Did you know that the Woodland Opera House is one of only four fully functioning 19th-century opera houses remaining in California? This remarkable State Historic Park has hosted legendary performers like John Philip Sousa and Sydney Greenstreet, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the golden age of American theater. First built in 1885, destroyed by fire in 1892, and meticulously rebuilt in 1896, this historic gem continues to captivate audiences with exceptional community theater productions that rival those of much larger venues.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
The Woodland Opera House State Historic Park is located at 340 Second Street in historic downtown Woodland, California, at the corner of Main and Second Street. It’s easily accessible by car from major nearby cities.
The closest major airport is Sacramento International Airport (SMF), approximately 24 km (15 miles) away. From there, renting a car is the most convenient option to reach Woodland.
Directions:
- From Sacramento: Take I-5 North to the Main Street exit. Turn left and continue one mile to downtown Woodland.
- From the Bay Area: Take I-80 East to Highway 113 North (Woodland Exit). Continue 9 miles to the Main Street Exit. Turn left and continue one mile to the downtown area.
- From Southern California: Take I-5 North all the way to the Main Street exit in Woodland, then turn left and continue to downtown.
The Opera House is located in a walkable downtown area with plenty of safe, off-street parking available nearby. For specific performances, it’s advisable to arrive early to secure convenient parking.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
The Woodland Opera House offers performances year-round, but the main theater season runs from September to June with the Mainstage Productions. Summer brings special programs including the Summer Melodrama Program and Youth Theatre Camp in August.
Recommended Times to Visit:
- September-November: Fall season kickoff with pleasant weather (15-26°C or 60-80°F) and new productions
- March-May: Spring season with mild temperatures (13-24°C or 55-75°F) and excellent performance selection
- August: Special opportunity to see the Youth Theatre productions
Times to Consider Avoiding:
- July: Limited regular programming (though special events may be scheduled)
- December holidays: Popular shows often sell out quickly
- Mid-summer: Temperatures can reach 35°C (95°F) or higher
For the best experience, plan your visit to coincide with a performance. Check the Opera House’s schedule in advance and book tickets early, as shows often sell out due to the venue’s excellent reputation and intimate seating.
Getting Around Locally
Downtown Woodland is a charming, walkable area that’s perfect for exploring on foot. The Opera House is centrally located among restaurants, shops, and other historic buildings.
- Walking: The most pleasant way to experience downtown Woodland, with many attractions within a few blocks of the Opera House
- Driving: Easy navigation with ample parking throughout downtown
- Taxis/Rideshares: Available but limited; pre-arranging is recommended
- Public Transit: Yolobus provides limited service in the area
Most visitors find that parking near the Opera House and exploring the surrounding downtown area on foot is the most enjoyable way to experience this historic district.
Where to Stay
While there’s no accommodation within the Opera House itself, Woodland offers several lodging options within a short distance of the historic site:
Historic Downtown Options
Several boutique hotels and bed & breakfasts are located within walking distance of the Opera House, offering historic charm and convenience.
Chain Hotels
Familiar hotel chains can be found along I-5 and on the outskirts of Woodland, typically a 5-10 minute drive from the Opera House.
Nearby Cities
Sacramento (24 km/15 miles away) and Davis (16 km/10 miles away) offer additional accommodation options with a short drive to Woodland.
For the full historic experience, consider staying at one of the boutique hotels in downtown Woodland, which will allow you to walk to the Opera House and explore other local attractions on foot.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Downtown Woodland offers excellent dining options within walking distance of the Opera House, making it easy to enjoy dinner before or after a performance.
Nearby Dining Options:
- Pre-Show Dining: Several restaurants within two blocks offer pre-theater menus
- Historic Establishments: Try local favorites housed in beautifully preserved historic buildings
- Farm-to-Fork: Woodland’s location in the agricultural heart of California means fresh, local ingredients feature prominently on many menus
- International Cuisine: From Italian to Mexican to Asian fusion, downtown Woodland offers diverse culinary options
Local Tip: If attending an evening performance, make dinner reservations in advance, especially on weekends, as restaurants near the Opera House can fill up quickly on show nights.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
The Woodland Opera House State Historic Park offers a variety of experiences for visitors interested in history, architecture, and the performing arts:
Main Attractions:
- Live Performances: The Opera House offers five Mainstage Productions from September to June, a Summer Melodrama Program, and youth productions throughout the year
- Historic Architecture: Explore the beautifully preserved 19th-century theater with its horseshoe balcony and semi-circular seating arrangement typical of Italian Renaissance-Revival theaters
- Guided Tours: Learn about the Opera House’s fascinating history, from its original construction in 1885 to its destruction by fire and subsequent rebuilding
- Youth Theater Programs: Special performances by young actors through the Young People’s Theatre Program
“The quality of productions is fabulous. An old historic theater gives a certain feel while the performances are very well-done. For a small community theater, it competes on the level of much larger productions by major venues.”
