Picture yourself standing in the heart of New York City, the summer air buzzing with anticipation, as you prepare to lose yourself in the pulsating beats of Dua Lipa’s Radical Optimism Tour at Madison Square Garden. The city’s neon glow and vibrant streets wrap you in a nostalgic haze, like a memory of a concert you’ve never attended but always dreamed of, pulling you into a world where music and Manhattan magic collide.
This travel guide is your friendly companion, soaking up every moment of the show and discovering nearby NYC attractions that make your summer 2025 trip unforgettable.
Dua Lipa’s Radical Optimism Tour at Madison Square Garden
You’ll feel the electric energy of Dua Lipa’s tour in 2025 when you step into Madison Square Garden at 250 7th Avenue, Manhattan, on September 9 and 10, 2025, starting at 7:30 PM. The arena’s iconic circular design, with its massive video screens and vibrant lighting, creates an immersive experience, making you feel like you’re part of a glittering pop universe. It’s slated to be one of the best concerts in Summer 2025 you don’t want to miss. Expect Dua Lipa to dazzle with hits like “Levitating” and “Houdini,” her sequined outfits sparkling under the stage lights, as 20,000 fans sing along, evoking a nostalgic thrill of carefree summer nights.
The show, lasting about two hours, features high-energy choreography, with dancers flipping and spinning to pulsating beats, and surprise guest artists often join for duets, adding an unpredictable spark. You’ll love the interactive moments, like Dua’s crowd sing-alongs, and the LED wristbands that light up the arena in sync with the music. It’s family-friendly for ages 12 and up, but the loud music and late hours might not suit younger kids; pets aren’t allowed due to arena rules.
Arrive by 6 PM via the A train to 34th Street-Penn Station to beat the crowds and catch the pre-show buzz, with fans in glittery outfits snapping selfies. Don’t miss the merch stands for tour-exclusive hoodies or neon posters, and grab a hot dog from the Garden’s food stalls for a quick bite. Check the MSG website for bag policies, as only small bags are allowed, and bring a portable charger for your phone to capture every moment.
Preparing for the Concert Experience
To make the most of live music events in 2025 at MSG, you’ll want to plan your concert day carefully. Arrive early to navigate security checks, which include metal detectors and bag scans, and wear comfortable shoes for standing during the high-energy show. The Garden’s atmosphere, with its buzzing crowds and pre-show playlists, will pull you into a nostalgic dream of epic concert nights.
Bring earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud music, and dress in light, sparkly outfits to match Dua’s vibrant aesthetic—think glitter tops or bold accessories. You’ll love the food options inside, like Shake Shack burgers or gourmet popcorn, but lines can be long, so eat beforehand at nearby spots like Stout NYC for pub fare. Check MSG’s website for prohibited items like large cameras, and consider downloading the MSG app for real-time updates on entry gates.
Get to the arena by 5:30 PM via the 1 train to 34th Street-Penn Station to enjoy the pre-concert vibe and grab a prime spot if you’re in general admission. Don’t miss the photo booths near the entrance for fun snapshots with Dua-themed backdrops. A quick stop at Dunkin’ nearby can fuel you with a refreshing iced coffee before the show.
Chelsea Market for Pre-Show Bites
You’ll find a foodie paradise at Chelsea Market, 75 9th Avenue, a 15-minute subway ride from MSG, where rustic brick walls and bustling stalls evoke a nostalgic memory of old-world markets. This indoor food hall offers everything from lobster rolls at Cull & Pistol to vegan tacos at Beyond Sushi, making it a perfect pre-concert stop for all tastes. The vibrant atmosphere, with live musicians strumming guitars and the aroma of fresh-baked cookies, pulls you into a cozy, festive mood.
Don’t miss Los Tacos No. 1 for authentic carnitas tacos or Amy’s Bread for warm, crusty baguettes you can snack on while strolling. It’s family-friendly with kid-sized portions and stroller access, but pets aren’t allowed indoors. Visit around 3 PM via the A train to 14th Street to beat the dinner rush and enjoy the market’s eclectic shops, like the Artists & Fleas vintage market.
Check the market’s website for seasonal pop-ups, like summer gelato stands, and bring cash for smaller vendors. You’ll love the quirky art installations, like neon signs or hanging plants, adding charm to every corner. Pair your meal with a lavender latte from Le Pain Quotidien inside the market for a refreshing twist.
High Line for a Scenic Stroll
After grabbing a bite, walk the High Line, a 1.45-mile elevated park starting at 14th Street, just steps from Chelsea Market, where summer blooms and skyline views create a nostalgic escape from the city’s hustle. You’ll love the mix of wildflowers, modern art sculptures, and wooden benches, making it feel like a secret garden floating above Manhattan. The park’s open-air setting is perfect for a pre-concert stroll, with street performers and pop-up ice cream carts adding a playful vibe.
