About Uptown Theater
The Uptown Theater in Kansas City (3700 Broadway Blvd) is a historic indoor concert venue, originally built in 1928 as a grand movie palace. It was once a 2,300-seat atmospheric theater designed to look like a Mediterranean courtyard – complete with classical arches, glittering stars in the ceiling, clouds drifting overhead, and even mechanical birds (cinematreasures.org ). Today it seats roughly 1,700–1,800 people (about 500 fewer than the original 2,300) due to a later renovation (cinematreasures.org ). The Uptown’s ornate Italian Renaissance architecture and “starry sky” design (by famed theater architect John Eberson) make it unique. In fact it earned listing on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 (uptowntheater.com ) and is still noted as one of the few remaining atmospheric movie palaces in America (uptowntheater.com ) (www.ccbfinancial.com ). An industry poll ranked the Uptown among the top 100 concert theaters worldwide (around #82) (uptowntheater.com ), reflecting its importance in Kansas City’s live music scene. Signature design features – from the palace-style facade to marble lobby details – give it an “old-school, gaudy” ambience (www.tripadvisor.in ). (One long-time owner described the interior as intended to feel like an outdoor garden in a Mediterranean villa, with fountains and trellises along the sides (www.ccbfinancial.com ).) All of these historic touches – plus modern lighting and sound – help make Uptown Theater a beloved local landmark.
Events and Programming
The Uptown Theater hosts a wide variety of live events. Music concerts are the norm, spanning genres from indie and alt-rock to country, metal, hip-hop, and pop. National and regional touring bands and singers regularly play here – for example the indie band Band of Horses (Feb 2024) (www.concertarchives.org ), folk-rockers LANY, and country act Russell Dickerson (in a sold-out Nov 2023 show) (uptowntheater.com ). In recent years it has also seen rap and pop artists (Lil Tecca, NLE Choppa, etc.) and punk and metal bands (e.g. GBH, Kublai Khan TX) on its stage. The theater also books stand-up comedy, storytelling shows and specialty events – for instance, a paid “1313 Evil Dead” Halloween concert/party (uptowntheater.com ) and podcast tapings like The Dollop (uptowntheater.com ). On any given month there may be a half dozen to a dozen events; in 2024 one schedule shows over 140 concerts at Uptown (www.concertarchives.org ). Regular programming includes all-ages rock and country shows, plus occasional adult-oriented or 18+ comedy nights. Notable past events include the world premiere of the film “Stormy Weather” in 1943 (cinematreasures.org ) and Kansas City acts like The Get Up Kids (who played a 2005 farewell concert here) (uptowntheater.com ). Ticket prices vary widely: small local acts might be $20–40, mid-level touring bands $40–70, and larger headliners or dance events can exceed $80–100. (For example, recent gig listings show tickets “from $59” for a Bingo Loco event and “from $113” for an electronic music act (seatgeek.com ).) Festivals or multi-act bills are rare due to the indoor space, but themed nights (tribute bands, holiday shows, etc.) are common.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets are sold through the venue’s authorized box office and official ticket partner. In person, the Uptown box office is on the 3rd floor at 3700 Broadway (enter at the front marquee) and accepts credit/debit cards only (uptowntheater.com ). (A cashier window opens about 30 minutes before showtime for last-minute sales; that window takes cash or card (uptowntheater.com ).) On sale dates and times are announced by promoters or on music news outlets – popular shows often sell out quickly. For big tours, tickets usually go on sale weeks or months in advance. Avoid third-party resellers, as the venue only guarantees entry for tickets bought from its box office or official channels (uptowntheater.com ). As a general rule, arrive early or buy online in advance for high-demand gigs. Some shows allow ticket transfers via the official ticket vendor (check for any individual event notices). If you need will-call tickets, they are picked up at the same box-office window 30 minutes before the show (uptowntheater.com ).
