Mort Glosser Amphitheater, Gadsden Travel Guide

4.7 (130)

Experience history and entertainment at Gadsden's Mort Glosser Amphitheater, a beautifully preserved WPA-era landmark and vibrant event venue.

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Mort Glosser Amphitheater

The Mort Glosser Amphitheater in Gadsden, Alabama, is a historic outdoor venue constructed in 1935 by the Works Progress Administration. With its locally-sourced sandstone and picturesque design, the amphitheater has hosted diverse events, earning a place on the National Register of Historic Places.

A brief summary to Mort Glosser Amphitheater

90 Walnut St, Gadsden, Alabama, 35901, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mort Glosser Amphitheater.

Check the local event listings for concerts, plays, and other performances at the amphitheater.
Visit during the summer for the free concert series on the First Friday of each month.
Note that the city serves drinks during the summer concert series, and coolers are no longer allowed.

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Getting There

Walking

From downtown Gadsden, the Mort Glosser Amphitheater is a pleasant walk. Head south on 1st Street, then turn left onto Walnut Street. The amphitheater will be on your right, a short distance from the Gadsden City High School.
Public Transport

The local bus service has stops near the amphitheater. Check the Gadsden Transit schedule for the most up-to-date routes and times. A single ride fare is approximately $1.25.
Taxi/Ride-share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Gadsden. A short ride from downtown to the amphitheater will typically cost between $8 and $12.
Driving

From I-59, take exit 182 for US-431 toward Gadsden. Follow US-431 into Gadsden, then turn onto Walnut Street. The amphitheater will be on your left. Limited parking is available onsite. Additional parking may be found on nearby streets. Parking is typically free, unless a special event is taking place.

Discover more about Mort Glosser Amphitheater

Nestled in Gadsden, Alabama, the Mort Glosser Amphitheater stands as a testament to both history and community spirit. Built in 1935 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), it provided employment during the Great Depression and quickly became a cultural hub for the region. The amphitheater, originally named Legion Park Bowl, was constructed with locally-sourced sandstone, giving it a distinctive and rustic charm.Designed by architect Paul W. Hofferbert in the English Picturesque style, the Mort Glosser Amphitheater features a half-hexagon seating area that accommodates 1,600 people, with a timber-frame proscenium arch framing the stage. During World War II, it served as a United Service Organizations (USO) entertainment center for soldiers stationed at nearby Camp Sibert. Over the years, the amphitheater has been the venue for boxing matches, concerts, plays, haunted houses, political rallies, weddings, and award ceremonies.The City of Gadsden purchased the amphitheater in 1986 and began restoration efforts. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on September 28, 1988. The amphitheater was renamed to honor Dr. Mort Glosser, a longtime band director at Gadsden High School and later superintendent of Gadsden City Schools. Today, the Mort Glosser Amphitheater continues to host a variety of events, including a free concert series every First Friday during the summer.