Marcus Performing Arts Center
Milwaukee's premier performing arts venue, hosting Broadway tours, concerts, dance, and community events in multiple theaters.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience top touring shows
Marcus Performing Arts Center
Best Time
Experience top touring shows

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Milwaukee's premier performing arts venue, hosting Broadway tours, concerts, dance, and community events in multiple theaters.
"A wonderful show with comfy seats and friendly staff, though check your seating for the best sound!"
🚗 Easy Parking Options
Parking is convenient in the garage across the street. Plan ahead for popular shows! :car:
👗 Dress Code Varies
Smart casual is generally fine for most shows. Check specific event recommendations if unsure. :dress:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Uihlein Hall
Main Auditorium
The grand 2,300-seat hall hosts major Broadway productions and touring shows. Experience world-class performances in a stunning setting.

Outdoor Stage Performances
Outdoor Amphitheater
Enjoy intimate outdoor shows and community events during warmer months. A unique venue for diverse artistic expressions.

Evanescent Art Installation
Outside the Center
An enchanting art display that transforms the exterior into a magical space, perfect for photos and family fun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Understand Your Seating
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Parking Options
Parking is convenient in the garage across the street. Plan ahead for popular shows! :car:
👗 Dress Code Varies
Smart casual is generally fine for most shows. Check specific event recommendations if unsure. :dress:
⏳ Long Concession Lines
Lines can be long during intermissions. Consider getting drinks/snacks before the show. :coffee:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Don't miss the art installations outside for great photo opportunities! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Parking Options
Parking is convenient in the garage across the street. Plan ahead for popular shows! :car:
👗 Dress Code Varies
Smart casual is generally fine for most shows. Check specific event recommendations if unsure. :dress:
⏳ Long Concession Lines
Lines can be long during intermissions. Consider getting drinks/snacks before the show. :coffee:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Don't miss the art installations outside for great photo opportunities! :camerawithflash:
🎶 Free Community Events
Look out for free dance lessons and music events hosted by local groups. :musical_note:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise the Marcus Performing Arts Center for its diverse programming, friendly staff, and convenient downtown location with easy parking. The venue itself is often described as nice with comfortable seats. However, some attendees have noted issues with long concession lines during intermissions and potential hearing difficulties from certain balcony seats in Uihlein Hall.
"We saw Wicked, August 2025. We had the full view of the stage and orchestra from the balcony. Everyone was friendly and guided us through the center. Getting tickets online really does not give a clear understanding that seating is multi-floors above the orchestra seats. I believe the balcony had better viewing than the loge a floor below."
Joseph Vorrier
"1st time there. Parking is easy in the parking garage across the street. Venue itself is nice. Comfy seats. Bars and bathrooms are adequate. Would go again. Was fun to see the orchestra setup and play during the show."
Buddy Guy
"MARCUS CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS
Very interesting place. I would assume, all events downtown occur here. Has a small auditorium for outdoor shows.
We drop by to see an art display ”Lost” by Amanda Parer in 2025.
Art. Art. Art. Art everywhere. Nice.
Highly Recommended"
Kalvin Hang
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Marcus Performing Arts Center is located in downtown Milwaukee. It's easily accessible by car, with a parking garage directly across the street.
Public transportation options are also available, with several bus routes stopping nearby. For those flying in, it's a short drive from Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE).Yes, there is a convenient parking garage located across the street from the venue, making it easy to access for attendees.
It's advisable to arrive a bit early, especially for popular shows, as parking can fill up.Yes, there are designated drop-off areas near the entrance for ride-sharing services and personal vehicles. This is a good option if you prefer not to park or are being dropped off by someone.
Several Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) bus routes serve the downtown area near the Marcus Performing Arts Center. You can check the MCTS website for specific route information and schedules that best suit your starting point.
The Marcus Performing Arts Center is committed to accessibility. They offer accessible seating, elevators, and other accommodations. It's recommended to contact the box office in advance to discuss specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased directly from the official Marcus Performing Arts Center website (marcuscenter.org).
You can also buy them in person at the box office or through authorized third-party ticket vendors. Booking in advance is highly recommended for popular shows like Broadway series.For the best selection and pricing for the Marcus Center Broadway Series, purchase tickets directly from the official Marcus Center website or box office as soon as they go on sale. This ensures you get good seats before they sell out.
Discounts may be available for group sales, students, or seniors for certain performances. It's best to check the specific event details on the Marcus Center website or contact the box office directly for any available promotions.
