Orpheum 🇨🇦

Step into the Orpheum, an iconic theatre and music venue located on Granville Street near Smithe Street in the heart of downtown Vancouver, British Columbia. Originally opening as a vaudeville house in 1927, this historic venue was designed by Scottish architect Marcus Priteca and stood as the biggest theatre in Canada at its debut.

Today, it serves as a cornerstone of the local arts scene as part of the Vancouver Civic Theatres group and proudly acts as the permanent home of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. As you visit, you will be exploring a piece of Canadian history that was saved from multiplex conversion by a passionate public protest and subsequently designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1979.

Take in the beautifully restored interior, featuring an elegant colour scheme of ivory, moss green, gold, and burgundy that was originally selected by U.S. designer Tony Heinsbergen. Film and television enthusiasts will especially appreciate seeing the majestic setting that was featured as a heavenly opera house in the 2004 reboot of Battlestar Galactica, as well as a key location in Fringe and Highlander: The Series.

What to see at Orpheum

• Permanent home of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra
• Designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1979
• Restored interior featuring original ivory, moss green, gold, and burgundy palette
• Famous television location featured in Battlestar Galactica and Fringe
• Historic 1920s architecture designed by Marcus Priteca

Visiting tips

Look out for the prominent neon sign donated by Jim Pattison in the 1970s and the additional venue entrance located on Smithe Street.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Evening

How to get there & what’s nearby

Orpheum is easy to reach on Vancouver’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Museum of Anthropology at UBC and Cathedral of Our Lady of the Rosary, Vancouver. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Vancouver travel guide.