A Family Day of Magic, Illusion, and Mystery in New York City

New York: The Magic Capital of the World

When most people think of New York City, they picture Broadway lights, towering skyscrapers, or the rush of yellow cabs. But look a little closer and you’ll discover another truth: New York is the magic capital of the world.

Generations of legendary magicians have called this city home. Harry Houdini lived here, thrilling crowds with his daring escapes. Tony Slydini refined his subtle misdirection in Manhattan cafés, while Frank Garcia, the “Man with the Million Dollar Hands,” dazzled magicians in New York nightclubs with his card miracles. Dai Vernon, the revered “Professor,” shaped the city’s underground sleight-of-hand culture, and even Johnny Carson, before he became the king of late night, entertained colleagues and friends with tricks during his New York years.

The tradition carried forward with modern icons. Doug Henning brought magic back to Broadway in the 1970s with The Magic Show, infusing it with color, optimism, and rock-musical flair. Ricky Jay, the scholar and sleight-of-hand virtuoso, stunned New York audiences with his one-man shows and deep historical knowledge of the conjuring arts. Jeff McBride honed his theatrical mask and manipulation acts in New York clubs before earning international fame. Penn & Teller made pivotal New York appearances on their rise to global stardom. David Copperfield, though best known for his Las Vegas spectaculars, built much of his career out of New York’s television studios and stages, cementing his place as the most successful illusionist in history. David Blaine, the endurance artist and street magician, calls New York home, transforming its sidewalks, rooftops, and rivers into his stage. And from Long Island came Criss Angel, who fused street magic with rock-and-roll spectacle, later launching his world-famous Mindfreak empire.

Together, these names prove that New York isn’t just a city where magic happens—it is the magic capital of the world. And you can experience that magic for yourself in a single, unforgettable day.

9:30am — A Pilgrimage to Houdini

Begin in Queens with a visit to Machpelah Cemetery, the final resting place of Harry Houdini. His modest grave is marked by a bust and often decorated with mementos left by visiting magicians. It’s a moving reminder that much of modern illusion still draws power from Houdini’s daring spirit.
Tip: Take a rideshare; public transit options are limited, and you’ll want to get back to Manhattan efficiently.

11:30am — Tannen’s Magic Shop

Back in Midtown, head to Tannen’s Magic (45 W 34th St, Suite 608), America’s oldest magic shop, open since 1925. For nearly a century, Tannen’s has been the heartbeat of New York’s magic community. You’ll find shelves of playing cards, books, gimmicks, and props—and if you’re lucky, the staff will demo a trick for you on the spot. Many greats, from Blaine to Copperfield, have walked through these doors. It’s not just a shop—it’s living history.
Lunch idea: Grab a slice of classic New York pizza nearby before your next stop.

12:45pm — Don’t Blink Magic Shop

A short walk brings you to Don’t Blink Magic Shop (336 W 37th St, Suite 960), a boutique with a contemporary vibe. Here, live demonstrations are the star attraction, and staff are eager to put miracles right into your hands. This shop emphasizes modern, practical magic—perfect for a quick souvenir you can actually perform.

1:30pm — Broadway Magic Hour Matinee

From Don’t Blink, stroll or take the A-Train north to Broadway Magic Hour (318 W 53rd St). Doors open at 1:30pm for a 2:00pm show. This one-hour performance is family-friendly, hilarious, and packed with jaw-dropping illusions. Magicians Jim Vines and Carl Mercurio bring decades of expertise to the stage, guiding children, parents, and grandparents alike through a rollercoaster of laughter, mind-reading, and impossible feats. Imagine a child floating in the air or a sneaker burned and magically restored—it’s Broadway-style spectacle distilled into pure wonder. Arrive early to see close-up magic at your table by NYC sleight-of-hand artists Mike Kurylo and Lee Alan Barrett. Stay a few minutes after the show to take souvenir photos with Jim and Carl.
Pro tip: Arrive early; general admission means the best seats go quickly.

3:15pm — Mind-Bending Fun at the Museum of Illusions

After the matinee, loop back toward Herald Square to explore the Museum of Illusions (77 8th Avenue, New York, NY 10014). This interactive experience lets you step inside optical illusions, gravity-defying rooms, and mind-twisting exhibits that are as fun to photograph as they are to explore. It’s a playful and hands-on stop that delights kids and adults alike—making it the perfect complement to a magical afternoon in New York City.

4:30pm — Coffee & Magic Study

Time for a break. Grab a coffee in Midtown or find a bench in Bryant Park. Pull out a trick that you bought at one of the magic shops earlier and experiment with it for a bit. In New York, magic isn’t confined to theaters—it spills into cafés, parks, and even subway platforms.

6:00pm — Dinner in Midtown East

For the evening, dress up a little and enjoy dinner in Midtown East. The neighborhood offers everything from classic steakhouses to cozy Italian spots. Over dessert, impress your tablemates by showing off that new card trick—because in New York, even dinner can turn magical.

7:00pm — Evening Magic: Two Spectacular Options

Steve Cohen’s Chamber Magic at the Lotte New York Palace

One option is the refined elegance of Steve Cohen’s Chamber Magic, performed in an intimate salon at the Lotte New York Palace Hotel. Known as the “Millionaires’ Magician,” Cohen appears in tuxedo and performs for just a few dozen guests at a time. His show recalls the golden age of parlor magic, with flawless sleight of hand, uncanny mind-reading, and a touch of old-world sophistication. It’s a bucket-list experience—and the perfect finale if you prefer intimate, high-class conjuring.
Note: Cocktail attire is encouraged, adding to the evening’s refined charm.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child on Broadway

Alternatively, if your tastes lean toward epic stagecraft, head to the Lyric Theatre for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. This Tony Award–winning production immerses you in J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world with dazzling illusions, jaw-dropping transformations, and some of the most ambitious theatrical magic ever staged. It’s family-friendly, visually spectacular, and an unforgettable way to experience “magic” Broadway-style.

Bonus Stops if Time Allows

• 69 Atlantic (Brooklyn): An intimate venue for close-up magic, often featuring world-class performers.

• Pop-Up Magic Nights: Keep an eye out—New York frequently surprises with underground magic shows in clubs and speakeasies.

Why This Day Matters

By the time your head hits the pillow, you’ll understand why New York is truly the magic capital of the world. In one day, you’ve followed in Houdini’s footsteps, browsed legendary shops, shared laughter with your family at Broadway Magic Hour, and capped the night with either the refined elegance of Chamber Magic or the blockbuster spectacle of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

It’s not just sightseeing—it’s a journey into the living tradition of magic, illusion, and mystery that only New York City can provide.