Arlington Theatre | Santa Barbara

Information

Landmark: Arlington Theatre
City: Santa Barbara
Country: USA California
Continent: North America

Arlington Theatre, Santa Barbara, USA California, North America

The Arlington Theatre is a historic movie palace located in Santa Barbara, California. It serves as a primary venue for film screenings, live performances, and community events.

Visual Characteristics

The theatre's exterior features Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. The facade is constructed of stucco and red tile roofing. A prominent central tower with arched windows and decorative detailing dominates the front elevation. The interior auditorium is designed with ornate plasterwork, a proscenium arch, and a large screen. Seating capacity is approximately 2,000.

Location & Access Logistics

The Arlington Theatre is situated at 1317 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, in the downtown area. It is approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) from the waterfront. Public parking is available in the adjacent city garage, accessible from Chapala Street and Anapamu Street. Several MTD bus lines, including routes 2, 3, 4, and 11, stop within a block of the theatre on State Street.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The original structure on the site was built in 1931, designed by architects Weeks and Day. It was originally intended as a vaudeville house and movie palace. The building has undergone several renovations and restorations throughout its history, most notably in the late 1970s and early 2000s, to preserve its architectural integrity and update its technical capabilities.

Key Highlights & Activities

The theatre hosts a regular schedule of film screenings, including independent films and special engagements. It is also a venue for live performances such as concerts, theatrical productions, and dance recitals. The annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival utilizes the Arlington Theatre as its primary venue.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the theatre. Limited concessions are sold inside. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the building. No outdoor shade structures are present directly at the entrance. Food vendors and restaurants are abundant along State Street in the immediate vicinity.

Best Time to Visit

For film screenings, check the theatre's schedule for specific showtimes. For live performances, event start times vary. The best time of day for exterior photography is typically late afternoon when the sun illuminates the facade. Weather in Santa Barbara is generally mild year-round, with the driest months being June through September.

Facts & Legends

The theatre's original organ, a Wurlitzer, is still maintained and occasionally played before select screenings, providing a historical auditory experience.