What is the Paramount Theatre and where is it located?

The Paramount Theatre is a historic live theatre and movie venue located at 713 Congress Avenue in downtown Austin, Texas.

When was the Paramount Theatre built and what is its history?

The classical revival style structure was built in 1915 and originally opened as a vaudeville venue called The Majestic. It was renamed the Paramount Theatre in 1930 after being purchased by Karl Hoblitzelle, and was later listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

What kind of events can you see at the Paramount Theatre today?

The theatre hosts a variety of entertainment, including plays, musicians, comedians, and feature films. It is also well known as one of the featured venues for the South by Southwest festival.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

Paramount Theatre in Austin

Paramount Theatre

Located at 713 Congress Avenue, the historic Paramount Theatre is a classical revival landmark built in 1915. It hosts world-class live performances, movies, and major festivals in downtown Austin.

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What to know

The historic Paramount Theatre, officially known as the Paramount Theatre for the Performing Arts, has stood proudly at 713 Congress Avenue for more than 100 years. Built in 1915, this classical revival style structure serves as a timeless testament to downtown Austin's deep commitment to historic preservation. Its elegant facade makes it an eye-catching landmark for anyone strolling through the heart of the city. The venue originally opened its doors in 1915 as The Majestic, serving as a popular stage for the trendy vaudeville acts of the day. Its identity shifted in 1930 when Karl Hoblitzelle purchased the property. He renamed it the Paramount Theatre, a move that permanently solidified its place in Austin's cultural history and ushered in a new era of cinema and live performance. Throughout its rich history, the theatre has hosted a wide variety of acts, ranging from vaudeville and musicals to legitimate theatre and feature films. One of its most famous cinematic milestones occurred in 1966, when the theatre hosted the world premiere of the Batman movie. Today, the venue continues to thrive by hosting plays, live musicians, comedians, and films. It is also celebrated as one of the premier featured venues for the annual South by Southwest festival, drawing global crowds to its historic auditorium. The building's architectural and cultural importance was officially recognized on June 23, 1976, when it was listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Today, the venue is carefully maintained by The Paramount and State Theatres organization. Capital improvements for the historic structure are supported in part by Heritage Preservation Grants from Austin Arts, Culture, Music, & Entertainment, ensuring this downtown treasure continues to shine for future generations of theatergoers.

Visitor tips

Check the event calendar in advance to book tickets for plays, musicians, comedians, or films.
If visiting during March, look out for special festival screenings as it is a featured venue for South by Southwest.
Stop by 713 Congress Avenue to photograph the historic classical revival facade and marquee.

Nearby context

Located in the heart of downtown Austin on Congress Avenue, the Paramount Theatre is surrounded by other historic and cultural landmarks. Just a short walk away, you can explore contemporary art at The Contemporary Austin or visit the historic site of Jesse Driskill’s original hotel, making this block a perfect starting point for diving into the city's rich artistic and pioneer heritage.

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