About Lincoln Theatre
Lincoln Theatre is a historic live-music venue in downtown Raleigh. Opened in the mid-1940s as a movie house for the African-American community, it later became a popular concert hall. The building (at 126 E. Cabarrus St.) is compact – roughly 40 feet wide by 120 feet deep with 25-foot ceilings (lincolntheatre.com ) – giving shows an intimate feel. With its large neon sign and colorful artwork (“Honest Abe” mural by local artist Clark Hipolito on the west wall commemorates the theatre’s legacy (downtownraleigh.org )), Lincoln has a distinct visual identity. It was part of Raleigh’s Bijou Amusement chain during segregation and reportedly endured picketing and even an armed robbery in the 1960s (theclio.com ). The theatre closed as a cinema 1975 and lay unused until a 1991 revival (briefly a bar and internet café) restored its name and purpose. Today Lincoln is one of Raleigh’s longest-running music spots, known as “one of Raleigh’s most established music venues” (theclio.com ).
The venue’s signature features include its small, wraparound balcony and original proscenium stage. Lincoln holds roughly 750 people on the main floor (general admission) plus ~150 upstairs seating (thisisraleigh.com ). There are few permanent seats – it is mostly standing-room on the flat floor – but a modest balcony provides raised viewing. A few events offer special table seating (each table fits four) at floor level near the stage (thisisraleigh.com ). Because the stage is only about 21 feet deep and 25 feet wide, fans are always quite close to the performers (lincolntheatre.com ). That intimacy (and the friendly staff and crowd) is often noted by visitors as what makes Lincoln special (thisisraleigh.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). In short, Lincoln Theatre stands out for its historic character (a rare surviving African-American movie palace) and its cozy modern incarnation as a hometown concert hall.
Events and Programming
Lincoln Theatre’s calendar is packed with live music nearly every week. It hosts a wide range of acts: national and regional touring bands, genre tributes, local favorites, and festival parties. Recent lineups include classic rock and jam bands (moe. and Guster (lincolntheatre.com )), heady prog and reggae tributes (Grateful Dub – a Grateful Dead tribute (lincolntheatre.com ), Beach Floyd – a Pink Floyd tribute (lincolntheatre.com )), and even metal (Enslaved & Insomnium) or blues (guitarist Popa Chubby) (lincolntheatre.com ). Americana and indie acts are common too. For example, Raleigh’s own American Aquarium has made Lincoln the centerpiece of its annual January “Roadtrip to Raleigh” residency, playing multiple nights to sold-out crowds (thisisraleigh.com ). The theatre also hosts themed and novelty nights – 80s/90s cover bands, hip-hop/DJ dance parties, and local showcases for the Hopscotch Music Festival (e.g. Hopscotch Nights in September) (lincolntheatre.com ) (lincolntheatre.com ). Virtually every genre appears at Lincoln over time – from jamtronica (BoomBox) to soul (Tauk ft. Kanika Moore) – making its programming eclectic. In summary, you’ll find rock/alt/indie headliners, roots/Americana shows, tribute and cover acts, some reggae/jam events, and even comedy/music mashups. Concerts typically occur 3–4 times a week on average (including weekends), with doors often opening around 7–8pm and shows starting shortly thereafter.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Lincoln Theatre shows are sold through official outlets and authorized retailers. You can usually buy tickets in advance online via the venue’s official site or its partner ticketing platform. There is no public box office open daily, but any remaining tickets can often be purchased at the door once it opens (typically 60 minutes before showtime) (thisisraleigh.com ). To secure popular shows, look out for on-sale dates – many concerts offer artist or venue mailing-list presales before opening to the general public. Pricing varies by event: small indie shows might be $10–15, midlevel bands $20–35, and larger headliners $40 or more. For example, a Lucero concert was listed at $37.75–$51.25 (lincolntheatre.com ), while a themed 80’s/90’s party ranged $34–$67 (including VIP balcony) (lincolntheatre.com ). Some gigs offer “VIP” or table seating at a premium (e.g. tables of 4 at ~$200+ per table (lincolntheatre.com ) (thisisraleigh.com )). Keep in mind all performances are all-ages unless noted, but minors pay a $2 extra surcharge at the door (thisisraleigh.com ) (ID is required). In general, tickets sell quickly for major acts, so join the venue’s email list for presale codes and act fast when dates are announced.
