Hawaii Theatre Center Honolulu
A beautifully restored 1920s landmark in Honolulu, offering a stunning backdrop for diverse live performances.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Catch live performances
Hawaii Theatre Center Honolulu
Best Time
Catch live performances

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully restored 1920s landmark in Honolulu, offering a stunning backdrop for diverse live performances.
"The Hawaii Theatre Center itself was the perfect venue—historic, intimate, and acoustically amazing."
Loge/Balcony for Best Views
For optimal stage views and acoustics, consider seats in the loge or balcony. Avoid front row orchestra for comedy shows. :seat:
Legroom Can Be Limited
Be aware that legroom is tight in some seats, especially for taller individuals. Opt for front rows or loge for more space. :person_standing:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ornate Mural-Covered Interior
Main Auditorium
Step back in time in this beautifully restored 1920s landmark, adorned with stunning murals.

Live Performance Variety
Main Stage
Experience a diverse range of shows, from concerts and comedy to local theater productions.

Historic Architecture
Exterior and Lobby
Admire the classic architecture of this iconic Honolulu building, a true piece of history.
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Consider Seating Carefully
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Loge/Balcony for Best Views
For optimal stage views and acoustics, consider seats in the loge or balcony. Avoid front row orchestra for comedy shows. :seat:
Legroom Can Be Limited
Be aware that legroom is tight in some seats, especially for taller individuals. Opt for front rows or loge for more space. :person_standing:
Check Show Schedules
Visit the official Hawaii Theatre Center website to see upcoming performances and book tickets in advance. :calendar:
Parking Challenges
Downtown parking, especially on weekends, can be difficult. Plan your arrival or consider ride-sharing services. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
Loge/Balcony for Best Views
For optimal stage views and acoustics, consider seats in the loge or balcony. Avoid front row orchestra for comedy shows. :seat:
Legroom Can Be Limited
Be aware that legroom is tight in some seats, especially for taller individuals. Opt for front rows or loge for more space. :person_standing:
Check Show Schedules
Visit the official Hawaii Theatre Center website to see upcoming performances and book tickets in advance. :calendar:
Parking Challenges
Downtown parking, especially on weekends, can be difficult. Plan your arrival or consider ride-sharing services. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Hawaii Theatre Center for its stunning, historic architecture and the quality of its performances. The ornate murals and classic ambiance create a unique and memorable experience. However, some guests note that legroom in certain seating areas can be quite limited, and parking downtown can be a challenge.
"Saw Phil Rosenthal and it was wonderful. Theatre is always beautiful.
We got seats in the very last row on the top center..if you are 5'5" or under you will be comfortable, any taller then your knees are flushed/pushed against the seat infront of you. Seats in front have more leg room. Otherwise it is a beautiful venue."
Lisa Jones
"I love the historical aspects of the theater and that it's a non-profit organization. It's a very unique place--gorgeous! Only a couple of issues needing attention... the bathroom needs more stalls and the seats do not accommodate long legs at all! Felt like I was in economy seating on an airplane!"
yvonne frazier
"Went to see the performance "Alice in Wonderland," and it was simply amazing! What a production quality in Hawaii! The theater is well kept, very luxurious, and clean. I loved the seats, wall decoration, the sound system, and most of all, the courteous staff. The bar was upstairs, and they had everything from hard liquors, beers, and soft drinks. The performance act was sooo good! Bravo to Papa Hawaii and team."
William M. Kahapea
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hawaii Theatre Center is located in downtown Honolulu. You can reach it by car, taxi, rideshare, or public transportation. Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends, so consider ride-sharing or public transit.
Yes, there are parking garages and street parking options nearby. However, some garages may close on weekends, so it's advisable to check hours and consider alternative transportation.
For convenience, especially on weekend evenings, consider using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, or Honolulu's public bus system. This can help avoid parking hassles.
While it's a significant walk, it's possible to walk from Waikiki to the Hawaii Theatre Center. However, it's more practical to take a bus or rideshare for a more comfortable journey.
Downtown Honolulu can be less accessible on weekends. Be prepared for potential closures and plan your travel accordingly, perhaps by arriving earlier or using alternative transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased directly from the official Hawaii Theatre Center website, at their box office, or through authorized third-party vendors. Booking in advance is recommended for popular shows.
The theatre's operating hours vary depending on scheduled performances. It's best to check their official website for specific showtimes and box office hours.
For some performances, tickets may be available on the day of the show, but it's not guaranteed, especially for sold-out events. Purchasing in advance is the safest bet.
Keep an eye on the Hawaii Theatre Center's website and social media for any announced discounts, promotions, or group rates.
