Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
A stunning glass and steel architectural marvel hosting the Philadelphia Orchestra, Broadway tours, ballet, opera, and student performances.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for live performances
Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
Best Time
Best for live performances
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning glass and steel architectural marvel hosting the Philadelphia Orchestra, Broadway tours, ballet, opera, and student performances.
"This venue was beautiful and large. I imagine incredible views from wherever you sit!"
🎯 Book Dinner in Advance
Leo restaurant inside the Kimmel Center offers pre-show dining. Book your table early, especially on performance nights!
🎟️ Check for Free Events
Look out for free concerts, like the All City High School Music Festival, offering incredible talent without a ticket!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Philadelphia Orchestra Performances
Verizon Hall
Experience world-class symphonic music in a stunning acoustic hall. A must-see for classical music lovers.
Broadway Touring Productions
Various Theatres
Catch acclaimed Broadway shows like 'The Wiz' and 'Come From Away' in this vibrant performing arts hub.
Diverse Dance Performances
Various Theatres
From classical ballet to contemporary pieces, witness incredible talent from companies like The Legendary Dance Company.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Consider Your Seating Choice
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Dinner in Advance
Leo restaurant inside the Kimmel Center offers pre-show dining. Book your table early, especially on performance nights!
🎟️ Check for Free Events
Look out for free concerts, like the All City High School Music Festival, offering incredible talent without a ticket!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
Some visitors note the venue has very steep stairs, so comfortable footwear is a good idea.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Public transit is convenient, but parking might require some planning. Consider ride-sharing or public transport.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Dinner in Advance
Leo restaurant inside the Kimmel Center offers pre-show dining. Book your table early, especially on performance nights!
🎟️ Check for Free Events
Look out for free concerts, like the All City High School Music Festival, offering incredible talent without a ticket!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
Some visitors note the venue has very steep stairs, so comfortable footwear is a good idea.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Public transit is convenient, but parking might require some planning. Consider ride-sharing or public transport.
🎶 Amazing Acoustics
You can expect good sound quality from almost any seat in the house, making for an immersive experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Kimmel Center for its stunning architecture, excellent acoustics, and the high quality of its diverse performances, from Broadway shows to the Philadelphia Orchestra. While tickets can be expensive and parking challenging, the overall experience is often described as magical and memorable, with attentive staff enhancing the visit.
"We recently saw the Wiz and it was one of the best shows I have seen! This venue was beautiful and large. I imagine incredible views from wherever you sit! Every performer had incredible voices with amazing range! The costumes were vibrant and the set was perfect! The dancing and breath control while singing was amazing! The crowd was also amazing and animated! The show was exciting! It was a gift from our daughter! We will never forget it! We came down from Michigan!"
Rene Jordan Threats
"Beautiful building. Very steep stairs. Expensive tickets and the show was interrupted by audience talking then a verbal altercation and fight which started over people arriving 40 mins into the show and others being in their seats. Unfortunately very stereotypical Philadelphia. My kid was crying he felt unsafe and wanted to go and other people did leave but I whispered to him, the people were being removed and we were safer in our seats then going to the lobby or parking lot at that point. Felt bad for the ushers, need security not just at the door. Also felt badly for the actors. Good show otherwise."
Laura Gould
"Kimmel Center never fails!! Perfect hospitality and guest services. Even better was the performance!! We we're there to see The Legendary Dance Company's show entitled" GHETTO". The talented dancers and their gifted coach and Legendary's owner Shana are simply brilliant. Wonderful Saturday night in the city.. Bravo Kiley & Friends."
Jazmin Watson -Aggie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kimmel Center is easily accessible by public transit in Philadelphia. Many SEPTA bus routes and subway lines stop nearby. Parking is available in nearby garages, but can be tricky and expensive. Ride-sharing services are also a convenient option.
Yes, there are several parking garages near the Kimmel Center. However, parking can be challenging and costly, especially on show nights. It's advisable to research parking options in advance or consider public transportation.
Absolutely! The Kimmel Center is well-served by Philadelphia's public transit system, SEPTA. Numerous bus routes and subway lines stop within walking distance, making it a convenient option.
To avoid stress, consider arriving at least 30 minutes before your show starts. This allows time for parking, security checks, and finding your seats. Public transit or ride-sharing can often be more straightforward than driving and parking.
