Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
Historic Italian rococo venue hosting diverse performances, from the Oregon Symphony to comedy and concerts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Most performances are scheduled for evenings.
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
Best Time
Most performances are scheduled for evenings.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Italian rococo venue hosting diverse performances, from the Oregon Symphony to comedy and concerts.
"A beautiful venue with superb acoustics; a must-visit for any arts lover in Portland."
🎯 Student Tickets Available
Students can snag tickets for just $10, making classical concerts super accessible! :ticket:
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Give yourself extra time for street parking downtown. Consider public transport! :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Oregon Symphony Performances
Main Hall
Experience the magic of the Oregon Symphony in this stunning venue. From classical masterpieces to film scores, it's a must-see.
Live Comedy Shows
Main Hall
Catch top comedians like Sarah Silverman and others for a night of laughter in an elegant setting.

Diverse Performing Arts
Main Hall
From rock bands like In This Moment to unique acts like Jinkx Monsoon, the Schnitzer hosts a wide array of talent.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Allow Extra Time for Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Student Tickets Available
Students can snag tickets for just $10, making classical concerts super accessible!
:ticket:🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Give yourself extra time for street parking downtown. Consider public transport!
:car:🎶 Acoustics Are Superb
Enjoy crystal-clear sound; pretty much every seat offers a great listening experience.
:musical_note:✨ Dress Up for the Occasion
It's a perfect excuse to get fancy and enjoy the elegant atmosphere.
:dress:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Student Tickets Available
Students can snag tickets for just $10, making classical concerts super accessible!
:ticket:🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Give yourself extra time for street parking downtown. Consider public transport!
:car:🎶 Acoustics Are Superb
Enjoy crystal-clear sound; pretty much every seat offers a great listening experience.
:musical_note:✨ Dress Up for the Occasion
It's a perfect excuse to get fancy and enjoy the elegant atmosphere.
:dress:🥤 Snacks & Drinks Available
Lines for snacks and drinks are usually well-managed, and bathrooms are kept clean.
:coffee:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall for its stunning architecture and superb acoustics, making it a top choice for experiencing live performances, especially the Oregon Symphony. While the venue's beauty and diverse programming are highlights, some guests find the seating to be uncomfortably narrow.
"As far as the Oregon symphony goes it was a 10/10. Absolutely amazing. I went to a film series concert to pirates of the Caribbean and it was phenomenal. I only docked one star for the venue. Beautiful venue but seating was tight. I’m not overweight or anything and as someone who used to be overweight I can’t imagine trying to fit in the seat. The seats are old and too narrow. Other than that it was a great time."
Angelica Hatch
"Absolutely beautiful! Only thing they need to improve is to have a protein snack or something. And when it’s time to update the seats I hope they get wider ones. Even when I was 14 my hips wouldn’t fit in those things and now there’s more cushion for the pushin’ 😆. Absolutely beautiful."
Tabitha Basye
"You guys I am literally in LOVE with the Arlene Schnitzer Hall!!! Ive been going constantly for the past year or so for their classical concerts and it’s the best thing ever. My favorite part is for sure the fact that I have an excuse to get all nice and dressed up. Also for students you only have to pay $10 for a concert ticket?? Super insane and convenient. It’s such a beautiful venue and is always so worth the visit. If you’re in town and are looking for something fun to do, like a little side quest, I definitely recommend going to a classical music show. Even if you’re not a huge classical person, it’s still worth the try, could be your huge revelation!!!
Will continue to come here as long as I live in the area, it’s so crazy to me that more people don’t go here!"
Ava
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall is located in downtown Portland. Many attendees opt for public transportation, such as buses or MAX light rail, which have convenient stops nearby. If driving, be prepared for downtown parking challenges and allow extra time.
Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options in the vicinity. However, street parking can be tight, especially during popular events. It's advisable to arrive early or consider using a parking app to find available spots.
For ease and to avoid parking hassles, public transportation is often recommended. The MAX light rail and various bus lines serve the downtown area, making it a convenient option for reaching the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall.
Yes, you can be dropped off directly at the venue's entrance. This is a good option if you're being driven or using a rideshare service, allowing you to bypass parking searches.
Absolutely! The Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall is very accessible by public transit. Numerous bus routes and MAX light rail lines stop within easy walking distance of the venue.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for events at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall can be purchased through the official venue website, authorized ticket retailers, or at the box office. It's recommended to buy in advance for popular shows.