Seating and Layout
The Uptown has a classic theater layout: a raised balcony with fixed seating, plus a main floor that splits between seated and open areas. Permanent cushioned seats occupy the balcony and the rear half of the orchestra (main floor). Reviews note these original-style seats are padded and even have cupholders (www.tripadvisor.in ). The front half of the main floor is typically opened up for flexible use – for example, placing folding tables and chairs for dinner shows or simply leaving it as a standing-room (general admission) pit for concerts (uptowntheater.com ). In reserved-seat shows, you may see extra temporary rows of chairs placed on the floor, though sightlines can be an issue if those in front stand up (www.tripadvisor.in ). In general-admission shows there are no assigned seats on the floor – the ticket will still show a “row/seat” but that is only for scanning, not actual seating (www.kctheater.net ). Best seats depend on your style: the balcony offers a full-audience view under the atmospheric ceiling, while die-hard fans often stand up front on the floor. (One reviewer praised the balcony chairs as “best movable seating” they’ve seen (www.tripadvisor.in ).) Be aware that very front-floor spots can be crowded: reviewers have noted tall people and standing crowds can block the view from the first fixed row (www.tripadvisor.in ). If you have trouble with standing on sold-out nights, early arrival can help secure a good vantage point. The theater’s acoustics are powerful – many find the house PA very loud (so much so that earplugs are sometimes recommended (www.tripadvisor.in )) – but sound quality is generally praised. For those wanting a quieter seat, the balcony or back seating zone is less boomy than right near the stage. Wheelchair-accessible seating is provided on the main floor: by request, seats in row M (front of the fixed seating section) can be removed for wheelchairs (uptowntheater.com ). Keep in mind the upstairs balcony is all reached by stairs only (uptowntheater.com ), so guests needing elevators should stay on the orchestra level.
Getting There and Parking
The Uptown Theater’s address is 3700 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64111 (www.tripadvisor.in ), located on Broadway between 38th and 39th streets. By car, it’s just off I-35 (use the 39th Street exit) and easy to reach from downtown or the Country Club Plaza area. Parking on-site is very limited: the original Uptown lot was redeveloped, so attendees must use nearby public lots or street parking. Close options include the Uptown Shoppes lot (3600 Broadway, just north of the main theater entrance) and the Salvation Army lot (3637 Broadway) (www.kctheater.net ). A third lot at 3625 Broadway may sometimes issue temporary parking passes to concertgoers (www.kctheater.net ). Otherwise street parking is available on adjacent blocks, but spaces fill up fast and neighbors may complain. Reviewers have warned that “street parking has] gotten better” with area improvements, but many still prefer rideshare to avoid hunting for a spot ([www.tripadvisor.in ). (One recent comment bluntly called parking “a nightmare” because the dedicated lot was sold off (www.tripadvisor.in ).) For budget parking and short shows, a Walgreens lot about a 10-minute walk north offers two hours free (en.parkopedia.com ), but beyond that you’ll likely need a paid garage. The Country Club Plaza (one mile south) has many garages and paid lots for longer events.
Public transit: KC’s RideKC buses serve the Uptown area. Route 39 (39th Street line) stops on Broadway just a block from the theater (transitapp.com ). Route 47 (Broadway) also runs nearby. There is no direct light-rail or streetcar stop at Uptown (the KC Streetcar Main Line reaches only downtown), so buses or shuttles are the city option. Check RideKC schedules for any service changes.Rideshare/Dropoff: For Uber/Lyft or taxi, instruct drivers to use Broadway & 39th (near the front marquee) or Broadway & 38th. Rideshare drop-offs there drop you right at the theater entrance.
