Pantages Theatre (multiple locations)
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Pantages Theatre (multiple locations)

4.6
·1k reviews·Tacoma, United States

A historic gem hosting spectacular Broadway shows, live music, and comedy in a stunning, ornate setting.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Evenings

Fewer crowds, better parking

CrowdMedium
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Pantages Theatre (multiple locations)

Pantages Theatre (multiple locations)

Best Time

Weekday Evenings

Fewer crowds, better parking

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic gem hosting spectacular Broadway shows, live music, and comedy in a stunning, ornate setting.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"Exceptional venue with amazing acoustics and comfortable seats, a fantastic place to see a show!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Rush Tickets

Try for rush tickets in person when the box office opens 2 hours before the show for great deals!

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You might do some walking to find parking or explore the historic venue.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Broadway Musicals

Broadway Musicals

Main Stage

Experience world-class productions like Hamilton, Wicked, and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

TikTok+5
Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

Entire Venue

Marvel at the stunning, ornate interior of this historic vaudeville theater, a true LA landmark.

Reddit
Live Music & Comedy

Live Music & Comedy

Main Stage

Catch touring musicians and stand-up comedians in an intimate and acoustically pleasing setting.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Popular shows at the Pantages Theatre, especially musicals like Hamilton and Wicked, sell out quickly. Booking your tickets well in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred seats and avoid disappointment. TikTok+2

Parking Strategy

While street parking can be free in the evenings, it's competitive. The small outdoor lot across the street can be expensive ($30 on event nights) and often requires reservations. Consider the parking garage a block east for a more reliable option. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, better parking
Crowd
Medium
When
Matinee Performances
Why
Great for families, less intense
Crowd
Medium
When
Off-Season
Why
Potentially lower ticket prices
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

OPENING NIGHT at the #pantages seeing Hamilton with @symeraj AHHHH THEATER IS BACK! #hamilton #theaterkids
@_xochitl.gomez
54.6K likes • 1.2M views

🎯 Rush Tickets

Try for rush tickets in person when the box office opens 2 hours before the show for great deals! TikTok

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You might do some walking to find parking or explore the historic venue. Reddit

And this, lady’s and gentlemen, is why you get a buff boyfriend 😆 #pantagestheatre #lionking #musical #lionkingmusical #buffboyfriend #muscles
@inkedupdame
38.6K likes • 571.9K views
my first singing recital to the @Hollywood Pantages 🐣🥹✨ (ps. EduHams are the BEST!!!) #hamilton #hamiltonmusical #hollywood #la #losangeles #hollywoodpantages #pantagestheatre
@kendylsayuriyokoyama
14.7K likes • 83.3K views

📱 Check Show Times

Always confirm showtimes and dates online before heading out to avoid confusion. TikTok

👂 Sound Quality Varies

Sound can be inconsistent; lower floor seats often offer the best acoustics. Reddit

Watching the lights turn off at the famous Pantages Theater in Tacoma WA! A woman named Kate originally funded the theater and they say her ghost remains in the theater turning lights on and off. Keep your eyes on the video behind me, you’ll see the lights turn off under the balcony! No one was backstage at the time! #theater #pantages #pantagestheatre #concert #lightsout #lights #stage #historic ...
@light40790
10.3K likes • 78.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Rush Tickets

Try for rush tickets in person when the box office opens 2 hours before the show for great deals! TikTok

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You might do some walking to find parking or explore the historic venue. Reddit

📱 Check Show Times

Always confirm showtimes and dates online before heading out to avoid confusion. TikTok

👂 Sound Quality Varies

Sound can be inconsistent; lower floor seats often offer the best acoustics. Reddit

👻 Ghost Stories

Some believe the Tacoma Pantages is haunted by vengeful lovers! TikTok+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Pantages Theatre for its stunning historic architecture and the high quality of the Broadway productions it hosts. The intimate feel and good sightlines are frequently mentioned positives. However, some reviews note that sound quality can be inconsistent depending on seating location, and parking can be a significant challenge and expense.

"Exceptional venue in the heart of downtown Tacoma. The acoustics are amazing! Wonderful sight lines and from every location and super comfortable seats.

