Ritz Theatre and Museum
Historic Art Deco theatre and museum celebrating Jacksonville's African-American culture and history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience vibrant live music.
Ritz Theatre and Museum
Best Time
Experience vibrant live music.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Art Deco theatre and museum celebrating Jacksonville's African-American culture and history.
"A beautiful and historic theater that's a perfect place to learn about Jacksonville Black History."
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Don't stress about parking; the Ritz Theatre and Museum offers plenty of secure parking for visitors.
🎶 Check Event Schedule
See what's playing! From jazz to Broadway, there's always something happening.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Art Deco Architecture
Main Theatre Hall
Step back in time in this beautifully preserved 1929 Art Deco theater, a gem of Jacksonville's LaVilla district.
African-American History Exhibits
Museum Galleries
Explore rich exhibits detailing the history and culture of Jacksonville's African-American community, including the legacy of the Johnson brothers.
Live Music and Performances
Main Theatre Hall
Experience a diverse range of performances, from jazz and R&B to Broadway shows and local artists.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Arrive Early for Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Don't stress about parking; the Ritz Theatre and Museum offers plenty of secure parking for visitors.
🎶 Check Event Schedule
See what's playing! From jazz to Broadway, there's always something happening. +2
⏳ Arrive Early for Lines
Popular shows mean long lines. Get there ahead of time to avoid missing out! +2
🏛️ Historic Venue Charm
Enjoy the cozy, historic atmosphere of this beautifully maintained theater.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Don't stress about parking; the Ritz Theatre and Museum offers plenty of secure parking for visitors.
🎶 Check Event Schedule
See what's playing! From jazz to Broadway, there's always something happening. +2
⏳ Arrive Early for Lines
Popular shows mean long lines. Get there ahead of time to avoid missing out! +2
🏛️ Historic Venue Charm
Enjoy the cozy, historic atmosphere of this beautifully maintained theater.
🖼️ Art Gallery Viewings
Discover local art and special exhibitions at the museum.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Ritz Theatre and Museum for its beautiful historic architecture and its role in preserving and celebrating African-American culture. The venue is lauded for hosting a variety of engaging events, from concerts to community gatherings, with many highlighting the friendly and helpful staff. While generally positive, some reviews note it's an 'average theatre' in terms of facilities, but its cozy atmosphere and meaningful programming make it a special place.
"This was my first time at the Ritz Theatre, and I absolutely loved it! I was invited to attend an Elevate event, and I was so impressed. The cause behind Elevate is truly worthy — it’s an amazing program, and I’m grateful I got to learn more about it. On top of that, just being in such a beautiful and historic theater made the experience even more special. Thank you for hosting such a meaningful and inspiring event!"
Lloyd Baruba Caulker
"It's an average theatre, however it's cozy. It's in the Jacksonville downtown area on Davis Street. The full address is , if you need, 829 North Davis Street, Jacksonville Florida 32202.
They have a nice auditorium. They also have a safe security staff. Also they have plenty of parking for cars.
Some show organizers have facilities to have food counters or stalls.
We went for an Indian language popular drama. Overall, it's a nice Ritz Theater."
M Sam
"We hosted our 57th family reunion brunch here. Syrita was a life saver at the "last hour" she cleaned up some major miscommunications which would have soured a beautiful weekend for about 100 of my famiy members. She may have been frustrated but alot was put in her lap literally at the last moment. To Syrita on behalf of my family we appreciate you and the team that was present there help it is because of you that everything came together the way it did and that didnt go unnoticed. Thank you again."
Apple Mccall
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ritz Theatre and Museum is located at 829 North Davis Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32202, in the historic LaVilla district. It's easily accessible by car, and there is ample parking available.
While specific public transport routes can vary, Jacksonville offers bus services that may stop near the downtown area. It's advisable to check the local transit authority's schedule for the most up-to-date information.
The venue typically offers dedicated parking for visitors. Arriving early can help secure a spot, especially for popular events.
The venue is generally accessible, with staff available to assist. It's recommended to contact the venue directly for specific accessibility needs or accommodations.
