
Fox Theater
Oakland's historic Fox Theater: a stunning Moorish-inspired venue hosting diverse live music and performances.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better access

Fox Theater
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better access

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Oakland's historic Fox Theater: a stunning Moorish-inspired venue hosting diverse live music and performances.
"This venue is in pristine condition. Very clean. Great staff. The acoustics were top notch. BRAVO!"

🎯 BART is Your Best Bet
Skip parking hassles and car break-in worries. The 19th St BART station is a short walk away. :train2:
🎟️ Arrive Early for GA
Want to be front row? Get to general admission shows well before doors open. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stunning Historic Architecture
Throughout the venue
Marvel at the ornate details, from the dazzling ceiling to the vintage phone booths. A feast for the eyes!

General Admission Front Row
Main floor
Arrive early for general admission shows to claim a spot right at the stage. An unforgettable up-close experience!

Telegraph Room Upgrade
Lounge area
Elevate your concert experience with this add-on: skip lines, enjoy a private lounge, and great views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Oakland's Fox Theater: Beat the Crowds
Getting to the Fox Theater
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 BART is Your Best Bet
Skip parking hassles and car break-in worries. The 19th St BART station is a short walk away.
:train2:🎟️ Arrive Early for GA
Want to be front row? Get to general admission shows well before doors open.
:athletic_shoe:✨ Telegraph Room Perk
Consider the Telegraph Room upgrade for a VIP experience: skip lines & enjoy a private lounge.
:star2:📸 Capture the Details
Don't forget to look up! The theater's ornate ceiling and unique phone booths are photo-worthy.
:camerawithflash:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 BART is Your Best Bet
Skip parking hassles and car break-in worries. The 19th St BART station is a short walk away.
:train2:🎟️ Arrive Early for GA
Want to be front row? Get to general admission shows well before doors open.
:athletic_shoe:✨ Telegraph Room Perk
Consider the Telegraph Room upgrade for a VIP experience: skip lines & enjoy a private lounge.
:star2:📸 Capture the Details
Don't forget to look up! The theater's ornate ceiling and unique phone booths are photo-worthy.
:camerawithflash:🎶 Check the Schedule
From indie bands to major artists, the Fox Theater hosts a diverse lineup. See what's coming!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Attendees consistently praise the Fox Theater's stunning historic architecture and the vibrant atmosphere it creates for live performances. The venue is lauded for its pristine condition, excellent acoustics, and attentive staff, making it a top choice for experiencing concerts. While seating can be a bit tight in some areas, the overall experience is highly rated, with many visitors eager to return.
"This is such a beautiful theater, I would definitely love to come back and watch another concert. We came to watch Durand Jones and The Indications on 10/7/25. It was a great concert. I absolutely adore all the details on the ceiling inside. They have some really cool phone booths that we just had to take a picture inside of. Seating is a bit tight, especially if you’re a taller person. Nonetheless, this is a great theater. 10/10."
Ashli K. P.
"Came here to see Durand Jones & The Indications perform last night. What a GEM! This venue is in pristine condition. Very clean. Great staff. Seating in lodge area was very comfy, lots of leg room. The acoustics were top notch. Very nice venue to witness such a great concert. BRAVO 👏🏽 Keep up the good work Oakland! 🙌🏽"
David Richardson
"Excellent experience here for the Alex G concert on the 23rd, was my daughter's first ever concert, and one of her favorite artists, so we had ti do it. And what an amazing experience it was.. I recommend grabbing any show you'd like to see here when and if available, truly a beautiful venue and on point staff and security. Huge thumbs up 👍"
Tyler “Shifftyfpv” Brackin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended way to reach the Fox Theater is by using public transportation, specifically BART. The 19th Street BART station is a short walk from the venue. Many visitors advise against driving and parking due to concerns about car break-ins in the area.
While parking garages and street parking may be available, it's generally advised to be cautious. Reddit users frequently mention that cars are broken into in Oakland, even when seemingly empty. BART is a safer alternative.
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient option for getting to and from the Fox Theater. They can drop you off close to the entrance, and you can arrange for pickup after the show.
The Fox Theater is easily accessible via BART, with the 19th Street Oakland station being the closest. Several AC Transit bus lines also serve the area around the theater.
If you're coming from the East Bay, taking BART to the 19th Street Oakland station is highly recommended. It's a direct and convenient route that avoids parking issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Fox Theater are typically available through official ticketing partners like Ticketmaster, as well as directly from the Fox Theater's website. Be wary of third-party resellers for the best prices and authenticity.
Yes, the Fox Theater offers various seating options, including general admission on the main floor, reserved seating in the lodge, and premium box seats. General admission often allows you to get close to the stage if you arrive early.
Ticket prices vary widely depending on the artist and seating. For popular acts, expect prices to range from $50 to $200+, while smaller shows might be more affordable.
It's best to check the Fox Theater's official website or contact them directly regarding box office availability on the day of the show. For popular events, tickets often sell out in advance.
