Playhouse Square
Cleveland's vibrant theater district, second largest in the US, offering Broadway tours, concerts, and historic architectural marvels.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime time for shows
Playhouse Square
Best Time
Prime time for shows
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cleveland's vibrant theater district, second largest in the US, offering Broadway tours, concerts, and historic architectural marvels.
"The closest you will get to Broadway outside of New York, with beautiful theaters and reasonable prices."
🎟️ Book Season Tickets
Get the best prices and guaranteed seats for multiple shows.
🚶♀️ Arrive Early for Dinner
Explore nearby restaurants before your show, but check hours.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Broadway Tours
Various Theaters
Experience world-class touring productions of Broadway's biggest hits, from musicals to plays.

Historic Theater Architecture
Connor Palace, Ohio Theatre, etc.
Marvel at the opulent and beautifully restored interiors of these historic venues.

Local & Regional Productions
Helen Theatre, Hanna Theatre
Discover talented local and regional artists in intimate settings, offering diverse performances.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Secure Your Seats Early
Explore Beyond the Show
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Season Tickets
Get the best prices and guaranteed seats for multiple shows.
🚶♀️ Arrive Early for Dinner
Explore nearby restaurants before your show, but check hours.
🆓 Take a Free Tour
Learn about the history and architecture from knowledgeable volunteers.
🚗 Parking Options
Utilize public garages or street parking, though street spots can be challenging.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Season Tickets
Get the best prices and guaranteed seats for multiple shows.
🚶♀️ Arrive Early for Dinner
Explore nearby restaurants before your show, but check hours.
🆓 Take a Free Tour
Learn about the history and architecture from knowledgeable volunteers.
🚗 Parking Options
Utilize public garages or street parking, though street spots can be challenging.
🎶 Check the Schedule
See what's playing and plan your visit around must-see performances.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Playhouse Square as a premier destination for Broadway-caliber entertainment, highlighting its stunning historic theaters and reasonable ticket prices, especially through season passes. While the dining options surrounding the district are generally good, some note that availability can be limited on certain evenings.
"The closest you will get to Broadway outside of New York. This is a very large theater complex. Excellent sight lines for every seat. The tickets are very reasonable on the price. The season ticket pass is a really good deal as well. You can see 7 or 8 shows a year for as little as $15 a month. If there is a show on Broadway you want to see, it will be at Playhouse in a year or 2. There is always an excellent show lineup every season. In my opinion, a season pass is a must if you live near or in Cleveland."
Zach Boggs
"NR Graduation Class of 2025. Great experience. Awesome place. Staff was amazing they directed us from the time we entered all the way to our seats. Building is beautiful inside."
Bernadette Simko
"Great theaters, but I wish there were more eateries to choose from. We went to a Sunday evening show and the surrounding area was pretty empty with people and only some of the food choices were even open."
Howard Bernstein
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Playhouse Square is located in downtown Cleveland. You can reach it by car, with several parking garages available nearby. Public transportation, including RTA buses and rapid transit, also serves the area.
Yes, there are multiple parking garages and on-street parking options. However, street parking can be challenging, especially during popular showtimes.
Many visitors opt for driving and using the parking garages. Public transport is also a viable option, and ride-sharing services are readily available.
Absolutely! The district is very walkable, with many restaurants and shops to explore before or after a performance.
Yes, Playhouse Square is well-served by Cleveland's RTA system, with bus routes and rapid transit lines providing convenient access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Playhouse Square website (playhousesquare.org), at the box office, or through authorized ticket vendors.
Yes, season ticket packages offer significant savings. Look out for group discounts and occasional promotions.
The box office hours can vary, but they are typically open during business hours on weekdays and extended hours on performance days. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
For popular shows, it's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance. However, some tickets may be available at the box office on the day of the performance, subject to availability.
