Vintage reply postcard from Miami Beach Auditorium for Jackie Gleason Show and Dom DeLuise Show ticket requests

Fillmore Miami Beach

The Fillmore Miami Beach: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Miami Beach Historical Sites

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

The Fillmore Miami Beach at the Jackie Gleason Theater is a historic and iconic entertainment venue at the heart of Miami Beach. Celebrated for its striking Art Deco architecture and storied past, The Fillmore has evolved into a premier destination for live performances, cultural events, and community gatherings. This comprehensive guide details everything you need to know about visiting The Fillmore—covering history, architecture, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and top travel tips for making the most of your Miami Beach experience.

Vintage photomechanical print postcard of Miami Beach Auditorium with halftone color effect

Photomechanical print of Miami Beach with New City Auditorium, halftone colored postcard

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Years (1950s–1960s)

The Fillmore’s story began during the post-war boom. Opened in 1957 as the Miami Beach Municipal Auditorium, it was constructed to boost local tourism and commerce (Wikipedia). Designed for versatility, the auditorium became a glamorous hotspot, attracting stars such as Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope (Miami Design Agenda).

Television Fame and National Spotlight

During the 1960s, the venue achieved national fame as the home of The Jackie Gleason Show, bringing Miami Beach’s spirit into households across America. It also hosted major television programs and beauty pageants, further cementing its status as a cultural landmark (Miami Design Agenda; Wikipedia).

Evolution and The Fillmore Era (1970s–Present)

After The Jackie Gleason Show ended in 1970, the venue adapted to changing trends, hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and sporting events. In 2007, following a $3.5 million renovation, it was reborn as The Fillmore Miami Beach at the Jackie Gleason Theater under the legendary Fillmore brand (Wikipedia). Today, it attracts a diverse array of performers and audiences, standing as a beacon of Miami Beach’s cultural vitality (Concert Archives).

Architectural and Cultural Significance

Art Deco and Streamline Moderne Heritage

The Fillmore’s architecture exemplifies Miami Beach’s Art Deco and Streamline Moderne styles. Its pastel colors, geometric shapes, neon lighting, and tropical touches are hallmarks of the region’s celebrated design legacy (CultureOwl; Landmarks Architects). The theater’s preservation and adaptive reuse reflect Miami Beach’s ongoing commitment to protecting its architectural treasures (Carmenate Duchon).

Cultural Hub

Since its inception, The Fillmore has served as a nexus for entertainment and community events. Its stage has welcomed legendary acts across genres, hosted televised productions, and continues to be a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. The theater’s central location places it near notable cultural sites, including The Bass Museum and the Wolfsonian-FIU, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of Miami’s arts scene (Toxigon).

Visiting The Fillmore Miami Beach

Location and Accessibility

Address: 1700 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139 (Fillmore Miami Beach Official)
Public Transit: Bus and trolley routes connect easily from Miami International Airport and downtown Miami. Rideshare drop-offs are available at the main entrance (Evendo).
Parking: The best option is the municipal garage at 17th Street and Convention Center Drive. Limited street parking and valet service are also available.

Visiting Hours

The Fillmore operates primarily during scheduled events, typically opening doors 1–2 hours before showtime and closing one hour after events conclude. Always check the event page or official website for exact times.

Ticket Information

Purchasing: Secure tickets through official channels such as Live Nation, the venue’s website, or authorized partners to avoid markups and fraud.
Pricing: Ticket prices vary by event, seating, and demand. Early booking is recommended for popular performances.
Mobile Tickets: The Fillmore supports mobile ticketing for fast, contactless entry.

Accessibility

The venue is ADA-compliant, offering:

Accessible seating and restrooms
Hearing assistance devices
Service animal accommodations
Staff support for guests with special needs

Contact the box office in advance for special requests.

