Rialto Center for the Arts in Atlanta: Your Guide to This Downtown Cultural Gem

The Rialto Center for the Arts is one of downtown Atlanta’s most distinctive performing arts venues, known for its intimate feel, diverse programming, and strong connection to the city’s creative community. If you live in Atlanta, work downtown, or are visiting the city and looking for something memorable to do, the Rialto is a spot worth having on your radar.

Where the Rialto Center for the Arts Is and What It Is

The Rialto Center for the Arts is a performing arts venue operated by Georgia State University in the heart of downtown Atlanta.

• Address: 80 Forsyth St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
• Area: Fairlie-Poplar / Downtown Atlanta
• Typical Use: Concerts, dance performances, film, theater, lectures, festivals, and university events

The theater is mid-sized (cozy compared to large arenas), so you get good sightlines and strong acoustics without feeling far from the stage. It’s especially popular with people who prefer a more intimate, arts-focused experience rather than big stadium shows.

Why Atlantans Care About the Rialto

A Hub for Diverse Performances

The Rialto is known for varied programming that reflects both Atlanta’s international character and its local talent. Depending on the season, you may find:

• Jazz concerts featuring regional and national artists
• Dance performances, including contemporary, ballet, and international dance companies
• Global music—Latin, African, classical fusion, and more
• Theater and spoken word, from traditional plays to modern works
• Film screenings and special events, often with Q&A sessions or panels

Because it’s connected to Georgia State University’s arts programs, many events highlight emerging artists, student ensembles, and community collaborations, which can be a draw if you enjoy discovering new talent.

Strong Local and University Ties

For people who live in Atlanta, especially near downtown, the Rialto serves as:

• A cultural anchor in the historic Fairlie-Poplar district
• A venue where students and professionals share the same stage over the course of a season
• A place where local arts organizations sometimes present special performances

If you’re interested in seeing how Atlanta’s universities, local arts groups, and global performers intersect, the Rialto is one of the clearest examples in the city.

What You Can See and Do at the Rialto

Typical Types of Events

While programming changes each year, you can generally expect:

• Season concerts and series (jazz, global music, dance)
• One-night-only touring performances
• University ensembles (bands, choirs, orchestras, theater productions)
• Community-focused programs, lectures, or cultural festivals

Because events change regularly, locals often check the season lineup ahead of time and pick a few must-see shows for the year. Visitors staying downtown may find a last-minute performance that fits into a weekend schedule.

How to Check What’s On

To know what’s currently playing at the Rialto, Atlantans typically:

• Look up the current season schedule listed by Georgia State University
• Search for “Rialto Center for the Arts events Atlanta” to see upcoming shows
• Check local arts calendars that aggregate Atlanta performances

If you’re planning a special night out, it’s smart to confirm times and event details in advance, since show schedules, start times, and availability can change.

Getting to the Rialto: Transportation & Parking

One of the Rialto’s biggest advantages is its central downtown location.

By MARTA

MARTA can be the easiest option, especially during busy events or rush hour.

• Closest rail stations:
  • Five Points Station (walk north and west toward Forsyth St)
  • Peachtree Center Station (walk west toward Fairlie-Poplar)

Both are within reasonable walking distance. Many locals use MARTA to avoid downtown parking costs and traffic, especially on weeknights.

By Car

If you’re driving:

• You’ll find paid decks and surface lots in the surrounding blocks
• Parking prices can vary based on day, time, and nearby events (Hawks games, concerts, etc.)

