques, and excellent dining options, many with park views. 🛍️🍴

Carnegie Hall

A few blocks south on Seventh Avenue is the legendary Carnegie Hall, another world-famous concert hall with a rich musical history. It’s worth admiring its architecture or checking its schedule. 🎼

American Museum of Natural History

Although it requires a slightly longer walk (through Central Park or around its perimeter), the American Museum of Natural History is a must-visit, especially if traveling with children, with its famous dinosaur halls and the Hayden Planetarium. 🦕🌠

Tips for Visiting Jazz at Lincoln Center

Visiting Jazz at Lincoln Center is a rewarding experience. To ensure you make the most of your visit to this temple of jazz, here are some helpful tips. 👍

Best Time to Go and Booking

The best time to go depends on the performance you want to see. Check the event calendar on their website in advance. It is highly recommended to buy tickets online ahead of time, especially for popular performances or at Dizzy’s Club, as they often sell out. Arrive at least 30 minutes before the show. 📅🎟️

Dress Code

While there isn’t a strict dress code for most concerts in the Rose Theater or The Appel Room, people generally dress smart casual. For Dizzy’s Club, the atmosphere is a bit more sophisticated, so neat attire is appropriate. Avoid overly casual clothing like shorts or tank tops. 👔👗

Venue Etiquette

As in any concert hall, it’s important to remain quiet during performances. Turn off or silence your cell phone. Photography and recording are usually prohibited during concerts. Applauding after solos is customary in jazz, so feel free to show your appreciation! 👏🤫

What to Bring and What Not To

Bring your ticket (digital or printed) and identification if needed. It’s advisable to bring a light coat or jacket, as the halls can be strongly air-conditioned. Avoid bringing large backpacks or bulky bags, as you may be asked to check them at the coat check (if available and open). 🧥🚫🎒

Where is Jazz at Lincoln Center?

Consult the map below to quickly find Jazz at Lincoln Center.