The New York Hippodrome

From 1905 to 1939, the New York Hippodrome stood atop what is now known as The Hippodrome Center in Midtown Manhattan. While it was relatively short-lived in comparison to some of the other sites on this list, the Hippodrome was certainly one of the most popular theaters in the world for the majority of the time it was open.

The New York Hippodrome was famous for its architecture and cutting-edge equipment, such as an 8,000-gallon water tank beneath the stage that could be lifted for diving performances and other water-related events. It was a New York landmark, peaking amid the roaring '20s Broadway rebirth. The New York Hippodrome was well-known for its circus performances, movie screenings, music concerts, and a variety of other attractions. Its most famous performance, however, has to be Harry Houdini's Disappearing Elephant in 1918.

While it had a successful run, the Hippodrome eventually faced severe competition from newer theaters, as well as increased operating costs and the 1930s economic downturn. The New York Hippodrome was closed and dismantled in 1939, but it remains one of the most prominent cultural centers in American history.

Address: 1120-1138 6th Ave, New York, NY 10036, USA

Opened: April 12, 1905