Mahaffey Theater

Mahaffey Theater is a concert hall and performing arts center in downtown St. Petersburg overlooking the waterfront with 2031 seats arranged in European box-style seating. The building includes additional spaces such as a ballroom and a restaurant, creating a full cultural venue along the waterfront district.

The theater was built in 1965 as part of the larger Bayfront Center complex and served as an important venue for the region. Major renovations during the 1980s and 2000s updated the building and improved its capabilities for presenting contemporary productions.

The venue hosts national and international performers across multiple genres, from Broadway productions to classical concerts and contemporary dance. Patrons experience shows from European-style boxes with views of the waterfront, creating an intimate connection to each performance.

The theater is located downtown on First Street South and is easy to reach by car or public transportation from different parts of the city. Visitors should plan to arrive early and explore the surrounding waterfront area, which offers dining and other cultural attractions nearby.

The Bill Edwards Foundation supports an educational program that brings local school children to see performances and experience live arts in the venue. This outreach initiative demonstrates how the theater serves as a cultural resource beyond traditional ticketed audiences.

Location: St. Petersburg

Inception: May 6, 1965

Official opening: May 6, 1965

Capacity: 2031

Address: 400 First St. S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Website: https://themahaffey.com

GPS coordinates: 27.76720,-82.63190

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:44