This is a really fun place to see a show. They have a couple of bars and they serve food as well. The service was excellent. We ordered the jalapeño cheese brat dogs. They were tasty, juicy and a little bit overpriced. Overall worth it. The cocktails were very good as well. On this particular night, we were there to see a David Bowie tribute show and the cocktails were themed after Bowie songs which was a really cute touch. Parking in the area was easy and I luckily found an inexpensive spot to park. The sound quality in the venue was great and I don't think there was a bad seat in the house. I look forward to coming here again someday. The service at the venue was excellent! I had an issue where I lost something and security was so helpful. The ushers were fantastic, friendly, and caring. I could not have asked for a better experience. read more

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The Fox Performing Arts Center is a gem of a venue! Located in downtown Riverside, it's an IE local spot with the old school charm of some of LA's venues, but without the drive. Walking in is a step back in time to when the golden age of the silver screen brought people en masse to classy, red carpeted movie houses. That vibe lingers as one enters the softly lit warm glow of the lobby with its period chandeliers, dark wood painted beams, and carpeted floors. Proper old school escorts take you to your seats. Inside the theater, the stage is flanked by drapes, and aesthetically pleasing lighting sets the mood. The seats are a rare find - wooden with lush velvety fabric. Surprisingly, they were more spacious than expected. Also surprisingly, our seats weren't attached to the floor! If we leaned forward, our two seats both moved. It wasn't a problem, just surprising. We also had one cup holder. It seemed they were randomly placed with several seats lacking them. Since we were here for a concert, let's talk about sound quality, which was spot on! The speaker system provided multidirectional sound that was clear and clean. No pops, distortion, or drops here. The bass gave that satisfying through the feet vibration without rattling our teeth. The temperature was comfortably cool and never stuffy. So, why a 4 instead of a 5? While seat/cupholder were kinda just quirky, it's a matter of layout and patience. As you pass through to the interior, there's a confluence of lines that, even though people queued up as best they could, merged with those trying to find a way through. The women's restroom line - which was clean with good sized stalls - comes first, with the bar just a few yards away, followed by merch table. The bar line ended up descending down the stairs on one side while the merch table went down the other. I honestly don't know how they could manage it differently given the space. Bar and merch lines moved slowly, and I was appreciative when another joined the single bartender to help customers. Someone said there was another bar, but I was too time invested to inquire. My friend eventually left the merch table after making no significant headway after 20 minutes. After the concert, the line was back down the stairs. Patience, politeness, and flexibility win the day here. Did this take away from our experience? No, not really. We were lined up outside and entered shortly after doors opened, an hour before showtime. These logistics would not keep me from returning. read more

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Brought my family here to see The Nutcracker, and it is okay. They serve typical theater snacks, we got popcorn and it was good. Alcohol is also served. It was nice that they allowed the snacks in the theater too. However, some spaces are very tight and the area where the main concession stand is got really hot. It is old so maybe that is why there is poor air flow. There were plenty of bathrooms though, and I appreciated the old architecture. read more

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I was here for the Far West District of the Barbershop Harmony Society's division contest. The venue is old but beautiful. It is very nostalgic of an era gone by. There is a full bar that also serves popcorn. A mini theater is located on the second floor of the building. Loved the acoustics as it gives a true sound with no liveliness (echo) to the music. read more

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Awesome theater, love the architectural design inside. The staff was friendly and did a great job with security. Dressing rooms were all over some big some small, we found a spot and did out thing. The chairs inside are comfortable, the sound is great and every seat had a pretty good view of the stage. There is a bar area that was also serving snacks. We parked at our hotel so I cant comment on parking other than there is a small lot out back. read more

Fox Performing Arts Center - Stage - Music Venues Near Me - Riverside, California