During its peak from the 1920s to the 1960s, La Villa was a vibrant cultural hub for African Americans, earning it the nickname 'Harlem of the South' due to its thriving arts, music, and social scene.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can typically be purchased online through the Ritz Theatre and Museum's official website or authorized ticketing partners. For specific events, artists may also direct you to their personal ticketing links.
Discounts may be available for certain events, such as group rates or special promotions. It's best to check the venue's website or contact them directly for information on potential discounts.
Museum hours can vary, and it's recommended to check the official Ritz Theatre and Museum website for the most current operating hours and any special exhibition schedules.
While some tickets may be available at the door, it's highly recommended to purchase them in advance, as popular shows often sell out. +1
Refund and exchange policies are typically set by the event organizer or ticketing platform. Please review the terms and conditions at the time of purchase or contact the venue for clarification.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Ritz Theatre and Museum hosts a wide array of events, including concerts (jazz, R&B, funk), Broadway musicals, comedy shows, film screenings, art exhibitions, and community celebrations.
The theater is described as cozy and intimate, with a beautiful historic Art Deco design. Visitors often praise the clean facilities and friendly staff. +1
Some show organizers provide food counters or stalls. It's a good idea to check the specific event details or inquire upon arrival about available concessions.
Photography policies can vary by event. Generally, personal photography without flash is often permitted for exhibits, but professional recording or flash photography may be restricted during performances. It's best to check signage or ask staff.
The Ritz Theatre and Museum is a vital cultural landmark, preserving and showcasing the rich African-American history and contributions to Jacksonville, particularly from the LaVilla neighborhood, once known as the 'Harlem of the South.'
📸 📸 Photography
The Art Deco architecture of the main theatre hall offers stunning backdrops. The museum exhibits also provide unique visual elements for photography.
Photography policies during performances can vary. It's generally recommended to avoid flash photography to not disturb performers or other audience members. Check with venue staff for specific guidelines.
Tripods and professional camera equipment are typically not allowed during performances or for general admission to protect the venue and performers. Special arrangements might be possible for media or specific events.
The Ritz Museum often features diverse art, including photography exhibits. For example, the 'Through Our Eyes' exhibit showcased mixed media, textiles, and photography.
Yes, the exterior of the historic Ritz Theatre and Museum is a great subject for photos, especially capturing its Art Deco facade.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the museum exhibits offer educational content about local history, it's always a good idea to check the specific event schedule for age appropriateness. The cozy atmosphere of the theatre can be engaging for children, and the availability of concessions at some shows adds to the convenience. 🎶 Music Lovers
+3 Whether you're looking for a classic jazz concert or a contemporary R&B performance, the Ritz offers a fantastic live music experience in an intimate and historic setting. 🏛️ History Buffs
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of LaVilla and the Ritz
+1Today, the Ritz Theatre and Museum, rebuilt on the original site, continues this legacy. Its mission is to 'research, record, and preserve the material and artistic culture of African Americans in Northeast Florida.'
Visiting the Ritz is more than just attending an event; it's an opportunity to connect with a significant chapter of American history and celebrate the enduring spirit of a community. The venue itself, with its preserved architectural charm, offers an immersive experience into the past.
A Hub for Live Performances
+1 to energetic R&B performances by artists like Jon B,Beyond music, the Ritz is a platform for other performing arts. It has hosted comedy tours,
showcasing its versatility. The intimate setting of the theatre often creates a special connection between the performers and the audience, making each event feel unique. With its rich history and commitment to showcasing talent, the Ritz Theatre and Museum remains a vital part of Jacksonville's cultural landscape, offering a dynamic schedule that appeals to a wide variety of tastes.
Art and Exhibitions at the Ritz
These exhibitions often complement the venue's mission of celebrating culture and history.Past exhibitions have included thought-provoking displays like 'Lives Eliminated, Dreams Illuminated,' which reimagined the stolen dreams of young girls lost in the Holocaust through portraits and compositions.
The museum also highlights historical artists, such as Lillian Young, whose work depicts forgotten narratives. These artistic showcases provide an enriching dimension to a visit to the Ritz, offering opportunities for reflection and appreciation of diverse creative talents. The museum's commitment to art ensures that the Ritz Theatre and Museum is not just a performance venue but a comprehensive cultural center.
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