Ohio Theatre
4.8(4.1K)google
4.4(115)yelp
ConcertHistoryPerformance
Overview
Known as the 'Official Theatre of the State of Ohio,' this historic 1928 movie palace in Columbus is a magnificent example of Spanish Baroque Revival architecture. Saved from demolition by a dedicated community effort, the theatre features a breathtaking lush interior complete with a massive 21-foot-high chandelier and exquisite gilded carvings. Today, it serves as a world-class performing arts center, hosting the Columbus Symphony and touring Broadway blockbusters.
Practical Info
Mon–Fri10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Sat–SunClosed
Suggested Duration2-3 hours
Best TimeA magnificent century-old Spanish-Baroque national landmark historic theater palace open year-round. The exterior marquee is best photographed at dusk between 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM on performance nights when the vertical neon ribbons blaze to life. To stand beneath the opulent 21-foot crystal chandeliers inside, you must pre-book a touring ticket or show reservation online.
Getting ThereCommanding Capitol Square in the absolute core of downtown Columbus at 39 E State St. Driving into the high-density zone is simple: utilize the massive public Columbus Commons Underground Garage located directly attached beneath the adjacent blocks, allowing for a flat, stress-free 1-minute sidewalk stroll to the grand brass theater entries.
Travel Tips
- The venue enforces strict historic preservation codes. External liquids, high-pigment juices, and commercial foodstuffs are completely blocked at ticket turnstiles.
- A zero-tolerance late seating policy is maintained. Tardy arrivals are quarantined in the lobby monitor zone until a formal intermission interval.
- The structure lacks a dedicated private parking deck. Arrive 45 minutes pre-show to navigate neighboring Statehouse underground vaults or city ramps.
Reviews
Positive
- True to its designation as a historic landmark! The opulent Spanish Baroque interiors and glittering crystal chandeliers are jaw-dropping.
- The interior acoustics are flawlessly calibrated; whether for symphony orchestras or touring Broadway musicals, the audio is world-class.
- The ushers are elegant and professional, seating guests rapidly and managing intermission restroom lines with exceptional order.
- Set right in the absolute core of downtown Columbus across from the Statehouse, premium multi-story garages and fine dining are steps away.
Heads up
- As a century-old heritage theater, balcony seating rows feature restricted legroom, causing major discomfort for taller patrons over long shows.
- Concessions, wines, and light bites inside are premium-priced, and security strictly bans outside water bottles from entering the auditorium.
- When marquee shows let out, the narrow historical exit doors create a major pedestrian bottleneck, taking ages just to shuffle out to the street.
- Certain distant upper gallery or far-side rows suffer from noticeable obstructed views, which aren't always vividly flagged during web booking.