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The Fox Performing Arts Center is a historic building and concert venue located in the heart of downtown Riverside. I have seen several concerts here over the years, and have always had a good experience. It is a smaller venue, seating around 1,500 people, so there is really isn't a bad seat in the house. Speaking of seats, they are padded and comfortable. There is floor seating as well as seating above in the balcony. The auditorium has very high ceilings with intricate décor above and on the walls. The lobby is small and gets crowded easily. It is usually set up with two cocktail bars, one on each side, and a merchandise table in the middle. The ground level bathrooms are small and lines form quickly, but the downstairs restrooms are much larger and not as crowded. The great thing about this venue is that there is also a multi-level parking garage ($20 for this event) and extensive food court all on the same corner. You can park, eat and drink, and see a show, all within steps of each other. I was here this time to see John 5. Tickets are usually very reasonably priced at this venue, and it was only $75 to sit in the third row from the stage. When John 5 came over to our side of the stage that extends a bit into the audience, he was literally only about five feet away from us. The sound mix and lighting were perfect. This is a great, intimate venue to see a concert with convenient parking and various food and drink options nearby. read more

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EXCELLENT VENUE & SERVICE! The Fox Theater has the same retro vibes as LA's Pantages Theater. It's got dim lights, classic fuzzy red seats, and plenty of concession areas. The restrooms are easy to find and there's excellent signage across the theater. I love the amount of stairs you find here, it gives a regal feel and "elevated" experience (see what I did there!). Snacks looked good and there's plenty of alcohol options. If you're feeling extra spendy and want to enter the building early, you can spend $30 for VIP entry to the bar and a special waiting area. My only issue with this venue is the speakers. We came for "Benise: 25 Years of Passion!", we sat upstairs only to find that the speakers were totally off! It greatly affected the experience and sound quality. The upstairs crowd was dead, I'm guessing this was a factor? The Fox is right next to the Game/Food Lab, it's a perfect hub of activity on a Saturday night. There's an exit at The Fox which leads you right up to the Food Lab's entrance! We stopped for ice cream after the show. I'm really impressed with The Fox's location, it's right in the heart of Downtown Riverside and a plethora of hotels. read more

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I went to see X and Los Lobos perform the second stop on their canceled 99 years of Rock and Roll National tour. I was able to get free street parking and had a short walk. The theater is a charming old one, from the golden age. Ushers were numerous and helpful. I am glad I got to sit down. Los Lobos were great but the sound was very loud. When X performed everyone stood up to watch. The sound was much better! I really enjoyed X's show! read more

Fox Performing Arts Center - X and Los Lobos together! 99 years of Rock and Roll!!! - Music Venues Near Me - Riverside, California

First time at this nice little theater, it's cozy and seats are very tiny, at least it seems compared to other theaters and for the ticket prices.... :/ the show wasn't sold out as you can see on the pic and they didn't have enough "playbills" to go around. Got lucky for getting 1 when there was 2 of us. That part was disappointing. read more

Fox Performing Arts Center - Cinderella - Music Venues Near Me - Riverside, California

Been here a few times now for different events (awards show and comedy show). I've parked in the garage around the corner. People have complained about the check in process and security giving hard time. I did not experience that my two times here. I am a type 1 diabetic and haven't had any issues with my equipment with security. Seats are comfy. A little warm in actual theater. read more

Fox Performing Arts Center - Theater - Music Venues Near Me - Riverside, California

I came here for a graduation ceremony and had a very nice experience! There are several parking facilities within walking distance of the venue that made it convenient. We had to get by security to enter the center and staff were helpful and attentive. The venue's esthetics are beautiful with classic Spanish mission style interior design. The chairs were very comfortable and there's not a bad seat the house. I'd like to come back for a play or concert! Loved the venue!! read more

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This place was amazing! The laser light show was like a galactic Star Wars battlefield engulfed and synchronized to the music. The service by the bartenders was next level. The drinks are well-made. Best laser light show Best sound system Best customer service Will definitely return to the venue thank you for a fabulous time . read more

Fox Performing Arts Center - Spectacular laser light show next level had a great time - Music Venues Near Me - Riverside, California

Small venue in downtown Riverside I've seen a lot of good bands there and very intimate probably 2000 seats.

What a gem this place is! I'm used to visiting downtown L.A. for theater but was brought to Riverside for a production as a Christmas present for my son. The facility is beautiful and well maintained harkening to "old timey" 1930's (?) architecture, ambiance, and decor. There is no bad seat in the theater, restrooms are easily accessible and easy to find. Concessions are great - there are two full service areas. Snacks range from popcorn, candies, and hotdogs & nachos. Drinks: kids friendly, sodas, and hard(er) drinks. Staff were helpful, personable, and engaged. I would definitely come back for other shows. read more

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Overall experience was good however where we got in was from the side next to food court. the entrance was to the side which was a little awkward. Wish it was from the front entrance where we can see the box office and experience the grand entrance. The staffs were professional, security, concession stand performers (Dogman show) all very welcoming and friendly. Good parking, near lots of food highly recommend this venue. read more

Fox Performing Arts Center - On the side and not easiest to find. - Music Venues Near Me - Riverside, California

First time at Fox Performing Arts Center and enjoyed the experience. The theater is not too large, so I'd say any seat in the orchestra is a good one! When purchasing my ticket, I was disappointed in the "must leave at least 2 adjacent seats open" rule. Because I only wanted 1 ticket, I had to sit 8 rows back from the seat I wanted (for the same price!). There were 2 bars in the lobby area that served snacks and drinks, and I was pleasantly surprised to see 4 mocktail options. However, the $12 mocktail I ordered just tasted like limeade. I would skip it next time. There are a few paid parking lots around the theater, with the closest being connected to the food lab. read more

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What a mess this place is! We paid for a FAST Lane ticket! A line that does not exist. $40 per ticket, went thru Security then we waited and waited for the door to open until 20 minutes later the employee told us it's not going to Open we need to go into the general line. Waited in line again, had to go thru security Again! We paid extra for nothing. No employee had a clue where we are supposed to go and no one honored the extra pay. The bar is very limited and they only have snacks, popcorn and candy. Great show! But the place sucks. Very unorganized. read more

Fox Performing Arts Center - Music Venues Near Me - Riverside, California

Great place to see a show. Recently saw X and Los Lobos there. Seats are very comfortable and roomy (and I'm tall). Not sure who's in charge of sound mix (bands?), but it took 4 or 5 for Los Lobos to sound normal. Great after that. Wish they had more rock shows. Recommended read more

First time at this great, historic theater to see Los Lobos and X. Theater staff were very friendly and helpful. It was raining and they even had an umbrella check! Seating is tight but relatively comfortable (no drink holders). That said, the sound quality ranged from shockingly bad for Los Lobos and just ok for X (we were in the Mezzanine right side if that makes a difference). No mention of it on website but apparently the most convenient city parking garage #7 (just behind the venue) has a flat rate $20 for concert parking (seems expensive but it was raining so worth it and since you pay before entering, it made leaving fast). Taking the garage's elevator/stairs on the east side drops you into the food court area and you can access the side entrance to venue. read more

I attended the David Bisbal concert on May 22nd and while the performance itself was amazing, the experience afterward was incredibly disappointing and upsetting. After leaving the venue, I realized I had accidentally left one of my two phones behind. About 15 minutes away, I checked my "Find Device" app and saw the phone was still at the venue. I drove back immediately. By then, the venue was closed, but I found a crew member outside. He was kind enough to go inside and check, then came back and told me a phone had been found but was locked in the office, and the office staff had already left for the night. He advised me to follow up the next day. However, the next morning when I checked the device location again, my phone was no longer at the venue -- it was at a residential address roughly 30 minutes away. It's now clear to me that someone from the staff likely took it home, which is unacceptable. Since then, I've tried contacting the venue through every possible channel -- email, all of their social media platforms, and through the Lost and Found instructions listed on their website. It's now been almost 30 days and I haven't received a single response. This is not the level of professionalism or accountability anyone should expect from a venue. I have attached screenshots of my phone's location to support this and demand someone from management contacts me immediately. This situation needs to be addressed. read more

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It is a beautiful historical building. Saw Shaun Cassidy absolutely amazing sound staff was super nice.