Refund and exchange policies are typically set by the venue and the specific event promoter. It's advisable to review these terms before purchasing tickets.
🎫 🪑 Onsite Experience
The theatre offers various seating sections. While beautiful, some seats, particularly in the rear orchestra, have limited legroom. The loge and balcony often provide better views and comfort.
The theatre generally strives to be accessible. It's recommended to contact the venue directly in advance to discuss specific accessibility needs and arrangements.
The Hawaii Theatre Center typically has restrooms, a bar (often upstairs), and concessions. Some VIP packages may include additional perks.
Photography and videography policies vary by performance. Generally, flash photography is prohibited, and recording may be restricted. Check with the venue staff or signage.
The theatre hosts a wide array of events, including concerts, Broadway tours, comedy shows, local theater productions, and special engagements.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the theatre usually offers a bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and sometimes light snacks or concessions.
Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the Hawaii Theatre Center. It's best to consume them before entering or purchase them at the venue.
Absolutely! The theatre is located in downtown Honolulu, which has a vibrant dining scene with many restaurants offering various cuisines.
You'll find a diverse range of dining options, from local Hawaiian fare and Asian fusion to casual cafes and upscale restaurants in the vicinity.
Given the limited food options inside and potential for tight seating, many visitors choose to dine at a nearby restaurant before attending a performance.
📸 📸 Photography
The ornate interior, with its murals and historic architecture, offers many beautiful photo opportunities. The exterior also provides a classic backdrop.
Photography during performances is usually restricted to protect the audience and performers. Check for specific signage or ask staff.
While general photography of the architecture is often allowed, professional photography or filming may require special permission.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is ideal for capturing the interior details. A wide-angle lens can help capture the grandeur of the space.
The front facade of the Hawaii Theatre Center offers a striking view, especially when lit up at night. Consider capturing it from across the street for a full perspective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When choosing seats, consider the comfort factor for children. If legroom is a concern, opt for seats in the front rows of the loge or balcony where there might be slightly more space. It's also wise to check the show's content to ensure it's appropriate for your children's age group. The theatre often hosts family-friendly productions, so keep an eye on their schedule for suitable events.
❤️ Couples & Date Nights
For a truly memorable date, consider booking seats in the loge or balcony for the best views and a more intimate experience. Enjoy a pre-show dinner at one of the many restaurants in downtown Honolulu before heading to the theatre. The combination of a captivating performance and the venue's charm makes for an unforgettable date.
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
Keep an eye on the theatre's schedule for any special promotions or discounts. Sometimes, purchasing tickets in advance or during off-peak times can lead to savings. Consider attending a performance on a weekday evening, which might be less expensive than weekend shows.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Walking into the Hawaii Theatre is like stepping back in time. The lavish interior is a feast for the eyes, with hand-painted murals depicting Hawaiian scenes and celestial motifs adorning the ceiling. The intimate setting creates a unique atmosphere, making every performance feel special. It’s a place where history and contemporary arts converge, offering a truly memorable experience for visitors.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the theatre plays a vital role in Honolulu's cultural landscape. It hosts a diverse range of performances, from touring Broadway shows and renowned musicians to local theater groups and emerging artists. This commitment to showcasing both national and local talent makes the Hawaii Theatre Center a cornerstone of the arts community.
Navigating Seating and Comfort
For those prioritizing comfort and an unobstructed view, the loge and balcony sections are often recommended. These areas typically offer better sightlines to the entire stage and can provide more legroom. For comedy shows, it's also advised to avoid the very front row of the orchestra, as heckling or being the subject of jokes is a possibility.
When booking your tickets, take a close look at the seating chart. If you have longer legs or are concerned about comfort, consider seats in the front rows of the loge or balcony. For those who don't mind a more intimate, albeit snug, experience, the orchestra seats can still offer a great view of the performance.
Experiencing a VIP Night
VIP packages have been known to include elements like early access to the venue, opportunities to attend soundchecks, and even meet-and-greet sessions with the performers. Imagine shaking hands with your favorite artist or getting a family photo with the band – these are the kinds of memorable moments that VIP experiences can offer.
In addition to these exclusive interactions, VIP bundles typically come loaded with exclusive memorabilia, such as signed posters, limited-edition pins, stylish tote bags, and VIP lanyards. Coupled with prime seating, these packages transform a regular concert into a deeply personal and cherished event, making the splurge well worth it for devoted fans.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit