Fox Performing Arts Center
Historic Spanish mission-style theater since 1929, offering Broadway revivals, concerts, and classic films.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the magic of live shows
Fox Performing Arts Center
Best Time
Experience the magic of live shows
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Spanish mission-style theater since 1929, offering Broadway revivals, concerts, and classic films.
"A beautiful venue with historic ambiance, fantastic shows, and a prime downtown location."
🎯 Check Seating for Sound
Upstairs speakers can sometimes be off, affecting sound quality. Consider main floor seats for the best audio experience .
🚗 Convenient Parking Options
Street parking is affordable and easy. The adjacent lot offers great convenience for quick access to the theater .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Spanish Mission Architecture
Entire Venue
Step back in time with dark woods, rich carpets, and stunning lighting that evoke old Hollywood glamour.
Intimate Theater Experience
Seating Areas
Enjoy a regal feel with classic fuzzy red seats and excellent views, making it a favorite for theater, music, and arts lovers.
Live Performances & Concerts
Main Stage
From Broadway revivals and name concerts to classic films and comedy shows, the Fox hosts a diverse range of entertainment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Arrive Early for the Best Experience
Parking and Downtown Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Seating for Sound
Upstairs speakers can sometimes be off, affecting sound quality. Consider main floor seats for the best audio experience.
🚗 Convenient Parking Options
Street parking is affordable and easy. The adjacent lot offers great convenience for quick access to the theater.
🥂 VIP Bar Access
For an elevated experience, consider the VIP entry for $30 to access a special bar and waiting area.
🍦 Post-Show Treats
The Fox is adjacent to the Game/Food Lab, perfect for ice cream or snacks after a performance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Seating for Sound
Upstairs speakers can sometimes be off, affecting sound quality. Consider main floor seats for the best audio experience.
🚗 Convenient Parking Options
Street parking is affordable and easy. The adjacent lot offers great convenience for quick access to the theater.
🥂 VIP Bar Access
For an elevated experience, consider the VIP entry for $30 to access a special bar and waiting area.
🍦 Post-Show Treats
The Fox is adjacent to the Game/Food Lab, perfect for ice cream or snacks after a performance.
👜 Bag Policy Awareness
Be aware of the bag policy; some visitors have reported needing to empty purses multiple times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Fox Performing Arts Center for its stunning historic ambiance and intimate feel, making it a favorite venue for various performances. While the beautiful architecture and comfortable seating are major draws, some guests have noted occasional issues with sound quality in certain seating areas and a recent decline in staff attentiveness. Despite minor drawbacks, its central location and diverse event lineup keep it a beloved spot.
"EXCELLENT VENUE & SERVICE! The Fox Theater has the same retro vibes as LA’s Pantages Theater. It’s got dim lights, classic fuzzy red seats, and plenty of concession areas. The restrooms are easy to find and there’s excellent signage across the theater.
I love the amount of stairs you find here, it gives a regal feel and “elevated” experience (see what I did there!). Snacks looked good and there’s plenty of alcohol options. If you’re feeling extra spendy and want to enter the building early, you can spend $30 for VIP entry to the bar and a special waiting area.
My only issue with this venue is the speakers. We came for “Benise: 25 Years of Passion!”, we sat upstairs only to find that the speakers were totally off! It greatly affected the experience and sound quality. The upstairs crowd was dead, I’m guessing this was a factor?
The Fox is right next to the Game/Food Lab, it’s a perfect hub of activity on a Saturday night. There’s an exit at The Fox which leads you right up to the Food Lab’s entrance! We stopped for ice cream after the show. I’m really impressed with The Fox’s location, it’s right in the heart of Downtown Riverside and a plethora of hotels."
Lorenzo Warfel
"Such a wonderful venue with historic ambiance. The Riverside Fox Theater is absolutely beautiful! Dark woods, rich carpet, and stunning lighting all add to the experience. The staff there is very helpful and accommodating. Parking could not have been easier as the lot is adjacent to the theater and pricing was very reasonable for the event."
Timothy Huey
"If you love an intimate venue for theatre,music and arts, put this theatre in your go to venue.
Sound and every view from your seat is great.Comfy chairs and no folding at all.
Another bonus no one seems to stand up because the view is so good although you can dance in the aisles.
Parking on the street is painless and cheap.
Drinks as usual are over priced but tasty."