Went here to see Avatar in concert and was extremely impressed by the sound quality of the venue. There's two bar areas one near the entrance to the theater and other is outside. There's also two bathrooms - one is upstairs and one is downstairs. Riverside is a bit far from me but if there were another concert here I'd be open to coming back again. The venue itself is nice but the organization or lack of staff helping aid the crowd control was lacking. The merch booth was in the middle between the bar area and entrance to the theater so it caused a huge line snaking around. People were left confused on which line was which - food or merch or bathroom, but luckily everyone who was in line was kind and respectful of each other. There's a lot of parking lots available nearby the venue many which flat rate at $15 but I went a bit further out and only paid $7.50 - 8 min walk from the venue though. read more

Beautiful venue, not a bad seat in the house. Easy access with great places to eat close by. Have enjoyed several events. Mariachi's, old movie night and plays. Great date night or girls night out! read more

Cleanliness is the least you can do be desired on our romantic date to see a tribute to Frank Sinatra. The floors are absolutely gross not to mention the workers were trying to sweep up right under peoples feet as they had them lift their legs and have them hand them the trash sitting next to them. Poor management on cleanliness. This should have been cleaned before guests arrived. This is NOT my favorite visit! I wonder what the drink/bar stations look like. Please get your act together Fox Theater in Riverside. read more

Fox Performing Arts Center - Music Venues Near Me - Riverside, California

Went to see Brad Williams tonight the show was great , but the theater was so hot it was miserable trying to to watch it read more

Fox Performing Arts Center - Seats in this hot ass theater - Music Venues Near Me - Riverside, California

I will say for being the first time here I didn't know what to expect. Doing the VIP thing we were supposed to be allowed in at 6:30pm but weren't allowed until 6:40 which is 10 minutes later than advertised. Further, the main doors were supposed to be opened for everyone else at 7 which they were, but instead of being able to be seated promptly, we were all forced to wait in the over crowded lobby until they actually opened the auditorium at 7:45pm which was supposed to be 15 minutes before the show actually started. The show didn't start until about 30 minutes late around 8:30. Overall it seemed like an incredibly disorganized event. The seating was decent and being a larger person I still had enough room. read more

Attended the NPC West Coast Classic last night, (a friend of mine was a competitor/athlete) which was held at the Fox Performing Arts Center. Purchasing tickets at the door was an easy process. We chose our seats, paid, and later received a text message containing our tickets. Upon entering, bags are checked then checked AGAIN in ANOTHER line. It didn't make sense to me why they did that. All I had was my wallet, keys, and phone in a small purse. ( "security" even took everything out the first time) . I honestly think it was a waste of time especially in the 100+ degree heat!!! Once we finally entered the venue, it was a better experience. The a/c was blasting, it was dark, a little musty haha but a great escape from the heat. A concession stand was available on the first floor serving snacks (chips, popcorn and candy) drinks, AND alcohol! Restrooms were clean and fully stocked. One thing I noticed was how cold it was on the basement floor where additional restrooms are located. It was nice to just sit and enjoy the cold air down there. We had seats on the floor so I'm not sure what it's like on the upper levels. If you ever find yourself going to a show or event here, I suggest NOT bringing a purse! It will save you time and the hassle. read more

Fox Performing Arts Center - Jay Cutler - Music Venues Near Me - Riverside, California

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This was our first time at the Fox Theater for a concert. We arrived early and were the first in line for security screening. All of the staff we encountered were friendly. Restrooms were clean and stocked. We saw the Pettybreakers. They are a Tom Petty tribute band. They did a great job even though the bass and occasionally the vocals were not mixed to my taste. I enjoyed the concert as we sat in rowB, which is technically four rows away from the stage. The orchestra pit contains rows 1&2. The Fox Theater was built in 1929. The architectural style is mission with ornate ceilings, velvet chairs, carved wooden accents and original rod iron barristers. The sound for a rock band was acceptable. read more

