Step into history at the Sunken Garden Theater, one of San Antonio’s most iconic outdoor venues! Nestled in the heart of Brackenridge Park, this stunning open-air amphitheater was built in the 1930s and has been entertaining audiences ever since. Originally a rock quarry, it was transformed into a beautiful, sunken oasis that has hosted performances under the stars for nearly a century. You’ll enjoy its impressive stone walls, lush surroundings, and scenic views that have been home to unforgettable performances from the San Antonio Symphony, local theater groups, national acts, Broadway-style musicals, concerts and cultural performances.
Here are some cool features to look for. The entrance has an interesting three-part structure. The centerpiece is an iron archway sitting on a sturdy stone base, with the words “Sunken Garden Theater” proudly displayed. The base is designed in a style called Art Moderne, with lighted side pieces and a decorative central panel that reads, “A memorial to the heroes of the Texas Revolution, 1836-1936.” But interestingly, instead of showing scenes from the revolution, the panel features a trail drivers camp, which might be linked to the Old Trail Drivers Memorial Association getting involved with Texas Centennial celebrations. On one of the side panels, there’s a bronze plaque honoring the San Antonio Civic Opera Company, which operated from 1926 to 1951. The theater itself was first built in 1930, and expanded in 1937 with funding from the Texas Centennial. The designs were by Harvey P. Smith and later, George Willis and Charles T. Boelhauwe. The theater is pretty unique because its back wall is made from the old quarry rock, giving it a natural open-air setting with amazing acoustics!
Over the years, the Sunken Garden Theater has seen some big changes. The original theater had a stage and classic wings, while the 1937 expansion added dressing rooms, support buildings, bathrooms, seating, and a concrete floor. This project was completed by WPA workers, while NYA workers built the concession area a little later. There are still two Art Moderne-style ticket booths at the north and south entrances that are in great condition, and a stone bathroom structure made of random-course limestone that likely dates back to the same era. Today, the Sunken Garden Theater is recognized as a Texas State Archaeological Landmark, making it a spot where history and nature come together!
Today, the theater continues to be a lively spot for entertainment and community events. You can catch everything from live concerts and outdoor movies to theatrical performances and festivals.
