image by ritzjacksonville.com
The Ritz Theatre & Museum in South Jacksonville FL has been a landmark in the community for over 80 years. It’s one of Florida’s only remaining live theatre and movie palaces and it hasn’t changed much since its opening night on November 18, 1936. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was named an official City of Jacksonville Landmark by Ordinance No. 56-1433 in 2014.
What Makes Ritz Theatre & Museum Iconic?
This Art Deco treasure with its Spanish Baroque interior is one of the few remaining survivors from the Golden Age of movie palaces, built when Jacksonville was in its heyday. It has played host to just about every famous act that ever graced a stage or screen since it opened in 1936.
The theatre’s plush red velvet seats and walls offer an intimate setting for enjoying live events like concerts, musicals, symphonies, ballets and graduations; classic movies are shown most weekends at matinees. For more information visit their website: Ritz Theatre & Museum
Things to do
There are many things to do in this museum, including:
- Learn some history: The Ritz Theatre & Museum website has lots of information about the building’s history. Check out their virtual tour to see what it looks like inside and find out more details about its opening night celebration in 1936, with a live performance by Al Jolson followed by 20th Century Fox’s film “Born to Dance”.
- Go on a virtual tour: Find out even more about the historic Ritz Theatre & Museum by checking out their Virtual Tour online. You can look at over 100 photos and get inside views of this Jacksonville landmark.
- Take some photos: There’s no better place to take your next selfie or group photo than at this museum! Take advantage of our beautiful architecture and unique art deco interior by posing for some fun pictures while you’re here. If you’ve got kids, let them run around on stage before a performance begins – it’s always good for laughs!
- Get some art inspiration: Visit the Art Gallery located in The Ritz’s lobby and gain insight into local artists and their work, as well as enjoy rotating exhibits from other parts of the world each month.
Accesibility
The Ritz Theatre & Museum is a fully accessible building with ADA compliant seating available in orchestra and balcony levels. All restrooms are wheelchair accessible, including the family restroom on the mezzanine level.
Where can I park?
There is ample parking next door at The Florida Theatre, with both surface and garage options.
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