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San Diego Civic Theatre: A Downtown Cultural Hub

San Diego's premier performing arts venue, hosting Broadway, opera, concerts, and more in a historic downtown setting.

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The San Diego Civic Theatre, opened in 1965, is the region's largest performing arts venue, hosting Broadway shows, operas, concerts, and more. Designed by Lloyd Ruocco, it anchors the Civic Center Plaza and enriches San Diego's cultural scene.

A brief summary to San Diego Civic Theatre

Local tips

  • Arrive early to find parking, especially for matinee performances, as downtown workers occupy many spaces.
  • Consider taking the San Diego Trolley to the Civic Center Station for convenient access.
  • Purchase advance parking passes for the Evan V. Jones Parkade when buying tickets.
  • Check the San Diego Theatres website for upcoming events and special offers.
  • Enjoy pre-show dining at nearby restaurants in the Gaslamp Quarter.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From various points in San Diego, the San Diego Trolley offers a convenient and affordable way to reach the Civic Theatre. Take the Blue, Orange, or Silver Line to the Civic Center Station, which is just a block away from the theater. A one-way fare is $2.50 for adults. Alternatively, MTS bus routes 2, 7, 11, and 901 stop nearby.

  • Walking

    From the Gaslamp Quarter, walk north on 3rd Avenue for several blocks. The San Diego Civic Theatre will be on your left, at 1100 Third Avenue. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on your starting point within the Gaslamp Quarter.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Uber, Lyft, and taxis are readily available throughout San Diego. A ride from the Gaslamp Quarter or downtown hotels typically costs between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and distance. There is a designated rideshare drop-off zone near the theater entrance for convenience.

  • Parking

    The Evan V. Jones Parkade, located at 1st Avenue and A Street, offers 1,150 parking spaces. Parking rates vary: Mon-Fri until 5:30 PM is $2 per 20 minutes (up to $18 max), and Mon-Fri after 5:30 PM, as well as Sat, Sun, and Holidays, is $15. Consider booking in advance through Ticketmaster or SpotHero. Additional parking is available in nearby garages, such as the 501 A St. Garage.

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Discover more about San Diego Civic Theatre

The San Diego Civic Theatre, a cornerstone of downtown San Diego, has been entertaining locals and visitors since 1965. Designed by the influential San Diego architect Lloyd Ruocco, the 2,967-seat theater is part of the Civic Center Plaza development, which also includes the City Hall and a convention center. Since its opening, the Civic Theatre has hosted a diverse array of performances, from Broadway shows and operas to concerts and comedy acts. Legendary performers such as Frank Sinatra, Diana Ross, and Bruce Springsteen have graced its stage. The theater is the performing home of the San Diego Opera and Broadway San Diego, and it also hosts presentations by the La Jolla Music Society and other local and international groups. The theater boasts exceptional acoustics, a spacious stage, and a sophisticated atmosphere. A notable feature is the Grand Salon's chandelier, added in 1966, composed of 52,000 Bavarian crystals and weighing 2,800 pounds. The San Diego Civic Theatre is managed by San Diego Theatres, a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the region through exceptional performing arts and education experiences.

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