Americans Go Wild as Ex President Obama Makes Surprise Visit to New York

Barack Obama greeted with cheers in New York

Former US President, Barack Obama made a surprise appearance in New York City on Friday afternoon, where he was spotted and greeted by adoring fans before going on to catch a Broadway show with daughter, Malia later that night.

Obama was first seen leaving an office building at 160 Fifth Avenue, near the Flatiron Building, around 12 p.m. There was a strong security presence around the entrance to the building prior to Obama's exit, and by the time he made his departure the street was thronged the people waiting to catch a glimpse of the former president.

Video posted on Instagram showed a relaxed Obama walk out of the building with a coffee cup in hand, smiling and waving to the crowd.

The crowds can be heard screaming "I love you" as he makes his way to a waiting car. Later, Obama and daughter Malia attended a performance of "The Price" at the American Airlines Theatre, a spokesman for the Roundabout Theatre Company confirmed.

The Broadway play, penned by Arthur Miller, stars Marc Ruffalo, Jessica Hecht, Tony Shalhoub and Danny DeVito.