The Roxy Theatre on West Hollywood’s Sunset Strip is a live-music venue. The Roxie Theatre at 518 South Broadway is a historic movie palace in downtown Los Angeles’ Broadway Theater District. The venues have different histories and visiting arrangements: the Roxy hosts concerts, while the Roxie is closed to public events and interior visits.
History
The Roxy Theatre on the Sunset Strip
Opened in 1973, the Roxy Theatre was founded by Lou Adler, Elmer Valentine, David Geffen, and partners. With a capacity of 500 people, it became a prominent venue for intimate, high-energy performances by emerging and established artists, including Bruce Springsteen, David Bowie, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Mötley Crüe (The Roxy Theatre Official Site).
Its acoustics have made it a sought-after location for live recordings, including Frank Zappa’s “Roxy & Elsewhere” and Bruce Springsteen’s “Live at the Roxy.” The club’s neon marquee is part of the Sunset Strip nightlife scene, alongside venues such as Whisky A Go Go and The Viper Room.
The Roxie Theatre in the Broadway Theater District
Opened in 1931 at 518 South Broadway, the Roxie Theatre is the last historic movie palace constructed in Los Angeles’ Broadway Theater District, a neighborhood known for its concentration of ornate cinemas (Los Angeles Conservancy). Designed by John M. Cooper, it originally seated 1,637 patrons.
The theater later served as a Spanish-language filmhouse in the late 20th century and appeared in films such as “The Muppets” (2011). It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Roxie has been a cultural anchor for diverse communities, from its early years as a movie palace to its later Spanish-language programming (Cities and Parks). Its façade and interiors have also appeared in films and music videos, and its Art Deco design has inspired local photography and art.
The theater ceased regular operations in 1989. Its lobby is now retail space, while the auditorium and stage are sealed and in need of restoration; some water damage has been noted (The Clio). Its protected status within the Broadway District encourages restoration. No major projects are underway as of July 2025, while advocacy continues through groups such as the Los Angeles Conservancy. Preservation organizations including Cinema Treasures also promote the theater’s cultural value.
What to See
At the Roxy
The Roxy’s intimate performance space and neon marquee are its main features. The façade and illuminated marquee offer classic Los Angeles photo opportunities.
At the Roxie
The Roxie’s geometric Art Deco façade and neon signage can be viewed from the sidewalk. The theater was built primarily for films but included a stage for live acts, reflecting entertainment trends of its era. Its interior and exterior have featured in movies and music videos (Cinema Treasures; After the Final Curtain).
Visiting Information
Roxy Theatre: Hours, Tickets, and Access
- Hours The Roxy is an evening venue. Doors typically open one hour before showtime, and concerts start between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM. Times vary by event; check The Roxy’s official website or authorized ticketing platforms.
- Tickets Advance purchase is highly recommended because of the venue’s limited capacity. Tickets are available through the official site and Ticketmaster. On-site sales may be available if a show is not sold out.
- Accessibility and amenities The venue is wheelchair accessible, with accommodations available by request. It has a full-service bar and snacks.
- Getting there The Roxy is accessible by Metro bus, rideshare, or car. Street parking is limited; nearby paid lots are recommended.
Occasional guided tours and special events are offered. Check the Roxy’s site and social media for announcements.
Roxie Theatre: Hours, Tours, and Access
- Hours and access The Roxie is closed to public events, screenings, and tours. Interior access is not permitted. The façade and marquee can be viewed and photographed from the sidewalk at any time.
- Tours Guided walking tours of the Broadway Theater District, including tours offered by organizations such as the Los Angeles Conservancy, include exterior stops at the Roxie. See their website for tour information.
- Accessibility There are no public amenities or ADA-compliant access inside. The surrounding sidewalks are generally accessible.
Tips
At the Roxie, respect the site’s condition and do not trespass. Preservation can be supported through donations or advocacy. Grassroots events, historical tours, and online campaigns help maintain public interest; partnerships among preservationists, city agencies, and private stakeholders are important to the theater’s future.
For photographers, the Roxy’s marquee is best captured at night, while the Roxie’s façade can be photographed from the sidewalk.
Nearby Places
- Near the Roxy Whisky A Go Go, The Viper Room, restaurants, hotels, and nightlife.
- Near the Roxie The Palace Theatre, Orpheum, and Los Angeles Theatre are within walking distance. Metro Rail at Pershing Square and bus lines serve the area. Parking is limited, and the area is busiest and safest during the daytime.
FAQs
What are the Roxy Theatre’s visiting hours?
Doors open one hour before concerts, which typically start between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM. Times vary by event.
How do I buy tickets to the Roxy?
Use the official website or Ticketmaster for advance purchase.
Is the Roxy accessible?
Yes. The venue is wheelchair accessible, with accommodations available by request.
Are guided tours available at the Roxy?
Occasionally. Check online for special events.
Can I visit inside the Roxie Theatre?
No. Interior access is not available; only exterior viewing is permitted.
Are there tours of the Roxie?
Guided walking tours of the Broadway Theater District are available and feature the Roxie’s exterior.
Is the Roxie Theatre accessible?
The exterior and surrounding sidewalks are accessible; there is no internal ADA access.
Are there restoration plans for the Roxie?
No active restoration was underway as of 2025, but advocacy efforts continue.
