Hillary Clinton speaking at the Kimmel Center

Kimmel Center For The Performing Arts

Kimmel Center Philadelphia: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Guide to Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Located at the heart of Philadelphia’s Avenue of the Arts, the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts stands as an architectural and cultural landmark, driving the city’s artistic renaissance since its opening in 2001. Designed by Rafael Viñoly, the center’s iconic glass-vaulted roof and modern interiors offer a welcoming space for both locals and visitors. As the home of the Philadelphia Orchestra and host to a diverse array of performances—ranging from classical and jazz to dance and Broadway—the Kimmel Center is essential to Philadelphia’s thriving cultural landscape. This guide provides all the information you need for planning your visit, including hours, ticketing, accessibility, dining, nearby attractions, and tips for making the most of your experience (Architectuul; Visit Philly; Ensemble Arts Philly).

Overview and Significance
History and Development
Architectural Highlights
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Accessibility and Visitor Services
Performance Venues and Public Spaces
Dining and Refreshments
Event Programming and Resident Companies
Nearby Attractions, Hotels, and Travel Tips
Community Engagement and Educational Initiatives
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Planning Your Visit
References

Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts illuminated exterior at night across Broad Street

Interior view of the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts at night with illuminated architectural features

Kimmel Center Concert Hall exterior view in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Perleman Hall inside the Kimmel Center at 300 S. Broad, Philadelphia

Verizon Hall interior in the Kimmel Center Philadelphia

Curved glass roof of the Kimmel Center viewed from the Roof Garden at 300 S. Broad, Philadelphia

Philadelphia Orchestra rehearsing Mahler's 8th Symphony at Verizon Hall, Philadelphia, conducted by Yannick Nézet-Séguin

Tony Bennett receiving applause at end of concert in Verizon Hall at the Kimmel Center Philadelphia

Overview and Significance

The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts serves as a cornerstone of Philadelphia’s cultural scene with a mission to make the performing arts accessible to everyone. Whether you’re an arts enthusiast, a family seeking memorable experiences, or a traveler exploring historic sites, the Kimmel Center is an essential destination. Its vibrant atmosphere, stunning design, and commitment to community engagement have established it as a beacon for creativity and civic pride (Visit Philly).

History and Development

The vision for a world-class performing arts center in Philadelphia emerged in the late 20th century, aiming to revitalize Broad Street and provide a permanent home for the Philadelphia Orchestra. With support from philanthropist Sidney Kimmel and city leaders, construction began in the late 1990s under the guidance of Rafael Viñoly. Despite budget challenges, the Kimmel Center opened its doors in December 2001, quickly becoming a focal point for cultural life and a catalyst for the Avenue of the Arts (Architectuul).

Architectural Highlights

Rafael Viñoly’s design is defined by a dramatic 150-foot glass barrel vault that floods the interior with natural light and blurs the boundaries between city and stage. The centerpiece, Marian Anderson Hall (formerly Verizon Hall), features a cello-shaped interior crafted for superb acoustics, while the Perelman Theater offers flexibility for dance, chamber music, and theater productions. The glass atrium, Commonwealth Plaza, serves as a lively public space, hosting free performances and community events (Archeyes).

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Hours:

Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Extended hours on performance days; check the official website for event schedules and holiday updates.

Tickets:

Purchase online via the official Kimmel Center Tickets page, by phone, or at the box office during open hours.
Prices vary by event; discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups.
Early booking is recommended for popular performances.

Accessibility and Visitor Services

The Kimmel Center is fully ADA-compliant, providing:

Step-free entrances at Broad and Spruce Streets
Elevators and accessible restrooms on all levels
Wheelchair seating and assistive listening devices
Complimentary Personal Care Attendant (PCA) passes with paid admission
Service animals welcome
Sensory-friendly performances on select dates
For special assistance, contact the box office in advance (Philadelphia Ballet).

Performance Venues and Public Spaces

Marian Anderson Hall (formerly Verizon Hall)

2,500-seat auditorium with world-class acoustics
Principal home of the Philadelphia Orchestra
Adjustable acoustic canopy and elegant mahogany finishes
(Visit Philly)

Perelman Theater

650-seat flexible venue with a turntable stage
Used by Philadelphia Ballet and resident companies
(Philadelphia Ballet)

SEI Innovation Studio

Black box space for experimental works, workshops, and community events

Commonwealth Plaza

Bright public atrium under the glass vault
Informal performances, café seating, and information desks
(Archeyes)

Additional Venues

Academy of Music: Historic opera house for large productions (Visit Philly)
Miller Theater: Stage for touring shows and comedy

Dining and Refreshments

Leo Restaurant & Bar: Upscale dining on-site (Ensemble Arts Philly)
Encore Bar: Cocktails and light fare during events
Nearby Options: Locust Rendezvous, Moriarty’s, The Prime Rib, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, and more in surrounding blocks
(Philadelphia Ballet)

Event Programming and Resident Companies

Home to eight resident companies:

Philadelphia Orchestra (Philadelphia Orchestra)
Philadelphia Ballet
Opera Philadelphia
Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia
PHILADANCO and others

In addition to resident performances, the Kimmel Center presents:

Touring Broadway shows
Jazz, world music, and comedy
Educational programs and community events
Over one million guests attend events annually (Visit Philly).

Nearby Attractions, Hotels, and Travel Tips

Attractions:

Academy of Music, Pennsylvania Convention Center, Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Barnes Foundation—all within walking distance

Hotels:

DoubleTree by Hilton (official partner, 237 South Broad St)
Hyatt at the Bellevue, Loews Philadelphia, Holiday Inn Express Midtown
(Philadelphia Ballet)

Transportation:

Accessible via SEPTA’s Broad Street Line (Walnut-Locust Station) and numerous bus routes
Ample nearby parking garages; early arrival or public transit recommended during major events
(Experience PA)

Community Engagement and Educational Initiatives

The Kimmel Center is deeply committed to arts education and outreach. The Merck Arts Education Center offers classes, workshops, and masterclasses for all ages. Outreach programs and free performances ensure access for underserved communities, encouraging lifelong engagement with the arts (Visit Philly).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Kimmel Center’s visiting hours?
A: Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, with extended hours on performance days. Always check the official website for updates.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Online, by phone, or at the box office. Early booking is advised for popular events.

Q: Is the Kimmel Center accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the venue is fully accessible with ADA-compliant features and services.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided architectural and behind-the-scenes tours can be booked in advance (Ensemble Arts Philly).

Q: What dining options are available?
A: On-site restaurants, bars, and numerous nearby eateries.

Q: Where can I park or stay overnight?
A: Multiple parking garages and hotels are located within walking distance. Special rates may be available for ticket holders.

Summary and Planning Your Visit

The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts is a vital part of Philadelphia’s cultural fabric, offering transformative performances, breathtaking spaces, and a welcoming environment for all. With its prime location on the Avenue of the Arts, it places visitors within reach of historic attractions, dining, and lodging. Plan ahead by securing tickets, exploring guided tours, and checking for special events. For the latest information, visit the Kimmel Center website, download the Audiala app for personalized recommendations, and follow the center’s social media channels for insider tips and updates (Architectuul; Visit Philly; Ensemble Arts Philly).