I don't know what it is about visiting a theater that I absolutely love. Whether it's checking out a band or a musical, stepping into a historic theater feels almost like taking a step into the past! And in Texas, a state that is full of rich history, there's no denying that we have some amazing theaters.

From gilded balconies to vintage neon marquees, the Lone Star State is home to some of the most stunning and historic theaters in the country. Whether you’re a lifelong Texan, a film and architecture enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good road trip detour, these timeless venues are worth the stop. These storied venues offer a glimpse into Texas’s rich artistic past- one show-stopping detail at a time.

Some of the Historic Theaters in Texas Are Full of History

If you’re a history buff, you’ll want to pay a visit to north Dallas to the Texas Theatre, which has a history as dramatic as any film it’s ever screened. Built in 1931, the theater became infamous in 1963 as the place where Lee Harvey Oswald was arrested after the assassination of President Kennedy. And in Austin, the Paramount Theatre, a century-old gem that’s as much a part of the city’s cultural fabric as live music and breakfast tacos, opened in 1915, with its opulent interior, glowing marquee, and rich legacy, stepping inside feels like stepping back in time- only with better air conditioning!

Of course, the Paramount and the Texas Theatre are just the beginning. All across the Lone Star State, historic theaters continue to dazzle with their charm, character, and curtain-call-worthy stories. From restored movie palaces to tiny-town playhouses, each one has its own spotlight moment. Ready to see which theaters made the cut? Here are ten of the most beautiful and historic theaters in Texas that deserve a standing ovation.

Yes, I know I'm a little biased about El Paso’s Plaza Theatre; it's a personal favorite- it’s my hometown gem, after all! With its stunning Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and twinkling starry ceiling, it’s like stepping into a dream (or at least a really glamorous night out downtown). And not to mention, I love the restrooms there!

READ MORE: This Extravagant Ladies Room in Downtown El Paso is Picture Perfect.

Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of vintage architecture, or just someone who appreciates a good velvet curtain moment, Texas theaters offer more than entertainment- they offer stories, memories, and a touch of old-school magic. So next time you're road-tripping across the state or looking for a weekend escape, consider stepping into one of these historic venues. Who knows? You might just catch a show- and a little piece of Texas history while you’re at it!