When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Eccles Theater
Why Eccles Theater is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Eccles Theater, located in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City, Utah, is a stunning performing arts center that opened in 2016. Designed by the acclaimed architect Cesar Pelli, this five-story building is home to two theaters – the large Delta Performance Hall with a seating capacity of 2,468, and the intimate Regent Street black box theater seating between 150 to 250 guests. The theater's striking design features a grand six-story lobby with retractable glass walls that fill the space with natural light, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. This modern venue hosts touring Broadway productions, concerts, and a broad range of live entertainment, making it an exciting gathering place to enjoy arts and culture with friends. Patrons can relax at private lounges and outdoor terraces offering scenic city views, which enhance the social experience before, during, and after performances. Additionally, the theater provides amenities such as concessions, beverage services, coat check, and booster seats, making it accessible and comfortable for visitors of all ages. The Eccles Theater’s combination of architectural beauty, world-class programming, and thoughtful amenities make it a top choice for meeting up with friends in Salt Lake City.
Here's what people think of Eccles Theater
As of recent, Eccles Theater holds a 4.8-star rating based on 5458 reviews.
Reviews of the Eccles Theater overwhelmingly reflect high levels of visitor satisfaction, as evidenced by its impressive 4.8-star rating from over 5,400 reviews. Patrons frequently praise the theater's elegant and modern design, highlighting the spacious lobby and stunning city views from the outdoor terraces. Many reviews commend the excellent sound and lighting quality, which enhances the experience of Broadway shows and concerts hosted there. The comfortable reserved seating and accessibility services, including wheelchair accommodations and assisted listening devices, are noted as thoughtful inclusions that improve enjoyment for diverse audiences. Positive reviews also mention the professionalism and courtesy of the staff, who contribute to seamless and welcoming events. On the other hand, some negative feedback revolves around occasional parking challenges due to the downtown location and waits at concessions during popular events. A few visitors also desired more diverse food and beverage options. Despite these minor drawbacks, the consensus remains that the Eccles Theater is a premier venue providing memorable cultural experiences. Overall, reviews affirm that this theater is not only a landmark of architectural and artistic excellence but also a beloved social hub where friends and families gather to enjoy outstanding live performances in Salt Lake City.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
julie S
Eccles Theater is in a great location and super easy to access. The facility itself is modern, clean, and well-maintained. We went to see &Juliet, and it was fantastic—such a fun and high-energy performance! There are merchandise stands where you can buy themed hats, clothes, and more. Also loved being able to grab a little snack during the intermission. Overall, a wonderful theater experience!
David Adams (TheGimpyJeepGuy)
Good theater. Nice layout. Only complaint I had is that we sat in one of the box seats on the side, and the way they are angled you really had to lean out over the side to be able to see the other half of the state.
Jodie Naranjo
This was my first experience at the Eccles Theater. It is a beautiful theatre. They have worked through everything, I was worried about parking, yet followed the recommendation on the site, it was easy. The staff were wonderful. From walking in, to exit. Shelia went the extra mile, assisted me with all my questions. She was lovely, so kind and thoughtful. This was an amazing experience one I hope to enjoy again.
Jocelyn Hamby
Everyone is always so helpful in getting you to your seats. The seats themselves are comfortable and roomy enough that I never feel crowded. The orchestra is always impressive, actors and actresses are always so kind at the end of the show signing autographs. I love coming here to see shows.
Doug Cannon
We had a great time seeing Wicked! It's a great theater. The seat was a little uncomfortable, not too bad. They need larger or more women's bathrooms. 40 women in line at intermission, only 5 men in line. I know, it's a common problem, but it also has a simple solution. Great show!
How to reach Eccles Theater
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Why Eccles Theater may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Eccles Theater with your friends?
