Background

Orpheum Theatre: A Beaux-Arts Masterpiece in San Francisco

Experience Broadway magic at San Francisco's historic Orpheum Theatre, a Beaux-Arts gem hosting world-class performances since 1926.

4.7

The Orpheum Theatre, a historic landmark in San Francisco's Civic Center, has been a premier venue for live entertainment since 1926. Originally designed by B. Marcus Priteca as the Pantages Theatre, this stunning Beaux-Arts building hosts Broadway shows and special events, offering an unforgettable experience.

A brief summary to Orpheum Theatre

Local tips

  • Arrive early to explore the theater's stunning architecture, including its ornate plasterwork and gold accents.
  • Consider taking public transportation or a rideshare, as parking can be challenging in the area.
  • Check the theater's website for upcoming events and special offers.
  • Visit nearby restaurants and bars in the Civic Center before or after the show.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Orpheum Theatre is conveniently accessible via public transportation. From the Civic Center/UN Plaza BART station, use the Market-Hyde staircase. The theater will be to your right. Alternatively, several MUNI lines stop near the theater. A single ride on MUNI costs $3.00, or $2.50 if using a Clipper card or the MuniMobile app. A day pass costs $5.70 via the MuniMobile app.

  • Walking

    From Union Square, walk west on Market Street for approximately 1 mile. The Orpheum Theatre will be on your right, at the corner of Market Street and 8th Street. The walk is relatively flat and should take about 20-25 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in San Francisco. Direct your driver to 1192 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102. Note that rideshare vehicles are not allowed to stop on Market Street; direct your driver to 6 Hyde Street for pickup/drop-off. A short taxi ride from Union Square will cost approximately $10-$15, depending on traffic. Taxi fares include a $4.15 flag rate, $0.65 for each additional 1/5th of a mile, and $0.65 for each minute of waiting time.

  • Driving

    If driving, be aware that the Orpheum Theatre does not offer on-site parking. Limited street parking is available, with meters enforced Monday through Saturday, typically from 9 am to 6 pm. Several parking garages are located near the theater, including Trinity Place Garage (33 8th Street) and Civic Center Garage (355 McAllister Street). Parking rates at nearby garages typically range from $20 to $40 for a few hours. It is recommended to reserve parking in advance.

Unlock the Best of Orpheum Theatre

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Orpheum Theatre

Located in the heart of San Francisco's Civic Center, the Orpheum Theatre stands as a monument to the city's vibrant cultural history. Designed by B. Marcus Priteca, the theater first opened in 1926 as the Pantages Theatre, showcasing vaudeville performances during the Roaring Twenties. Its architecture, patterned after a 12th-century French cathedral, exemplifies the Beaux-Arts style, featuring a Plateresque (Late Spanish Gothic) Revival facade and an interior adorned with ornate plasterwork, gold accents, and chic moldings. In its early years, the Orpheum was a key stop on the vaudeville circuit, hosting a variety of acts from comedians and musicians to dancers and magicians. In 1929, it was renamed the Orpheum Theatre. Over the years, it transitioned into a movie palace and eventually became a premier venue for Broadway shows. A $20 million renovation in 1998 transformed the space into a state-of-the-art facility suitable for large-scale theatrical productions. Today, the Orpheum Theatre continues to host pre-Broadway productions, new works, and open-ended engagements. With a seating capacity of approximately 2,200, the theater offers an intimate yet grand setting for audiences to enjoy world-class performances. Its rich history and stunning architecture make it a must-see destination for tourists and locals alike.

Popular Experiences near Orpheum Theatre

Popular Hotels near Orpheum Theatre

Select Currency