Common local strategies:

• Arrive at least 30–45 minutes early to park and walk without stress
• Use a parking deck on a side street rather than aiming for the closest possible space
• Pay attention to one-way streets and turns around Forsyth St and Luckie St

What to Expect Inside the Rialto

Atmosphere and Layout

The Rialto offers:

• A single main performance hall with a proscenium stage
• Assigned seating for most events
• A lobby area where people mingle before shows and during intermission

It’s generally described as:

• Comfortable and intimate, not overly large
• Well-suited for live music, dance, and spoken word, thanks to strong acoustics
• A blend of historic charm and updated performance technology

Accessibility

The venue is designed with accessibility in mind, and typical accommodations may include:

• Wheelchair-accessible seating areas
• Ramps or elevators for entry and movement between levels
• Staff who can assist with seating needs if requested at or before arrival

For specific accessibility questions—such as wheelchair locations, companion seating, assistive listening devices, or early seating needs—many Atlantans contact the Rialto Box Office or Georgia State University’s accessibility services ahead of time.

Tickets, Pricing, and How Atlantans Typically Plan

How to Buy Tickets

Most people in Atlanta purchase tickets in one of three ways:

• Online ticketing platforms managed through Georgia State University
• By phone via the Rialto box office
• In person at the box office on event days

Because popular events can sell out, especially special concerts, dance troupes, or limited engagements, locals often book in advance once the season is announced.

Pricing and Discounts

Ticket prices vary widely depending on:

• Type of performance (local ensemble vs. touring company)
• Seating section
• Whether it’s a university event, community program, or outside production

Common patterns:

• Some events offer reduced pricing for students, seniors, or groups
• University-related performances may be more affordable than touring productions
• There may be special packages for multiple events in a series during a season

To avoid surprises, it’s helpful to review fees, taxes, and refund or exchange policies before purchasing.

When to Arrive and How Long to Stay

Timing Your Visit

For most evening events at the Rialto:

• Doors usually open 30–60 minutes before showtime
• Many Atlantans aim to be in their seats 10–15 minutes early
• Late arrivals may be asked to wait until a break in the performance to be seated

For Saturday or Sunday events, factor in:

• Other downtown events (games, parades, festivals)
• Extra time for MARTA transfers or parking

Typical Length of Events

Most performances run about 1.5 to 2.5 hours, often with a short intermission. Special events, festivals, or multi-act programs may be longer.

Food, Drinks, and Nearby Options

On-Site

The Rialto sometimes offers light concessions (snacks and beverages) depending on the event. Options can vary, so if having a full meal is important, locals usually plan before or after the show.

Nearby Dining and Nightlife

Because the Rialto is downtown, you’re close to:

• Restaurants in Fairlie-Poplar and around Peachtree Street
• Spots near Underground Atlanta, the CNN Center area, and the Centennial Olympic Park district

Many Atlantans turn a Rialto visit into:

• A pre-show dinner downtown
• A walk to or from nearby attractions like Centennial Olympic Park, Georgia State campus, or Woodruff Park

Rialto vs. Other Atlanta Art Venues

Atlanta has several major arts centers, and each has its own feel. A local might describe the Rialto this way compared to others:

The Rialto is especially appealing if you:

• Prefer smaller venues with clear views of the stage
• Are interested in university and community-connected performances
• Want to see international or niche performers that may not appear in stadiums or very large halls

Tips for Atlantans and Visitors Planning a Rialto Visit

Here are practical pointers people in Atlanta often follow:

• Check the calendar early: Popular shows and limited engagements can sell out.
• Use MARTA if possible 🚇: It simplifies travel and parking, particularly on weeknights or event-heavy weekends.
• Arrive early: Give yourself time for traffic, parking, and walking through downtown.
• Plan for nearby food: If you want a full meal, schedule dinner at a downtown restaurant before or after the show.
• Verify event details: Confirm the start time, ticket policies, and any age or content guidance before bringing kids or a large group.
• Ask about accessibility or special seating needs: Reach out to the Rialto box office or GSU contacts in advance for the smoothest experience.

For anyone spending time in Atlanta—whether you’re a resident looking to see more of the local arts scene or a visitor staying in a downtown hotel—the Rialto Center for the Arts offers a convenient, culturally rich way to experience live performance right in the city’s core.