Lobero Theatre - A yellow building with steps leading up to it
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Lobero Theatre

4.8
·433 reviews·Santa Barbara, United States

California's oldest continuously operating theater, offering a century of diverse live performances with stunning acoustics.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Best for live performances

CrowdMedium
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Lobero Theatre - A yellow building with steps leading up to it

Lobero Theatre

Best Time

Evenings

Best for live performances

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

California's oldest continuously operating theater, offering a century of diverse live performances with stunning acoustics.

4.8
(433 reviews)

"Beautiful theater, comfortable seating, charming interior with excellent acoustics."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Easy Parking Nearby

Affordable and convenient parking is available next door, often filling up for sold-out shows. :parking:

🎶 Check the Schedule

Visit lobero.com for the latest Lobero Theatre schedule and events. :calendar:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

Entire Venue

Experience California's oldest continuously operating theater, beautifully maintained with charming interiors.

Exceptional Acoustics

Exceptional Acoustics

Main Auditorium

Enjoy crystal-clear sound for music, comedy, and stage performances, with every seat offering a great view.

Diverse Live Performances

Diverse Live Performances

Main Stage

From renowned musicians like Jackson Browne to intimate chamber performances and comedy acts, there's always something happening.

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Planning Your Visit

Arrive Early for Sold-Out Shows

For sold-out events at the Lobero Theatre, arriving early is recommended. Parking can be competitive, and you'll want time to find your seat and enjoy the atmosphere. Check the Lobero Theatre schedule in advance for event details.

Concessions & Seating

The Lobero Theatre offers concessions, though options may vary by event. Most reviews highlight excellent acoustics and good sightlines from every seat, even in the back rows. Consider premium seating for a special experience.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Best for live performances
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
More event variety
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Rocking our song “Miss Tennessee” at the Lobero Theater in Santa Barbara CA. 🤘 #americana #folkrock #countryrock #livemusic #originalsong #americanamusic
@rosespawnshop
76 likes • 944 views

🚗 Easy Parking Nearby

Affordable and convenient parking is available next door, often filling up for sold-out shows. :parking: Reddit

🎶 Check the Schedule

Visit lobero.com for the latest Lobero Theatre schedule and events. :calendar: Reddit

Petty Party – Live at the Lobero Theatre
📍 33 E Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
📅 Friday, October 24th at 7:30 PM Get ready, Santa Barbara—Petty Party is coming to town! LA’s hottest tribute to Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers is hitting the stage at the historic Lobero Theatre for one night only. Featuring a powerhouse lineup of Southern California’s top tribute musicians, Petty Party deli...
@thenashman45
9 likes • 83 views
A peek into this afternoon’s Santa Barbara Youth Symphony Spring concert at the Lobero Theatre. Such GRAND talent amongst our youth! ✨ 🎵 Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8 in G Major #dvorak #sbsymphony #sbyouthsymphony #santabarbara #youngmusicians #youngtalent
sbsymphony
51 likes • 1.1K views

🪑 Every Seat's a Good Seat

Enjoy great acoustics and sightlines from any seat in the house. :seat: Reddit

🎟️ Book Lobero Tickets Early

For popular shows, secure your Lobero Theatre tickets in advance. :ticket: Reddit

Last night’s show at the beautiful Lobero Theatre in Santa Barbara was completely SOLD OUT! Thank you to the amazing audience who sang, danced, and helped make it an unforgettable night. 🙌We’re so grateful for the love and support on this California tour 📍 Next stop: The Center For The Arts in Grass Valley on Wednesday, July 16 🎟️ Limited tickets available — get them before they’re gone! Thur...
liverpoollegendsbeatles
133 likes • 1.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Easy Parking Nearby

Affordable and convenient parking is available next door, often filling up for sold-out shows. :parking: Reddit

🎶 Check the Schedule

Visit lobero.com for the latest Lobero Theatre schedule and events. :calendar: Reddit

🪑 Every Seat's a Good Seat

Enjoy great acoustics and sightlines from any seat in the house. :seat: Reddit

🎟️ Book Lobero Tickets Early

For popular shows, secure your Lobero Theatre tickets in advance. :ticket: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(433 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Lobero Theatre for its beautiful historic architecture, excellent acoustics, and comfortable seating, making every seat a good one. The diverse range of performances, from music to comedy, is a major draw, complemented by friendly staff and convenient parking. Some events can be pricey, and parking may fill up for sold-out shows.

"Really great place. Perfect for Asleep at the Wheel the act we saw. I believe it started in 1875 or so, great upkeep, lights, sound."

Les Christensen

"The Lobero Theatre is a beautiful old theatre in Santa Barbara. It is celebrating its 100th anniversary in Aug with Jackson Brown playing. Good acoustics and every seat is good. We sat in the back row for this sold out concert.
Went to see “Our House “ a band of friends and family of CSNY. I especially went to see my school friend, Astrid Young ( Neil Young’s sister). It was a great concert and all the musicians were excellent."

Sheromie Vittachi

"Beautiful theater and wonderful staff. We saw Leo Kottke. Enjoyed the premium seating reception!"