Amenities and Facilities

Capacity: Up to 2,713 guests in flexible configurations (Fillmore Miami Beach Official)
Seating: Main floor (general admission/standing or seated) and balcony (reserved seating)
Bars & Concessions: Multiple bars and snack counters
Restrooms: Clean, accessible on all levels
Merchandise: Available during select events
Lost & Found: Contact the box office for inquiries

Programming and Event Variety

Concerts and Live Music

The Fillmore hosts top-tier artists across genres. Notable upcoming events for July–September 2025 include:

Elvis Costello & The Imposters with Charlie Sexton (July 12)
Jessie Reyez – Paid In Memories Tour (July 13)
The Rose: Once Upon A WRLD (July 20)
30th International Ballet Festival of Miami (July 26–August 17)
Carmina Burana – La Fura dels Baus (September 6) (Travel Florida Guide; Miami Theater)

Comedy, Theater, and Special Events

The venue’s calendar features comedy shows, Broadway-style productions, special themed events, and private functions. Highlights include the Nightcap NSFW Tour (July 25) and creative parties like the “Shrek Rave” (Secret Miami).

Enhancing Your Visit

Pre- and Post-Show Activities

Dining: Lincoln Road Mall and surrounding streets feature diverse dining options, from upscale restaurants to casual eateries (Ticketmaster Blog).
Nightlife: Numerous bars and clubs nearby offer vibrant nightlife experiences.
Shopping & Culture: Explore Lincoln Road Mall, the Art Deco Historic District, the Bass Museum, and the Miami Beach Botanical Garden.

Practical Tips

Arrive early for better parking, easier entry, and prime spots for general admission shows.
Dress comfortably for Miami’s warm, humid climate.
Check event-specific bag policies before arrival.
Use mobile tickets for convenience and contactless entry.

Accessibility Tips

Hearing assistance devices are available on request.
Contact the venue in advance for special needs or accommodations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are The Fillmore Miami Beach visiting hours?
A: The venue opens 1–2 hours before scheduled events; there are no general public hours outside of showtimes. Always check event listings for details.

Q: How can I purchase tickets?
A: Buy tickets via Live Nation, the official Fillmore website, or authorized ticketing partners.

Q: Is The Fillmore Miami Beach accessible?
A: Yes, with ADA-compliant facilities, accessible seating and restrooms, and staff support.

Q: Is there parking at The Fillmore?
A: Use the municipal garage at 17th Street and Convention Center Drive or valet parking (cash only).

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Regular public tours are not offered, but special events or private tours may be available occasionally.

Q: What are nearby attractions?
A: Lincoln Road Mall, Art Deco Historic District, Bass Museum, Miami Beach Botanical Garden, and the beach.

Challenges and the Future

The Fillmore faces ongoing challenges related to its historic infrastructure, including periodic recertification, flooding, and modernization needs (WLRN). Recent municipal investment aims to secure its future, with debates continuing over potential upgrades or redevelopment. Community involvement reflects the city’s dedication to preserving this iconic venue for future generations.

Visual and Interactive Suggestions

For a richer experience, explore interactive venue maps, photo galleries, and virtual tours on official event pages. When sharing images, include descriptive alt text for better accessibility and search optimization (e.g., “Art Deco details at Fillmore Miami Beach,” “Fillmore Miami Beach live concert scene”).

Internal Links

Discover more about Miami’s arts and culture with our Miami Beach Arts Guide and Historic Miami Beach Attractions.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Fillmore Miami Beach is both a living artifact of Miami’s Art Deco era and a dynamic cultural hub for modern entertainment. Whether you’re attending a concert, comedy show, or festival, or simply exploring Miami Beach’s architectural treasures, The Fillmore promises a memorable experience. For the latest updates, ticket sales, and event schedules, visit the official Fillmore Miami Beach page or Live Nation.

Download the Audiala app for real-time updates, exclusive content, and seamless event planning. Follow The Fillmore Miami Beach and Audiala on social media for the latest news, and enhance your visit by exploring nearby historical sites and cultural attractions.