National Theater 🇺🇸

Step into history at The National, a premier performing arts and live music venue located in Richmond, Virginia. Situated on a section of Broad Street once known as Theatre Row, this historic landmark originally opened in 1923 and stands as the only original auditorium from the row still standing today. Built in the Renaissance Revival style, the exterior features sandstone-colored brick with terracotta detailing, flanked by two-story wings.

Inside the venue, which now accommodates up to 1,500 guests following a major $15 million restoration, you can admire classical architectural details like a large oval dome overhead and intricate Adamesque plasterwork. Originally designed with an adaptable stage that presented both early motion pictures and vaudeville shows, the venue previously featured Virginia's largest orchestra pit. After operating as a dedicated cinema called the Towne Theater and enduring a period of closure, it reopened in 2008 to bring live performances back to downtown Richmond.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, visiting this historic site lets you experience modern entertainment inside an authentic 1920s venue rich with Virginia story and charm.

What to see at National Theater

• The only remaining original theater from Broad Street's historic Theatre Row
• Historic Renaissance Revival façade with sandstone-colored brick and terracotta details
• Auditorium features a large oval dome and intricate Adamesque plasterwork
• Operates as a 1,500-seat live music and performing arts venue listed on the National Register of Historic Places

Visiting tips

Look up during your event to admire the venue's historic oval dome and intricate Adamesque plasterwork preserved inside the auditorium.

How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Evening

How to get there & what’s nearby

National Theater is easy to reach on Richmond’s public transport, and pairs naturally with American Civil War Museum and St. Peter's Church. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Richmond travel guide.