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I can't believe a professionally run Theater would have such a terrible, disorganized entry system. Several lines none of them marked. A secret ADA line that no one knows is an ADA line until right before they open the doors. Late opening doors and not allowed to go into the theater until right before the performance, which means people are being seated during the beginning of the performance. Uncomfortable inside just a terrible experience that completely took away from the performance. Stay away. There are plenty of other places to go in our area. read more

Old school since 1929. We came to see the Beatles vs Rolling Stones tribute bands battle it out in concert. The venue is old world and has a classy nice ambiance. They offer bar service with beer and mixed drinks at premium prices. The sound was great and the concert was awesome we really enjoyed our evening here. read more

Fox Performing Arts Center - Beatles vs Rolling Stones FEB2024 - Music Venues Near Me - Riverside, California

We saw Brad Williams there, and he gave a great show. However, the AC was horrible and we were dying sweating after paying a fortune for drinks, and long lines there too. We paid really good money for good seats, then when they were doing the sales and meet and greet after it was complete crap as we ended up at the very end of the line and the heat was horrible. Very disappointing end to a great show. Again, Williams and the others were great, but the Fox Performing Arts Center was crap. I'll never see another show there. My family was so looking forward to meeting Williams and the others, and it ruined our night. read more

Terrible venue! Do not recommend! Small bag of chips $5, the $9 pretzel was cold somewhat frozen, $5 for a small candy bar, $5 for can soda. The workers are no help. One worker was sitting down by a door and when I asked where to go he got upset pointed and said to ask somewhere "up there". Back to the food, $9 for a box of salt I mean popcorn (disgusting). The registers for the food kept freezing so that took forever. Ticket says 6pm. That's when they open the door not when show starts so call ahead and check. They only allow a certain group in before and we are all squeezed into a small area. Never again will I attend this venue. Oh did I mention no ac! It was so hot!!!! read more

The lines for concessions were super long. The air conditioning does not do anything to cool the upper areas of the theater. The upper seats can't see at all because the seats are not offset and there are no screens to watch on. I nearly needed to get medical assistance because I was over heating. That whole area smelled like BO, butt crack, dirty feet and dog because it was so hot. My daughter takes medication that states "do not become over heated" but we had no options available at the venue and had no way of knowing the indoor show would be so intolerably hot. We went to concessions to buy water cans to put on our chests, and lap to try to cool off but the concession employees have been instructed that they have to open them before they hand them to you. So we had no relief from the sweltering heat. The entertainers were phenomenal but the venue is horrible. read more

Great ambience and vibes in this theater. Really lives up to its historic past with the look and feel. The handful of times I've been there it's always been a great theater. read more

Went to see Irish show last night. First it stated 7pm for start time. Long line older people it started at 8pm. Lots of complaints having to stand for longer period of time. Then security, I carry a small handbag that fits a phone. I carry my phone in my pocket because I carry my blood sugar kit and my pen needle. THATS IT! This woman caused a stink after I told her what it was I had to empty and turn it upside down. I was embarrassed and humiliated to have a pen and extra needle dumped. I felt violated. I go to a concert or event once a month after covid opened up. I've never been treated with such callous disrespect. Some venues state clear plastic only. Maybe fox should incorporate that stance instead of putting older people through the ringer! I won't be going to any more events at fox theater again. read more