The Kimmel 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 Kimmel Center's official website (kimmelcenter.org), by calling the box office, or in person at the Kimmel Center box office. Be wary of third-party resellers.
Ticket prices vary widely depending on the performance, seating location, and demand. Broadway shows and major orchestral concerts tend to be more expensive. Some events, like student concerts, may be free.
For popular shows, it's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance. While some tickets might be available on the day of the show, they may be limited or in less desirable locations.
The Kimmel Center's policy typically allows for exchanges or refunds under specific circumstances, often with advance notice. It's best to check the terms and conditions at the time of purchase or contact the box office directly for details.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups, depending on the performance. Keep an eye on the Kimmel Center's website or social media for any special offers or promotions.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The 'best' seats depend on your preference and the performance. For orchestral concerts in Verizon Hall, the center orchestra or front mezzanine offer excellent sound. For stage productions, consider seats with clear sightlines to the stage. Reddit users discuss options like Parquet row vs. Balcony.
There is no strict dress code. Most attendees dress in smart casual attire. For Broadway shows or orchestral concerts, people often dress up a bit more, while other performances might be more relaxed.
Yes, Leo restaurant is located inside the Kimmel Center and offers dinner before performances. There are also bars serving drinks and snacks.
The Kimmel Center hosts a wide array of performances, including Broadway musicals, the Philadelphia Orchestra, ballet, opera, contemporary dance, and student productions. 
While the Kimmel Center strives for a safe environment, incidents can occur. Some reviews mention audience disruptions or altercations. The venue has ushers and security, but it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography and videography are prohibited during performances to avoid disturbing the artists and audience. However, you can usually take photos in the lobby areas before or after the show. Always check the specific rules for your event.
The grand lobby with its impressive architecture and the exterior of the building are great for photos. During performances, focus on capturing the atmosphere and your fellow attendees (respectfully, of course).
Professional camera equipment, including tripods and large lenses, is typically not allowed inside the performance halls. Small, personal cameras or smartphones are usually permitted for non-performance use.
The Kimmel Center's official website and social media channels (Instagram, TikTok) often feature high-quality photos and videos of their performances and venue.
Popular hashtags include #KimmelCenter, #EnsembleArtsPhilly, #PhiladelphiaOrchestra, #PhillyTheater, and specific show hashtags like #ComeFromAway.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the venue itself is impressive, be mindful that some seating areas can be steep, so ensure children are seated safely. Consider packing snacks or planning a meal at Leo restaurant beforehand to make the evening smoother. The Kimmel Center also hosts student performances, which can be an inspiring and affordable way to introduce children to live music and theater.
🎶 Music Aficionados
Beyond classical, the Kimmel Center hosts a variety of other musical events, from jazz ensembles to contemporary artists. Keep an eye on their schedule for touring musicians and special concert series. The venue's commitment to diverse programming means there are always exciting musical discoveries to be made.
🎭 Theatre Enthusiasts
In addition to Broadway, the Kimmel Center also features local theatre companies and student productions, offering a diverse range of dramatic and musical performances. This provides ample opportunities to discover new talent and enjoy a variety of theatrical styles throughout the year.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture of the Kimmel Center
Inside, the Kimmel Cultural Campus is a hub of activity. The soaring atrium is a popular gathering spot, often featuring art installations and pre-show entertainment. Visitors often remark on the building's grandeur and the impressive views it offers of the surrounding city. The use of natural light and the seamless integration of different performance venues contribute to its unique atmosphere.
While visually stunning, some visitors have noted the steepness of the seating in certain areas, which is a common consideration for large performance venues. Despite this, the overall architectural experience is a significant part of visiting the Kimmel Center, making it more than just a place to see a show, but a destination in itself.
Experiencing a Performance at the Kimmel Center
+1Audience experiences can vary. Many rave about the incredible talent, vibrant costumes, and captivating performances, highlighting the exceptional vocal ranges and dancing. The atmosphere is often described as energetic and animated. However, as with any large public venue, audience behavior can sometimes be a factor, with some reviews mentioning disruptions. The staff, however, are frequently praised for their attentiveness and hospitality.
For a complete experience, consider dining at Leo, the restaurant located within the Kimmel Center, which offers pre-show meals. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the evening's entertainment without the rush. Remember to check the specific performance schedule and book your tickets and dining in advance, especially for popular shows.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit