How Old Is the Fox Theatre in Atlanta? A Local’s Guide to Its Age and History

The Fox Theatre in Atlanta is nearly a century old. The building first opened to the public in December 1929, which makes the Fox about 95 years old as of 2024.

But when Atlantans ask, “How old is the Fox Theatre?” they’re usually also curious about how it started, what it’s been through, and why it’s such a big deal locally. Here’s what to know.

Quick Facts: Age and Key Dates of the Fox Theatre

A Brief History of the Fox Theatre in Atlanta

How the Fox Theatre Began

The Fox Theatre wasn’t originally planned as just a theater. It began in the 1920s as a Shriners’ headquarters (the Yaarab Temple), designed with an elaborate Moorish and Egyptian-inspired style.

Before construction finished, a movie company took over the lease and transformed the building into a grand movie palace and performance venue. It officially opened its doors on December 25, 1929, making it one of Atlanta’s most extravagant buildings of its time.

What “About 95 Years Old” Really Means

Because the Fox opened in late 1929, its exact age depends on the current date:

• In 2024: about 95 years old
• In 2025: about 96 years old

So when locals say the Fox Theatre is “almost 100 years old,” they’re rounding up a bit, but they’re not far off.

Why the Fox Theatre Matters to Atlanta

Even if you’re just asking how old the Fox Theatre is, it helps to know why the building has lasted this long.

A Surviving Movie Palace

In the early 20th century, big cities across the country built ornate movie palaces. Most of them have either been demolished or heavily remodeled.

The Fox Theatre is considered one of the best-preserved examples of this era:

• It still has its “sky” ceiling with twinkling lights.
• The interior is filled with detailed plasterwork, arches, and domes.
• Many Atlantans see it as a symbol of the city’s link to early Hollywood and classic live entertainment.

Almost Demolished, Then Saved by Atlantans

By the 1970s, the Fox was in financial trouble. There were serious plans to demolish the building and replace it with an office tower.

Local residents, preservation groups, and community leaders launched the “Save the Fox” campaign. With donations, local fundraising, and strong public pressure, the Fox was preserved and restored instead of being torn down.

If you live in Atlanta today, the fact that you can still visit the Fox is directly tied to that 1970s effort. Many longtime residents still talk about this as a key moment in Atlanta’s historic preservation movement.

What the Age of the Fox Theatre Means for Visitors Today

Knowing that the Fox Theatre is nearly a century old can help you appreciate what you’re seeing when you attend a show or tour the building.

Expect a Historic, Not Modern-Minimalist, Experience

Because the Fox is almost 100 years old, the atmosphere is very different from newer venues:

• Décor: Highly decorative, with gold accents and deep colors
• Architecture: Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences
• Ceiling: Designed to look like a night sky, with stars and moving “clouds”

If you’re used to modern arenas or black-box theaters, the Fox feels more like stepping into a historic landmark than just a performance space.

Accessibility and Comfort in an Older Building

Despite its age, the Fox has been updated over time. Generally, you can expect:

• Renovated seating and restrooms
• Modern sound and lighting systems
• Accessibility features added through careful upgrades

Because it’s a historic building, some areas can feel a bit tighter or more vertical than newer venues, especially on upper levels. If accessibility or mobility is a concern, it’s a good idea to:

• Book seats in advance with accessibility in mind
• Contact the Fox Theatre’s box office for guidance on accessible seating options

Visiting the Fox Theatre: Local Details

If the history has you interested in seeing the Fox for yourself, here’s the essential local info.

Address and Neighborhood

• Fox Theatre
• 660 Peachtree St NE
• Atlanta, GA 30308

The Fox is in Midtown Atlanta, along the Peachtree Street corridor. The area is walkable and surrounded by restaurants, bars, and other cultural venues.

Nearby points of reference include:

• North Avenue and Ponce de Leon Avenue to the south
• The Georgian Terrace Hotel across Peachtree Street
• Midtown MARTA stations within a short ride or moderate walk

Getting There

Because the Fox is a nearly 100-year-old building in a busy urban neighborhood, planning your transportation helps:

• 🚇 MARTA:

  • North Avenue Station (Red/Gold Line) is the closest rail stop.
  • Many Atlantans choose MARTA for big events to avoid parking stress.

• 🚗 Driving:

  • There are multiple parking lots and decks in the area, often with event rates.
  • Allow extra time for traffic on Peachtree St NE and surrounding streets, especially on weekend evenings.

• 🚶 Walking/Biking:

  • If you’re staying at a nearby Midtown or Downtown hotel, walking to the Fox is often convenient.
  • Sidewalks are generally busy on event nights, which can make the area feel lively and easier to navigate.

Tours and Learning More About Its History

If you’re particularly interested in how a 1929 building has survived and evolved, a guided tour can be especially useful. While details like tour days and times change, here’s what you can usually expect from a Fox Theatre tour:

• A look at key historic spaces, including the auditorium, lobbies, and “backstage” areas (as allowed)
• Stories about its original construction, its near-demolition, and its eventual restoration
• Explanations of architectural details that are easy to miss if you only come for a show

To check current tour availability, most Atlantans:

• Visit the Fox Theatre’s official site, or
• Call the box office for up-to-date information

How the Fox Theatre Compares to Other Atlanta Landmarks in Age

In Atlanta terms, a 1929 building is fairly old, especially considering how much of the city has been rebuilt over time. For context:

• The Fox is younger than sites like Oakland Cemetery (founded in the 1800s).
• It’s older than many of Midtown’s modern skyscrapers and newer arts facilities.
• It’s roughly the same era as some other classic Midtown and Downtown buildings, but far more intact and ornate than most.

When people in Atlanta talk about “historic venues,” the Fox Theatre is almost always one of the first names mentioned because of both its age and its iconic status.

Key Takeaways for Someone in Atlanta

• The Fox Theatre opened in December 1929, making it about 95 years old as of 2024.
• It began as a Shriners’ temple and movie palace and is now a historic performing arts venue.
• Atlantans saved it from demolition in the 1970s, which is why it still stands as a landmark today.
• If you live in or visit Atlanta, attending a show or taking a tour is one of the most direct ways to experience nearly a century of local arts, culture, and history under one very ornate roof.