Plenty of free street parking during the evening. Simply a fantastic place to see a show!"

Kevin Vickery

"Took my daughters out and they had a blast. Beautiful building; they sell drinks for those 21 and older and some snacks."

Christina G

"Quite the historical building, simply gorgeous inside. There was a concession stand, restrooms were downstairs, easy access to your seats. Beware of the small outdoor parking lot across the street to the west. On an event night, it's likely by reservation. Fortunately, there were a few open slots. Payment on-the-spot was by online credit card...$30 ! Find the parking garage a block to the east instead."

Bonnie Ecker

What People Like

Beautiful historic venue
Amazing Broadway shows
Intimate atmosphere

What People Dislike

Variable sound quality
Expensive parking
Crowded parking lots

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Pantages Theatre is located in downtown Los Angeles. Public transportation options include various bus lines and the Metro B (Red) Line to the Hollywood/Highland station, followed by a short walk. Driving is also an option, but be prepared for traffic and parking challenges. Reddit

Yes, there are parking options. Street parking can be found but is often limited and may be free in the evenings. A paid parking garage is located a block east, offering a more reliable solution than the small, expensive lot directly across the street. Reddit

The Metro B (Red) Line to Hollywood/Highland is a convenient option, putting you within walking distance. Several bus routes also serve the Hollywood area, making public transit accessible. TikTok

It's advisable to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before showtime to account for parking, security, and finding your seats. If you're aiming for rush tickets, you'll need to be there when the box office opens, typically two hours before the performance. TikTok

Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to get to and from the Pantages Theatre, especially if you want to avoid parking hassles. There are usually designated drop-off and pick-up zones nearby. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can be purchased online through the official Pantages Theatre website or authorized ticket vendors. For potential discounts, consider trying for rush tickets in person at the box office on the day of the show. TikTok

Rush tickets are a popular way to get discounted tickets for many shows, available in person at the box office. Keep an eye out for special promotions or group rates if available. TikTok

The box office typically opens two hours before showtime for in-person sales and rush ticket distribution. It's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours. TikTok

Yes, it's often possible to get tickets on the day of the show, especially if you're willing to try for rush tickets. However, for highly popular performances, tickets may sell out in advance. TikTok

Latecomers are typically seated at an appropriate break in the performance to minimize disruption. This varies by show, so it's best to arrive on time. TikTok

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

The Pantages Theatre offers comfortable seating with good sightlines from most locations. Some reviewers note that sound quality can vary, with lower floor seats generally recommended for the best audio experience. Reddit

Yes, there are concession stands selling drinks (including alcoholic beverages for those 21+) and some snacks. You can also find restrooms located downstairs. Reddit

The Pantages Theatre hosts a variety of performances, including major Broadway musicals, live music concerts, comedy shows, and special events. TikTok+4

Absolutely! Many shows, especially musicals, are family-friendly. The historic venue itself can be an exciting experience for children. TikTokReddit

Yes, the Tacoma Pantages Theatre is rumored to be haunted by the ghosts of two vengeful lovers, with some visitors reporting lights turning on and off mysteriously. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography and videography are prohibited during performances to avoid disrupting the show and for copyright reasons. However, you may be able to take photos of the lobby and exterior before or after the show. Always check the venue's specific policy. TikTok

The ornate lobby and the exterior of the Pantages Theatre offer great photo opportunities. Capturing the grandeur of the architecture can make for memorable shots. TikTok

Flash photography is almost always prohibited during performances at any theatre, including the Pantages, as it can be distracting to performers and other audience members. TikTok

On social media, you'll find many photos and videos of the stunning interior, the stage during performances (often from before the show starts or during curtain calls), and people posing in front of the iconic facade. TikTok+2

While professional photography is usually restricted, you might capture some moments during curtain calls or from very specific angles if allowed. However, the focus should be on enjoying the live performance. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Pantages Theatre is a fantastic destination for families looking for a memorable outing. Many of the Broadway musicals hosted here, such as 'Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,' are perfect for children and teens, offering a magical experience. TikTok+3 The grandeur of the historic venue itself can also be captivating for younger visitors. Reddit

When planning your visit, consider booking tickets in advance, especially for popular shows, to ensure you get seats together. Matinee performances can be a great option for families, often with a slightly more relaxed atmosphere. Be sure to check the age recommendations for specific shows to ensure they are suitable for your children. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase, which can be a nice treat for kids. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Pantages Theatre offers a few strategies to enjoy world-class performances without breaking the bank. The most popular tip is to aim for rush tickets. These are typically available in person at the box office on the day of the show, often at a significantly reduced price. Arrive early when the box office opens to increase your chances. TikTok

Another consideration is attending shows during the off-season or on weekday evenings, which may sometimes have lower ticket prices compared to weekend performances. While parking can be expensive, exploring public transportation options or looking for parking garages a few blocks away can save money compared to the closest lots. Reddit

💖 Couples & Date Nights

The Pantages Theatre provides a perfect setting for a romantic evening or a special date night. Experiencing a dazzling Broadway musical or a captivating live performance together creates lasting memories. Consider booking premium seats for an enhanced experience, or try your luck with rush tickets for a more spontaneous adventure. TikTok

Pair your theatre experience with a pre-show dinner at one of the many restaurants in the surrounding Hollywood area, or enjoy a post-show drink to discuss the performance. The historic ambiance of the Pantages itself adds a touch of elegance and charm to any date. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Pantages Theatre's Rich History

The Pantages Theatre, with its multiple locations, boasts a fascinating history rooted in the golden age of vaudeville. The original Pantages Theatre in Tacoma, Washington, opened in 1915, funded by Alexander Pantages, a Greek immigrant who built a theater circuit across North America. These venues were designed to be opulent and grand, offering audiences a spectacular entertainment experience. TikTok+1

Over the decades, the Pantages Theatres have evolved from vaudeville houses to cinemas and eventually to premier venues for live stage productions, particularly Broadway musicals. The Los Angeles Pantages Theatre, in particular, has hosted legendary performers and iconic shows, solidifying its status as a cultural landmark. The architectural grandeur of these theaters, with their intricate detailing and lavish interiors, remains a significant draw for visitors. Reddit

Interestingly, some Pantages locations are associated with ghost stories. The Tacoma Pantages, for instance, is rumored to be haunted by the spirits of vengeful lovers, with unexplained phenomena like lights turning on and off reported by visitors. These tales add an extra layer of mystique to the already captivating history of these historic venues. TikTok+1

Securing the Best Seats and Deals

Attending a show at the Pantages Theatre often involves a strategic approach to getting the best experience and value. For popular musicals like 'Hamilton' or 'Wicked,' booking tickets well in advance is crucial to secure good seats and avoid sell-outs. Many visitors recommend checking the official Pantages website or authorized ticket sellers for availability. TikTok+2

For budget-conscious theatergoers, the 'rush ticket' strategy is a popular insider tip. This involves lining up at the box office when it opens, typically two hours before the show, to purchase deeply discounted tickets. This method is highly recommended by those who have successfully snagged great seats for less. TikTok

When considering seating, reviews suggest that while most seats offer good sightlines, the acoustics can vary. Some patrons have noted that lower floor seats provide a superior sound experience compared to those upstairs or on the sides. Therefore, if sound quality is a priority, aiming for orchestra or main floor seating is advisable. Reddit

Navigating Parking and Arrival

Arriving at the Pantages Theatre requires some planning, especially concerning parking. While free street parking might be available in the evenings, it's highly competitive and often limited. A more reliable, though pricier, option is the small outdoor parking lot across the street, which can cost around $30 on event nights and may require reservations. Reddit

For a more consistent parking solution, visitors are advised to utilize the parking garage located a block to the east of the theatre. This often proves to be a less stressful alternative. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also excellent options, providing convenient drop-off and pick-up points near the venue, allowing you to bypass parking concerns altogether. TikTok

It's generally recommended to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before the scheduled showtime. This buffer allows ample time for parking, navigating the venue, and finding your seats without feeling rushed. For those attempting to secure rush tickets, arriving when the box office opens, two hours prior to the performance, is essential. TikTok

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