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Beyond regular performances, the Woodland Opera House serves as a cultural hub for the community and offers several special events throughout the year:
Cultural Offerings:
- Special Events: Guest artists’ programs and community events are held throughout the year
- School Outreach Program: The Opera House partners with Yolo County schools to bring students to professional and youth performances
- Theatre and Dance Annex (TADA Studio): Offers classes for children and adults in theater and dance
- Seasonal Productions: Special holiday shows and summer programs
Nearby Cultural Attractions:
- Downtown Woodland Historic District: Explore the surrounding historic buildings and architecture
- California Agriculture Museum: Learn about the agricultural history of the region
- Yolo County Historical Museum: Discover more about the area’s rich history
The Opera House is part of the Downtown Woodland Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, making it an excellent starting point for exploring the area’s cultural heritage.
Nature & Outdoor Experiences
While the Woodland Opera House itself is an indoor venue, there are several outdoor spaces and natural areas to enjoy in and around Woodland:
At the Opera House:
- Intermission Garden: A pleasant outdoor plaza with the “Rotary Court” grassy area, perfect for relaxing before shows or during intermissions
- Brick Marquee: The outdoor entrance area offers a glimpse of the building’s historic architecture
Nearby Outdoor Attractions:
- Downtown Woodland: Take a walking tour of the historic downtown area
- Woodland Public Library Rose Garden: Beautiful garden space a short walk from the Opera House
- UC Davis Arboretum: Located in nearby Davis, offering 40 hectares (100 acres) of gardens and walking paths
- Putah Creek: Scenic waterway in the region offering fishing and nature observation
Combining a visit to the Opera House with exploration of these outdoor spaces makes for a well-rounded experience of the Woodland area.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Visiting the Woodland Opera House is a straightforward experience, but a few tips will help you make the most of your visit:
Theater Etiquette:
- Arrival Time: Plan to arrive 20-30 minutes before showtime to find parking, pick up tickets, and be seated comfortably
- Dress Code: While there’s no strict dress code, most patrons opt for smart-casual attire
- Photography: Photography and recording during performances are typically prohibited
- Cell Phones: Remember to silence all electronic devices during performances
- Accessibility: The Opera House has been modernized to include accessibility features while maintaining its historic character
Safety Information:
- Emergency Exits: Note the location of exits when you arrive
- Downtown Area: The surrounding downtown Woodland area is generally safe and walkable
- Parking: Use well-lit parking areas, especially for evening performances
The Opera House staff are known for their welcoming attitude and are happy to assist with any questions or concerns during your visit.
Visitor Comments About Woodland Opera House
“Hands down one of my favorite places in Woodland. The shows are amazing, and you are greeted by some very welcoming employees when you enter. It’s both beautiful on the outside, and definitely the inside. I absolutely love this place! My only complaint is that for some shows, it can be hard to get tickets. They have a very good reputation.”
“I have seen numerous productions over many years at the Woodland Opera House, including most recently a delightful musical. It was outstanding! The casting was so well done, and the talent was amazing. If you enjoy Community Theater, this is the place for you.”
“The quality of productions is fabulous. An old historic theater gives a certain feel while the performances are very well-done. For a small community theater, it competes on the level of much larger productions by major venues. The talent of actors is phenomenal and sets are clever and extremely well done. BRAVO!”
Additional Nearby Destinations
The Woodland area offers several worthwhile destinations that pair well with a visit to the Opera House:
Davis (16 km/10 miles)
- UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden
- Manetti Shrem Museum of Art
- Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts
- Downtown Davis shopping and dining
Sacramento (24 km/15 miles)
- California State Capitol
- Old Sacramento Waterfront
- Crocker Art Museum
- Sacramento History Museum
Within Woodland
- California Agriculture Museum
- Historic Downtown Woodland walking tour
- Reiff’s Gas Station Museum
- Woodland Public Library (historic Carnegie library)
Many visitors combine a performance at the Opera House with exploration of these nearby attractions for a full day or weekend experience in the region.
Practical Travel Tips
The Woodland Opera House is located at 340 Second Street, Woodland, CA 95695. It’s owned by the State of California as a State Historic Park but receives no financial support from the state, county, or city. Instead, it’s supported by ticket sales, donations, and grants, making your attendance at performances a direct contribution to preserving this historic treasure.
A Living Piece of California’s Theatrical Heritage
The Woodland Opera House State Historic Park stands as a remarkable testament to California’s rich cultural history. More than just a museum piece, it continues to thrive as a vibrant performance venue, bringing quality theater to audiences just as it has for over a century. Whether you’re a theater enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking for a unique experience in Northern California, the Opera House offers a perfect blend of past and present. From the moment you step into its beautifully preserved interior to the final curtain call of a performance, you’ll understand why generations of visitors have been captivated by this historic gem. Plan your visit to experience the magic for yourself and become part of the ongoing story of this extraordinary California landmark.
The above is subject to change.
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