The Telegraph Room is an optional add-on to your show ticket that offers a premium experience. It includes line bypass, access to a private cocktail lounge with bathrooms, and sometimes dedicated viewing areas.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The Fox Theater is renowned for its stunning historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere. It's a beautiful venue that creates a magical setting for live performances, with many attendees praising its pristine condition and ornate details.
While most seats offer good views, some areas, like the lodge seating, are noted for being very comfortable with ample legroom. For general admission, arriving early is crucial for the best stage proximity.
Seating can be a bit tight, especially for taller individuals in some sections. However, the lodge area is often described as comfortable with plenty of legroom.
The Fox Theater generally provides good accessibility. One reviewer specifically mentioned amazing ADA staff and seating, ensuring a positive experience for all attendees.
The Fox Theater hosts a wide variety of events, including concerts by major artists and emerging bands, comedy shows, and special performances. It's a versatile venue for diverse entertainment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Fox Theater offers concessions with various food and drink options. The Telegraph Room upgrade also provides access to a private lounge with cocktails and sometimes food.
Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the Fox Theater. It's best to consume any food or drinks before entering or purchase them from the venue's concessions.
Concessions usually offer standard venue fare like popcorn, hot dogs, and snacks. The Telegraph Room has offered vegetarian Thai food on occasion, along with a selection of cocktails.
The Fox Theater is located in an area with many dining options. You can find a variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to more upscale dining, within walking distance before or after your show.
Drink prices at the Fox Theater are comparable to other major concert venues, generally ranging from $10-$15 for alcoholic beverages. The Telegraph Room may have specialty cocktails at varying price points.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by event. Generally, personal cameras and phones are allowed for non-professional use, but professional equipment and flash photography are often prohibited. Check the specific event's policy.
Recording of performances is usually not allowed without explicit permission from the artist and venue. This is to protect copyright and ensure the best experience for all attendees.
Beyond the stage, the theater's stunning architecture offers many photo opportunities. The ornate ceiling, vintage phone booths, and grand lobby are particularly picturesque.
Yes, the exterior of the Fox Theater, especially its iconic marquee, is a popular spot for photos. It's a landmark that's great to capture day or night.
For interior shots, arriving early before the crowds gather or during intermission can offer clearer photo opportunities. For exterior shots, dusk or evening when the marquee is lit up is particularly striking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more relaxed experience, consider the Telegraph Room upgrade if available, as it offers a less crowded environment. Always check the specific event's suitability for children, as some concerts may have mature themes or loud music that might not be ideal for very young attendees.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opting for BART instead of driving and parking can also save money and reduce stress. While the Telegraph Room upgrade offers a premium experience, it comes at an additional cost, so it might be a splurge for special occasions rather than a regular concert.
couples
For a truly special date night, the Telegraph Room upgrade can add an element of luxury, allowing you to enjoy cocktails and a more private setting before the main event. It's a great way to make a concert outing feel like a memorable occasion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Fox Theater's Rich History
Throughout its history, the Fox Theater has hosted a wide array of performers, from legendary movie stars and vaudeville acts to contemporary musicians and comedians. Its iconic marquee has lit up the Oakland skyline for decades, signaling countless memorable nights. The theater's preservation is a testament to its cultural significance in the Bay Area.
Today, the Fox Theater stands as a premier destination for live entertainment, attracting a diverse range of artists and audiences. Its blend of historical charm and contemporary programming makes it a beloved venue for both performers and concert-goers alike.
Navigating General Admission at the Fox
Be prepared for a potential wait outside before doors open, especially for highly anticipated shows. Many attendees see this as part of the concert experience, a chance to connect with fellow fans. Once inside, make your way directly to the main floor to claim your preferred standing area.
While GA offers the most intimate connection with the performance, remember that seating in other areas, like the lodge, provides a more relaxed experience with comfortable seating and good acoustics. The choice between GA and reserved seating often depends on your personal preference for the concert experience.
The Telegraph Room: An Elevated Experience
Inside the Telegraph Room, guests can relax in a private cocktail lounge featuring comfortable seating and dedicated restrooms. The ambiance is designed for a more refined pre-show or intermission experience. On select nights, the lounge has also offered food options, such as vegetarian Thai cuisine, adding to the amenities.
The Telegraph Room also provides access to a private viewing area, often situated near the sound booth, offering excellent sightlines to the stage. This exclusive space allows you to enjoy your drinks and the music in a more spacious and less crowded environment. It's a worthwhile consideration for a special night out.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit