Rialto Theatre Los Angeles: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction
Situated in the cultural heart of Los Angeles, the Rialto Theatre stands as a remarkable testament to over a century of cinematic, architectural, and community history. With distinguished locations in both South Pasadena and the downtown Broadway Theater District, the Rialto Theatre is synonymous with historic grandeur, artistic innovation, and ongoing community engagement. This comprehensive guide provides a detailed overview of the theatre’s history, architectural highlights, cultural significance, and practical information for visitors—including ticketing, visiting hours, accessibility, and nearby attractions.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Historical Overview
- Architectural Highlights
- Technological and Functional Evolution
- Visiting Information
- Practical Tips for Visitors
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Visuals and Media
- Conclusion
- References
Historical Overview
Early Years and Origins
South Pasadena Location:
The Rialto Theatre in South Pasadena opened on October 17, 1925, designed by architect Lewis A. Smith and commissioned by local businessman C.L. Langley. Built at a cost of $150,000, it blended Spanish Baroque and Egyptian Revival styles, featuring a grand marquee and a vertical neon sign—a local landmark. The auditorium seated approximately 1,200 guests and featured a Wurlitzer organ for silent films, establishing itself as a hub for film, vaudeville, and community events (Los Angeles Conservancy; Cinema Treasures).
Downtown Broadway Location:
Originally opened as Quinn’s Rialto Theatre on May 21, 1917, the downtown Rialto was designed by Oliver P. Dennis in the Greek Revival style. It pioneered stadium-style seating for improved sightlines and quickly became a premier venue for both film and live musical performances (megustalosangeles.com).
Mid-Century Evolution and Community Role
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the Rialto Theatre in South Pasadena upgraded its projection systems to support evolving film technologies, fostering continued local pride by hosting school events, fundraisers, and special screenings. In the 1970s and 1980s, despite competition from multiplexes, the theatre’s nostalgic charm attracted classic film fans and preservationists. In 1978, it was designated a City of South Pasadena Cultural Landmark (South Pasadena Preservation Foundation).
Meanwhile, the Broadway location was acquired by Sid Grauman in 1919 and became part of his iconic theatre chain. With an exclusive Paramount Pictures agreement, it cemented its reputation as a first-run movie house and contributed to the Broadway corridor’s identity as the “Great White Way of the West” (cinematreasures.org).
Decline, Closure, and Preservation Efforts
Both theatres faced decline in the late 20th century. The South Pasadena Rialto closed in 2007 due to dwindling attendance, sparking restoration campaigns by local preservation groups. Its neon sign was restored in 2010, and it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2012 (National Park Service).
The downtown Rialto ceased film operations in 1988, with much of the interior converted for retail use. However, its iconic Art Deco marquee has been preserved and the building remains a contributing property to the National Register-listed Broadway Theater and Commercial District (wikipedia.org).
Revival and Contemporary Significance
In 2017, Mosaic Church leased the South Pasadena location, restoring both interior and exterior elements while preserving historical features (Pasadena Star-News). The venue now accommodates church services, community events, film screenings, and live performances. The Rialto has also appeared in popular media, most notably in the film “La La Land” (Atlas Obscura).
The Broadway Rialto has found new life as a vibrant retail space for Urban Outfitters since 2013, successfully blending adaptive reuse with historic preservation (megustalosangeles.com).
Architectural Highlights
Exterior Features
-
South Pasadena:
The façade showcases Spanish Baroque and Egyptian Revival influences. Notable details include ornate plasterwork, a grand historic marquee, and the vertical neon sign, all of which evoke the glamour of early movie palaces. -
Broadway Theatre District:
Originally Greek Revival, the exterior was remodeled in 1923 to a Georgian style with fluted pilasters and rectangular windows. The addition of the Art Deco neon marquee in the 1930s created a striking Broadway landmark (L.A. Conservancy).
Interior Features
- Auditorium Design:
Both venues were early adopters of stadium-style seating, improving sightlines and audience comfort. The South Pasadena auditorium retains much of its original seating, proscenium arch, and decorative murals. - Proscenium and Decorative Elements:
Original features included lavish columns, painted plaster ceilings, and intricate stenciling—though some decorative details were lost during later renovations (LAHTF).
Stylistic Influences
The Rialto’s design language is eclectic, blending Spanish Baroque, Egyptian Revival, Art Deco, and Renaissance Revival motifs. This reflects Los Angeles’ broader architectural evolution and the changing tastes of theatre-goers throughout the 20th century (L.A. Downtown News).
