When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Capitol Theatre
Why Capitol Theatre is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Capitol Theatre in Salt Lake City, Utah, is a historic performing arts venue that has been a cornerstone of the local arts community since its opening in 1913 as the Orpheum Theatre. Renamed the Capitol Theatre in 1927, it boasts a stunning Italian Renaissance Revival and Beaux Arts architectural design by renowned architect Gustave Albert Lansburgh. With a seating capacity of 1,876, this theater offers a reserved seating arrangement ideal for enjoying a wide variety of performances. It is home to prominent Utah arts organizations such as Ballet West, Utah Opera, and the Children's Dance Theater, and regularly hosts touring Broadway productions. The Capitol Theatre has been a site of memorable performances, including those featuring stars like Robert Goulet and Carol Channing, and it continues to be a cherished historic gem where many families enjoy holiday traditions such as The Nutcracker. Beyond its artistic offerings, the theater is celebrated for its rich history and exquisite architectural details, providing a perfect setting to meet friends and enjoy world-class live performances in an elegant environment.
Here's what people think of Capitol Theatre
As of recent, Capitol Theatre holds a 4.7-star rating based on 1904 reviews.
Reviews praise the Capitol Theatre for its beautifully preserved historic ambiance and architectural charm, which enriches the overall experience of attending a performance. Positive feedback frequently highlights the theater's elegant atmosphere, its significant role as a cultural hub in Salt Lake City, and the high quality of productions hosted, including ballet, opera, and Broadway shows. Many reviewers appreciate the theater's intimate setting, reserved seating, and the nostalgia associated with its long history in the community. Negative reviews are relatively few but include mentions of limited modern amenities compared to newer venues, such as the absence of reclining seats and in-seat food service, which some patrons find less convenient. Despite this, the consensus remains overwhelmingly positive, with many visitors valuing the Capitol Theatre's unique historic character and the opportunity it offers to experience the arts in a beautiful, architecturally rich environment. Overall, customer sentiment reflects that the Capitol Theatre is a treasured venue that continues to attract audiences who value tradition and quality in their cultural outings.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Isaac Romero
The historic charm, stunning architecture, and intimate atmosphere make every performance feel special. The staff was very welcoming, and the renovations have only enhanced its beauty without losing the original character. It was a perfect place to enjoy a music concert in a setting that feels both grand and personal. Highly recommend catching a show here!
John Cutler
In July 2025, we visited the Capitol Theater in Downtown Salt Lake City. It has a decorated facade on the building exterior, and it looks amazing. In 2016, we saw The Nutcracker theatrical performance, and the acting, dancing, and music were all delightful. Capitol Theater is a treasured asset in Downtown Salt Lake City.
Sarah Coley
Beautiful theatre that has been well-maintained. The leg room between the seat rows is a little narrow, BUT the seats are quite comfortable! Cushions are provided for kids who need a high vantage point. Also, loved the nostalgia of the theatre as a reminder of old times. The Capitol Theatre is a true treasure! We went to see The Nutcracker, and it was SUPERB! Beautiful, flawless dancing, humorous moments, surprises using special stage effects, etc. I took my 5-, 8-, 10-, and 13-year-old kids, and we all loved the performance! We hope to come again!
Nate Meyer
Capital Theater is a beautiful building. Ballet West and the theatre put on a great show. The buildings old architecture is amazing too. We went to Nutcracker and it was amazing. The props, the dancers and even the curtain, was awesome. So much detail put into everything.
Carolin Quist
We attended a Sunday matinee for the Opera and enjoyed the event. Now that road construction in front of Capital Theater has been completed it was easy to access parking facilities nearby.
How to reach Capitol Theatre
None
Website: None
Why Capitol Theatre may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Rallying at Capitol Theatre with your friends offers an unparalleled blend of historic charm, superb entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes every gathering memorable. Nestled conveniently near public transportation, this beautifully preserved venue invites you to share amazing cultural experiences together without hassle. Its reputation for excellent acoustics and sightlines means that whether you’re watching a band, a ballet, or a classic film screening, every member of your group will have a front-row feel. Beyond the performances, the theatre's intimate setting fosters connections, providing a space where the magic of entertainment and the joy of friendship amplify each other. The surrounding neighborhood adds to the experience with plenty of dining and socializing options, perfect for kicking off or winding down your meetup. Choosing Capitol Theatre guarantees you and your friends a destination that feels special, energizing, and effortlessly fun.
What kinds of activities does Capitol Theatre offer for groups?
Capitol Theatre hosts an eclectic array of performances that cater to diverse tastes, making it an ideal spot for groups with varied interests. You can catch live concerts featuring prominent artists across genres such as rock, jazz, country, and indie music, all benefiting from the theatre’s impeccable acoustics and historic ambiance. Ballet, opera, and other theatrical productions are also regularly featured, elevating the cultural quotient for those who appreciate classical arts. The venue occasionally screens classic and independent films, offering a cozy yet dynamic movie-going experience that different age groups can enjoy together. Special events like themed nights or tribute shows often create an interactive vibe perfect for celebrations or casual outings. With such a broad programming spectrum, Capitol Theatre is a one-stop cultural hub that ensures everyone in your group has a memorable activity to look forward to.
Why is Capitol Theatre perfect for hosting group meetups?
The theatre’s design and services emphasize comfort and convenience for groups. With spacious seating including balcony options that keep groups close together, attendees can enjoy performances without feeling cramped or isolated. The venue’s layout provides great sightlines from virtually every seat, so no one in your party misses out on the action. Being steps away from a major train station means easy access by public transit, eliminating the stress of parking or long walks, which is especially beneficial for larger groups. For those arriving by car, nearby free or reasonably priced parking options make logistics straightforward. The theatre also integrates modern amenities while preserving its historic charm, offering clean facilities and welcoming staff who help ensure that arrivals, seating, and intermissions are smooth. Additionally, its location amid numerous restaurants and bars encourages group outings both before and after shows, making a night at Capitol Theatre a full social experience.
How does the historic and architectural charm of Capitol Theatre enhance group experiences?
Capitol Theatre’s architectural splendor and vintage allure significantly enrich the overall group experience, turning a regular meetup into a special occasion with a sense of grandeur. The richly decorated interiors, elegant lighting, and preserved historic details create an ambiance that transports visitors to a bygone era of entertainment glamour. For groups, this atmosphere offers a remarkable backdrop that elevates social interaction and shared enjoyment—something that modern, generic venues can rarely match. The theatre’s intimate scale means you feel a part of the performance rather than a passive observer, which is ideal for groups wanting to bond over a collective cultural experience. The stunning setting also doubles as a perfect spot for photos, making it easy to capture and remember your time together. For groups interested not only in the event but also in the setting, Capitol Theatre delivers an unforgettable aesthetic that complements every show and gathering.
What dining and social options surround Capitol Theatre to enhance your meetup?
Surrounding Capitol Theatre is a vibrant neighborhood filled with an array of dining and nightlife venues that perfectly complement a group outing. Before the show, your group can explore numerous restaurants that offer everything from casual dining to upscale cuisine, satisfying different tastes and dietary preferences. This allows for seamless transitions from dinner to entertainment without the need for long travel times, keeping the energy and excitement alive. After the performance, the local bars and lounges provide inviting spaces for your group to discuss the show, share laughs, or simply unwind with drinks. The proximity of these amenities makes Capitol Theatre a natural anchor for a full night out. The lively street scene also encourages casual strolls and window shopping, extending the social experience beyond the theatre’s walls and helping to create a complete and dynamic meetup environment.
How accessible is Capitol Theatre for diverse groups?
Accessibility is a key strength of Capitol Theatre, making it an excellent venue choice for groups that may have varied mobility or transportation needs. Located just across from a major train station, it offers effortless access for those relying on public transit, which promotes safer and more environmentally friendly travel. For drivers, there is plentiful and affordable parking nearby, including a free option in a second-floor Metro North garage, reducing stress and saving time. Inside, the theatre is maintained with respect to modern accessibility standards, ensuring comfortable navigation for people with disabilities. Staff members are known for their welcoming and helpful attitude, readily accommodating special requests or assistance to guarantee that every guest’s experience is positive. These features combine to make Capitol Theatre not only a beautiful and historic venue but also an inclusive one, where groups of all needs can gather and enjoy without logistical obstacles.
Capitol Theatre stands out as a premier destination for hosting meetups with friends or family because it unites rich history, superb entertainment, and a vibrant social scene in a carefully preserved setting. Whether your group enjoys live music, ballet, film, or simply sharing elegant surroundings, this venue offers a welcoming, accessible, and thrilling experience. With seamless transportation options, excellent nearby dining, and a commitment to guest comfort, Capitol Theatre transforms any outing into a memorable occasion. Planning your next group meetup here means choosing a place where culture and camaraderie meet — creating moments you’ll all treasure long after the curtain falls.