The Wilbur Boston
Historic Boston venue hosting top comedy acts and live music with a legacy of legendary performances.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime time for comedy & music
The Wilbur Boston
Best Time
Prime time for comedy & music

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Boston venue hosting top comedy acts and live music with a legacy of legendary performances.
"The Wilbur is an amazing historic venue with great acoustics and friendly staff, making for a memorable show experience."
🎯 Arrive Early for Entry
Doors open an hour before showtime. Allow ample time for bag checks and finding seats.
🪑 Seat Comfort Advisory
Legroom is tight, especially for taller guests. Consider mezzanine or balcony for potentially better views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Legendary Comedy Stage
Main Theater
Experience stand-up comedy from top comedians in a venue that has hosted legends.

Historic Architecture
Throughout the venue
Admire the unique and beautiful design of this historic theater, adding to the ambiance.

Intimate Live Music
Main Theater
Enjoy live music performances in a setting known for its great acoustics.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Navigating Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Entry
Doors open an hour before showtime. Allow ample time for bag checks and finding seats.
🪑 Seat Comfort Advisory
Legroom is tight, especially for taller guests. Consider mezzanine or balcony for potentially better views.
💧 No Outside Drinks!
You can't bring your own water. Purchase beverages inside; prices are typical for venues.
🅿️ Parking Options
Boston Common garage is an option, or check meters for free parking after 8 PM.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Entry
Doors open an hour before showtime. Allow ample time for bag checks and finding seats.
🪑 Seat Comfort Advisory
Legroom is tight, especially for taller guests. Consider mezzanine or balcony for potentially better views.
💧 No Outside Drinks!
You can't bring your own water. Purchase beverages inside; prices are typical for venues.
🅿️ Parking Options
Boston Common garage is an option, or check meters for free parking after 8 PM.
📱 Check Age Restrictions
Most shows are all-ages unless specified. Call ahead if unsure about age limits.
🍽️ Pre-Show Dining
Myers + Chang or Genki Ya are popular nearby dining spots before a show.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise The Wilbur for its historic charm, excellent acoustics, and the quality of performances, especially comedy shows. The friendly staff and convenient table service are also highlights. However, some find the seating cramped with limited legroom, and the bathrooms can be a point of contention due to their location and potential lines.
"This theater was amazing. Seats were great and comfortable. The view was perfect, as it was enough of an incline that even someone a small as me (I'm 5' 0) had no problem seeing the show.
We were here for Josh Johnson, and I have to say the acoustics are great! You could hear and see everything from the Mezz seats.
The staff was great as well. The only con was it was a bit overly warm, but v it didn't affect our enjoyment of the show. I will definitely be back!"
Christine Viera
"Historic live music and entertainment venue right by Boston Commons.
Pros: there's table service so you can get a drink and snacks (popcorn, candy, chips, etc) at your table without leaving during the show. The architecture for the venue is really unique and the staff is all very friendly. Prices are normal for venues like this, so I think I had a double whiskey and spent ~$30 before tip.
Cons: it's all seated so seeing live music here is a little weird as there's no standing option. It's probably much better for live comedy. When I bought tickets online the seating chart wasn't provided so I got tickets a little further off to the side than I expected."
Mike Davidson
"The show was amazing and we had seats right up front. The seats in the orchestra section however are not the most comfortable, basically small cafe chairs packed together with little tables between (the tables were helpful). I did like that they had waitresses so people werent crowding the bar/concession stand and we didnt need to get up to get water halfway through."
Jen Casey
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Wilbur is located at 246 Tremont Street in Boston, MA. It's easily accessible by public transportation, with several MBTA subway lines nearby. The Boston Common parking garage is a common parking option, though meters may be free after 8 PM.
Yes, the Boston Common parking garage is a popular choice. Some Reddit users also suggest the Tufts parking garage or utilizing street parking meters, which can be free after 8 PM.
Public transportation is highly recommended to avoid parking hassles. The theater is within walking distance of several T stations, making it convenient for many attendees.
Absolutely! The Wilbur is conveniently located near multiple MBTA subway stations, making it very accessible via public transit.
The closest T stops are Park Street and Boylston stations, both of which are a short walk from the theater.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Doors typically open one hour before the scheduled showtime. It's advisable to arrive early to allow time for security checks and to find your seats.
Most shows at The Wilbur are all-ages unless explicitly stated otherwise on the event listing. If you are under 21, you may receive a stamp on your hand.
Bag checks are common. While outside beverages are not allowed, you can purchase drinks inside. It's best to check the specific event's policy regarding bag sizes.
The Wilbur has a mix of seating options. Be aware that legroom can be tight, particularly for those over 6 feet tall. Balcony and mezzanine seats are often steep but can offer good views.
Digital tickets are usually accepted, but it's always a good idea to check your ticket provider's instructions. Having a screenshot or the ticket on your phone is generally sufficient.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The balcony at The Wilbur is known for being very steep, which can provide excellent sightlines to the stage, even for shorter individuals. However, legroom can still be a concern.
Yes, The Wilbur offers concessions, including drinks and snacks, which can often be ordered directly to your seat. Prices are typical for a venue of this type.
The bathrooms are located downstairs and can have long lines, especially during intermission. Be prepared for a potential wait.
The Wilbur is praised for its acoustics, making it a great venue for live music. The historic atmosphere also adds to the experience.
GA at The Wilbur can be structured with corrals on the main floor. It's not a free-for-all like some other venues; you'll likely be assigned to a specific area.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Several great options are within walking distance. Popular choices include Genki Ya for sushi, Myers + Chang for Asian fusion, and Silvertone for American fare.
The Wilbur offers table service for drinks and snacks, allowing you to order without leaving your seat. However, full meals are not served within the venue.
You can find typical venue fare like popcorn, candy, chips, and a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Prices are comparable to other live entertainment venues in Boston. Expect to pay around $30 for a double whiskey before tip, for example.
Yes, many restaurants in the surrounding area are open after shows, allowing you to enjoy a meal post-performance.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by event. Generally, personal cameras and flash photography are often prohibited. Check the specific event details or venue policy beforehand.
Professional cameras with detachable lenses are typically not allowed for most shows, especially comedy performances.
Using your smartphone for casual photos is usually permitted, but always be mindful of other audience members and the performers. Avoid flash photography.
The historic architecture of The Wilbur itself provides beautiful backdrops for photos, especially in the lobby and common areas.
No, filming the entire show is generally not allowed due to copyright and performance rights. Be respectful of the artists and the venue's policies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that seating can be tight, so consider this if you're bringing younger children who might need more space. The venue's historic nature means bathrooms are downstairs and can involve stairs, which might be a consideration for families with very young children or strollers. Overall, The Wilbur can be a great place for a family outing, offering a chance to experience live entertainment together in a historic setting.
💰 Budget Travelers
When purchasing tickets, keep an eye out for deals or consider seats that might be priced lower due to their location, though be mindful of potential comfort compromises. For dining, exploring restaurants slightly further from the immediate venue vicinity might offer better value than those directly adjacent. The experience of seeing a show at a historic venue like The Wilbur can be a memorable and relatively affordable entertainment option in Boston if planned strategically.
couples
During the show, take advantage of the table service for drinks to enhance the experience without missing any of the performance. The historic ambiance of The Wilbur adds a touch of romance and sophistication to any evening out. Remember to check the event schedule for upcoming shows that align with your interests for a perfect night.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Seating and Comfort at The Wilbur
For comedy shows, the intimate setting is often praised, with table service available for drinks and snacks, allowing you to avoid long bar lines. However, if you're attending a live music event, the lack of a dedicated standing area might feel different from other concert venues. The venue's historic charm is a significant draw, but it comes with the trade-offs of older theater infrastructure.
Navigating the Balcony
The balcony at The Wilbur is notoriously steep. This can be a pro for visibility, ensuring you can see the stage clearly even if there are people in front of you. However, the steepness combined with potentially cramped seating means it's not for everyone. If you have mobility issues, be prepared for stairs. Despite these considerations, many visitors find the unique atmosphere and the quality of performances make the seating challenges worthwhile.
The Wilbur's Rich History and Comedy Legacy
Comedians often express their excitement and gratitude for performing at The Wilbur, highlighting its status as a storied venue. For many, selling out shows here is a major career milestone. The theater's acoustics are also frequently lauded, contributing to a superior experience for both performers and audiences, particularly for spoken word performances like comedy.
Beyond comedy, The Wilbur hosts a variety of live music and other performances, contributing to Boston's vibrant cultural scene. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect audiences with top-tier talent in an intimate, historic setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit