Located at 478 West 6th Street in downtown San Pedro, the Warner Grand Theatre is an Art Deco landmark and a cornerstone of the community’s cultural scene. Commissioned by Warner Bros. and designed by B. Marcus Priteca, the movie palace opened in 1931 and was celebrated as the “Castle of Your Dreams.” Its ornate 1930s décor and architectural details accompany a history of film, live performance, and cultural events.
The theatre is recognized as a City of Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument (#251) and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. As of 2025, it is temporarily closed for a city-funded renovation costing $18 million, focused on accessibility, safety, and preserving its architectural heritage. During the closure, the nearby Grand Annex serves as a venue for concerts and community events. For updates on events and reopening, consult the official Warner Grand Theatre website and the Grand Vision Foundation.
Origins and Early Years (1931–1940s)
The Warner Grand Theatre opened on January 20, 1931, as one of three neighborhood movie palaces built by Warner Bros. in Los Angeles. B. Marcus Priteca’s design featured a striking Art Deco façade, lavish proscenium arches, and intricately carved wood ceilings. The theatre premiered with the film “Goin’ Wild” and quickly became a community centerpiece.
Mid-Century Changes and Adaptations (1940s–1970s)
The theatre thrived during World War II as a popular entertainment venue for locals and servicemen. It was renamed the San Pedro Theatre in 1937 and the Stanley Warner San Pedro Theatre in 1953. By the 1970s, it had become Teatro Juarez, showing Spanish-language films for the Latino community.
Decline, Preservation, and Community Revival (1980s–1990s)
After a period of decline, community advocates and the Grand Vision Foundation led restoration efforts in the late 1980s and 1990s. The City of Los Angeles acquired the theatre in 1996, ensuring its preservation as a public arts venue.
Restoration and Modern Era (2000s–Present)
Ongoing investments, now totaling over $18 million, have focused on restoring Art Deco features, upgrading technical systems, and improving visitor accessibility. The current renovation is managed by the City’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Bureau of Engineering. It is intended to reopen the theatre as a state-of-the-art, fully accessible venue (Grand Vision Foundation Renovation Updates).
Visual Gallery
The iconic Art Deco façade of the Warner Grand Theatre.
Inside the beautifully restored auditorium showcasing original decorative features.
The original fire curtain rediscovered during restoration efforts.
Map of the Warner Grand Theatre location in San Pedro.
Visiting the Warner Grand Theatre
Visiting Hours
As of 2025, the Warner Grand Theatre is temporarily closed for renovation, which is projected to be completed by late 2026. The theatre is scheduled to reopen in late 2026.
The Grand Annex at 434 W. 6th St. remains open for concerts and events, typically from 5 PM to 10 PM on show nights. For current schedules, see the Grand Vision Foundation Events & Tickets page.
Tickets and Booking
- Warner Grand Theatre Tickets for future events will be available upon reopening through the official website and at the box office.
- Grand Annex Tickets for ongoing concerts and events are available online through the Grand Vision Foundation. Discounts may be available to newsletter subscribers.
Accessibility
The renovation will add ADA-compliant elevators, restrooms, and seating. The Grand Annex is already wheelchair accessible, and assistive listening devices are available upon request.
Parking and Transportation
- Street parking Available along 6th Street and surrounding blocks.
- Public lots Well-lit lots are located on 7th Street (below Pacific Ave) and 5th Street.
- Public transit Multiple LA Metro bus lines serve San Pedro. Plan routes at the LA Metro website.
Special Events and Guided Tours
Live music, community events, workshops, and youth performances continue at the Grand Annex during the Warner Grand’s closure. Sign up for the Grand Vision Foundation newsletter for updates and discounts.
Behind-the-scenes tours at the Warner Grand will resume after renovations. Check the Grand Vision Foundation for future schedules.
Useful Links
- Official Warner Grand Theatre Website
- City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs
- Grand Vision Foundation
- San Pedro Tourism
- Grand Vision Foundation Renovation Updates
Plan Your Visit
For reopening updates, upcoming events, and ticket information, visit the Warner Grand Theatre’s official website and the Grand Vision Foundation. The original guide also recommends downloading the Audiala app for real-time alerts and following the theatre’s social media channels for news and special offers.
While renovations are underway, concerts and community programming continue at the Grand Annex, and visitors can explore the San Pedro Arts District. The theatre is anticipated to reopen in 2026.
Nearby Attractions and San Pedro Historical Sites
San Pedro attractions include:
- USS Iowa Battleship Museum
- Los Angeles Maritime Museum
- San Pedro Waterfront
- Ports O’ Call Village
- Local restaurants, galleries, and shops
Explore the area for a fuller experience of San Pedro’s maritime and arts heritage (SanPedro.com).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When will the Warner Grand Theatre reopen?
A: The theatre is scheduled to reopen in late 2026.
Q: Are any events happening during the closure?
A: Yes. The Grand Annex hosts regular concerts and community events. Check the event calendar.
Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Tickets for Grand Annex events are available online; Warner Grand tickets will be available closer to reopening.
Q: Is the theatre accessible?
A: Upon reopening, the Warner Grand Theatre will offer ADA-compliant amenities. The Grand Annex is already accessible.
Q: Where can I park?
A: Street parking and public lots are available near both venues.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Tours will resume after renovations. Watch the Grand Vision Foundation for updates.
