Located at 901 Broadway in downtown Tacoma, Washington, the historic Pantages Theater (or Jones Building) offers you an incredible glimpse into classic Pacific Northwest entertainment history. Commissioned in 1916 by Alexander Pantages and designed by architect B. Marcus Priteca, this 1918 landmark combines Second Renaissance Revival and Commercial architectural styles.
Behind its white, matte-finish glazed terra cotta exterior along Ninth Street and Broadway, you will step inside an elliptical 900-seat main auditorium designed for modern live acts. Look up to admire the plaster classical motifs detailing the proscenium arch, created by European craftsmen, and replace the traditional crystal chandelier with a glowing art glass sunburst on the coved ceiling. Originally opened as a vaudeville venue and office space, the building has operated under names like the RKO Orpheum and the Roxy over the decades.
Today, as an active registered historic site managed for Tacoma City Theaters, it serves as a bustling performing arts center. Visit to experience a diverse array of live entertainment, ranging from ballet, comedy, and Broadway musicals to live concerts and celebrity shows inside an beautifully preserved architectural treasure.
What to see at Pantages Theater
- Designed by B. Marcus Priteca in Second Renaissance Revival and Commercial styles
- Stunning 900-seat elliptical auditorium with plaster detailing by European craftsmen
- Art glass sunburst central ceiling piece instead of a traditional chandelier
- Glazed terra cotta facade featuring a blind arcade, cartouches, and pseudo-Corinthian pilasters
- Rich history hosting vaudeville, talkies, and modern concerts since 1918
Visiting tips
Be sure to look up while inside the main auditorium to admire the center art glass sunburst light feature on the coved ceiling.
How long: 1-3 hours · Best time: Evening
How to get there & what’s nearby
Pantages Theater is easy to reach on Tacoma’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Museum of Glass and Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Tacoma travel guide.
See the full Tacoma travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.