Welcome to Morris Performing Arts Center, South Bend’s premier historic venue. Originally opened as the Palace Theatre and later restored to its current name, this iconic venue hosts a diverse range of performances—from the South Bend Symphony Orchestra to Broadway shows. With a classic proscenium stage and a layout that includes Orchestra, Mezzanine, and multiple balcony levels, the MPAC offers an intimate yet grand experience for every show.

Whether you’re attending a touring Broadway production, a symphony concert, or a local commencement ceremony, secure your seats with confidence. We’ve got you covered with practical details on seating, parking, transportation, and nearby lodging and dining to help plan a smooth visit.

Venue features and operations

Seating: The official MPAC seating chart indicates three primary areas—the Orchestra, Mezzanine, and multiple balcony levels—totaling 2,564 seats. Seating options vary by show, with a range of great seats and the section you want configurations available. Be sure to check the specific event page for the exact seating details and accessibility options.
Parking: Public parking is available at the Main & Colfax Garage (126 N Main St) and Leighton Plaza Garage (109 W Jefferson Blvd). Note that a surface lot north of MPAC is private and not available to the public. Arrive early if possible to secure a spot near the venue and avoid last-minute stress.
Transit: Downtown South Bend is served by Transpo. Routes connect MPAC to the South Street Station and nearby hubs, including Route 7 (Notre Dame/University Park Mall/Mishawaka). If you’re visiting from campus or other parts of town, check the Transpo schedule for convenient connections.
Nearby hotels: Make your stay easy with these nearby options: DoubleTree by Hilton South Bend (123 N Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd), Courtyard by Marriott South Bend Downtown (121 S Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd), Aloft South Bend (111 North Main Street), and Embassy Suites by Hilton South Bend at Notre Dame (1140 E Angela Blvd). These properties provide comfortable proximity to MPAC and are ideal for pre-show dinners or post-show strolls.
Local dining: The area offers a variety of dining options within walking distance of MPAC. Consider nearby eateries for pre-show meals or late-night options after performances.
Notable events: MPAC is home to the South Bend Symphony Orchestra and the Broadway Theater League of South Bend. The venue also supports community milestones, including Marian High School commencements. The Raclin Murphy Encore Center opened in 2026, expanding South Bend’s cultural offerings near MPAC.

Good to know

Seating, Parking & Venue Information

Capacity: 2,564 seats.
Address: 211 N Michigan St, South Bend, IN 46601.
Venue type: Historic performing arts center / concert hall (began as Palace Theatre; restored and renamed).
Seating chart: Official seating chart available; main sections include Orchestra, Mezzanine, and multiple balconies; total capacity 2,564.
Parking: Main & Colfax Garage (126 N Main St) and Leighton Plaza Garage (109 W Jefferson Blvd); surface lot north of MPAC is private and not for public parking.
Transit: Downtown South Bend area served by Transpo; routes connect to South Street Station and nearby hubs (e.g., Route 7 Notre Dame/University Park Mall/Mishawaka).
Nearby hotels: DoubleTree by Hilton South Bend (123 N Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd); Courtyard by Marriott South Bend Downtown (121 S Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd); Aloft South Bend (111 North Main Street); Embassy Suites by Hilton South Bend at Notre Dame (1140 E Angela Blvd).
Notable events hosted: Home to the South Bend Symphony Orchestra and Broadway Theater League of South Bend; Marian High School commencement has been held there; Raclin Murphy Encore Center opened in 2026.