The Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, known locally as the Schnitz, is the home of the Oregon Symphony and a place to see concerts, movies, plays and national and international recording stars. This downtown concert and theater hall in Italian rococo revival style is a cultural institution and has the capacity for almost 3,000 people. Book your seats in the balcony or orchestra level and enjoy a memorable night of live entertainment.
The venue first opened its doors in 1928 and was previously known as the Portland Public Theatre and the Paramount. Recognize it instantly from the outside by its 65-foot-high (20-meter) illuminated sign reading Portland, which lights up Broadway, the city’s theater district.
To learn more about the concert hall, join one of the free guided tours held on Saturdays and Wednesdays. Pick up insights into the building’s architecture and design and hear stories about its lengthy past, such as the notable artists who have performed here. Among them are ABBA, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Queen, Fleetwood Mac and Bruce Springsteen. The tours last for about an hour and also include Antoinette Hatfield Hall, which is just across the road.
When you attend a performance at the theater, arrive early for dinner and drinks in the ArtBar & Bistro, located inside Antoinette Hatfield Hall. Choose from a selection of handcrafted cocktails, wines, beers and food menus with casual meals. For more dining options in the area, visit the concert hall’s official website, which has a list of local restaurants, bars and bistros.
Located in downtown Portland, the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall is easy to get to by public transportation. All MAX trains stop nearby, as do Tri-Met buses destined for the city center. Car parking is available for a fee in nearby parking lots and garages. Alternatively, use street parking, which is metered until the early evening.