Part of the chain that revolutionized the theater experience for the country, each location had it's unique aspects in terms of size and architecture. In the last 15 years or so the Riverside Fox was restored to great fanfare. Unfortunately, the first person put in charge of scheduling entertainment did a poor job and was eventually replaced by someone more competent, and less corrupt if the rumors are true. After going to a variety of concerts in the last 7-8 years or so I've sat in many parts of the theater, including the balcony. The first concert was Joe Walsh, an old favorite artist and it represented seeing him many, many years after my very first concert at Red Rocks in Colorado. Now sober, Walsh commented that the New Joe couldn't remember much about the Old Joe. The show, atmosphere, and sound were quite good. Next came the Black Star Orchestra, a near-authentic Grateful Dead cover band that like the Dead, played extended jams for hours. Free tickets for Joe Satriani gave me the first time up in the balcony and I liked the view. If anything, it was louder up there but the PA system did a fine job. Most recently, I went to see the "pedestrian" Led Zeppelin cover band, Get the Led Out, which was the first post- Covid-19 show that also had a weird vibe because some of the people around me were sloppy drunks who tripped and fell all over themselves. One even passively aggressively accused me of tripping his drunk ass. Yeah, people forgot how to be civil, respectful, and keep themselves together in public. Luckily that didn't escalate but I also realized how tired and old the seating is inside. It's also incredibly stuffy when the AC isn't on, which made most attendees take off their masks despite the requirements. We did present proof of vaccination or evidence of a negative test no older than 48 hours to enter. All-in-all, the venue sounds great and it's close enough to home to walk to. The Riverside Food Lab is next door so eating and drinking beforehand is manageable. Parking is in the structure behind but if you don't mind walking, other structures are available downtown. Just don't be a wanker if a local resident needs parking on the street near their abode, residents come first. read more

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I appreciate the talents of musicians and artists that are able to perform once again after a lengthy period of public health closures. The Fox Performing Arts Theatre is a beautiful gem that has outlasted other similar venues. It has been fully restored in a modern art deco design that once was a movie theater in the 1930s. The present owners have transformed it to a live theater with 3 levels. We sat in the mezzanine area overlooking the main floor and stage. The show was fabulous, a merchandise counter was open selling souvenirs. There were two bars for refreshments and cocktails on two levels. NOTE: The company has strict safety protocols in place. Be prepared to wear a mask, show your vaccine card, etc. Purses are not allowed unless they are very small, like 6x9". I didn't know and had to return to the car to leave it there. Please allow extra time to wait in the line to pass security and metal detectors. There are plenty of hotels and restaurants within a couple of blocks. We were able to have dinner and drinks before the show. Afterward, we walked around the area and saw many businesses thriving with customers waiting in line. There was a vibe of excitement in the air as I observed people dining in patio areas. It is worth driving out to this theater for a fun and memorable experience. read more

Fox Performing Arts Center - Micky and Mike of the MONKEES - Music Venues Near Me - Riverside, California

Parking 5/5 there is a big parking garage and event parking was 5 dollars! Insanely little compared to event parking fees in LA Ambience 2/5 It was so hot in here!! The heat was blasting and it's a smaller theatre so the heat + food + alcohol + people's body heat from sitting so close to eachother made it feel very warm and humid inside. I dont think i would recommend seeing a show here. I was uncomfortable the whole show. The seating letters are on the chair arms and goes from A-Z from the front by the stage to back by the doors for the floor seating. Service: 5/5 all the staff at the bar and security were nice. Overall i wouldnt try to return to this theatre. read more

We saw Weird Al last night here. After standing in line for 30 minutes and getting to the front, then then tell you it's the VIP line. No signs, no employees directing people. Multiple groups besides mine were turned away and told to go find general admission with no direction. After finally entering the theater, this place is old and dirty and in need of a massive upgrade. The concessions pricing is worse that a baseball game as well. Now lets talk about the seats. They are very old, very small and have no leg room. Everytime someone needs to get in or out, the entire row has to stand up. This is very inconvenient during a show. The sound quality was horrible. The only positive experience was the view from the Balcony seating was clear and the stage was fully visible. Safe to say, I will never return to this dump again. read more

All was VERY good, much more than was expected! I have been to concerts for 40+ years and this is a very good option! Great music venue, good drinks(expensive but comparable to other venues) & easy ADA options. I look forward to the next show! We ended up eating at The Riverside Food Lab- better than I thought. Glad we went there! read more