Riverside Theater
Historic 1928 theater offering intimate performances with stunning vintage architecture and a welcoming atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Experience the full ambiance
Riverside Theater
Best Time
Experience the full ambiance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1928 theater offering intimate performances with stunning vintage architecture and a welcoming atmosphere.
"It looked old, but in a classy, timeless, & elegant sense. Gorgeous and took my breath away."
🎯 Intimate Venue Feel
Enjoy the close-up, intimate feel of the Riverside Theater, a welcome change from larger venues.
✨ Vintage Elegance
Appreciate the classic 1928 architecture, from the marquee to the carved stair railings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ornate Interior
Throughout the theater
Experience the grandeur of a 1928 venue with carved railings and a vintage marquee.
Intimate Performance Space
Main auditorium
Enjoy a close-up experience with performers, making every show feel personal.
Balcony Views
Balcony seating
First-row balcony seats offer excellent, unobstructed views and a unique vantage point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Vintage Charm
Secure Your Perfect Seat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Intimate Venue Feel
Enjoy the close-up, intimate feel of the Riverside Theater, a welcome change from larger venues.
✨ Vintage Elegance
Appreciate the classic 1928 architecture, from the marquee to the carved stair railings.
💺 Best Balcony Seats
First-row balcony seats offer unobstructed views and a great spot for drinks.
🤝 Friendly Staff
Expect polite, helpful, and efficient staff to enhance your experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Intimate Venue Feel
Enjoy the close-up, intimate feel of the Riverside Theater, a welcome change from larger venues.
✨ Vintage Elegance
Appreciate the classic 1928 architecture, from the marquee to the carved stair railings.
💺 Best Balcony Seats
First-row balcony seats offer unobstructed views and a great spot for drinks.
🤝 Friendly Staff
Expect polite, helpful, and efficient staff to enhance your experience.
🎟️ Easy Entry
Multiple entrances, including a dedicated will-call door, make for quick security and ticket checks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Riverside Theater for its intimate atmosphere, stunning vintage architecture, and friendly staff, making it a preferred venue for concerts and performances. While the venue is generally well-maintained, some suggest minor restoration could further enhance its already gorgeous, timeless appeal.
"I love the Riverside for music performances (along with the Pabst). It's big enough to host very talented/popular performances and small enough to call intimate. The fact that it is vintage, built in 1928 only adds to the charge. From the outside marquee to the carved staircase railings, it exudes style and grace.
It's easy to enter with multiple doors. One is door is dedicated for will call. You can quickly get through security and ticket check. Once inside you are immediately in front of several bars areas. Merchandise for sale in straight ahead.
Came here for another concert, Swell Season. Got tickets on the Balcony, frist row, which in my opinion are the very best seats in the house. An elevated view, without any obstructions. And the short wall in front makes a great spot to put your drinks.
I shy away from the bigger venues, and always look to the Riverside (and Pabst) for my music performances."
Scott W
"I attended the Love You Too tour at Riverside, and it was my very 1st time being at this venue. The staff was very polite and helpful. I wondered what sitting in the balcony would be like.....my seats were in an amazing spot. I look forward to the next event I get to attend there."
Rita Lynne W
"Went to the Riverside Theater for the Beach Boys concert, and it was so much more than I was ever imagining.
The tickets online made it seem as if I were far away from the stage, but reality struck when we got to the theater, and the employees were saying I got really good seats. I didnt believe them until my Gramps and I got to our seats in the first section of the balconies and I was blown away by just how close we were to the stage, as well as just the beauty of the theater itself.
It looked old, but in a classy, timeless, & elegant sense. With a little more TLC and drive, they could restore it a bit better, but it overall was gorgeous and took my breath away.
The staff here are amazing and very kind people. Made me feel comfortable and welcome, and that helped tremendously with beginning my first experience here.
The concert was a blast, even if it was only one of the original beach boys (technically 2 but only one founding member lol). A memorable night that I was beyond pleased with and I'm excited to come back to the Riverside Theater the next time a good concert or other occasion rolls around!"
Spilled Quille
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Riverside Theater is located in downtown Riverside, California. It's easily accessible by car, with parking options available nearby. Public transportation is also an option, with local bus routes serving the downtown area.
Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options available near the Riverside Theater. It's advisable to check for event-specific parking information or arrive early to secure a spot.
Depending on your starting point, many downtown Riverside attractions are within walking distance of the Riverside Theater. It's a great way to explore the area before or after a show.
Local bus services operate in Riverside, with stops conveniently located near the theater. Check the RTA (Riverside Transit Agency) website for specific routes and schedules.
The Riverside Theater is generally accessible, with considerations for patrons with disabilities. It's recommended to contact the venue directly to discuss specific needs and arrangements.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Riverside Theater can typically be purchased online through the official venue website, authorized ticket retailers, or at the box office.
Box office hours can vary, especially on event days. It's best to check the Riverside Theater's official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on box office hours.
Depending on the event and availability, tickets may be available at the door. However, for popular shows, it's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
Typically, re-entry is not permitted at the Riverside Theater once you have entered the venue. Please ensure you have everything you need before going through security.
Age restrictions can vary by event. Most concerts and performances are open to all ages, but some comedy shows or special events may have age minimums. Check the specific event details when purchasing tickets.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The Riverside Theater offers a variety of seating options, including orchestra, mezzanine, and balcony levels. Many find the balcony seats, especially in the front rows, to offer excellent, unobstructed views.
Yes, there are bar areas inside the Riverside Theater where you can purchase beverages. Food options may be limited, so it's advisable to dine before the show if you plan to eat.
The Riverside Theater is known for its intimate and vintage atmosphere, thanks to its 1928 construction. It provides a stylish and elegant setting for performances.
Photography policies can vary by event. Generally, personal cameras and flash photography are often prohibited during performances to avoid distracting performers and other audience members.
The Riverside Theater hosts a diverse range of performances, including concerts by popular musicians, comedy shows, and special engagements. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎶 Music Lovers
🎭 Theater Aficionados
The venue's size strikes a perfect balance, providing a sense of grandeur without sacrificing the personal connection between performers and the audience. The efficient entry process and attentive staff further elevate the overall enjoyment for theater lovers. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Riverside Theater's Legacy
Originally designed to showcase big-name musical and comedy acts, the Riverside Theater has maintained its reputation for hosting a diverse array of talent. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to blend historical significance with contemporary entertainment, offering a classic yet vibrant atmosphere for all types of performances. The theater's preservation efforts ensure that its architectural beauty and historical context remain a key part of its identity.
Experiencing the Intimacy: Seating and Views at the Riverside Theater
When planning your visit, consider the type of performance and your personal preference for seating. While the orchestra offers a direct view, the elevated perspective from the balcony can provide a comprehensive overview of the stage and the entire venue. The theater's design ensures that, regardless of your seat, you're likely to feel connected to the performance, making for a more engaging and memorable experience.
Behind the Scenes: Staff and Amenities at the Riverside Theater
Inside the theater, amenities include several bar areas offering a selection of beverages. While food options might be more limited, the focus remains on providing a comfortable and enjoyable environment for attendees. The combination of historical charm, excellent service, and convenient facilities makes the Riverside Theater a consistently well-regarded venue for live entertainment.
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