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival you’ll pass through security. Metal detectors are sometimes set up on the sidewalk to speed checks (www.tripadvisor.in ). A clear list of banned items is enforced: no outside food or drink (water bottles, snacks, etc.) and no large bags or backpacks (www.kctheater.net ). Also prohibited are anything that could record video or photos (professional cameras with removable lenses, GoPros, iPads, etc.) as well as signs, laser pointers, and weapons of any kind (www.kctheater.net ). Wallets, keys and phones are fine. Expect staff to search bags if you bring them. Once inside, the lobby retains the vintage style – ornate plasterwork, columns and statues – that reviewers call a “fun, gaudy old theater” (www.tripadvisor.in ). There are bars and concession stands: one main bar in the front lobby and a second bar/stand near the side hallway by the restrooms (www.tripadvisor.in ). These serve beer, wine, cocktails and light snacks; credit cards are accepted at bars. Merchandise tables are often setup by the entry or side lobby for touring acts, so you can usually buy event T-shirts or CDs (one visitor noted “our show included a merchandise table” (www.tripadvisor.in )). Restrooms are located in the side lobbies (one reviewer described the bar as being “in the lobby and another in a side lobby near the restrooms” (www.tripadvisor.in )). Coat check service is not clearly advertised, so if needed plan to carry only an easily managed bag. The theater feels kept up and well-lit: modern lighting (like the arched colored sconces) highlights the ceiling detail at showtime, and the balcony overlooks the full house. Ushers are usually on hand to help find seats and answer questions; one review praised them as “plenty of friendly ushers” to guide people (www.tripadvisor.in ). Note that re-entry is not allowed (except a special smoking exit); if you step outside you must stay out until the show ends. Lastly, cell phone reception is generally good, but be prepared for large crowds – you may want to turn phones on silent to enjoy the performance. The sound system is very loud – one guest suggested earplugs or noise-controlling earbuds for sensitive ears (www.tripadvisor.in ).
Nearby Amenities
The Uptown lies in a lively part of Kansas City. For pre- or post-show meals, the immediate 39th Street/Westport road area has many casual eateries. Within a block or two you’ll find Peking Chinese Restaurant, Crazy Crab and Krab Kingz (seafood joints), Hamburger Mary’s (burger bar), and Mon Lasha (Korean BBQ). A vegetarian-friendly Vietnamese-French bistro called iPho Tower is also very close (www.tripadvisor.in ). These are mostly quick-service or informal dining spots. For a sit-down dinner, the nearby Crossroads Arts District (east of Broadway, about 0.5 mile) and the Country Club Plaza (just south) offer upscale restaurants ranging from steakhouses to international cuisine. If you only need coffee or light fare, Monarch Coffee is less than 0.2 miles away (www.tripadvisor.in ).
Hotels: There are no large hotels immediately next to Uptown, but the Westport entertainment district is about a 10-minute walk north. The Hotel Westport (Tapestry Collection by Hilton) at 801 Westport Rd (~0.7 mi north) is a popular choice. The Country Club Plaza hotels (like Marriott Kansas City Plaza or AC Hotel) are about 1.5–2 miles south for those with cars. Many downtown KC hotels are also within 2 miles to the east if you want central lodging.When to arrive: We recommend getting there at least 30–45 minutes before showtime. Doors often open ~60 minutes before the scheduled start (www.kctheater.net ), and arriving early gives you time to park and clear security without rushing. It also lets merch tables open for you. Bear in mind that Westport Road traffic and local street parking can be busy on weekend evenings, so allow extra travel time.Late-night transport: If your show ends late, rideshare and taxis are plentiful, especially near Westport and downtown. Parking spots may become even scarcer after the show, so plan your departure in advance. People often walk a block or two to waiting Ubers or nearby bars rather than navigate streets immediately when shows end.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Uptown is special because of its rich history and unique atmosphere. Architecturally, it’s one of the few remaining “atmospheric” movie palaces in the Midwest, a concept popular in the 1920s. As one former owner vividly described, the design goal was to “feel like you’re in an outdoor garden” – guests look up to a sky-like ceiling with miniature twinkling lights, drifting (fake) clouds, and even had mechanical birds in the original design (www.ccbfinancial.com ). Ornate details such as fountains, statues and trellises were intended to make you feel outdoors even while indoors. Much of this decor survives today thanks to the 1990s restoration. Culturally, Uptown has long been a Kansas City landmark. When it opened in 1928, it was considered the city’s premier entertainment spot, the first big-class theater built outside the downtown core (www.ccbfinancial.com ) (www.ccbfinancial.com ). Owners at the time highlighted its ample parking and streetcar access as a major benefit – a novelty compared to cramped downtown venues (www.ccbfinancial.com ). Although it started as a movie palace (with premieres like the Hollywood film “Stormy Weather” in 1943 (cinematreasures.org )), its modern life as a concert hall has cemented its local legacy. Pollstar magazine even ranks Uptown in the top 100 concert halls worldwide (uptowntheater.com ), a testament to its stature. Long-time Kansas Citians recall famous shows here: for example, the city’s own indie band The Get Up Kids played a memorable farewell concert at Uptown in 2005 (uptowntheater.com ). The combination of historic decor, a grand marquee on Broadway, and an up-to-date sound system makes both audiences and performers love it. In short, Uptown Theater is special because it preserves 1920s movie-palace charm while serving as one of Kansas City’s premier live-music venues (uptowntheater.com ) (www.ccbfinancial.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main floor of the Uptown is fully wheelchair-accessible. Reserved ADA seating is available by removing seats in row M on the orchestra level (uptowntheater.com ), and there is an ADA-designated standing spot on the left side of the floor near the stage during GA events (uptowntheater.com ). Remember the balcony is only reachable by stairs (uptowntheater.com ), so guests with limited mobility should remain on the ground floor. Ushers and staff will assist if needed, so speak to someone when you arrive if you require accommodations.
What to bring/not bring: Pack light. Inside the venue, small purses or bags are allowed but may be searched; large backpacks or duffels are banned (www.kctheater.net ). Bring valid photo ID if you plan to drink alcohol. Cell phones and pocket cameras are fine (you are allowed to take casual photos or videos for personal use), but professional gear or video recording devices are not allowed (www.kctheater.net ). Check the weather – Broadway is uncovered if you’re lining up outside. Earplugs can be wise for loud concerts, as one fan noted the sound was “more than loud enough” (www.tripadvisor.in ). The venue is cool in winter but can get warm when crowded, so dress in layers to stay comfortable. You may also want to avoid bringing electronics that are irreplaceable in case they fall in a crowd.
Common mistakes to avoid: One frequent tip is to arrive early for GA shows. General-admission tickets are first-come, first-served, and “seat” numbers printed on those tickets do not reserve actual seats (www.kctheater.net ). If you have GA, line up well before doors open (doors are usually about an hour prior to showtime (www.kctheater.net )) so you can get a good spot. Avoid waiting until the last minute for parking – reviewers say it’s often better to take Lyft/uber than circle in the dark residential streets (www.tripadvisor.in ) (www.tripadvisor.in ). Another tip: Since the Uptown is a non-smoking venue, use the designated smoking exit (south side of main bar) if needed; note that door is one-way (you can go out to smoke but not re-enter that way). Finally, be respectful of the historic interior – for instance, do not step on stair railings or damage any fixtures.
Age restrictions: Most events are all-ages unless advertised otherwise. (Check each event listing, but many shows like modern concerts or family-friendly acts admit kids.) Drinking is bar-area only, and patrons must be 21+ with ID to purchase alcohol.
Tickets and timing: Doors generally open one hour before showtime (www.kctheater.net ). Plan to pick up or print your tickets before then. At a 7pm doors/8pm show example (as listed for Band of Horses) (uptowntheater.com ), arriving around 6:30pm would be prudent to avoid lines. If you’ve bought online, have your digital ticket ready on your phone or printed. At the door and box office, credit/debit cards are preferred; remember the box office does not accept cash outside of the moment-before-window sale (uptowntheater.com ).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I buy tickets for events at Uptown Theater?
