My husband and I are bringing our kids (18 and 15) to NYC the week between Christmas and New Year's. It will be the first time in NYC for our kids. We are hoping to see at least 2 shows while we're there, but discount tickets are a must. I am already a member of Playbill.com and have checked its current offerings. None of the current discounts go into December. My question is for other Playbill members: Will there be more deals later for December shows, or is December just so popular a travel time that discounts aren't offered?

Another question: Our 15-year-old son was very disappointed to find out he won't be allowed to attend any television tapings because of his age. Seeing a TV show was high on his list of things to do. So, we are trying to build up his attitude about this trip again with other events. What can you tell me about the Hayden Planetarium? Do we have to pay one price to get in and then another price to see the space shows? According to a website, there were two shows, one narrated by Tom Hanks and one by Harrison Ford, showing at different times and admission for each was $22. Is the tour of the planetarium something other than these shows? If you've been there, how is it?
Thanks in advance for your answers. I've been using this forum for so much information. Thanks to your wonderful advice here, I was able to get us a great deal at the Westin in Times Square--something our kids are very excited about!

Usually December is the worst time to try to get theater discounts. Many people come to the city to see the decorations and the shows. If there is something you really have your heart set on, you may want to pay full price.

You may want to take your son to The Intrepid which is a sea, air and space museum housed in an aircraft carrier. www.intrepidmuseum.org

First, the theater: As the previous poster said, you're coming at busy time for the theater. In fact, that may be the busiest week of the year for shows. So, don't get your hopes up that there will be a lot of choices. Oh, there may be some, but don't expect a wide choice. Generally, the special offers on Playbill will appear a month or two before the show dates offered. So, check back in late October/early November.
Next, the Museum of Natural History and the planetarium: Yes, it is a separate admission for the two planetarium shows. I've only seen the one that Tom Hanks narrates and it is well worth the money and time spent. The museum itself is one of New York's great treasures and is certainly worth a visit.
The TV show experience: Perhaps you can take an NBC studio tour which, while not the same as being the audience for an actual filming/taping, should at least fill part of that yearning to watch a taping.

In addition to Playbill, sign up at BroadwayBox, Theatermania, and there are others...Often one will have discounts not offered by the others, better seats, etc.

As Howard mentioned, discounts are usually offered only a month, more or less, in advance. But, typically, as one expires, another is announced.

I would think that most show tapings are on holiday hiatus during the last week of december