Ritz Theatre
About
The Ritz Theatre brings the magic of live performance to families in the heart of historic downtown. This beautifully restored venue offers a rotating calendar of musicals, plays, and concerts specifically chosen for their family-friendly appeal. With comfortable seating and an intimate atmosphere, even young children can enjoy their first theater experience without feeling overwhelmed.
Highlights
- βHistoric theater architecture that makes kids feel like they've stepped back in time
- βIntimate venue where every seat feels close to the action
- βRotating schedule of musicals, plays, and concerts with varying themes
- βEducational arts programming that introduces children to live performance
- βFamily-friendly productions carefully selected for appropriate content
Pro Tips
- 1.Check the performance schedule online in advance as show times and content vary greatly. Some productions are specifically designed for younger audiences.
- 2.Arrive 15-20 minutes early to find parking on nearby streets and let kids use the restroom before the show starts.
- 3.Seats in the center section offer the best views for shorter children. Consider bringing a booster cushion for little ones if allowed.
- 4.Talk to your kids beforehand about theater etiquette: staying seated, using quiet voices, and saving snacks for intermission.
- 5.Many shows offer educational tie-ins. Ask at the box office about study guides or discussion materials to extend the learning at home.
Best Time to Visit
Weekend matinee performances are ideal for families, typically offering earlier showtimes (2-3pm) that work better with kids' schedules and bedtimes. Holiday seasons often feature special family productions like Christmas shows or summer children's theater camps with performances.
What to Know
Ticket prices are moderately affordable (typically $10-25 per person depending on the show). Street parking is available in the downtown area. Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted, but concessions may be available depending on the performance.
Seasonal Notes
The theater operates year-round with seasonal programming highlights including spring musicals, summer youth theater productions, fall dramas, and special holiday shows in December. Check the website for current season schedules as dark periods between productions do occur.
Nearby Eats
Downtown Greenville offers several family-friendly dining options within walking distance. Consider grabbing pizza or casual American fare at local restaurants before or after the show to make it a complete evening out.
More Activities Near Valley
Lagoon Park Drive
Lagoon Park Drive offers families a peaceful escape into nature with easy walking trails perfect for little legs, serene ponds for wildlife watching, and shaded picnic areas ideal for an outdoor lunch. This free Montgomery gem provides the perfect setting for kids to explore nature, burn energy on gentle trails, and enjoy quality family time without the crowds or cost of larger parks.
Shocco Springs Road
Shocco Springs Road offers families a peaceful retreat into nature with historic natural springs, scenic walking trails, and educational opportunities about Alabama's natural history. This free outdoor destination provides a perfect setting for kids to explore nature, learn about local ecology, and enjoy the serene beauty of natural springs in a historically significant setting.
Savery Library
Savery Library offers families a unique blend of literary resources and cultural learning in a historic setting. Located on a beautiful campus in Valley, AL, this educational destination provides young learners with engaging walking tours that bring American history to life, while also serving as a welcoming community library with resources for all ages.
Anniston Museum of Natural History
The Anniston Museum of Natural History offers an impressive collection that rivals big-city museums, featuring lifelike wildlife dioramas from around the world, ancient Egyptian mummies, and towering dinosaur skeletons. With interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity and hands-on learning opportunities, this budget-friendly museum provides hours of educational entertainment for families exploring northeast Alabama.