Gathering at the Eccles Theater with friends is an unforgettable way to experience the vibrant cultural heartbeat of Salt Lake City. This world-class venue offers an extraordinary blend of architectural beauty, state-of-the-art acoustics, and a diverse range of performances that appeal to any taste—whether you are fans of Broadway musicals, concerts, or intimate theatrical productions. The theater’s striking design by the renowned architect Cesar Pelli creates a bright, inviting atmosphere that energizes group outings, making the entire experience feel special from the moment you arrive. Beyond just the performances, the Eccles Theater breathes new life into downtown Salt Lake City, with its revitalized surroundings full of shops, restaurants, and outdoor spaces perfect for pre- or post-show socializing. The accessible location and the theater’s reputation for consistently delivering top-notch entertainment make meeting here with friends an ideal way to connect, share memorable moments, and enjoy a sophisticated night out in a lively urban setting.
What types of performances and activities can groups enjoy at Eccles Theater?
Eccles Theater is a dynamic entertainment hub, offering a wide spectrum of events that make it an excellent destination for groups. The primary venue, Delta Performance Hall, is a spectacular space seating 2,468 guests, designed to host grand-scale touring Broadway productions, concerts, and major entertainment events. Whether you want to enjoy award-winning musicals, world-class concerts, comedy shows, or diverse cultural performances, this hall provides an immersive setting with acoustic technology that adapts perfectly to each event. For smaller, more intimate gatherings, the Regent Street Black Box theater offers a cozy space seating 150 to 250 people, showcasing innovative local performances and community arts events. Groups can choose the scale and style of entertainment that best suits their mood and preferences. Furthermore, the theater frequently serves as a venue for special series and seasonal events that add variety to the lineup, making it easy to find unique experiences that spark shared excitement among friends or family.
How does the design of Eccles Theater enhance the group experience?
The design of Eccles Theater goes far beyond aesthetics to create an environment that enhances the enjoyment and comfort of group visitors. The six-story grand lobby with its dramatic retractable glass walls floods the space with natural light and offers breathtaking views of downtown Salt Lake City, making it a memorable gathering point before a show. The spacious lobby serves as a vibrant social space where groups can mingle, enjoy public art installations, and even attend special events hosted inside. Inside the Delta Performance Hall, the seating arrangement, modeled after European opera houses, ensures excellent sightlines and intimacy despite the large capacity, so every group member feels connected to the performance. Acoustic features such as a thick concrete slab foundation and layered walls minimize outside noise, ensuring performances can be savored without distractions. All these thoughtful design elements contribute to an environment where groups can relax, converse, and share the thrill of live arts together in comfort and style.
Why is Eccles Theater ideal for a group meetup beyond just the shows?
Eccles Theater’s location and surrounding amenities make it a premier spot for group gatherings beyond the staged performances. Nestled on Main Street in downtown Salt Lake City, the theater is surrounded by a revitalized urban corridor full of trendy restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops, offering ample options for dining or casual drinks before or after a show. This makes planning a full evening out with friends or family straightforward and enjoyable. The theater building itself integrates seamlessly into the lively street scene, enabling groups to transition from indoor cultural experiences to outdoor social time with ease. Additionally, various public events, art exhibitions, and seasonal programming in the theater’s lobby and adjacent outdoor spaces create opportunities for groups to engage actively with the cultural life of the city. Accessibility is another major advantage: the central location is well-served by public transit and offers convenient parking options, accommodating different group needs and ensuring that everyone can arrive and depart comfortably.
What range of group events and private gatherings can Eccles Theater accommodate?
Eccles Theater’s versatile spaces are not only perfect for attending shows but also for hosting private group events and meetups. The Regent Street Black Box is especially suited for small-scale private gatherings, workshops, or community events, offering an intimate and flexible setting that can be customized to meet specific group requirements. Larger groups can consider renting the Delta Performance Hall or utilizing the grand lobby for receptions, corporate events, or celebratory parties accompanied by live entertainment. Thanks to its modern facilities, advanced audiovisual systems, and skilled venue staff, the theater can support a wide range of event types, from milestone birthday celebrations to wedding receptions or professional conferences. This adaptability, combined with the cultural prestige of the venue, ensures any group event held at Eccles Theater enjoys a unique, memorable ambiance. The ability to combine group socializing with access to top-tier performing arts in one location further elevates the appeal of the theater as a top-choice event destination in Salt Lake City.