Tickets are sold through the venue’s official outlets. You can purchase them in person at the Uptown box office (located at 3700 Broadway, 3rd floor) using credit/debit cards (uptowntheater.com ). On show nights a windows opens ~30 minutes before doors, where you can buy any remaining tickets with cash or card (uptowntheater.com ). Online, use only authorized sellers (the theater warns against third-party resellers) (uptowntheater.com ). To avoid sell-outs, buy early or line up before shows for any available door sales.
What are the ticket price ranges?
Prices vary with the act and seating. Small local shows might start around $20–30, while bigger touring acts or special events can range higher. For example, a recent dance event at Uptown had tickets “from $59” (seatgeek.com ), and an electronic music show started around $113 (seatgeek.com ). Typical concerts often fall in the $40–80 range, but always check each event listing since pricing differs per artist.
Is there a box office at the venue?
Yes. The Uptown Theater’s box office is on-site at 3700 Broadway (the theater’s address) on the 3rd floor of the building. It is usually open on show nights (starting about 30 minutes before doors open) (uptowntheater.com ). Note that the box office inside only takes cards – it does not accept cash except at the late-night window sale (uptowntheater.com ). Outside of show times the office may be closed, so for most purchases rely on online/phone sales or get in line at the door sale.
Can I buy tickets at the door after the show has started?
Continuing sales after doors open is rare, especially for sold-out shows. Typically the ticket window closes at or shortly after showtime. Your best bet is to arrive before doors open (often 30–60 minutes prior) to purchase remaining tickets. If the show isn’t sold out, you may get a last-minute ticket right at the door up until the performance begins. But if it’s already “Sold Out” online, chances are door tickets are gone too.
What is the seating layout and where are the best spots?
The Uptown has a balcony (fixed cushioned seats) and an orchestra floor area. The seating in the balcony and rear floor are fixed theater seats (reviewers say they’re cushioned and have cupholders (www.tripadvisor.in )). The front of the floor is often left open for general admission or table seating (uptowntheater.com ). For a comfortable view, balcony seats are good (they overlook the stage), while hardcore fans may prefer front-floor standing for the closest view. If you choose a row on the floor, be aware that people standing can block short sightlines in very crowded shows (www.tripadvisor.in ). In general, middle rows (balcony or floor) give a balanced sound and view. For GA events, the printed ticket rows aren’t seats – it’s first-come, first-serve on the floor (www.kctheater.net ). Because the sound is loud, some fans bring earplugs (the house system is powerful (www.tripadvisor.in )).
Are there premium or VIP seating areas?
The Uptown generally does not have a separate “VIP” section like larger arenas. Seating is either general admission (first-come standing) or reserved theater seats. Occasionally special ticket options might be sold (for example, a rail or premium seating), but it’s not a standard feature. Always check the event details – if VIP tickets exist they will be advertised on that show’s listing. Otherwise, expect standard admission or balcony seats.
What is the exact address of Uptown Theater?
The Uptown Theater’s address is 3700 Broadway Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64111 (www.tripadvisor.in ). It is located on Broadway at the corner of 38th/39th Street. For GPS or map apps, entering “3700 Broadway, Kansas City” will take you to the building.
What parking is available and how much does it cost?
The Uptown itself has no large parking lot. Nearby public options include the Uptown Shoppes lot at 3600 Broadway (northern block) and the Salvation Army lot (3637 Broadway) (www.kctheater.net ). A small lot at 3625 Broadway may issue temporary passes on event nights (www.kctheater.net ). Otherwise, on-street parking is available along nearby blocks (metered or free depending on street), but it can be very limited on busy nights (some locals call street parking “hard” or a “nightmare” after the original lot closed (www.tripadvisor.in )). If your event is under 2 hours, a Walgreens lot about 0.5mi north offers 2-hour free parking (en.parkopedia.com ). For longer events you may need to pay in a downtown or Plaza garage. Plan to arrive early, and consider rideshare (Lyft/Uber) if you want to avoid parking stress (www.tripadvisor.in ) (www.tripadvisor.in ).
