From Broadway hits and opera and dance to top-notch musical and comedy acts, Boston’s downtown Theater District buzzes with energy in the evenings. The area is surrounded with trendy wine bars, pubs, and great grub that draw theatergoers from far and wide. We’ve put together a list of our favorite venues and acts coming to Boston’s Theatre District this fall and beyond.
If you’re ready to plan your adventure to Boston, be sure to visit C&J’s website to buy your bus tickets direct to South Station. One-way tickets start at only $10.99! We make getting into Boston super easy, so let us worry about the driving while you kick back and relax! Enjoy free Wi-Fi, bottled water, and plenty of space to stretch out in your seat. It’s the most comfortable way to travel, and to top it off, we will drop you off at C&J’s terminal at South Station, which is a quick walk or cab ride to Boston’s Theatre District.
The Boston Opera House was originally built as a movie theatre in 1929 and in the 1980’s was converted into a preforming arts center. It is now home to the Boston Ballet and hosts touring Broadway shows.
Insider tip: Head to Democracy Brewing before the show for some great beers in a casual ambiance where beer hall meets European pub.
The Colonial Theatre in Boston opened in 1900 and is the oldest continually-operating theatre in the city. It is located on Boylston Street near Boston Common’s at the former site of the Boston Public Library. It is a pending Boston Landmark.
Insider tip: Stop at Blaze Pizza for a quick slice before or after the show. With homemade dough and great toppings, build your own pizza is where it’s at!
The Wang Theatre is operated as part of the Boch Center. It opened in 1925 as the Metropolitan Theatre, was later renamed the Music Hall, and in 1983 because the Wang Center. The theatre was designated as a Boston Landmark in 1990.
Insider tip: Stop at Shojo before the show for some smoked pork bao, kimchi fried rice, and high energy.
The Shubert Theatre opened in 1910 and seats approximately 1,600 people. It’s first production was Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
Insider tip: Check out Winsor Dim Sum Café before the show. This casual tearoom serves made-to-order dim sum and traditional Chinese dishes is a “can’t miss” location.
The Paramount opened in 1932 as a 1,700-seat movie theatre. It was one of the first movie houses in Boston to play talking motion pictures. In 1984, the building was designated a Boston Landmark by the Boston Landmarks Commission.
Insider tip: Head across the street to Caffe Nero for an espresso after the show and be sure to try the limoncello Mascarpone cake.
The Orpheum Theatre is one of the oldest theaters in the United States. It was built in 1852 and was originally known as the Boston Music Hall, the original home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. The concert hall was renamed the Orpheum Theatre in 1906 and currently is primarily used for live music concerts.
Insider tip: Head down Winter Street towards downtown crossing, where you will find lots of great shops and casual dining spots.
The Charles Playhouse opened in 1957 and is one of Boston’s premiere theaters which is home to the Blue Man Group and Shear Madness, both long-running shows.
Insider tip: Check out The Ghost Walks before the show for a cool vibe and great eats.
Ready to see a show in Boston? Start planning your trip with C&J: see schedules, buy your tickets, and check out our interactive map of the city!