How does the community surrounding Eccles Theater support a fun group atmosphere?
The area around the Eccles Theater has flourished since the theater’s opening, transforming into a bustling cultural and social district that highly benefits groups looking to make a day or night of their visit. Regent Street adjacent to the theater has been revitalized with an energetic mix of new restaurants, coffee shops, and bars, offering something for every palate—from casual bites to gourmet dining experiences. This vibrant neighborhood atmosphere encourages groups to linger after shows, enjoy conversations over drinks, and explore Salt Lake City’s urban vibe together. Public art, street performances, and ongoing cultural festivals often spill into the outdoor spaces near Eccles, creating a lively scene that adds an informal layer of entertainment that groups can enjoy at their own pace. For visitors interested in combining arts with urban exploration, the theater district acts as a cultural hub, connecting Eccles with other nearby venues and attractions, making it the perfect launchpad for a holistic group outing filled with shared discovery and enjoyment.
What practical features make Eccles Theater convenient for group meetups?
Eccles Theater offers numerous practical conveniences aimed at enhancing a group outing. With reserved seating, groups can secure seats together ensuring everyone shares the same experience without separation. Its central downtown location makes it easy for people to meet using various transportation methods, including public transit options like TRAX light rail, nearby parking garages, and pedestrian-friendly streets. The ticketing system allows groups to purchase and manage bookings easily, often with group discounts or special packages that provide value for friends or family gatherings. Inside the theater, friendly and professional staff are available to assist larger groups, ensuring smooth entry, comfortable seating, and any necessary accommodations. Amenities such as on-site concessions, comfortable climate control, and well-maintained facilities further contribute to a hassle-free, enjoyable outing, so groups can focus fully on the entertainment and social experience.
Why do people consistently rate Eccles Theater so highly?
The Eccles Theater’s stellar 4.8 rating from over 5,400 reviews is a testament to its extraordinary combination of architectural elegance, world-class performances, and excellent customer experience. Visitors frequently praise the exceptional atmosphere, noting how the theater’s design creates an intimate experience despite its size. Many reviews highlight the high quality of productions hosted, ranging from touring Broadway shows to concerts featuring major artists, which consistently meet and exceed audience expectations. The professionalism of the staff and the smooth operational management also contribute significantly to positive feedback, as groups feel welcomed and well cared for during their visits. Additionally, patrons appreciate the theater’s role in enhancing Salt Lake City’s downtown vibrancy, making every visit feel like a rewarding cultural outing intertwined with urban exploration. These consistent commendations make Eccles Theater a trusted and beloved venue for anyone seeking to enjoy arts and entertainment in a welcoming, first-class environment.
What makes Eccles Theater a lasting cultural landmark?
Since its grand opening in 2016, the Eccles Theater has established itself not only as a premier performance venue but also as a permanent cultural landmark for Salt Lake City and the broader region. Designed by renowned architects and built with a keen focus on acoustic excellence and architectural beauty, the theater stands out as a beacon of the city’s commitment to arts and culture. Its presence has been a driving force in downtown Salt Lake City’s regeneration, inspiring the development of vibrant urban spaces around it that blend entertainment, dining, and shopping. By attracting top-tier touring Broadway shows, major concerts, and innovative local performances, the theater sustains a dynamic schedule that ensures year-round engagement from diverse audiences. Its integration with community events and festivals further cements its role as a cultural hub, bringing people together across interests, ages, and backgrounds, which makes the Eccles Theater a pivotal institution in the city’s cultural and social fabric for generations to come.