The box office hours can vary, but they are typically open during business hours on weekdays and often have extended hours on performance days. It's advisable to check the official Marcus Center website for the most up-to-date box office hours.
For many performances, tickets may still be available on the day of the show, especially if it's not a sold-out event. However, for highly anticipated shows like major Broadway productions, it's best to secure your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The Marcus Center offers various seating options across its theaters. While seats are generally comfortable,
some visitors note that the balcony seating in Uihlein Hall can make it harder to hear the performance. Reviewing seating charts when purchasing tickets is recommended.The dress code at the Marcus Performing Arts Center generally leans towards smart casual for most performances. While suits and ties aren't typically required for musicals, dressing nicely shows respect for the performers and the venue.
Comfortable yet presentable attire is usually a safe bet.Yes, the Marcus Center offers concession stands with beverages and snacks. However, lines can get long during intermissions, so it's advisable to purchase items before the show or be prepared for a wait.
The Marcus Performing Arts Center hosts a wide range of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, dance, comedy, and local theater productions. They also feature outdoor events and art installations.
Absolutely! The Marcus Center often features outdoor art installations, such as the 'Evanescent Art Installation',
and sometimes hosts live music or interactive activities, making the exterior a destination in itself.📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography and videography are prohibited during performances to avoid distracting the artists and audience. However, you are usually welcome to take photos in the lobby areas and of any art installations outside the venue.
Yes, the exterior of the Marcus Performing Arts Center, especially with art installations like the 'Evanescent Art Installation',
provides excellent photo opportunities. The lobby areas can also be visually appealing for pre-show photos.The 'Evanescent Art Installation' outside the center is a prime spot for photos.
The grand architecture of the building itself and the surrounding downtown Milwaukee area also offer great backdrops.No, taking pictures of the stage or performers during a show is strictly prohibited. This is to ensure the best experience for all attendees and to respect the artists' work.
It's always best to check the specific event's policy or look for signage at the venue. However, the general rule of thumb is no flash photography or recording during performances.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, consider the seating arrangements carefully, especially in Uihlein Hall, to ensure they have a clear view of the stage. The outdoor events and art installations offer a more relaxed environment where kids can move around and engage with the surroundings. Many families report having a blast and appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere and activities available.
✨ Couples & Date Nights
Consider checking the schedule for concerts, dance performances, or even comedy shows for a diverse range of date night options. The center's ambiance, especially during evening performances, creates a perfect setting for a romantic outing. Don't forget to explore any outdoor art installations for a unique pre- or post-show photo opportunity.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Keep an eye on the Marcus Center's calendar for events that might feature visual arts, such as gallery openings or art fairs. The surrounding downtown Milwaukee area also boasts numerous art galleries and museums, making the Marcus Center a great starting point for a day dedicated to exploring the city's creative landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Theaters
Beyond the main halls, the Marcus Center often utilizes its outdoor spaces for special events. These can range from community dance festivals to art installations and live music. These outdoor settings provide a more relaxed and casual experience, often drawing families and those looking for a unique cultural outing in Milwaukee.
When planning your visit, understanding which theater your event is in is crucial for setting expectations regarding seating, acoustics, and the overall ambiance. The diversity of its venues ensures that the Marcus Center can cater to a wide array of artistic tastes and audience preferences.
Community and Art Installations
Furthermore, the exterior of the Marcus Center frequently becomes a canvas for captivating art installations. The 'Evanescent Art Installation' is a prime example, transforming the space into an interactive and visually stunning environment. These installations often encourage visitor participation, such as bubble blowing or playing a painted piano, making the area around the center an attraction in its own right.
These artistic and community-focused initiatives highlight the Marcus Center's commitment to making the arts accessible and engaging for everyone. They offer a chance to enjoy art in a less formal setting, often free of charge, and provide excellent opportunities for memorable photos and family fun.
Attending a Broadway Show
When attending a Broadway show, understanding the seating is key. Uihlein Hall offers a grand theater experience, but as some reviews suggest, the balcony seating might offer a full view but could present challenges with acoustics. It's advisable to consult the seating chart when purchasing tickets to ensure you get the best possible view and sound for your budget and preference.
While the focus is on the performance, remember that the Marcus Center also offers amenities like concessions and is surrounded by downtown attractions. Planning your visit to include dinner or exploring the nearby art installations can enhance your overall experience of a night out at the Marcus Center.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit