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Saenger Theatre Pensacola: A Grand Dame of Entertainment

Experience the grandeur of the Saenger Theatre Pensacola, a beautifully restored historic venue hosting diverse performances in the heart of downtown.

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The Saenger Theatre Pensacola, a historic landmark in downtown, has been a cultural hub since 1925. This beautifully restored Spanish Baroque-style theater hosts a variety of performances, from Broadway shows to concerts, and is home to local arts organizations.

A brief summary to Saenger Theatre Pensacola

Local tips

  • Check the Saenger Theatre's website or Ticketmaster for upcoming events and show schedules.
  • Arrive early, especially for popular shows, to find convenient parking.
  • Consider becoming a Pensacola Opera subscriber for complimentary parking in the Baylen/Intendencia Street garage.
  • Purchase tickets directly from the Saenger Theatre box office or Ticketmaster to avoid scams.
  • Be aware that bags larger than 14” x 14”x 6” are not permitted.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Palafox Street in downtown Pensacola, the Saenger Theatre is easily accessible on foot. The theater is located at 118 S Palafox St. Walking south on Palafox, the theater will be on your left. There is no cost associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    The Escambia County Area Transit (ECAT) bus system provides service to downtown Pensacola. Several bus stops are located within walking distance of the Saenger Theatre. The closest bus stops are located at Zarragossa St & Palafox St, and Government St & Tarragona St. A single ride fare is typically around $1.75.

  • Ride Share

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Pensacola. Specify "Saenger Theatre Pensacola" as your destination. The designated pick-up and drop-off location is in front of the theater on Palafox Street. A short ride from elsewhere in downtown typically costs $8 - $15, depending on demand and distance.

  • Driving

    The Saenger Theatre is located in downtown Pensacola on Palafox Street. From I-110 South, take exit 1-C for Garden Street, merge onto Garden Street, and turn left onto Palafox Street; the Saenger Theatre will be two blocks on the left. Parking: * Street parking is available nearby. Paid parking on the street is enforced Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. * The Jefferson Street parking deck is available for a fee. * The University Garage is located at 145 Roosevelt Way. Parking is $30 per car and can be pre-purchased along with your tickets. For a map of free and paid City of Pensacola parking locations, click here.

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Discover more about Saenger Theatre Pensacola

The Saenger Theatre, affectionately known as the "Grand Dame of Palafox," has been a centerpiece of Pensacola's downtown since 1925. Built in the Spanish Baroque style, the theater's opulent Rococo design took nearly 13 months to complete. The Saenger was part of a chain of Southeastern Theatres popular with performers traveling by train. In its early years, the Saenger hosted vaudeville shows, Broadway plays, and silent movies. During World War II, it played newsreels around the clock for military personnel from the nearby Naval Air Station. Despite its vibrant history, the theater fell into disrepair after the war as people moved to the suburbs. In 1975, it closed and was nearly demolished to become a parking lot. A group of concerned citizens formed the Friends of the Saenger (FOS) and successfully rallied support to save and restore the theater. The Saenger reopened in 1981 and underwent a major renovation in 2009, restoring its original decor and pipe organ. Today, the Saenger Theatre is a world-class performing arts center and home to the Pensacola Symphony, Ballet Pensacola, Pensacola Opera, and Pensacola Children's Chorus. Touring Broadway shows and renowned artists grace its stage regularly. The Saenger offers a variety of seating options, including orchestra, loge, mezzanine, balcony levels, and premium boxes. The theater has a total capacity of 1,641, but this can vary depending on the event.

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