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The Bob Hope Theatre: Stockton's Crown Jewel

Experience the grandeur of a bygone era at the Bob Hope Theatre in Stockton, a meticulously restored movie palace hosting diverse events from concerts to classic films, and a true historical gem.

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The Bob Hope Theatre, originally the Fox California Theatre, stands as a beautifully restored movie palace in downtown Stockton. Built in 1930, it was one of the grandest movie houses in California's Central Valley. Saved from demolition and lovingly renovated, the theater now hosts a diverse range of events, from live theater and concerts to classic film screenings. Its opulent interior, featuring a marble mosaic floor and a restored 1928 Robert Morton organ, transports visitors to a bygone era of cinematic splendor. A true historical gem, the Bob Hope Theatre is a vibrant center for arts and entertainment, contributing significantly to the revitalization of Stockton's downtown core. With its rich history and stunning architecture, it offers a unique and memorable experience for all who enter its doors, making it a must-see destination in the region.

A brief summary to The Bob Hope Theatre

Local tips

  • Check the Bob Hope Theatre's event schedule in advance to catch a live performance, concert, or classic movie screening.
  • Arrive early to explore the theater's stunning interior, including the marble mosaic floor and the restored 1928 Robert Morton organ.
  • Consider attending a classic movie showing to experience the theater's organ in action, a unique and nostalgic treat.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Downtown Transit Center, the Bob Hope Theatre is a short walk. Head east on Weber Avenue toward N San Joaquin Street. Turn right onto N San Joaquin Street, then turn left onto E Main Street. The theater will be on your left, a few blocks down. This walk is approximately 5-10 minutes, offering a direct route through the heart of downtown Stockton.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines serve the area around the Bob Hope Theatre. Check the local Stockton RTD (Regional Transit District) bus schedule for routes that stop near E Main Street and San Joaquin Street. The closest bus stop is located at San Joaquin St & Market St FS/SB, which is a short walk to the theater. A single ride fare costs approximately $1.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Stockton. A ride from a central location in downtown Stockton, such as the Amtrak San Joaquin Street Station, to the Bob Hope Theatre typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on demand and traffic. The designated pick-up and drop-off location is at 242 E. Main Street.

  • Driving

    If driving, parking is available in several nearby garages and surface lots. The Arena Garage, located next to the Adventist Health Arena on Fremont Street, is a convenient option. Additionally, there are surface lots along Fremont Street and other lots within a few blocks of the theater. Hourly parking rates typically range from $1.50 to $3.00, while daily rates can range from $5.00 to $12.00. Special event parking may cost between $10.00 and $25.00. Street parking is free after 6 pm and on weekends.

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Discover more about The Bob Hope Theatre

The Bob Hope Theatre, a beacon of arts and culture in Stockton, California, boasts a rich history and stunning architecture that captivates visitors from near and far. Originally known as the Fox California Theatre, this magnificent movie palace opened its doors in 1930, quickly becoming a premier entertainment destination in the Central Valley. The theater's origins trace back to 1916 when the T&D Photoplay, the first theater on this site, was built. In 1929, the T&D was demolished to make way for the grand Fox California Theatre, a project that cost nearly half a million dollars – a significant investment at the time. The Fox opened on October 14, 1930, and was celebrated as one of the most grandiose events in the region. It was the largest vaudeville house in California, seating 2,170 patrons, and was considered one of the safest buildings of its time, constructed entirely of cement and steel. Designed in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, the Fox Theatre was a masterpiece of architectural detail and artistic embellishment. The interior was lavishly decorated by Anthony Heinsbergen, a renowned theater decorating company. The lobby featured a stunning marble mosaic floor, crafted with marble imported from Italy and designed by a Canadian artist. The theater also housed a 1928 Robert Morton theater organ, originally from the Seattle Fox Theatre, which was later restored and donated by the Friends of the Fox, a dedicated volunteer organization. Throughout its history, the Fox California Theatre showcased first-run movies and vaudeville acts, becoming a beloved community gathering place. However, by the 1970s, the theater had fallen into disrepair and faced the threat of demolition. In 1979, Edward C. Merlo and Madeleine Lawton purchased the building, saving it from destruction and securing its place on the National Register of Historic Places. In the 1990s, the City of Stockton recognized the Fox California Theatre as a key component of its downtown revitalization efforts. A major renovation project began in 2002, with the goal of restoring the theater to its original splendor and modernizing its facilities for contemporary performances. The renovation was completed in 2004, and the theater was renamed the Bob Hope Theatre in honor of the legendary entertainer, a close friend of Alex G. Spanos, who contributed significantly to the renovation. The Bob Hope Theatre reopened on its 75th anniversary, showcasing a meticulously restored interior that evokes the glamour and elegance of the Golden Age of Hollywood. The theater boasts 2,030 completely refurbished red velvet seats, state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, and expanded restroom facilities and concessions. The original hand-painted figurative decoration above the proscenium, depicting images of horses, has been preserved through careful cleaning and conservation. Today, the Bob Hope Theatre is managed by ASM Global and serves as a vibrant hub for arts and entertainment in Stockton. It hosts a diverse array of events, including live theater performances, concerts, musicals, family shows, classic film screenings, and comedy acts. The Friends of the Fox continue to play a vital role in preserving the theater's legacy, offering classic movie showings with organ concerts featuring the restored 1928 Robert Morton organ. Visiting the Bob Hope Theatre is an immersive experience that transports guests to a bygone era of cinematic grandeur. The opulent interior, with its intricate details and historical charm, creates a magical atmosphere for any event. Whether attending a Broadway-style show, enjoying a classic film, or simply exploring the theater's architectural beauty, visitors are sure to be captivated by the Bob Hope Theatre's timeless appeal. The Bob Hope Theatre is not just a venue; it is a symbol of Stockton's history, resilience, and commitment to the arts. Its restoration and continued operation have played a crucial role in the revitalization of downtown Stockton, attracting visitors and businesses to the area. The theater stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration and the enduring legacy of entertainment.

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