Yes, students can often get tickets for as low as $10 for classical concerts, making it a very affordable way to experience live music.
The Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall box office hours can vary. It's best to check their official website or call ahead to confirm current operating hours before visiting in person.
While possible for some events, it's not guaranteed, especially for sold-out performances. Purchasing tickets in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot.
Refund policies typically depend on the specific event and promoter. Generally, tickets are non-refundable unless an event is canceled or rescheduled. Check the terms and conditions at the time of purchase.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The seating at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall is known for being a bit tight. While many seats offer great views and acoustics, some visitors find them narrow.
Most seats offer excellent views and superb acoustics, making it a great place to see a live show. The venue is designed so that 'pretty much every seat is great.'
The Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall hosts a diverse range of performances, including classical music with the Oregon Symphony, live comedy, concerts by various artists, and special film series.
Absolutely! It's a favorite for classical music lovers, with many praising the acoustics and the overall experience of attending Oregon Symphony concerts there.
The venue offers concessions with snacks and drinks, and the restrooms are generally kept clean. Staff are also noted for being kind and helpful.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are concessions available inside the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall offering snacks and drinks. Lines are usually managed efficiently.
Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted inside the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. It's best to consume any personal food before entering the venue.
Concessions typically offer standard theater fare like popcorn, candy, and beverages. Some reviews mention a desire for more substantial or protein-rich snack options.
Being in downtown Portland, there are numerous restaurants and dining options within walking distance of the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Yes, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the concession stands within the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies vary by event. For most performances, especially concerts and comedy shows, personal photography (especially with flash) is usually prohibited to avoid distracting performers and other audience members. Check the specific event's guidelines.
Similar to photography, video recording is typically not allowed during performances at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. This is to protect the artists' intellectual property and ensure an uninterrupted experience for all attendees.
The exterior of the Italian rococo building is quite picturesque, making it a great spot for exterior shots. Inside, the grand architecture and chandeliers offer beautiful photo opportunities before the show begins or during intermission, provided no photography restrictions are in place.
Professional photography services are generally not offered to the public for individual events. However, official event photographers may be present to capture promotional images.
Online, you'll find a mix of professional shots from performances, user-generated content from attendees (often before or after shows), and images highlighting the venue's stunning architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families looking for an affordable outing, the $10 student ticket option for classical concerts is a fantastic deal. It's a great way to introduce children to the arts in a grand setting. Always check the specific event's suitability for children when booking.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider using public transportation to reach the venue, as this can save on parking costs. While concessions inside can add up, exploring the many dining options in downtown Portland before or after the show can offer more budget-friendly choices.
💖 Couples & Date Nights
Enjoy a pre-show dinner at one of the many downtown restaurants, followed by a captivating performance. The venue's acoustics and diverse programming mean you can find a show to suit any taste, from a powerful symphony to a hilarious comedy act.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall's Architectural Charm
This historic venue, often referred to by locals as 'The Schnitz,' provides a unique ambiance that sets it apart from modern arenas. The architecture itself is a draw, offering a sense of grandeur that complements everything from classical symphonies to contemporary concerts.
When attending an event, take a moment to appreciate the intricate design and the feeling of stepping back in time. It’s this blend of historical charm and artistic programming that makes the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall a beloved Portland landmark.
Navigating Seating and Acoustics
Despite the seating width, the general consensus is that 'pretty much every seat is great' in terms of viewing and hearing the performance. The venue's design ensures good sightlines and excellent sound quality from most locations. For those concerned about seat comfort, looking for seats in the center orchestra or dress circle sections might offer the best balance of view and proximity.
For specific recommendations on the 'best seats at Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall,' it's often helpful to consult seating charts online or check reviews for specific event types, as sightlines can vary slightly. However, the overall acoustic experience is consistently praised, making it a fantastic venue for music lovers.
A Hub for Diverse Performances
Beyond orchestral performances, the Schnitzer frequently welcomes renowned comedians, popular musical artists, and even unique drag performances. Acts like Sarah Silverman have graced its stage, bringing laughter to the downtown core. Similarly, artists such as In This Moment and Jinkx Monsoon showcase the venue's versatility in hosting diverse genres.
This commitment to variety ensures that there's almost always something for everyone at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, making it a vibrant cultural center in Portland. Whether you're a fan of classical music, stand-up comedy, or live bands, the Schnitzer offers a memorable experience in a beautiful setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit