Rialto Atlanta, GA: How to Experience This Historic Downtown Movie Palace

When people search for “Rialto Atlanta GA,” they’re almost always looking for the Rialto Center for the Arts in downtown Atlanta—a historic theater that now serves as a major performing arts venue and movie house for special events.

If you live in Atlanta, are visiting the city, or are just trying to understand what the Rialto is and how it works today, this guide walks you through what to know, how to visit, and how it fits into downtown life.

What Is the Rialto in Atlanta?

The Rialto Center for the Arts is a historic theater located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, now operated as a performing arts center and event venue. It’s closely associated with Georgia State University (GSU) and is used for:

• Live performances (music, dance, theater)
• Film screenings and festivals
• Community events and cultural programs
• University-related performances and lectures

The building dates back to the early 20th century and has been restored and updated, so you get a mix of classic movie-palace charm and modern performance capabilities.

Where Is the Rialto in Atlanta?

Rialto Center for the Arts
80 Forsyth St NW
Atlanta, GA 30303

It sits in the Fairlie-Poplar district of downtown, surrounded by historic buildings, offices, and university facilities.

Nearby landmarks that make it easier to get your bearings:

• A short walk from Woodruff Park
• Close to the Georgia State University campus
• Within walking distance of Five Points and Peachtree Center areas

This is a dense, walkable part of downtown, especially during weekday business hours and evening events.

Getting to the Rialto: Transportation & Parking

By MARTA

Using MARTA is often the simplest way, especially for evening shows:

• Rail station:
  • Five Points Station (Red/Gold + Blue/Green lines) – about a 5–10 minute walk
  • Peachtree Center Station is also walkable, especially if you’re coming from the north.

Tips:

• Plan your route by checking which line your home/starting point is on.
• For late-night events, confirm last train times so you’re not rushed leaving the show.

By Car

Driving to the Rialto is straightforward, but downtown traffic and event congestion can be heavy.

General tips:

• Arrive at least 30–45 minutes early if you need to find parking, pick up tickets, or use will-call.
• Watch for one-way streets and no-turn restrictions—downtown Atlanta has several.

Parking Options

The Rialto doesn’t typically operate its own large parking deck, but there are multiple public and private decks nearby.

Common options in the area include:

• Nearby public parking decks along Forsyth St, Luckie St, and Peachtree Center Ave
• Surface lots around the Fairlie-Poplar and Five Points area

Because parking availability and rates change:

• Check posted signs at the deck or lot for current rates and hours
• Allow extra time for walking from the deck to the theater

What Kind of Events Happen at the Rialto?

The Rialto is not a single-purpose movie theater anymore. Instead, it functions as a multi-use arts venue. Typical programming can include:

1. Performances and Concerts

You may find:

• Jazz, classical, and world music concerts
• Dance performances, including local and touring companies
• Theater and spoken word events
• University ensembles and recitals supported by Georgia State University

This makes it a strong option if you’re looking for live arts in downtown Atlanta rather than heading up to Midtown or Buckhead.

2. Film Screenings & Festivals

While it’s no longer a daily commercial cinema, the Rialto sometimes hosts:

• Film festivals and special series
• One-off screenings tied to cultural events or university programs
• Independent or international films as part of curated programs

If your interest in “Rialto Atlanta GA” is specifically about watching a movie in a historic theater, check the Rialto’s event calendar for film nights or festivals rather than expecting regular first-run movie showings.

3. Community & Cultural Events

The Rialto often participates in, or hosts:

• Cultural heritage celebrations and performances
• School and youth events
• Public lectures and special presentations

If you’re an Atlanta resident looking for locally-rooted cultural programming, the Rialto can be a valuable place to watch and sometimes to participate.

What to Expect Inside the Rialto

Seating & Sightlines

The Rialto is designed as a traditional theater with raked seating facing a main stage. Features typically include:

• Fixed theater seats
• A balcony and orchestra-level seating (layout can vary by event)
• Good sightlines from most areas, though specific views depend on where you sit

For people in Atlanta who are used to modern multiplexes, the Rialto experience feels more like a performing arts hall than a casual movie theater.

Atmosphere

Expect:

• A mix of historic architecture and updated interiors
• A more “night-out” feel compared with a standard mall cinema
• A diverse crowd, often including GSU students, faculty, downtown workers, and arts-focused locals

Dress codes are generally relaxed, but some attendees may dress up a bit more for special performances.

Accessibility and Visitor Considerations

The Rialto, like other established venues in Atlanta, is typically arranged to accommodate a range of needs.

Common accessibility features may include:

• Wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating areas
• Options for companion seating
• Access to elevators or ramps, depending on your seating level

For the most accurate and current information, Atlanta visitors and residents should contact the venue directly before an event if they:

• Use a wheelchair or mobility device
• Need assisted listening devices
• Require special accommodations (for example, seating away from stairs)

When you call, explain:

• The date and name of the event
• Any mobility or accessibility needs you have
• Whether you already hold tickets or still need to purchase them

This can help staff guide you to the best seating options.

Tickets, Pricing, and How to Plan Your Visit

Ticket Purchasing

Tickets are generally available:

• Online via the venue’s chosen ticketing system
• Sometimes at a box office window on-site during event days or limited hours

Common tips for Atlanta-area buyers:

• For popular performances, buy in advance rather than waiting until the night of.
• Check if the event is GSU-affiliated, as students, faculty, or staff may sometimes have special pricing.
• Verify refund and exchange policies before purchasing, especially for high-demand events.

Typical Costs

Ticket prices vary based on:

• Event type (local performance vs. major touring act)
• Seat location
• Whether there are student, senior, or group rates

Because prices change from event to event, it’s best to:

• Compare different seating sections
• Factor in service fees that may be added at checkout

Best Times and Situations to Visit the Rialto

You might choose the Rialto over other Atlanta venues if:

• You’re already downtown for work, school, or sightseeing and want an evening event nearby.
• You appreciate historic theaters and want a different experience than a modern multiplex.
• You’re interested in GSU-affiliated performances, jazz, world music, or cultural programming.
• You’re exploring Atlanta arts venues beyond just Midtown’s larger halls.

For out-of-town visitors staying downtown, the Rialto can be an easy, walkable way to add live arts or film to your stay without needing to drive across the city.

Quick Reference: Rialto Atlanta, GA at a Glance

If you’re in the Atlanta area and your search for “Rialto Atlanta GA” is about finding a distinctive place to see a performance or special film screening, the Rialto Center for the Arts offers a historic downtown setting, walkable access from MARTA, and a steady mix of cultural events that reflect both the city and the university community around it.