Technological and Functional Evolution
Adaptations and Renovations
Over the decades, the Rialto adapted to technological advancements—transitioning from silent films to talkies, updating projection and sound equipment, and later accommodating live music and community events. Recent renovations have focused on ADA compliance, including accessible restrooms and wheelchair seating (LAHTF).
Accessibility and Preservation
Restoration efforts are guided by Historic Structures Reports and involve close collaboration between owners, tenants, and preservation organizations. The South Pasadena location’s adaptive reuse for church and community functions ensures both continued relevance and architectural integrity (Friends of the Rialto).
Visiting Information
Locations and Accessibility
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South Pasadena:
1023 Fair Oaks Avenue, South Pasadena, CA 91030. Accessible via Metro Gold Line (South Pasadena Station) and local parking options (Metro Los Angeles). -
Broadway Theatre District:
812 S. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014. Easily accessible by Metro lines and walking distance to major downtown attractions and parking.
Both venues are ADA compliant or undergoing upgrades to meet current accessibility standards.
Visiting Hours and Tickets
-
South Pasadena:
Primarily hosts Mosaic Church services on Sundays and special events. Public access is available during these events. Event schedules and ticketing information can be found on the Mosaic Church events calendar or Rialto Theatre Official Site. Admission to many community events is free; ticketed performances typically range from $10 to $25. -
Broadway Theatre District:
Currently operates as a retail space (Urban Outfitters) with store hours generally Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM, Sunday: 11:00 AM–7:00 PM. No film screenings, but guided walking tours of the district often include the Rialto’s façade and marquee (megustalosangeles.com).
Tours and Photography
Guided tours are occasionally offered by local historical organizations and during special events. The South Pasadena location allows photography outside of private or religious events; the Broadway marquee is a popular photography spot, especially at night.
Nearby Attractions
- South Pasadena:
Mission District shops and cafes, South Pasadena Farmers’ Market, Arroyo Seco Park. - Downtown:
Los Angeles Theatre, Orpheum Theatre, Million Dollar Theatre, Grand Central Market, Bradbury Building.
Preservation Guidelines
As designated historic landmarks, both Rialto venues are protected by city and national preservation ordinances. Visitors are encouraged to support ongoing restoration through event attendance, donations, or volunteering.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Arrive early for events to secure ideal seating and explore architectural details.
- Double-check event listings and ticket requirements before your visit.
- Respect event-specific rules, especially during religious services.
- Explore surrounding neighborhoods for dining and shopping.
- For the Broadway location, consider joining a guided historic theatre walking tour for richer context.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the Rialto Theatre’s visiting hours?
A: Visiting hours depend on scheduled events. For South Pasadena, check the Mosaic Church calendar; the Broadway location follows the retail tenant’s store hours.
Q: How do I buy Rialto Theatre tickets?
A: Purchase tickets online through event listings or at the box office. Many events are free; ticketed events list prices in advance (Rialto Theatre Official Site).
Q: Is the Rialto Theatre accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes. Both venues are ADA compliant or undergoing further upgrades.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, during special events or by arrangement with preservation groups. Local walking tours of the Broadway district often include the Rialto’s marquee.
Q: Can I still watch movies at the Rialto Theatre?
A: Regular film screenings occur only at special events in South Pasadena. The Broadway location operates as a retail store.
Visuals and Media
- Image 1: Rialto Theatre South Pasadena historic marquee and neon sign.
- Image 2: Restored auditorium interior featuring the proscenium arch and vintage seating (South Pasadena).
- Image 3: Neon Art Deco marquee illuminated at night (Broadway Theatre District).
- Image 4: Historic photograph of the original Greek Revival façade (Broadway location).
- Map: Interactive map showing both Rialto Theatre locations and nearby attractions.
Alt text for images is provided for accessibility.
Conclusion
The Rialto Theatre—whether in South Pasadena or the Broadway Theater District—remains a living symbol of Los Angeles’ cinematic golden age and architectural innovation. Through careful preservation and adaptive reuse, these venues continue to serve as vibrant community hubs, blending historic grandeur with contemporary functionality. Visitors can explore their rich legacy through guided tours, live performances, and community events, while supporting ongoing restoration efforts.
For up-to-date event listings, ticket purchases, and exclusive content on the Rialto Theatre and other historic venues, download the Audiala app and connect with local preservation organizations. Add the Rialto Theatre to your Los Angeles itinerary to experience a unique blend of heritage, culture, and entertainment.
