California Theatre, Silicon Valley Travel Guide

4.7 (869)

Experience the grandeur of a restored 1920s movie palace, now a premier performing arts venue in the heart of San Jose's SoFA district.

The California Theatre in San Jose, originally opened in 1927 as the Fox Theatre, is a beautifully restored movie palace and performing arts venue. Known for its opulent Jazz Age décor, it hosts a variety of events, including opera, symphony performances, film screenings, and concerts.

A brief summary to California Theatre

345 S 1st St, San Jose, Central San Jose, California, 95113, 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 California Theatre.

Arrive early to find parking, as on-site parking is not available.
Explore the SoFA district's restaurants and clubs before or after a show.
Check the theater's calendar for film screenings, in addition to opera and symphony performances.
Consider taking public transportation, as the VTA Light Rail has a stop nearby.

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Explore California Theatre on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near California Theatre, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the San Jose McEnery Convention Center, walk south on Market Street, then turn left onto San Carlos Street. Turn right onto S 1st Street. The California Theatre will be on your left, a short distance away. This is approximately a 5-minute walk.
Public Transport

Take the VTA Light Rail Green or Blue Line to the Convention Center Station. From the station, walk south on Market Street, turn left onto San Carlos Street, then turn right onto S 1st Street. The California Theatre will be on your left. A single VTA fare costs $2.50.
Taxi/Ride-share

From the San Jose Diridon Station, a taxi or ride-share to the California Theatre will typically cost between $10 and $15, depending on traffic and demand. The ride is approximately 10 minutes.

Discover more about California Theatre

The California Theatre, located in the SoFA (South First Area) district of San Jose, stands as a meticulously restored architectural icon of the 1920s. Originally known as the Fox Theatre, it opened in 1927 as a lavish movie palace, hosting Hollywood stars and showcasing films like “An Affair of the Follies”. Designed by Weeks and Day, the same architects behind the Mark Hopkins and Sir Francis Drake Hotels in San Francisco, the theater quickly became a community hit, featuring vaudeville shows and films in 3D and Cinemascope.After changing ownership and a temporary closure in 1973, the San Jose Redevelopment Agency purchased the building in 1985 to preserve it. A $75 million renovation, completed in 2004, restored the theater to its former glory, blending its original opulence with modern amenities. The restoration included refurbishing the cast plaster ceilings, decorative painting, and the stenciled entry foyer ceiling. A new stage house was added, and the orchestra pit was enlarged.Today, the California Theatre is home to Opera San Jose and Symphony Silicon Valley, offering a diverse program of events. The theater boasts a seating capacity of 1,122, with state-of-the-art production and A/V capabilities. The meticulously restored gallery-foyer and auditorium feature comfortable seating, elevators, intimate lounges, and a courtyard with a fountain. The theater also houses two Wurlitzer organs, adding to its unique charm.