Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts
A premier performing arts venue at UC Davis, hosting diverse concerts, plays, films, and speakers in a modern, comfortable setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Experience the full magic
Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts
Best Time
Experience the full magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier performing arts venue at UC Davis, hosting diverse concerts, plays, films, and speakers in a modern, comfortable setting.
"It is such a beautiful venue and so well run. "
🚗 Easy Parking Access
Park in the structure across the street or behind it. Reserve online for convenience! :car:
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
For popular shows, purchasing tickets early ensures you get the best seats and prices. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Diverse Performances
Main Stage
Experience a wide array of performances, from opera and symphony to comedy and film, all within a beautiful venue.
Comfortable Seating
Auditorium
Enjoy the show from well-appointed, comfortable seats designed for an optimal viewing experience.
On-site Refreshments
Concessions Area
Grab a drink, from Starbucks nitro coffee to wine, or a snack before the show.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Convenience
Ticket Options & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Parking Access
Park in the structure across the street or behind it. Reserve online for convenience! :car:
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
For popular shows, purchasing tickets early ensures you get the best seats and prices. :ticket:
☕ Grab a Coffee or Wine
Concessions offer Starbucks nitro coffee, wine, and snacks for your enjoyment. :coffee:
🎶 Check Performance Schedule
Visit the Mondavi Center website to see upcoming plays, concerts, films, and speakers. :microphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Parking Access
Park in the structure across the street or behind it. Reserve online for convenience! :car:
🎟️ Book Tickets in Advance
For popular shows, purchasing tickets early ensures you get the best seats and prices. :ticket:
☕ Grab a Coffee or Wine
Concessions offer Starbucks nitro coffee, wine, and snacks for your enjoyment. :coffee:
🎶 Check Performance Schedule
Visit the Mondavi Center website to see upcoming plays, concerts, films, and speakers. :microphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Mondavi Center is widely praised as a beautiful and well-run venue with comfortable seating and a diverse range of high-quality performances. Visitors appreciate the convenient parking and on-site concessions. However, a few reviewers find the ticket prices steep and the overall atmosphere to be more about image than substance.
"Mondavi center is wonderful! The seats are fairly comfortable with many different price range options. Some spots to the far sides may have slightly limited stage view. Concessions include beer, wine and Starbucks nitro coffee among other beverage options and I believe I saw Kind bars and chips for sale too. The main parking is a little walk from the center but I've been able to find parking closer to the building each time I visited. I look forward to my next visit here!"
Cara “Lokey” Struve
"What a beautiful space to see an opera or symphony all while supporting U.C. Davis and their students. There is plenty parking for events and you can't get online and reserve parking very easily for about $10. Inside you'll find comfortable seats, clean and well appointed bathrooms and some tables and chairs to gather as you wait for "showtime." You can buy alcoholic beverages, refreshments and snacks at the snack bar on your way into the theater. A really nice event space."
Suzi Decaires
"Very nice event hall. Clean. Good acoustics. I REALLY enjoyed seeing YAMATO there!"
Ms. Deonne Gonzalez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parking is convenient with a structure directly across from the Mondavi Center and additional spaces behind it. You can also reserve parking online for approximately $10, ensuring a spot for your event.
As part of UC Davis, the Mondavi Center is accessible via campus bus routes. Check the UC Davis Transportation website for current routes and schedules serving the campus. :bus:
The Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts is located at 1 Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616. :round_pushpin:
While the Mondavi Center has concessions, the surrounding UC Davis campus and downtown Davis offer various dining choices, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants. :forkandknife:
Yes, the Mondavi Center is a pleasant walk from downtown Davis, typically taking about 15-20 minutes depending on your starting point. :walking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Mondavi Center website, by phone, or in person at the box office.
Ticket prices vary widely depending on the performance, with options available across different price ranges to accommodate various budgets.
Policies regarding refunds and exchanges are typically outlined on the Mondavi Center's ticketing page. It's best to check their specific terms and conditions before purchasing. :moneywithwings:
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Check the Mondavi Center's website or contact the box office for current discount information. :discount:
It's recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before the performance start time to allow for parking, ticket scanning, and finding your seat.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The Mondavi Center features comfortable, well-appointed seats. While most offer excellent stage views, some seats on the far sides may have slightly limited visibility.
Yes, concessions are available, offering beverages like Starbucks nitro coffee and wine, as well as snacks such as chips and bars.
The Mondavi Center is described as a beautiful and well-run venue, often praised for its quality performances and community contribution. However, some reviews suggest a vibe that can feel more about image than substance.
Reviews indicate that the bathrooms are clean and well-appointed, contributing to a positive overall experience.
Generally, photography and videography are prohibited during performances to avoid disturbing the artists and audience. Check the specific event's policy or venue signage. :camerawithflash:
🎫 🎶 Performance Types
The Mondavi Center hosts a diverse range of performances, including opera, symphony, theater, dance, film screenings, and guest speakers.
While the Mondavi Center hosts many excellent performances, some patrons have expressed a wish for more traveling Broadway shows to be staged there.
As a venue at UC Davis, the Mondavi Center supports student performances and showcases the talent of university students.
Yes, the Mondavi Center is noted for having good acoustics, enhancing the listening experience for musical performances.
The film programming at the Mondavi Center can vary, often including art-house films, documentaries, and special cinematic events. Check their schedule for current offerings. :movie_camera:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When choosing a performance, look for specific family programming or shows known for their broad appeal. The availability of concessions with snacks and drinks can also be a lifesaver for keeping younger attendees happy. Arriving a bit early allows kids to get settled without feeling rushed.
💰 Budget-Conscious Visitors
Consider attending events that are part of UC Davis student showcases or less high-profile guest speakers, which may have lower ticket prices. Packing your own water bottle (if allowed) and limiting concession purchases can also help manage costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mondavi Center Experience
However, some patrons have noted that the center can sometimes feel more focused on image than on deep cultural substance, with expensive tickets being a point of contention for a few. Despite this, the overall sentiment leans positive, with many attendees looking forward to their next visit due to the excellent service and the caliber of artists brought to the stage.
For those attending an event, planning for parking is straightforward. The adjacent parking structure and additional lots offer ample space, and the option to reserve parking online adds to the convenience. This ensures that the focus remains on enjoying the performance rather than worrying about logistics.
Navigating Parking and Arrival
To further streamline the arrival process, visitors have the option to reserve parking online for a nominal fee, typically around $10. This proactive approach is highly recommended by many who have visited, as it guarantees a parking space and saves time on the night of the event.
It's advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled start time of your performance. This buffer allows ample time to navigate to the parking area, locate your specific spot, and then make your way into the Mondavi Center without feeling rushed. This also gives you a chance to explore the lobby and perhaps grab a refreshment before the show begins.
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