Seating varies by theater, but generally, Playhouse Square offers excellent sightlines. Some visitors, particularly taller individuals, have noted legroom can be tight in certain seats.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
Playhouse Square hosts a wide variety of performances, including Broadway touring shows, concerts, dance, opera, comedy, and local theatrical productions.
Yes, free guided tours are offered by volunteers, providing insights into the history and architecture of the theaters.
The Connor Palace and the Ohio Theatre are among the most iconic and frequently used theaters for major Broadway productions.
The district features restaurants, bars, and shops. You can also enjoy the stunning architecture and sometimes catch free events or performances in public spaces.
The atmosphere is vibrant and exciting, especially on show nights. It's a hub of arts and culture in Cleveland, drawing diverse crowds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area surrounding Playhouse Square is filled with a variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to upscale dining.
Popular choices include Southern Tier Brewing Company for dinner and drinks, and various other establishments offering diverse cuisines.
While there are concessions within the theaters for snacks and drinks, most dining is done at the surrounding restaurants.
On Sunday evenings, some surrounding restaurants may have limited hours or be closed. It's advisable to check specific restaurant hours in advance.
You can find a wide range of options, including American, Italian, and vegan soul food, catering to various tastes.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography is not allowed during performances to avoid distracting the cast and audience. However, taking photos of the theater's architecture before or after a show is usually permitted.
The grand chandeliers, ornate lobbies, and the exterior marquees are popular subjects. The historic architecture offers many picturesque opportunities.
While general photography is usually fine, be mindful of any posted signs or staff instructions, especially regarding performances or private events.
Golden hour, just before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for exterior shots of the theaters. Nighttime with the marquees lit up is also very dramatic.
Drone usage may be restricted in the downtown area, especially around public spaces and performance venues. It's best to check local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider attending matinee performances, which are often scheduled on weekends and can be more convenient for families. The surrounding area has dining options that can cater to younger palates, but it's wise to confirm hours of operation, especially for earlier dining needs.
💰 Budget Travelers
Don't miss the free guided tours of the theaters, which provide a rich historical and architectural experience without any cost. For dining, explore more casual eateries or consider packing your own snacks for shows (check venue policy first) to save on food expenses.
🎭 Theater Enthusiasts
Engage with the community by attending talks or Q&A sessions if available, and explore the diverse range of performances beyond the major Broadway hits. The free tours offer a deeper appreciation for the venues' history and significance. Following their social media channels can keep you updated on new show announcements and special events.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grandeur of Playhouse Square Theaters
Each theater offers a unique ambiance, contributing to the overall magical experience of attending a performance. The Helen Theatre provides a more intimate setting for smaller productions, while the larger houses are equipped to host major Broadway tours. The sheer scale and beauty of these spaces are a significant draw for visitors, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of theatrical grandeur.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these theaters are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure a top-notch viewing experience. The commitment to preserving these historic landmarks while hosting contemporary performances is a testament to Cleveland's dedication to the arts.
Experiencing Broadway in Cleveland
Securing tickets for these popular shows is crucial, as they often sell out quickly. Many visitors recommend purchasing season tickets or Broadway series packages for the best value and guaranteed access to the most sought-after performances. This approach not only saves money but also ensures you don't miss out on must-see productions.
For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, keeping an eye on the schedule for less heavily promoted shows or local productions can also lead to fantastic theatrical experiences. The diversity of programming ensures there's something for every taste and budget.
Dining and Entertainment Around the Square
It's worth noting that while the area is lively on show nights, some restaurants may have limited hours, particularly on Sundays. Planning ahead and checking restaurant operating times is advisable to avoid disappointment. This proactive approach ensures a seamless transition from dinner to the performance.
Beyond dining, the district itself is a place to explore. The public spaces and the illuminated marquees create a festive atmosphere, perfect for a pre-show stroll or post-show reflection. Some visitors have even noted the presence of unique retail spaces, like the Ben & Jerry's at Playhouse Square, adding to the overall vibrancy.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit