The Orpheum Theatre in San Francisco is one of the most iconic and historic venues in the city. Located on Market Street in the Civic Center neighborhood, the Orpheum first opened its doors in 1926 and has been hosting live entertainment for nearly a century. If you’re hoping to purchase tickets for an upcoming show at the Orpheum, one of the first things you’ll need to know is when the box office is open.
The Orpheum Box Office Hours
The box office at the Orpheum Theatre in San Francisco is open 7 days a week. Here are the regular open hours:
- Monday: 10am – 6pm
- Tuesday: 10am – 6pm
- Wednesday: 10am – 6pm
- Thursday: 10am – 8pm
- Friday: 10am – 8pm
- Saturday: 10am – 8pm
- Sunday: 10am – 6pm
On days when there is an evening performance scheduled, the box office will typically remain open until showtime. They may also open slightly earlier than the usual time on days with a matinee performance. It’s always smart to double check the website for any variations to the regular hours before making the trip.
Purchasing Orpheum Tickets In-Person
For most shows at the Orpheum Theatre, purchasing tickets in advance online is highly recommended. This venue often hosts very popular Broadway touring productions, comedy shows, concerts, and other events that are likely to sell out.
However, if you prefer to buy tickets in person at the box office, be aware that lines can often get very long on busy show days. Give yourself plenty of extra time, especially if you are picking up tickets close to showtime.
The Orpheum has a small box office with just a few ticket windows. If you want to avoid the worst of the wait, try to come on a weekday earlier in the day. Mondays through Wednesdays are typically less crowded. Thursdays through Sundays will likely have more people trying to get last minute tickets.
Buying Discounted Orpheum Tickets
Looking to get a deal on Orpheum Theatre tickets? Here are some tips:
- Check for promotions and special offers on the official website leading up to performances. Discounts are sometimes available for select shows.
- Ask the box office if they have any promotional codes or other ways to save on ticket prices.
- Inquire about student, senior, military, teacher, or other discounts. Bring valid ID showing eligibility.
- Purchase obstructed view tickets for a lower price if available.
- Try third party ticket resellers for last minute deals.
- Enter lottery drawings for cheap seats at sold out shows.
- Look for group rates and bring a large party.
Discounts are not guaranteed and vary depending on the performance. But it never hurts to check all options when buying Orpheum Theatre tickets!
Orpheum Theatre Seating Chart
The Orpheum Theatre has a total seating capacity of 2,203 across its orchestra and mezzanine levels. The main floor orchestra section contains 1,563 seats. The mezzanine above has 640 seats plus standing room. When buying Orpheum tickets, it’s helpful to understand the layout of the venue.
Here is a visual overview of the Orpheum Theatre’s seating chart:
Orchestra Level
- Sections A-E: Prime center orchestra seats offering the most direct view of the stage.
- Sections F-J: Orchestra side sections angled out towards the edges.
- Section K: Middle rear orchestra with elevated view.
- Sections L-M: Far rear orchestra below the mezzanine overhang.
Mezzanine Level
- Sections N-P: Front mezzanine center sections, closest to the stage.
- Sections Q-T: Angled mezzanine side sections along the edges.
- Sections U-V: Small rear mezzanine sections in the back corners.
When shopping for Orpheum Theatre seats, decide whether being centered close to the action or elevated above it is more important. Use the seating chart to find ticket locations that best match your preferences.
Orpheum Theatre Parking Options
Since the Orpheum Theatre is located right downtown, parking can be a challenge. Public transportation is highly recommended for getting to shows. But if you do need to park, here are some options:
- Civic Center Garage – 55 spaces, $3 after 5pm with validation
- Performing Arts Garage – 550 spaces, $1.50 per hour ($18 max)
- Fifth & Mission Garage – 1,500 spaces, $3 first hour ($24 max)
- Moscone Center Garage – 735 spaces, $4.50-$7 per hour ($30 max)
Street parking is extremely limited. Valet parking is available near the Orpheum on Grove Street for $60.preset/show. Give yourself extra time and have backup options when parking for sold out Orpheum performances.
Getting to the Orpheum by Public Transportation
Public transportation is the easiest and most affordable way to get to the Orpheum Theatre in San Francisco. Here are some transit options:
- BART: Civic Center Station is 0.2 miles away (5 minute walk)
- Muni Metro: Civic Center Station is 0.1 miles away (2 minute walk)
- Bus: Multiple lines stop near the theater on Market, Larkin, Hyde, Grove, and McAllister streets
- Cable car: California line stops at Van Ness Ave & Market St, 0.7 miles away
No matter where you’re coming from around the Bay Area, you can reach the Orpheum Theatre easily using public transit. Avoid driving hassles and parking costs by taking BART, Muni, or the bus instead!
Accessibility at the Orpheum Theatre
The Orpheum Theatre aims to provide accessible accommodations for all patrons. Here are some key things to know about accessibility:
- Wheelchair seating and companion seats are available in the rear orchestra (sections L-M).
- Assistive listening devices can be checked out from the box office.
- Accessible restrooms are located on all levels of the theater.
- Service animals are welcome inside the venue.
- Accessible parking can be found at the Civic Center Garage nearby.
When purchasing accessible seating, be sure to indicate your needs when contacting the box office. The staff can help ensure you get appropriate accommodations.
Food and Drink at the Orpheum
The Orpheum Theatre does not allow outside food or drinks to be brought into the venue. However, there are concessions available for purchase on-site:
- Main lobby bar serving beer, wine, and cocktails.
- Orchestra lobby stand selling snacks, candy, soft drinks.
- Mezzanine lobby stand with similar snack selection.
Beverages and snacks range from $4-12 in price. Cash and credit cards are accepted. Keep in mind that no concessions can be taken inside the actual theater, only consumed in the lobby areas.
Security and Policies at the Orpheum
All patrons entering the Orpheum Theatre are subject to a bag search and individual wanding at the security checkpoint. Make sure you allow extra time for this screening process when arriving. Other key venue policies to be aware of include:
- No photography, audio, or video recording permitted in the theater.
- No children under 5 admitted except for special family performances.
- Late entry is at management’s discretion.
- Dress code prohibits excessively casual, dirty, or revealing clothing.
- Smoking is prohibited except in designated outdoor areas.
Following all posted rules and instructions from staff will help ensure an enjoyable and safe visit to the Orpheum Theatre for all guests.
The History of the Orpheum Theatre
First opened in 1926, the Orpheum Theatre has a long and storied history in San Francisco. Here are some highlights:
- Originally built for the Orpheum Vaudeville Circuit and designed by architect B. Marcus Priteca.
- Temporarily converted into a movie theater from the 1930s to late 1990s.
- Officially designated a San Francisco landmark in 1989.
- Underwent major renovations in the 1970s and 1990s.
- Reopened in 1997 as a venue for live performance and events.
- Has hosted premiere engagements of major Broadway touring shows like Hamilton, The Lion King, Dear Evan Hansen, and more.
Today the Orpheum remains committed to showcasing live entertainment while preserving its historic architecture and grandeur. It’s a world-famous San Francisco institution!
Upcoming Shows at the Orpheum
A wide variety of high-profile events take place at the Orpheum Theatre each year. Some performances currently scheduled for 2023 include:
- Les Miserables – January 10-22
- Diana Krall – February 14-15
- Alton Brown Live – March 10
- Celtic Woman – March 17
- Harry Styles – April 5
- Dancing with the Stars Tour – June 9
Classic musicals, live concerts, comedy acts, and more grace the stage at the Orpheum all year long. Check the official website frequently for newly announced shows and events.
Other Nearby Theaters
In addition to the Orpheum Theatre, there are many other historic and modern theaters located close by in downtown San Francisco. Some alternatives venues include:
- Golden Gate Theatre – Located on Taylor Street, originally opened in 1922.
- Warfield – Opened in 1922 on Market Street, hosts concerts and comedy shows.
- Curran Theatre – Located on Geary Street, presenting Broadway tours since 1922.
- American Conservatory Theater – Modern venue on Geary Street staging plays and musicals.
- Yerba Buena Center for the Arts – Contemporary art and performance facility opened in 1993.
Explore all the incredible theater options that San Francisco’s lively Central District has to offer!
Conclusion
With its incredible history, stunning architecture, and A-list entertainment, the Orpheum Theatre stands out as one of San Francisco’s premier destinations. Now you know key details like when the box office opens, seating info, parking and transit options, venue policies, concessions, and upcoming shows for planning your visit. Located right in the heart of the city, the iconic Orpheum makes experiencing live events in San Francisco an unforgettable experience.