Dora Explorer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Fox Performing Arts Center is located in the heart of Downtown Riverside, California. It's easily accessible by car, with street parking and an adjacent lot available. Public transportation options may also serve the downtown area.
Parking on the street is generally painless and cheap. There's also a convenient lot adjacent to the theater, making access easy. Pricing is typically reasonable for events.
While specific routes vary, Downtown Riverside is served by public transportation. It's recommended to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes and stops near the Fox Performing Arts Center.
Yes, you can typically get dropped off at the entrance of the Fox Performing Arts Center. This is a good option if you prefer to avoid parking or have mobility concerns.
If traveling from further afield, driving is a common option. Riverside is accessible via major freeways. For those preferring not to drive, ride-sharing services are also readily available in the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for shows at the Fox Performing Arts Center can often be purchased through official ticketing partners like Ticketmaster,
Ticket prices vary widely depending on the event, seating location, and performer. For specific pricing, it's best to check the event listing on the official ticketing platform or the Fox Performing Arts Center's website.
Yes, the Fox Performing Arts Center sometimes offers VIP entry for an additional fee, which includes access to a bar and a special waiting area, providing an 'elevated' experience.
The bag policy can be strict, with some visitors reporting needing to empty their purses multiple times. It's advisable to check the venue's specific policy before your visit to avoid any issues.
Based on some visitor experiences, umbrellas may be taken away upon entry. It's best to check the venue's policy or consider leaving it in your car if it's raining.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The Fox Performing Arts Center boasts a beautiful historic ambiance with dark woods, rich carpets, and stunning lighting, reminiscent of LA's Pantages Theater. It offers a regal feel with classic fuzzy red seats.
The venue hosts a diverse range of events, including Broadway revivals, concerts, comedy shows, classic films, and ballet performances like The Nutcracker.
Sound quality can be excellent, but some visitors have noted issues with upstairs speakers being off, affecting the experience. Main floor seating is generally recommended for optimal sound.
Yes, there are plenty of concession areas offering snacks and a variety of alcohol options. Drinks are typically over-priced but tasty.
The seating features classic fuzzy red seats that are comfortable and don't fold. Many visitors appreciate that no one seems to stand up because the view is so good.
📸 📸 Photography
Typically, photography and videography are restricted during performances to avoid disrupting the show and other attendees. It's best to check the specific policy for the event you are attending.
The historic architecture of the Fox Performing Arts Center itself is very photogenic. The grand interior, with its dark woods and rich carpets, offers many opportunities for stunning shots.
Professional photography equipment, such as tripods and external flashes, is usually not permitted inside the venue during performances. Always confirm with the venue or event organizer beforehand.
You'll find photos showcasing the venue's beautiful Spanish mission-style architecture, the vibrant stage performances, and happy attendees enjoying the shows.
While you can capture the overall ambiance and stage from the upper seating, the view might be more distant. For close-up shots of performers, the main floor or lower seating areas are generally better.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
and performances of 'The Nutcracker', which are perfect for introducing children to the magic of live theater. The comfortable seating and the venue's historic charm can make for a memorable outing for all ages. Arriving a little early can help kids settle in and explore the beautiful surroundings before the show begins.🎶 Music Lovers
+1 to rock acts and other genres. The intimate setting ensures a close connection with the performers, and the venue's acoustics, particularly on the main floor, can provide a rich auditory experience. Checking the schedule regularly will reveal a diverse lineup catering to different musical tastes.🎭 Theater & Arts Aficionados
The venue's historic ambiance enhances the overall theatrical experience, making it a cherished spot for those who love the magic of live drama, dance, and musicals.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Originally a 1,500-seat theater, it was designed to showcase previews of films before their final release. This unique function meant that stars would often attend these previews incognito, mingling with the audience to gauge reactions to their films. This rich history imbues the venue with a special charm, making it more than just a place to see a show, but a portal to a bygone era of Hollywood glamour.The theater's architecture is a stunning example of Spanish mission style, featuring dark woods, rich carpets, and intricate lighting that contribute to its regal and intimate atmosphere.
+1Navigating the Venue: Seating and Sound
However, it's worth noting that sound quality can vary, particularly in the upstairs seating areas. Some visitors have reported that the speakers in these sections were not fully operational during certain shows, which significantly impacted the sound experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit