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Step inside some of San Francisco’s most historic concert venues and civic buildings on a behind-the-scenes tour of the War Memorial and Performing Arts Center, right in the heart of the city.
The War Memorial and Performing Arts Center is home to three landmark buildings: the Veterans Building, War Memorial Opera House, and Louise M. Davies Symphony Hall. Each has its own unique character—and countless stories that have helped shape the cultural history of San Francisco. Along the way, you’ll discover the people, performances, and moments that brought these remarkable spaces to life.
We’ll explore all three buildings, with stops in performance spaces and backstage areas that are not typically open to the public. Depending on the performance schedule, access to certain spaces may vary, but every tour offers a unique glimpse behind the curtain.
The tour lasts approximately 1½ to 2 hours and begins in the Veterans Building Lobby at 401 Van Ness Avenue. We’ll make our way through the complex before concluding at Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Avenue.
Come explore the architecture, history, and stories behind the stages where San Francisco has gathered, celebrated, and made music for generations.
Tickets are $10.
Join us for a 90-minute immersive guided tour that brings the story of this iconic landmark to life, from its glamorous beginnings to its remarkable restoration. This is more than a tour, it’s a journey through time, craftsmanship, and community passion.
What You’ll Experience: the fascinating history of the Plaza Theatre and its role in Palm Springs culture; the inspiring story behind the Plaza Theatre Foundation’s restoration efforts; rare access to every corner of the theatre, including: the stunning auditorium and balcony; all Backstage areas normally off-limits to the public; the brand-new green room for performers; dressing rooms where talent prepares to take the stage.
Special Guest Speakers: Board Vice Chair Kevin J. Corcoran and Board Historian Jim Cook.
Join us for a 90-minute immersive guided tour that brings the story of this iconic landmark to life, from its glamorous beginnings to its remarkable restoration. This is more than a tour, it’s a journey through time, craftsmanship, and community passion.
What You’ll Experience: the fascinating history of the Plaza Theatre and its role in Palm Springs culture; the inspiring story behind the Plaza Theatre Foundation’s restoration efforts; rare access to every corner of the theatre, including: the stunning auditorium and balcony; all Backstage areas normally off-limits to the public; the brand-new green room for performers; dressing rooms where talent prepares to take the stage.
Special Guest Speakers: Board Vice Chair Kevin J. Corcoran and Board Historian Jim Cook.
Step inside some of San Francisco’s most historic concert venues and civic buildings on a behind-the-scenes tour of the War Memorial and Performing Arts Center, right in the heart of the city.
The War Memorial and Performing Arts Center is home to three landmark buildings: the Veterans Building, War Memorial Opera House, and Louise M. Davies Symphony Hall. Each has its own unique character—and countless stories that have helped shape the cultural history of San Francisco. Along the way, you’ll discover the people, performances, and moments that brought these remarkable spaces to life.
We’ll explore all three buildings, with stops in performance spaces and backstage areas that are not typically open to the public. Depending on the performance schedule, access to certain spaces may vary, but every tour offers a unique glimpse behind the curtain.
The tour lasts approximately 1½ to 2 hours and begins in the Veterans Building Lobby at 401 Van Ness Avenue. We’ll make our way through the complex before concluding at Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Avenue.
Come explore the architecture, history, and stories behind the stages where San Francisco has gathered, celebrated, and made music for generations.
Tickets are $10.
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Text copyright © 2017-2026 Mike Hume / Historic Theatre Photos.
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