Ordway Center for the Performing Arts | Saint Paul

The Ordway Center for the Performing Arts is a multi-disciplinary performing arts venue located in downtown Saint Paul, Minnesota.

It hosts a variety of professional productions, including Broadway tours, opera, ballet, and concerts.

Visual Characteristics

The Ordway features a modern architectural design with a facade primarily constructed of limestone and glass. The main theater hall has a seating capacity of 1,900. The building's exterior is characterized by clean lines and a prominent glass atrium that allows natural light into the lobby spaces.

Location & Access Logistics

The Ordway Center is situated at 345 Washington Street, Saint Paul, MN 55102, approximately 0.5km West of the Mississippi River. It is accessible via Interstate 94, taking the exit for downtown Saint Paul. Parking is available in several nearby parking garages, including the Lawson Ramp and the RiverCentre Ramp. Public transportation options include Metro Transit bus routes that serve the downtown area, with stops located within a two-block radius of the center.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Ordway Center was designed by architect Benjamin Thompson and opened in 1985. It was funded through a significant donation from John Ordway and his wife, Margaret, with the intention of creating a premier performing arts venue for the Twin Cities region. The site was previously occupied by commercial buildings.

Key Highlights & Activities

Attend scheduled Broadway touring productions. Experience performances by the Minnesota Opera and The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra. View touring dance companies and musical artists. Participate in educational programs and workshops offered by the center.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on all levels of the facility. Limited seating areas provide shade within the lobby. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the building. Food and beverage concessions are located within the lobby and at designated points within the theater.

Best Time to Visit

Performance schedules vary throughout the year, with the main season typically running from September through June. Evening performances are most common. Matinee performances are often scheduled on weekends.

Facts & Legends

The Ordway Center's construction involved the relocation of a historic building, the former St. Paul City Hall, which was moved 150 feet to the west to accommodate the new facility. This was a significant engineering feat at the time of construction.

Nearby Landmarks

• Science Museum of Minnesota (0.2km East)
• Landmark Center (0.3km Northwest)
• Xcel Energy Center (0.6km Southwest)
• Minnesota State Capitol Building (0.7km North)
• Cathedral of Saint Paul (0.9km Northwest)