Located along the Hillsborough River in Downtown Tampa, the Straz Center for the Performing Arts is one of the largest performing arts centers in the southeastern United States. Featuring five performance venues on one campus, it hosts Broadway productions, concerts, opera, ballet, comedy, educational programs, and live performances throughout the year.
Whether you’re attending a Tony Award-winning Broadway musical, a symphony performance, a comedy show, or a special event, the Straz Center offers a memorable theater experience with beautiful waterfront views and easy access to Downtown Tampa’s restaurants, hotels, and attractions.
The Straz Center features five performance venues on one campus and welcomes hundreds of performances each year, making it one of the largest performing arts centers in the southeastern United States.
Quick Facts
- Best For: Broadway shows, theater, concerts, comedy, opera, ballet, and live performances
- Opened: 1987
- Campus: Five performance venues
- Known For: Broadway productions and performing arts
- Location: Downtown Tampa
What to Expect
- National touring Broadway productions
- Live theater performances
- Opera and ballet
- Symphony concerts
- Stand-up comedy performances
- Educational and community performances
- Beautiful waterfront setting along the Tampa Riverwalk
Why Visit the Straz Center?
The Straz Center brings nationally acclaimed productions and internationally recognized performers to Tampa throughout the year. From blockbuster Broadway musicals to intimate theater productions and live concerts, it offers something for nearly every performing arts fan without leaving Tampa.
Its scenic Downtown Tampa location also makes it easy to enjoy dinner, a waterfront stroll, or drinks before and after your performance.
Perfect For
- Broadway fans
- Theater lovers
- Date nights
- Couples
- Concertgoers
- Families attending select performances
Best Time to Visit
Plan to arrive at least 30 to 45 minutes before your performance to allow time for parking, finding your theater, and enjoying the venue before the show begins.
Visitor Tip
Many Broadway productions and popular performances sell out well in advance, so purchase tickets early and arrive 30 to 45 minutes before showtime to enjoy the venue without rushing to your seat.
Don’t Miss
- National touring Broadway productions
- The beautiful waterfront campus overlooking the Hillsborough River
- The spacious theater lobbies and gathering areas
- A pre-show stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk
Good to Know
- Mobile tickets are commonly used for entry.
- Late arrivals may be seated at an appropriate break in the performance.
- Photography and recording are generally prohibited during performances.
- Review the venue’s bag policy before arriving.
- Food and beverages are available at select performances.
- Accessibility services are available throughout the campus.
Hours
Performance times vary by event. The Straz Center campus also hosts classes, educational programs, and select daytime activities throughout the year.
Parking
On-site parking garages and nearby public parking are available for most performances. Purchasing parking in advance may help simplify your arrival for popular Broadway productions and special events.
Nearby Things to Do
The Straz Center is located along the Tampa Riverwalk near Henry B. Plant Museum, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, Tampa Museum of Art, and numerous Downtown Tampa restaurants, hotels, and waterfront attractions.