Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts

The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts is a cultural cornerstone in Center City West, hosting world-class performances in music, dance, and theater. Designed by architect Rafael Viñoly, its iconic glass-vaulted lobby, the Commonwealth Plaza, creates an airy, light-filled space that feels like an indoor piazza. The center houses several venues, including Verizon Hall (with its vineyard-style seating and advanced acoustics) and the intimate Perelman Theater. Visitors can attend a Philadelphia Orchestra concert, catch a Broadway tour, or simply explore the public spaces. The center is part of the Avenue of the Arts, a vibrant stretch of Broad Street lined with cultural institutions. Its location near City Hall and the Academy of Music makes it a hub for arts lovers. Even without a ticket, the architecture and free lobby concerts offer a memorable experience.

Don't miss

• Verizon Hall's vineyard-style seating and superb acoustics
• The soaring glass-vaulted Commonwealth Plaza
• Free lobby concerts and events (check schedule)
• Pre-show dining at the on-site restaurant, The Kimmel Center Cafe
• Guided architecture tours (offered select days)

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts

Cheapest way inHistoric Sites of Philadelphia Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour4.5★ · 30 travelers1–2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$9 per personSee dates →Most bookedDark Philly Adult Night Tour4.9★ · 4,433 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$38 per personSee dates →Top ratedWalking Tour of Historic Philadelphia5★ · 121 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$25 per personSee dates →

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How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• Arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime to enjoy the lobby and find your seat.
• Dress code is smart casual; no strict rules but many dress up for evening performances.
• Photography is allowed in the lobby but not during performances.
• Dine at the Kimmel Center Cafe or nearby restaurants on Broad Street before the show.

A bit of history

Opened in 2001, the Kimmel Center was built to replace the Academy of Music as the primary home of the Philadelphia Orchestra. It was named after philanthropist Sidney Kimmel, who donated $25 million. The design faced delays and budget overruns but ultimately became a symbol of Philadelphia's cultural renaissance.