Walk through the double doors of the Landmark Theatre to relive an age when going to the movies was as exciting as attending an opera. The theater first opened in 1928 as Loew’s State Theater, a dual vaudeville and movie venue. It was designed by Thomas Lamb, a prominent theater architect, and fits beautifully into the tradition of “movie palaces” that were popular at the time. After a period of neglect, it was purchased by a local non-profit, with help from folk-rock musician Harry Chapin, and reopened its doors as Syracuse’s premier venue for musicals and other stage shows.
Start your night at the theater with dinner in nearby Armory Square, before walking under the marquee into the theater itself, which is decorated in red and gold. The theater is an Orientalist fantasy dreamed up even before Grauman’s Chinese Theater in Hollywood. Take time to admire the enormous wall murals and the beautiful gilt molding and carving covering every inch of space.
Continue up the red carpet and settle into the small but comfortable historical seats as you wait for the lights to dim and the show to begin.
In October, get in a spooky mood with a ghost hunt, as a tour guide takes you on a quest for Clarissa, the ghost who haunts the theater. Sniff for the smell of lilacs, which announce her usually unexpected arrival. Clarissa has been a beloved fixture of the Landmark since 1930, and though friendly, is said to be especially dedicated to ensuring that patrons follow the theater’s rules.
The Landmark Theatre is located on Armory Square in downtown Syracuse, a 15-minute drive from Syracuse Airport. Walk here in 25 minutes from the Syracuse University campus or take the Corridor to SU shuttle bus. Use metered parking on the street nearby or in several parking garages.
The theater is on the register of historic places. It has no wheelchair accessibility in the upper levels. Purchase theater and performance tickets online or from the theater’s box office, open Monday to Friday during business hours.
