The second Wicked movie is upon us, and just like the first, it has reignited New York City’s enduring love affair with the iconic musical. For more than two decades, Wicked has captivated Broadway audiences with its story of friendship, ambition, and the untold tale of the witches of Oz—and the city has embraced it wholeheartedly. From themed pop-ups to immersive experiences, nods to the beloved story can be spotted everywhere, delighting both New Yorkers and visitors alike. Some of these moments are fleeting, while others—like the musical itself are here “for good.” It’s a celebration of magic, mischief, and the enduring power of a story that continues to enchant generations.
“Defying Gravi-Tea” Afternoon Tea at The Plaza
The Plaza is an iconic New York City staple, a symbol of luxury, history, and timeless charm—just like Wicked the Musical has become a Broadway icon, enchanting audiences for over 20 years. Now, The Palm Court lets you experience that magic with the “Defying Gravi-Tea” Afternoon Tea, available through November 11th. Walking in, I held my breath for a moment, as it truly is magnificent. I went with my girlfriend, each of us dressed for the part in pink and green, and we caught up while getting lost in the beauty of the experience. Dine beneath the shimmering Emerald Green dome and enjoy an array of sweet and savory treats, including Elpha-Butter and Cheese Sandwich, Emerald City Cucumber Sandwich, Shiz University Salmon Sliders, Boq’s Roast Beef, and Fiyero’s Foie Gras; freshly baked cranberry & candied ginger scones with Devonshire cream and house-made preserves; and desserts like Look to the Western Pie, Changed for Good Cheesecake, Glinda’s “Popular” Raspberry Tart, Couldn’t Be Happier Hazelnut, and Flying Monkey Macarons. Priced starting at $145 per person, it’s time to trust your instincts, close your eyes, and leap—reserve your Defying Gravi-Tea experience by November 11 and prepare to be changed “for good,” all while enjoying a truly spellbinding, Broadway-inspired New York City moment.
Credit: The Plaza, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
LUSH
There’s no place like Foam—or the bathtub. If you can’t find me, I’m probably soaking away with a good book or scrolling through TikTok—and thanks to Lush, it’s even more magical. The story continues with Wicked: For Good x Lush, a 10-piece bath, shower, and body collection inspired by the musical’s finale. Soak in Glinda’s Wedding Dress bath bomb with the Tap to Bubble wand, find your way to Oz with Yellow Brick Road soap scented with bergamot and grapefruit, or unleash your power with Elphaba’s floral body scrub. One thing’s for sure—you’ll be washed for good, forever. For those in New York City, the Wicked Book a Bath at the Lush Spa on Lexington Avenue brings this magic to life with a 30-minute, self-led immersive soak. Enjoy the exclusive Wicked x Lush collection, including the Pink Fizzes Good With Green Bath Bomb and Emerald City Soap, all set to a Wicked soundtrack. The experience is bookable for $75 through late 2025—perfect for a little magical me-time this fall.
Photograph: Courtesy of Lush
Museum of Broadway
For fans of Wicked: The Musical, the Museum of Broadway in Times Square is an absolute must-see. The museum isn’t just about Broadway history—it brings the magic of your favorite shows to life, and Wicked gets its very own permanent spotlight. Step into the Emerald City with an awe-inspiring replica of the stage, explore behind-the-scenes details, and see how this iconic musical has enchanted audiences for over 20 years. Alongside exhibits dedicated to Broadway’s game-changing moments, the Wicked display lets you relive the story of Elphaba and Glinda while celebrating the show’s lasting impact on theater history. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a curious first-timer, this immersive experience is like taking a trip to Oz without leaving Times Square.
New York Botanical Gardens
Step into the Bronx and experience the WICKED Broadway Garden at the New York Botanical Gardens, where the magic of Oz comes to life in brilliant shades of pink and green. Wander among spellbinding chrysanthemums, ruby grass, and cabbages that are defying gravity in their color, with emerald-hued agaves, palms, and Carex adding that perfect Emerald City contrast. Deep purple and black accents from ornamental pepper and Euphorbia ‘Miners Merlot’ add a touch of mischief worthy of Elphaba herself. Don’t worry—there are no poppies here to make you snooze! Whether you’re plotting your own Wickedly wonderful garden or just soaking in the spectacle, this enchanting display is sure to cast a spell on any plant lover.
Courtesy of NYBG Instagram
Wicked The Musical
Of course, no Wicked Weekend in New York City would be complete without celebrating the show that started it all. Wicked the Musical looks at the Land of Oz—but from a whole new angle. There’s a young woman born with emerald-green skin—smart, fiery, misunderstood, and blessed with extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who’s impossibly popular, an unlikely friendship sparks, setting the stage for a story full of magic, rivalry, heart, and unforgettable music. I still remember the first time I saw it on a college day trip to NYC—I was completely sucked in, feeling the same thrill Glinda must feel when she floats into her bubble or Elphaba as she soars on her broom. Back then, I even got to witness the lottery winners being called out in the breezeway dedicated to the show before each performance, a moment that made the city feel just a little more enchanted. Over 20 spellbinding years later, Wicked: The Musical continues to cast its irresistible charm. No matter how many Glindas and Elphabas take the stage, the story’s allure is absolutely un-defying gravity, making it the musical I still recommend to visitors and locals alike who can’t decide what to see.
Courtesy of Broadway.com Lencia Kebede as Elphaba and Allie Trimm as Glinda in Wicked.
© Joan Marcus
