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    San Jose Civic

    3.1 (236 reviews)
    Closed 12:00 pm - 5:00 PM

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    Arsha T.

    I went here for a concert, and it was a great experience. It wasn't too crowded outside, and it was pretty easy to get an Uber afterwards. We got drinks, and they were fine. Even though the queue was long, the staff was very friendly. The restrooms were clean which is a plus point. At the concert, the screens were placed in visible spots. The lights and sound systems were excellent. It felt like everybody was having a good time.

    Erica M.

    Came here for the 40th anniversary Lisa Lisa TAKE YOU HOME TOUR concert. The inside is spacious, they had multiple bar areas set up and plenty of restrooms as well. Parking is easy as there are plenty of parking garages near by. The hallways are decorated with many pictures of artists, it's very visually stunning. It was a great night!

    Lety G.

    I've been here a few time for shows and it's a venue I really like. It's small, the bright side of that being there isn't really a bad seat in the house and the prices for tickets are always reasonable. It's downtown so there's lots of options for parking and even a lightrail stop right in front. Overall it's a venue that's safe, clean and centrally located so anytime an artist I like I hear I will 100% be going.

    Karen W.

    Our first time at this venue as I wanted to see Hauser in concert and this was the closest venue that he was performing at so I bought tickets months in advance in the front row Platinum seats and they were well worth the money! Great seats in Section 102, Row AA Seats 17 and 18! If you decide to come here for a show on a Sunday, eat before you come as we wanted something quick and the nearby food market hall closes at 7 PM (show as at 8 PM) so we ended up eating a quick snack at the venue's concession (credit card only) and for a quick meal, it was good. Hubby had the cheesesteak and chips and I had a hot dog and IPA beer. When we entered the venue, they just check your purse not like other venues. It is an older theatre but quite intimate and cozy, especially since we were treated like VIPs having front row seats! The usher Patti was quite attentive and friendly and had us put on green wristbands to show we are VIP in the front row! She even took photos for us in front of the stage and even a funny one of herself! The atmosphere was electric and Hauser didn't disappoint! He had us entertained for 2 hours, laughing and having a good time. The seats between the front and second row is wide and we had plenty of leg room and Hauser even came by playing his cello a few times as well as bringing the mike to have us sing along. He went through the crowd a few times. If you're going to experience a concert and can afford the experience, I would recommend sitting up close! There are cup holders on the seats so that's a plus plus the bathrooms are spacious and clean. Street parking around the venue on a Sunday is available.

    Sec 101 Row J, Seat 11-12
    Elvis N.

    Been to a few comedy shows here now (Theo Von, Andrew Schulz) and had a great time. Food looks to be standard bar fare, staff leans older, parking is scarce being downtown. Uber/Lyft drop-off is recommended. The interior is gorgeous, but imo if you're not at floor or the 100's, the view of the stage isn't ideal. Try to splurge a bit more for front row of whatever section you're at. 202 against the wall is obstructed by the curvature of the building at certain angles. No major issues. A bit more comfortable than being seated at the SJ Improv. No drink minimums. Usually larger talent, roughly $100-200/ticket. Can't speak for non-comedy events.

    Noel B.

    Tiny venue. I wasn't sure if it's the auditorium itself or the sound engineers but the sound felt off to me, like I could hear a lot more of the main performer but not much from the other instruments or backup vocals. Kinda underwhelming for a venue that's housed big names before. There is some food available at the concessions. It's not too overpriced but it's obviously still going to be marked up. The bathrooms are to the sides and upstairs. I thought it was very quick and easy to get in. The staff were nice and attending to us.

    Denise L.

    I've been to this venue for various events. Once on the floor and the rest of the times in the balcony. The bathroom is in an awkward place. An elevator ride or many steps are required. It's scary getting to the front of the balcony without falling. The railing helps, but it's still nerve-wracking. We couldn't get out of our seats at the end since one person in the group in front of us was too scared to climb the stairs. The people on the other side refused to get out of their seats at all so we couldn't get past them, either. When seated on the floor, there are no risers, so it's difficult to see over heads in front of you. The shows were great, though.