Look for the 10th Avenue Amphitheater for people-watching or the Diller-von Furstenberg Sundeck for stunning Hudson River views at sunset. It’s family-friendly with stroller access and pet-friendly for leashed dogs, ideal for all ages. Visit around 5 PM via the C train to 14th Street to catch the golden-hour light and avoid peak crowds.
Don’t miss the rotating art exhibits, like colorful murals, or the food carts selling mango slushies near 23rd Street. Check the High Line’s website for guided tour schedules, and wear comfy shoes for the walk. Pair your stroll with a cold brew from Blue Bottle Coffee nearby for a refreshing boost.
Broadway Show: Hadestown
For a post-concert treat, catch Hadestown at the Walter Kerr Theatre, 219 West 48th Street, a 10-minute walk from MSG, with shows typically at 7 PM or 8 PM in September 2025. This 2.5-hour musical, blending jazz and folk, tells the mythic tale of Orpheus and Eurydice with soulful songs like “Wait for Me,” stirring a nostalgic longing for timeless love stories. The intimate theater’s ornate decor and cozy seats make every moment feel magical, perfect for ages 8 and up.
You’ll love the live band’s haunting melodies and the rotating stage that brings the underworld to life, with glowing lanterns and smoky effects. It’s not pet-friendly, and strollers are checked at the door, but kids will enjoy the vibrant storytelling. Book tickets via tickets.visitnyc.com and arrive via the C train to 50th Street for prime seats.
Don’t miss the merch stand for lyric-inspired posters or the post-show cast meet-and-greets on select nights. Grab a bagel from Best Bagel & Coffee nearby for a quick pre-show snack. The show’s emotional depth makes it a perfect complement to Dua’s high-energy concert.
Empire State Building for Skyline Views
After Dua’s concert, visit the Empire State Building at 20 West 34th Street, a 5-minute walk from MSG, open until 2 AM daily in September 2025. You’ll be awestruck by the 86th-floor observatory’s panoramic NYC views, with twinkling lights stretching across Manhattan, evoking a nostalgic dream of classic New York romance. The Art Deco lobby, with its golden murals, adds a timeless charm to this iconic experience.
The open-air deck offers 360-degree views, perfect for spotting landmarks like the Chrysler Building or Hudson River, with telescopes for close-up looks. It’s family-friendly for all ages, with stroller access, but pets aren’t allowed. Visit around 10 PM via the B train to 34th Street-Herald Square to enjoy quieter decks and stunning night views.
Don’t miss the interactive exhibits on the 2nd floor, detailing the building’s history, or the gift shop for mini Empire State replicas. Grab a coffee from Starbucks inside for a late-night boost. The views will leave you feeling on top of the world after Dua’s show.
Rockefeller Center for Post-Concert Charm
Head to Rockefeller Center, 45 Rockefeller Plaza, a 15-minute subway ride from MSG, open daily until midnight in September 2025, where the sunken plaza and golden Prometheus statue create a nostalgic glow of old New York glamour. You’ll love the vibrant energy, with street musicians playing jazz and food carts selling warm pretzels, making it a perfect post-concert spot. The surrounding shops, like FAO Schwarz, offer playful toys that spark childhood memories.
Visit the Channel Gardens for colorful summer flowers or the Atlas statue for iconic photos, and don’t miss the free public art displays, like murals or sculptures. It’s family-friendly with stroller access and pet-friendly for leashed dogs. Arrive around 9 PM via the F train to 47-50th Streets-Rockefeller Center to enjoy the evening buzz without heavy crowds.
Check the Rockefeller Center website for live performance schedules, and bring a light sweater for cool nights. Grab a cupcake from Magnolia Bakery nearby for a sweet treat. It’s a charming way to wind down after Dua’s electrifying show.
Stay at The Wall Street Hotel
You’ll feel pampered at The Wall Street Hotel, 88 Wall Street, Manhattan, a luxurious retreat for your September 2025 concert trip. The chic rooms, with plush bedding and skyline views, evoke a nostalgic elegance of classic New York, while the rooftop bar serves craft cocktails like lavender martinis. The hotel’s cozy lounge and French-inspired restaurant, La Marchande, offering dishes like truffle fries, make it a perfect post-concert haven.
Book your stay online for September 2025 and take the 2 train to Wall Street for easy access to MSG. Don’t miss the lobby’s modern art displays or the rooftop’s summer views of the skyline. Grab a coffee from Black Fox Coffee nearby to start your concert day refreshed.
Your Unforgettable NYC Concert Adventure
NYC in September pulses with the energy of the best concerts in 2025, and Dua Lipa’s pop concert in 2025 at Madison Square Garden is a highlight you won’t forget. This visitors guide has you covered, from securing tickets to enjoying nearby Broadway shows today like Hadestown to visiting iconic spots like the Empire State Building and Rockefeller Center. Visit VisitNYC.com to plan more of your Manhattan adventure and make your concert trip a starry, nostalgic dream!