Jeffrey Sprague

What People Like

Beautiful historic venue
Excellent acoustics
Comfortable seating

What People Dislike

Can be pricey
Parking fills up

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Lobero Theatre is located in downtown Santa Barbara. Many visitors find it convenient to drive, with affordable parking available in the lot next door. Public transportation options are also available within the city. Reddit

Yes, there is a city parking lot directly next to the Lobero Theatre, which is often recommended by visitors for its convenience and affordability. For sold-out shows, it's advisable to arrive early. Reddit

Driving and parking in the adjacent lot is a popular choice. Alternatively, consider ride-sharing services or local bus routes that service the downtown Santa Barbara area. Reddit

Yes, drop-off is possible at the theater entrance. This can be a good option if parking is a concern or if you have mobility issues. Reddit

The Lobero Theatre is located at 33 E Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You can purchase Lobero Theatre tickets directly from their official website, lobero.com, or at the Lobero Box Office. Keep an eye on the Lobero Theatre calendar for upcoming events. Reddit

Ticket prices vary depending on the event and seating location. It's best to check the specific event listing on lobero.com for current pricing. Some visitors have mentioned receiving comped tickets for awesome shows. Reddit

While promo codes aren't always available, signing up for the Lobero Theatre's newsletter or following their social media might provide access to special offers or discounts. Reddit

The Lobero Theatre's operating hours for the box office and general admission typically align with event schedules. It's recommended to check the Lobero Theatre schedule for specific showtimes and box office hours. Reddit

The Lobero Theatre strives to be accessible. Contact the box office directly for specific accessibility needs or accommodations. Reddit

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

The Lobero Theatre typically offers concessions, which may include beverages and snacks. The specific offerings can vary by event. Reddit

The Lobero Theatre has a seating capacity that allows for an intimate viewing experience, often described as medium-sized. Reddit

Reviews consistently praise the Lobero Theatre seating for its comfort and excellent sightlines, ensuring a good view from almost every location. Reddit

Yes, some events offer premium seating receptions, providing an enhanced experience for attendees. Reddit

The Lobero Theatre hosts a wide range of performances, including live concerts, musicians, stage shows, comedy, and chamber music. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography and videography are restricted during performances at the Lobero Theatre to avoid disturbing the artists and audience. Check the specific event's policy or ask an usher. Reddit

The historic architecture of the Lobero Theatre itself, both inside and out, makes for beautiful photos. Capture the charming interior and the facade before or after a show. Reddit

While live performances are usually off-limits for photos, the lobby and exterior offer great opportunities to capture the ambiance of this historic venue. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Lobero Theatre can be a great option for families, especially for performances geared towards younger audiences or those with broad appeal. While not exclusively a children's venue, its intimate size and excellent acoustics can make for an engaging experience for kids. Check the Lobero Theatre calendar for family-friendly shows like musicals or concerts that might capture their attention. Reddit

When bringing children, consider the length of the performance and their attention spans. The comfortable seating is a plus, and the theater's historic charm can add an element of wonder. For a smoother experience, arrive a little early to allow kids to get settled without feeling rushed, and inquire about any specific family amenities or policies when purchasing your Lobero tickets. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While some Lobero Theatre events can be premium, there are ways to enjoy this historic venue on a budget. Keep an eye on the Lobero schedule for performances that might be more affordably priced, or look for special promotions. Sometimes, less popular seating sections offer a significant discount while still providing a good view. Reddit

Utilize the convenient and affordable parking next door to save on transportation costs. Consider packing your own snacks and drinks if allowed, though the theater does offer concessions. The experience of seeing a show in such a historic and acoustically superb venue can be a worthwhile splurge, even on a tighter budget. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Century of Performance: The Lobero Theatre's Legacy

The Lobero Theatre holds the distinction of being California's oldest continuously operating theater, with a rich history dating back over a century. Its enduring presence in Santa Barbara is a testament to its architectural beauty and its commitment to hosting a diverse array of live performances. From its early days to its modern-day programming, the Lobero has been a cultural cornerstone for the community and a beloved venue for artists and audiences alike. Reddit

This historic gem has seen countless performances, from vaudeville and silent films to today's concerts, plays, and comedy shows. The theater has undergone careful preservation and updates to maintain its charm while ensuring excellent acoustics and comfortable seating. Visitors often remark on the theater's beautiful upkeep and the charming interior, making it a special place to experience live entertainment. Reddit

The Lobero Theatre Foundation plays a crucial role in its ongoing success, working to preserve the venue and enrich the cultural landscape through its programming. This dedication ensures that the Lobero continues to be a vibrant hub for the arts for generations to come. Exploring the Lobero Theatre is not just attending a show; it's stepping into a piece of California's performing arts history. Reddit

Experiencing a Show: Acoustics, Seating, and Atmosphere

When attending a performance at the Lobero Theatre, visitors consistently rave about the exceptional acoustics. Whether you're there for a musical performance, a play, or a comedy act, the sound quality is often described as superb, allowing every note and word to be heard with clarity. This makes for a truly immersive and enjoyable experience, regardless of the genre. Reddit

The seating at the Lobero is another highlight. Reviews frequently mention that every seat is a good seat, offering excellent sightlines to the stage. Even those seated in the back rows report having a great view, which is a significant plus for any theatergoer. For those seeking an elevated experience, the option of premium seating and associated receptions is available for select events, adding a touch of luxury to the evening. Reddit

The overall atmosphere of the Lobero Theatre is one of warmth and intimacy. Its medium size contributes to a feeling of connection between the performers and the audience. Combined with the beautiful historic architecture and the enthusiastic staff and volunteers, attending a show at the Lobero is often described as a wonderful and memorable occasion. Reddit

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