Located in the heart of downtown Tucson, Arizona, the Fox Tucson Theatre is a historic 1,200-seat, 30,000-square-foot venue originally opened in 1930. As the only known example of a Southwestern Art Deco movie palace, this landmark offers you a fascinating look into American architectural history and entertainment. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a Nationally Significant Structure, it was saved by a dedicated foundation after sitting empty for 25 years and reopened in 2005 following an extensive $13 million restoration.
When you visit, you will step inside a beautifully rehabilitated performance space featuring restored decorative plasterwork, colorful murals, relit original chandeliers, and carefully recreated seat fabrics and carpet patterns. You can also appreciate its unique 'Acoustone' acoustic material, designed specifically for the advent of 'talkie' movies, which is the only known surviving example in existence. Today, the venue fills an important niche in Southern Arizona, hosting over 100 annual events.
You can attend a diverse spectrum of programming, ranging from ballets, jazz, rock acts, and contemporary pop to world music, theater, dance, film screenings, children's activities, and lively community gatherings in downtown Tucson.
What to see at Fox Tucson Theatre
- Only known example of a Southwestern Art Deco movie palace
- Features 'Acoustone', the only surviving acoustic material of its kind
- Restored interior plaster, murals, original chandeliers, and seat fabrics
- Hosts over 100 annual events, including music, dance, film, and theater
Visiting tips
Check the show schedule in advance so you can attend a live event or performance during your visit to downtown Tucson.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Event times
How to get there & what’s nearby
Fox Tucson Theatre is easy to reach on Tucson’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Mosque Tucson and John P. Schaefer Center for Creative Photography. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Tucson travel guide.
See the full Tucson travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.