The Orpheum Vancouver
Vancouver's Orpheum Theatre, a beautifully restored 1927 heritage building, is the premier concert hall in the city and home to the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.
Step into a world of timeless elegance at The Orpheum. Opened in 1927 as a vaudeville house, this opulent theatre is now a National Historic Site and one of North America's most beautiful concert venues. After being saved from demolition by public outcry in the 1970s, it was meticulously restored to its original grandeur. Attending a performance here isn't just a night out—it's an experience.
Why Visit The Orpheum?
- Historic Grandeur: Experience a performance in a stunningly beautiful, historic setting with ornate decorations and world-class acoustics.
- World-Class Performances: As the home of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra (VSO), it hosts a calendar full of classical, pop, and film score concerts.
- Diverse Programming: Beyond the VSO, The Orpheum welcomes a wide range of international musicians, comedians, and speakers.
- Central Location: Located in the heart of the Granville Entertainment District, it's easy to get to by SkyTrain and is surrounded by restaurants and bars.
What to See & Do
- Attend a VSO Concert: Experience the incredible sound of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra in their home venue.
- See a Live Show: Check the event calendar for a diverse lineup of concerts, comedy shows, and other live performances.
- Admire the Architecture: Arrive a little early to simply take in the magnificent interior, from the grand staircase to the domed ceiling with its crystal chandelier.
- Take a Tour: Occasionally, guided tours are offered that delve into the history and architecture of the building. Check the Vancouver Civic Theatres website for availability.
Food & Drink Options
- In-Theatre Bars: The Orpheum has bars on-site offering drinks and light snacks before the show and during intermission.
- Granville Street Restaurants: The theatre is surrounded by a vast number of restaurants and bars, offering everything from quick pre-show bites to fine dining experiences.
Pro Tips & Local Insights
- Book in Advance: Popular shows, especially VSO performances of movie scores or holiday concerts, sell out quickly.
- Dress Code: While there's no strict dress code, many patrons choose to dress up a bit (smart casual or better) for an evening at the symphony, making the experience feel more special.
- Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to find your seat and admire the stunning interior before the performance begins.
Nearby Attractions (Transit-Friendly)
- Vancouver Art Gallery: Located just a few blocks away, perfect for a pre-show visit.
- Robson Square: A bustling public square that features an ice rink in the winter.
- Queen Elizabeth Theatre: Another major performance venue is just a short walk away.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesThe Orpheum Vancouver Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: 601 Smithe St, Vancouver, BC V6B 3L4, Canada
Phone: (604) 665-3035
Official Website: The Orpheum Vancouver
The Orpheum Vancouver Reviews
Rated out of 5
I’ve visited this theatre twice already. My first visit was for a graduation ceremony, and the venue was perfect for such a momentous occasion. My second visit was to attend Myles Smith's concert, and it was an unforgettable experience! The staff were friendly and accommodating, making the evening enjoyable from start to finish.
Leeanel Dominguez - a month ago
The Orpheum is a beautiful venue. I have always enjoyed watching performances here - the atmosphere and acoustics are terrific. This location is also so well kept despite being one of the oldest venues in Vancouver. I hope they will be able to maintain the orpheum to enjoy for generations to come. :)
The staff are also so patient, kind, and courteous; always improves the experience!
Edith Wu - 4 weeks ago
The place is beautiful, and the staff is very friendly. I loved it and really enjoyed the Hashish concert I went to. The drinks and snacks have very affordable prices, and if you bring things like your backpack or a large jacket and don't want to carry them, there is a place to store them.
Zaira Garcia - a month ago
This is a gorgeous old theater and has been kept up for the most part. Seating is decently comfortable and there's legroom. It's big! Holds more than 2,700 people.
Kat Sykes - a month ago
The Orpheum is our go-to spot whenever we’re looking to watch a musical event, concert, or show. Stepping inside feels like being transported to Paris, with its grand chandeliers, intricate architecture, and timeless elegance. The acoustics are phenomenal—every note fills the space beautifully, making every performance feel immersive and magical. The atmosphere is just unmatched. Love, love this place! It’s one of the treasures of Vancouver.
Philip Raymond Lim - 3 months ago
Directions
| SkyTrain Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Expo Line | Granville Station | ~4 Minutes |
| Canada Line | Vancouver City Centre Station | ~3 Minutes |
How to get to The Orpheum Vancouver by SkyTrain
No bus needed. From Granville Station (Expo Line), exit onto Granville Street and walk south for two blocks. From Vancouver City Centre Station (Canada Line), exit onto Granville Street and walk one block south.
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Accommodations near The Orpheum Vancouver:
Photo Gallery
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Orpheum Theatre Ceiling cc licensed photo by colink. -
Orpheum Theatre Neon Sign added in the 70's cc licensed photo by radiobread
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