THE RITZ THEATER & PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Located in the heart of Downtown Scranton, The Ritz Theater & Performing Arts Center is a cultural landmark with a rich and colorful past. Since opening its doors in 1907 as the Poli Theater, the venue has evolved from a vaudeville stage to a full-time movie house, and now stands as a destination for arts, entertainment, and community. Its 1937 transformation into a striking Art Deco style only added to its charm and historic significance.

Today, The Ritz is more than just a theater — it’s a buzzing hub of activity where creativity and community come together. Visitors can explore a unique mix of on-site businesses, including an ice cream parlor, bar and restaurant, meadery, tattoo studio, and salon. The venue’s storied history includes performances by legends like Harry Houdini, W.C. Fields, and Will Rogers, as well as spine-tingling tales of unexplained footsteps and ghostly whispers, earning it a spot on the Lackawanna County Haunted Trail and a feature on The Ghost Finders.

Live Events at The Ritz Theater in Scranton
Eat, Drink, and Explore Inside The Ritz Theater
Haunted History of The Ritz Theater
Plan Your Visit to The Ritz Theater: Address, Parking & Policies
Hotels Near The Ritz Theater in Downtown Scranton
Dinner and a Show In Downtown Scranton

Live Events at The Ritz Theater in Scranton

The Ritz Theater offers an eclectic lineup of events year-round. From electrifying live music shows — often featuring metal, hard rock, punk, and tribute bands — to retro movie nights under the Coca-Cola Movie Series banner, there’s something for everyone. The venue also plays host to themed dance parties, unique cultural festivals, and theatrical performances that light up the stage with both local talent and national acts.

With a calendar full of engaging experiences and an inclusive atmosphere, The Ritz is a place where lasting memories are made. Whether you’re attending a concert, exploring a handmade market, or catching a ghost story between acts, you’ll find yourself swept up in the magic of this Scranton icon.

Eat, Drink, and Explore Inside The Ritz Theater

The Ritz Theater is also home to several businesses that align with its artistic, gothic vibe.

NOIR Dark Spirits

This adults-only (18+) bar and restaurant describes its atmosphere as “dark but pleasant.” Enjoy NOIR’s gothic vibe, handcrafted cocktails, and contemporary cuisine, which includes plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Reservations are recommended.

Thirteenth Realm

This premier tattoo studio can bring your ink dreams to life. While appointments are appreciated, walk-ins are accepted on select days. Their talented artists offer custom designs, high-quality artwork, and personalized service.

Black Cow Cookies & Cream

Serving homemade ice cream and cookies with a gothic twist, Black Cow is a dessert shop like no other. Their signature dish is midnight black soft serve twisted into a black cone. They also offer hard ice cream, milkshakes, and an impressive menu of thematic sundaes.

Goblin Alchemy

This high fantasy-themed meadery will transport you to a magical world with its handcrafted mead and wine. While sipping your favorite brew, visit its Dungeon at The Ritz extension to play D&D and other tabletop games.

Vanity Artistry

This salon provides exceptional hair care, as well as a range of beauty services, including natural or gel manicures, full-body waxing, teeth whitening, tooth gems, and ear candling. Come as you are and leave relaxed and looking your unique best.

Haunted History of The Ritz Theater

Over a century old, The Ritz Theater has earned a reputation not only as a historic performing arts venue, but also as one of the most haunted spots in Scranton. Guests and staff have reported unexplained footsteps, sudden cold spots, and disembodied voices — all adding to the eerie allure of this downtown landmark. Its paranormal past earned it a place on the Lackawanna County Haunted Trail and a feature on the nationally televised show The Ghost Finders.

Curious about the supernatural side of NEPA?
👉 Follow the Lackawanna County Haunted Trail for more spine-tingling stops.

Haunted Trail

Take a self-guided tour of some of the most haunted locations in Lackawanna County, PA. Do you dare to visit each one?

Plan Your Visit to The Ritz Theater: Address, Parking & Policies

Address

222 Wyoming Avenue
Scranton, PA, 18503
📞 Phone: (917) 446-5365

Visitor Guidelines & Bag Policy

No outside food or drink is allowed in the theater.
Snacks and beverages (alcoholic and nonalcoholic) are available for purchase at the theater.
Bags must be no larger than 6” x 9”.
All bags are subject to search upon entry.

Parking Information

While The Ritz Theater does not have a dedicated parking lot, several convenient options are located within walking distance:

Street parking is available nearby.
Public parking garages are located on:
- Linden Garage: 305 N. Washington Avenue, Scranton, PA 18503
- Electric City Garage: 300 Biden Street, Scranton, PA 18503
- Connell Garage: 117 N. Washington Avenue, Scranton, PA 18503
These garages are within two blocks of the theater.

Tickets

Tickets can be purchased directly through The Ritz Theater’s website.

Explore The Ritz Theater Website

Hotels Near The Ritz Theater in Downtown Scranton

Turn your night out into a full-on escape with a stay in Downtown Scranton or at a nearby hotel. Whether you’re looking for luxury, convenience, or pet-friendly comfort, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you.

Browse all hotels in Lackawanna County—including pet-friendly stays—to plan your ideal overnight stay!

Dinner and a Show In Downtown Scranton

For dinner and a show, there are many excellent restaurants within easy walking distance. NOIR Dark Spirits, a gothic-themed restaurant and bar, is located inside The Ritz Theater. Chef Von & Mom serves a rotating menu of artisan burgers and sandwiches. Enjoy sushi and hibachi at Osaka Japanese Restaurant or a sophisticated taste of Italy at Picciocchi’s Restaurant & Pasta. For something more casual, build your own gluten-free bowl at Fork ‘N’ Bowl.