Is there public transit to Uptown Theater?
Yes, by bus. RideKC’s Route 39 (the 39th Street line) runs east-west along 39th Street; its Broadway/39th stop is a short walk north of the theater (transitapp.com ). The north-south Route 47 (Broadway/I-35) also stops near 39th and Meyer, about one block away. (Kansas City’s streetcar line does not reach Uptown.) In other words, the Uptown is reachable by public transit from downtown or cross-town via one of those bus lines. Always check the current RideKC schedules, as routes can change.
Where is the best place to get dropped off by a taxi or rideshare?
The easiest drop-off point is on Broadway at the theater entrance. Have your driver let you out on Broadway around 38th or 39th Street. This puts you right in the theater’s front doors zone. Alternatively, Broadway & 39th or Broadway & 38th both work. Just be aware Broadway is busy on event nights, so tell the driver to pull over carefully. Never block traffic lanes, and then walk across Broadway to the main doors.
Can I bring my camera or video equipment inside?
You may use a smartphone or small point-and-shoot camera, but professional gear is not allowed. The theater strictly bans professional cameras (the kind with detachable lenses), camcorders, tablets/iPads, GoPros, or any recording devices (www.kctheater.net ). If you just want snapshots or phone videos for personal use, that’s fine. No photography policies specific to one show may override this, so check the artist’s rules (but basic phone pics are generally acceptable). Flash photography is discouraged during performances as a courtesy to performers and other guests.
Do I need to arrive very early for entry or might I miss anything?
It’s wise to arrive early. Doors usually open about 60 minutes before showtime (www.kctheater.net ). Arriving at least 30–45 minutes early helps you find parking, clear security, and pick up any tickets or merch without rushing. For general-admission events, earlier arrival secures a better position near the stage (since it’s first-come, first-served and ticket “rows” aren’t fixed seats (www.kctheater.net )). If you arrive at showtime, you risk longer lines at security or missing support acts. In short, getting there early makes the experience smoother.
Is the Uptown Theater wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entire orchestra (main floor) level is wheelchair accessible. The venue provides ADA-designated spots by removing seats in row M on the floor (uptowntheater.com ). For general-admission shows, an ADA section is available on the left side of the main floor near the stage (uptowntheater.com ). Unfortunately the balcony can only be reached via stairs (uptowntheater.com ), so if you need an elevator, keep to the ground-floor areas. Staff and ushers are trained to assist wheelchair patrons – just let an usher know when you arrive. Also, the restrooms have at least some accessible stalls.
Can I bring food or drink from outside?
No. The Uptown does not allow outside food or beverages inside the theater (www.kctheater.net ). You’ll have the chance to buy snacks and drinks (including beer and wine) at the concession stands and bars inside the venue. This is common for most concert halls, as it helps keep the historic interior clean and supports the theater’s food services. So plan accordingly and leave any snacks or drinks in your car or at home.
Does the Uptown Theater have a coat check?
The Uptown Theater does not widely advertise a formal coat check service the way some larger theaters do. For smaller items, it’s best to carry them with you or keep them in your pockets if possible. If you have a heavy coat or bag you want stored, ask an usher – they may be able to hold it backstage temporarily, but this is handled on a case-by-case basis. (In any event, avoid bringing large bags that might be prohibited (www.kctheater.net ).)
Are there age restrictions for concerts?
Most Uptown shows are all-ages by default, meaning anyone can attend with a ticket. Occasionally an event (especially late-night dance or adult comedy) might be restricted to 18+ or 21+. Always check the specific event listing. If your ticket is all-ages, anyone can enter. If it’s 18+ or 21+, you’ll need valid ID at the door. Note that to buy alcohol at the venue bars, you must be 21+. Staff will check IDs for anyone who looks underage when purchasing liquor or beer.
