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Paramount Theatre Oakland: An Art Deco Masterpiece

Experience the grandeur of Art Deco at Oakland's Paramount Theatre, a beautifully restored landmark hosting diverse performing arts and events.

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The Paramount Theatre Oakland, a stunning Art Deco landmark, has been a premier performing arts venue since 1931. Designed by Timothy L. Pflueger, it showcases elaborate mosaics, golden bas-reliefs, and classic Art Deco patterns. Today, it hosts diverse performances, from music concerts to ballet.

A brief summary to Paramount Theatre Oakland

Local tips

  • Take a guided tour on the first or third Saturday of the month to learn about the theater's history and architecture.
  • Check the event calendar for upcoming concerts, shows, and classic movie screenings.
  • Consider using public transportation as the theater is near the 19th Street BART station.
  • Arrive early to admire the theater's stunning Art Deco interior, including the lobby's gold ornamentation.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Paramount Theatre is conveniently located near the 19th Street Oakland BART station. From the station, take the 20th Street exit and walk north on Broadway towards 21st Street; the theater is about a 5-minute walk. A BART ride from Oakland City Center/12th Street station to 19th Street station costs approximately $1-$2 and takes 1 minute. Please check BART schedules for the most up-to-date information.

  • Walking

    From the City Center area in Downtown Oakland, the Paramount Theatre is an easy walk. Head north on Broadway; the theater is located at 2025 Broadway, between 20th and 21st streets. The walk is generally flat and takes about 10-15 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Oakland. A short ride from the downtown area to the Paramount Theatre typically costs between $10 and $15, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to confirm the fare before you start your trip.

  • Parking

    While the Paramount Theatre does not have its own parking, several parking garages are nearby. The Telegraph Plaza Garage at 2100 Telegraph Avenue (at 21st Street) is directly across the street from the theater's box office. Parking rates at nearby garages typically range from $5.75 to $12.75 for a few hours. Limited street parking is also available. Check signs carefully for restrictions.

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Discover more about Paramount Theatre Oakland

The Paramount Theatre in Oakland stands as a dazzling example of Art Deco architecture. Designed by Timothy L. Pflueger, the theater opened in 1931 as one of the largest multi-purpose theaters on the West Coast. Its construction cost $3 million and it originally seated 3,476. The theater's design reflects the Art Deco style showcased at the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris. The facade features towering mosaics, while the interior boasts golden bas-reliefs and classic Art Deco motifs. The main lobby welcomes visitors with its gold ornamentation, curving staircase, and glowing light fixtures. After a challenging start during the Great Depression, the Paramount adapted over the years, hosting movies, talent shows, and concerts. In 1970, the Oakland Symphony Orchestra Association purchased the theater and restored it to its original splendor. Today, the Paramount hosts a wide array of performances, including music concerts, ballet, comedy shows, and classic film screenings. It is home to the Oakland Symphony and the Oakland Ballet Company. Public tours are available on the first and third Saturdays of each month, offering insights into the theater's history and architecture. The Paramount Theatre is a National Historic Landmark, a California Registered Historical Landmark, and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

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