Lincoln Center West 63rd St. & Columbus Ave. New York, NY 10023 * Google Maps street view

History - written by Chris Buchner (used with permission)
Lincoln Center is one of the largest cultural complexes in the world. It's composed of three buildings; the Metropolitan Opera House, Avery Fisher Hall and New York State Theater.

Phillip Johnson, who also designed the fountain in the central plaza, designed the New York State Theater in 1964. The New York City Ballet, one of the world's most renowned dance companies, calls this building home. This is also the home of the New York City Opera, which operates under the goal of bringing affordable opera to the masses.

The Metropolitan Opera House opened in 1966. Originally located on Broadway between 39th and 40th Streets, the House was subject to many complaints. Due to its placement, the building was contained within a trapezoid between Broadway and Seventh Avenue. This made space for rehearsals and backstage storage extremely tight. Plans for a new house constantly circulated with debates on a suitable new location before it was decided to construct it as part of Lincoln Center.

Avery Fisher Hall is home to the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. At different times of the year, it also houses the annual Great Performers at Lincoln Center festival, the Lincoln Center festival, and Jazz at Lincoln center. In it's 35 year history, Avery Fisher Hall has gained the status of one of the best places in New York to observe classical music.

Fun Facts

• Three blocks down the road is The Church of St. Paul the Apostle.

Outside Links

• Official Site
• Internet Movie Database: Movies/TV Shows Filmed At This Location (NOT A COMPLETE LIST)
• Unofficial Site
• NY Times: The Lincoln Center Fountain Is Being Taught Some New Moves (August 25, 2009)
• New York Architecture