New York Theater Trip with a Service Animal

Traveling to New York City with a service dog can be a truly enriching experience, especially with a little planning and awareness of what to expect. One of the biggest surprises was the inconsistent response from traditional yellow taxis—despite service dogs being protected under the ADA, several cabs refused to stop once they noticed a dog. Thankfully, Uber and Lyft were incredibly accommodating. Every ride my clients ordered arrived promptly, and drivers were respectful, helpful, and never questioned the presence of the service animal. This made getting around the city much easier and far less stressful for my clients.

When it comes to booking Broadway tickets, I highly recommend calling the theater directly. Many of the venues are historic and quite compact, so speaking with a representative helped us find seating with a little extra space for the service dog to settle in comfortably. The staff members at each theater were courteous and informed about accessibility protocols, making entry smooth and hassle-free. Booking directly also allowed us to explain our needs clearly and even led to a few complimentary upgrades for convenience.

The hotel we selected was outstanding in its attentiveness to all of my clients' needs—not just those related to the service dog. From a spacious room layout to helpful doormen and housekeeping that was careful and respectful, it was a welcoming environment all around. One of the most memorable moments came after the birthday girl saw her favorite musical: not only did she get to meet the cast for autographs, but the service dog was even allowed backstage—a testament to how inclusive and compassionate NYC’s theater community can be.

For anyone traveling to the city with a service animal, thoughtful planning goes a long way, but you'll also find a lot of unexpected moments of kindness and support.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our New York City page.