About
The Arlington Theater is the venue to visit when your Central Coast getaway needs a movie premiere, live concert, or special performance.
The theater opened in 1931 when cinema in America flourished. The Arlington Theater quickly became one of the premier movie palaces in Santa Barbara. Its design reflects the luxury of the time, with intricate tile work and a majestic facade inspired by the Spanish Colonial Revival architecture.
When movie houses across the US struggled, The Arlington Theater adapted by offering live concerts ranging from Yo Yo Ma to Latino-inspired ensembles.
With a seating capacity of about 2,000, it creates an intimate experience and has exceptional acoustics. The theater features a unique outdoor plaza where guests mingle before showtime, blending California's beautiful weather with architectural charm.
Additionally, The Arlington Theater’s proximity to MOXI and The Funk Zone makes visiting various landmarks in a day doable.
Beyond its visual allure, The Arlington Theater has remained a cultural landmark, hosting diverse performances from mainstream films to renowned festivals like the Santa Barbara International Film Festival.
Visiting this iconic theater on your getaway is necessary for history, movie, and music buffs.
The Arlington Theater: Fun Facts & Cool Features
A cool feature is the ceiling, designed to resemble a night sky with twinkling stars. This enchanting effect enhances the experience and blends with the auditorium's architectural beauty.
The theater is famous for its massive stage, which has hosted prominent figures in music and film. The annual summer film series adds an extra layer of excitement, as audiences can enjoy outdoor screenings in a unique setting, combining cinema with Santa Barbara's delightful evening climate.
A fun fact is that it has been a meeting place for influential artists and filmmakers, often serving as a springboard for their careers. An example is the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, which attracts Hollywood's elite and world-renowned actors and producers.
Consider renting the theater if you have a special event or ceremony. The team at The Arlington Theatre has the expertise and creativity to ensure a seamless and professional event. With over 60+ years of experience producing stage shows at The Arlington, they are eager to bring your ideas to life.
The theater's central location makes it perfect for combining visits to other Santa Barbara landmarks. Before your show, consider exploring Old Mission Santa Barbara or grab a family-style, farm-to-table meal next door at Jane.
Patrons may also rent the marquee for promotional purposes and announcements. You could rent it to promote a family reunion, a wedding, or an anniversary. With 38 characters to work with, the communicative possibilities are almost limitless.
Visit The Arlington Theater on your Santa Barbara vacation to experience breathtaking architecture with an exciting lineup of events. Whether it's a classic film, a live concert, or a special event, the theater has something for everyone.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions to The Arlington Theater from Santa Barbara:
- Head southeast on State St toward E Cota St
- Turn left onto E Cota St
- Continue onto S Milpas St
- Turn right onto E Victoria St
- Merge onto US-101 S via the ramp to Los Angeles
- Take exit 96 for CA-192 W toward Mission
- Merge onto CA-192 W
- Continue onto E Cabrillo Blvd
- Turn left onto Anacapa St
- Turn right onto W Montecito St
- The Arlington Theater will be on your left
- Address: 1317 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Local Tips
- Book your tickets in advance to avoid sell-outs.
- The theater doesn't have air conditioning and can be stuffy in the summer.
- Arrive early to secure good parking near the venue.
- Days and times vary by event.
- Purchase tickets at the box office to save online fees.