    Section 303 Row D Seat 3
    Carolen M.

    It's been quite some time since I've been to San Jose Civic Center. I think potentially the last time I was here was to see a cosplay contest for Fanime Con. But before that we were there for like a Zelda Concert. I guess I have an affinity to coming here for all things gaming/anime. I just remembered that it's a relatively small venue so seats would be okay sitting anywhere. Well this time around, we came fore "Whose Live Is It Anyway?" P A R K I N G We decided to park at San Carlos and 2nd St. one of the covered ParkSJ garages. It was about 2 blocks-ish away which wasn't too bad, but it was also pouring rain that day. There's an open air lot that's not owned by San Jose that's closer, but again it wasn't covered which is what we kind of liked at 2nd St. V E N U E Well I didn't realize but there was a line out the door as we all needed to go through 2 security lines then past that it was getting our tickets scanned. So that was unexpected as it was not as bad as TSA but only having two scanning machines was a bit unexpected and should've been communicated through the emails for the event to come a bit earlier for that. We were in the Balcony on the right side so we went up a couple sets of stairs. What was funny was folks were only utilizing one side of the stairs and crowding when the other side was completely empty. Guess who went on the other side? Yeah...well after the first set of stairs is the bathroom. Right side is women's and men's is on the waaaay on the other side. The bathrooms at least had a lot of stalls and I didn't have to wait at all the times I went to the bathroom. In the middle walkway looked like some concession sales. There is an elevator on the far right to go up and down if you're unable to go up stairs. There were two large screens on both sides of the stage. We did have a slightly obstructed view and couldn't really see the right side of the stage but it's ok. The only other thing was the acoustics in here were rough. You couldn't really hear too well. Seats are not great and tight in terms of leg room so for you tall folks, you'll have to side saddle. O V E R A L L Although it's a smaller venue, acoustics may be horrible on the side seats, but due to the convenience of this location to see events. It's not too bad.

    view from 202
    Jason A.

    Well, it has its history.... I haven't been back here since we had our grad year F.A.N.T.A.S.T.I.C.S. in 20XX, but the only thing that's changed is that it looks a lot smaller with a bunch of chairs on the floor vs a gang of teenagers dancing to Missy Elliott for a sketch. I overheard staff tell an attendee this place was built back in 1934 and it shows (in a good way). SJ Civic has those old cushy leather chairs where if you plop back down after letting someone pass to get to their seat, a puff of air shoots out on either side. It's fun. I'm back to attending another show by the end of the month. It'd be cool to survey it from balcony this time, but even Ticketmaster has their grubby hands on this venue's sales and switching.

    Kris G.

    Love going to the Civic, I wish there was more concerts I enjoyed that took place here. The old posters from previous events are such a time capsule. Didn't get any good here but the drinks were reasonable. It took a while to get through the line to get in but that could've been because of all the minors at the show, no offense. It was 98% minors who maybe hadn't been through the process of going through the lines. Everyone had an incredible time and the sound was awesome.

    Interior

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    3 months ago

    The seating is not very space-friendly; it is actually crammed, no elbow space, and not very comfy for the expensive price tickets

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    It's a lovely theatre and a great venue to see shows. Easy parking and great restaurants to eat at beforehand within walking distance.

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    Page 1 of 6

    Ask the Community - San Jose Civic

    Do they id?

    At the bar area? Yes.

    Can you eat in auditorium?

    I've seen people with drinks but not food

    I have a religious exemption and I will be getting tested prior to the event, but they're not specific on what my letter or note needs to say, just says my name? Can someone help me with this?

    "Negative COVID tests are not allowed to be used as a substitute for proof of vaccination unless they are accompanied by a religious or medical written exemption as outlined in the City of San Jose’s FAQs."… Read more

    If you have a mobile ticket do they just scan the ticket and go ? Or do they also ask for ID to be sure it matches the name on the ticket?

    They just scan the tickets

    Do they have coat check?

    Depends on the event, but most due not.

    What about handicapped parking?

    They did not have their own parking garage. Parking is available either next door at the Hyatt, across the street at the Hilton both of which have handicap parking. There is also the Convention Center Parking Garage that they list on their website… Read more

    View All 11 Questions

    Review Highlights - San Jose Civic

    Just this year I've seen the Pixies, Morrissey, Thievery Corporation and just this week, Judas Priest.

    Mentioned in 4 reviews

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    California Theatre

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    4.6(201 reviews)
    0.2 miDowntown

    California Theater is a gorgeous old historical theater with distinguishing beauty and exquisite…read moredetails. It's the type of place you go to where you spend just as much time ogling over the venue as you do the show itself! I went there for a film festival and loved it. The location is also pure perfection because it is within the same block as several restaurants and bars for those who want to grab a bite or drink before or after their show. The only (small) downside is finding parking. We parked in an outdoor lot 2 blocks away for $20. It is about the average rate for the area but still seems steep to me for a 2 hour show. *breathe* Trying to not sweat the small stuff, so I say pay for the steep parking and enjoy the gorgeous theater and watch a nice show! It will be worth the experience.

    Gorgeous theatre, nicely preserved, and a great place to see some theatre, music, opera, et al. I…read morevisited one night to see an opera, and really had a great time. Sure, it was nice that the opera was NOT nine hours long, but that's me. Your mileage may vary. The outside of the building blends in so well to its surroundings, you may not notice it at first. But, the California Theatre is easy to find, and perfect to walk to from parking or a restaurant. Even in the entrance way before you walk in (where there's the Box Office for will-call or day-of tickets), you see the elegance and grandeur that awaits. Still, there's nothing stuff about it at all. Every staff member or volunteer I encountered was helpful, friendly, and welcoming. There happened to be live music in the Lobby before and after the performance. Refreshments are found on each floor. We had Orchestra Seats. The opera looked and sounded crisp. The singing, the set, the orchestra, the costumes all radiated excitement and serious fun. This particular opera, by Bela Bartok, is rarely done and having some familiarity with the composer, I was excited to check it out. Very much enjoyed the opera, and the venue. If you are an SJSU student, ask about tickets and/or big discounts available at the Box Office.

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    California Theatre - California Theatre, San Jose

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    City Lights Theater Company - The cast of "Kinky Boots" (2023).

    City Lights Theater Company

    4.4(153 reviews)
    0.4 miDowntown

    I grew up attending the theater and I consider myself very lucky. Community Little Theater in…read moreAuburn, Maine is still around today. I had two brothers who both performed in the theater and one of them is still teaching theater arts now. I usually attend the Broadway musicals at the San Jose Performing Arts Center a couple of times every year and I go alone. John is not a fan of musicals. But he agreed to go to a play last year in SF with me and he enjoyed it. So, when we saw the synopsis of "Running After Shadows," we decided to check it out. The second I walked inside, City Lights Theater reminded me of those wonderful memories I had as a teenager at Community Little Theater. City Lights is smaller than I'm used to but I loved its compact, intimate space. Every seat seems to be a good one and comfortable as well! I loved that the manager spoke to the audience before the show and that they pick a non-profit to donate to that matches with the theme of the play. They also have a little get together after every performance. They have refreshments and you have the chance to talk to the actors. We didn't stay afterwards but maybe next time. John surprised me by wanting to get tickets for the next show. Maybe I can get him to try musicals one day...

