ASU Gammage is Tempe’s iconic performing-arts venue—famous for its bold circular design and its connection to Frank Lloyd Wright. It’s a top pick if you want a “real Broadway night” in the Phoenix metro and a building that feels like an architecture landmark, not just a theater. ASU Gammage was completed in September 1964, and the venue describes it as Arizona’s only public building designed by Wright.
Why visit ASU Gammage ✅🎭
- Broadway touring productions + big-event concerts and performances (event schedule varies).
- A distinctive 3,000-seat hall with three seating levels (Orchestra, Grand Tier, Balcony).
- It’s built to be practical: digital tickets, strong accessibility services, and clear visitor policies.
Tickets, prices, and fees 💳
Ticket prices depend on the event and your seating level—there isn’t one fixed “admission price” like a museum.
What you can plan for in advance:
| Item | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Facility fee | All tickets include an $8 facility fee |
| Service fees | Extra service fees apply for phone/internet; box office has the smallest additional fees |
| Refund policy | No refunds unless a show is canceled; no refunds for cast changes |
| Best anti-fraud rule | Buy only via Ticketmaster or ASU Gammage |
Box office hours ⏱️
- Regular hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday–Friday
- Summer hours (Memorial Day → Labor Day): 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday–Thursday
- Performance days: opens 2 hours prior to events
How to get there 🚇🚌📍
Address: 1200 S. Forest Ave., Tempe.
By light rail
Valley Metro lists ASU Gammage with Rail – A Line access via Mill Ave/3rd St station, then walk.
By Tempe Streetcar
A very convenient move is the Streetcar: Valley Metro notes the 11th St/Mill Ave stop is a short walk from ASU Gammage.
By bus
Valley Metro lists Route 66 – Mill as a connection option for ASU Gammage.
Parking (what’s easiest on show nights) 🅿️
ASU Gammage’s parking guidance is straightforward:
- Gold Lot: for Broadway shows, reserved for subscribers + guests needing accessible parking (if full, guests are directed to Maroon Garage).
- Maroon Garage (Apache Structure): open to all ticket holders for all events.
- Accessible parking + drop-off: accessible spaces are held in the Gold Lot; if full, use drop-off zones at both entrances, then park in Maroon Garage.
Arrival timing tip: the venue recommends arriving at least 60 minutes before showtime to park, clear security, and get seated.
Security and bag policy ⚠️👜
Key rules to avoid surprises:
- Bags are limited to clear bags up to 12″ × 6″ × 12″, or small non-clear bags no larger than 8.5″ × 5.5″.
- All guests are subject to inspection of bags/containers/clothing that can carry prohibited items.
- Tickets are digital (“your phone is your ticket”).
Food and drinks 🍷🥪
- The Portico Patio opens 90 minutes prior to Broadway shows and sells sandwiches, wraps/snacks, desserts, plus drinks (including beer/wine/cocktails).
- Only food/drinks purchased at ASU Gammage (in resealable bottles) may be brought into the theater from the lobby.
Accessibility ♿️✅
ASU Gammage offers:
- Accessible seating at multiple price levels (wheelchair spaces, companion seats, etc.).
- Elevators on both sides of the building (note: the venue states there are not accessible seating areas on the upper levels).
- Assisted listening devices (bring your preferred headphones if you want).
- Captioning via GalaPro for many touring Broadway shows.
- Courtesy wheelchairs (first-come, first-served).
Tips and common mistakes ✅⚠️
- Arriving “on time” (at curtain) = arriving late. Aim for 60+ minutes early.
- Bringing a normal purse/backpack—bag limits are strict; go small/clear.
- Expecting to film: no recording devices are permitted during performances; phones should be off.
- Ignoring parking hierarchy: Broadway nights can push most guests to Maroon Garage; plan for a short walk.
- Buying from random resale listings before on-sale dates: the venue warns brokers may list tickets they don’t have yet—buy official.
FAQ
What should I wear?
No formal dress code; most people go business casual, but jeans are common.
When should I arrive?
At least 60 minutes before performance time.
Can I take photos or record during the show?
No—cell phones off; no recording devices permitted during any performance.
Where do I park?
Gold Lot (limited/reserved for some Broadway situations) or Maroon Garage (open to all).
Is the venue accessible?
Yes—accessible seating, elevators, assisted listening, captioning options.
Conclusion
ASU Gammage is one of the best “big night out” venues in the Phoenix metro: Broadway-scale productions, strong logistics, and a landmark building with real architectural pedigree. If you do just three things—arrive early, follow the bag limits, and use rail/streetcar when possible—your night will feel smooth.
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