    It's All an Act…read more Foreword: So, it turns out I kind of like plays. I mean, I recall enjoying watching theater friends perform at school and college back in the day, but I've never actually gone out to see a real live play with professional actors. Anyway, if you're on the fence about coming to see one, then you should definitely do it once. And if you really dig it, do it twice. :) OK, onto the review... The City Lights Theater Company has been supporting local actors and theater makers for forty-five years (ca. 1982) now, and have been in this space since 1991--despite a looming threat from developers... The Good: *Very small intimate venue of ±100 seat theater. There is no bad seat in the house, as even in the back row you still feel like you're practically front row. *Tickets are fairly inexpensive at ±$50-80/ea with season passes available. There's also afternoon matinee shows available for us old farts. *Staff was very friendly *They have a small snack bar and even serve wine *A chance to interact with the performers at the end of the show. *We watched "Running After Shadows" by Vincent Terrell Durham and it was excellent. Great story telling, fantastic acting, and it takes the crowd on a wild range of emotions. The Meh: *Street Parking only but it's free on the weekends. The Ugly: *They must start cutting onions in there at some point, cuz I swear my eyes started watering for no reason. That's right. No reason whatsoever. Conclusion: Intimate venue with great storytelling means a great time out by all. Good spot for a date nite or afternoon (see aforementioned "old farts" mention above).

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    City Lights Theater Company - They have a tradition of sharing treats and sips on stage w the cast after the production!

    They have a tradition of sharing treats and sips on stage w the cast after the production!

    City Lights Theater Company - Two of the four-person cast

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    City Lights Theater Company - Fabulous set for Jeffrey Lo's "Waiting for Next." Scenic designer Ron Gasparinetti.

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    3Below Theaters & Cafe - New releases!

    3Below Theaters & Cafe

    4.4(105 reviews)
    0.2 miDowntown

    So lucky to have one of the few indie theaters in the Bay Area, in San Jose…read more 3Below has excellent indie film curation. The customer service is superb. And the snack bar has reasonably priced goodies! The cherry on top? FREE VALIDATED PARKING FOR UP TO 3HRS!! I'll be seeing 3Below soon, again!

    Full disclosure, my friend put this place on my radar. I am a bit of a setting snob, and by this I…read moremean: give me leather seats, give me reclining chairs, and if my seat warmer isn't working, I'm going to be upset. But that's merely because life is uncomfortable and I am intentional about finding cozy pockets of joy. This theater is not updated with the fancy seats, but what it lacks in that it more than makes up in charm, service, and community cultivation. Visiting 3Below reminded me that venturing out of that corporate capitalist bubble of perceived coziness would put me in a vibrant hub of social awareness. This is where you go to see the Documentaries IG mentions, but no theaters seem to have times for. This is where you can catch live performances on the same stage that you'll watch a thought provoking film. And, as the manager/owner of the fiercest security dog I've encountered mentioned, THIS is where you could learn to tap dance. Now, I'm hoping this could be a location for some line dancing in the near future, because I think Sofa Streetfair could be the place for some of this, and 3Below seems the perfect hub for practicing. But, what a cute location, and I'm told it's locally owned, too. I didn't actually fact check that, so my apologies if I'm spreading misinformation here. I'm just doing my best to sell you on falling in love with this alternative theater as much as my friend has...I'm converted and I'll definitely be back.

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    Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts

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    4.0(46 reviews)
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    This is always such a great venue to come and see a show. It has an underground free parking…read moregarage. It's easily accessible if you have any mobility issues. The theater itself is very intimate and allows you a good seat no matter where you are. The staff is friendly and helpful. All shows from my experience, have been reasonably priced. Before the show grab something to eat, a cup of coffee, or even a glass of wine at the Bean Scene Cafe which is linked to the theater.

    Excellent location on Castro Street in downtown Mountain View. I come here for specific…read moreperformances each year. Spacious theater with plenty of spots to practice or do rehearsals before showtime. Staffs are great communicators and are always helpful. This place has been around forever and City Hall is a great place to gather or use public restrooms as well. Cafe is easily accessible next door. If you come here in December during the annual Christmas Tree Lighting event, you won't be disappointed. Colorful Christmas vibes everywhere. There's a good sized local park behind it and you can easily park on the streets which are all walking distance. Besides ballerinas and dancers, you get to watch singers, group choirs, and many more colorful entertainments on the outdoor stage area. Inside stage is usually reserved for larger popular shows. Yes, dressing room and areas for practicing before performance time is well set and they're usually on time moving groups in and out as scheduled. Love the backstage area and scenes. Good feeling inside and outside.

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    Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts
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    San Jose Civic - venues - Updated May 2026

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