Seating and Layout
The theatre’s interior is essentially a converted movie house. The stage sits at one end of the room, and most of the action happens on the flat floor in front of it (general admission). The floor has no fixed seats, so standing in the crowd is normal – though a handful of folding chairs may be set up along the sides. When you enter, you’ll pass the ticket check and rush into the floor area. The main bar and lobby sit just behind the floor area. Above, a wraparound balcony/junior mezzanine encircles the auditorium on three sides. This balcony has a few rows of seats and some standing room; it provides an elevated view over the crowd. The highest seats in center balcony often have great sightlines (and slightly better sound mix) for shows, so many people like to watch from there. As one reviewer noted, the multiple levels and balcony make it “easy for everyone to see the band” even in a full house (www.tripadvisor.com ).
For best viewing, the front-middle of the floor (near the stage) is ideal for high energy, up-close experiences. If you prefer to sit or have an unimpeded view, arrive early and grab the front rows of the balcony. VIP tables (if available) are usually placed near the front on the floor and seat 4 people each (thisisraleigh.com ). Acoustically, the sound system is professional-grade: Lincoln uses a D&B Audiotechnik line-array PA (16 flown speakers + subs) with an AVID digital console (lincolntheatre.com ). This powerful rig is tuned for the compact hall size, so even those in back or on the sides generally hear clear, loud sound. Fans typically find the acoustics very good – even from the rear or balcony. (By contrast, spots directly under the speakers or against the back wall can get quite loud!)
Getting There and Parking
Lincoln Theatre is at 126 East Cabarrus Street in downtown Raleigh, one block north of the state Capitol. This central location is in the Smoky Hollow district, just off Wilmington Street. By car, you’ll want to use GPS to Cabarrus and South Wilmington Street. Parking in downtown Raleigh can be tight, so plan accordingly. There are several pay parking lots and garages within a few blocks (street lots on E. Cabarrus, Lenoir, Blount, etc.). For example, a city parking garage (One City Plaza) sits two blocks south on Wilmington/Lenoir. Rates vary ($5–10 typical evening rates). Some attendees use the nearby Red Hat Amphitheater lot (free or reduced after events). Rideshare drivers usually drop off at the corner of Cabarrus & Wilmington right in front of the venue.
If you prefer public transit, take advantage of Raleigh’s GoRaleigh bus system. Many bus routes serve downtown; for instance, the free R-LINE circulator drops off in the Smoky Hollow area (near Peace St) just a short walk away (downtownraleigh.org ). You can also walk from nearby transit hubs – Raleigh’s Union Station (Amtrak/Greyhound) is only a few blocks to the west. In practice, visitors often use a mix of parking, ride-share, and nearby buses. After the show, cabs and Ubers line up outside on Wilmington. Be prepared for downtown traffic on busy nights – it’s wise to arrive at least 30–45 minutes early to find a spot or catch a bus.
Inside the Venue
Upon entry, expect a classic rock-club vibe. You’ll pass through a ticket scanner or will-call desk, and often see t-shirt / merch tables in the lobby. A short hall then brings you into the main bar area. The bar is full-service: it carries a variety of domestic and craft beers, wines, and mixed drinks (thisisraleigh.com ). Bar prices are reasonable for a concert venue (around $7–$11 for a beer, per one attendee report). Bartenders are usually friendly and efficient – one recent reviewer even noted the barkeeper remembered patrons’ first-round orders (thisisraleigh.com ). Beyond the bar is the open floor crowd space, with the stage ahead. (If your ticket includes a VIP table, it will be located near stage here.) Off to the sides and at the rear of the floor, you can step aside for personal space or meet the band at the post-show gate.
On each level there are restrooms (usually located near the bar). During busy shows these can have short lines; reviewers report that even at a sold-out concert people could “move relatively easily … to and from the bar and bathrooms” (thisisraleigh.com ). Note that Lincoln is a BYO style venue in terms of seating – aside from the balcony it’s mostly standing – so if you need to sit, do so early or move to the corners upstairs. There is no coat check or storage inside (thisisraleigh.com ), so carry only what you need. A vending machine for snacks is available, but no regular kitchen or food service – most people eat beforehand at a restaurant. The theatre generally has good cell reception and some venues provide Wi-Fi (though Lincoln doesn’t advertise it).
Nearby Amenities
Walking distance restaurants and bars make it easy to plan an entire night out. Directly across the street and around the corner are the Morgan Street developments – notably the Morgan Street Food Hall (411 W Morgan St), a large indoor hall with over a dozen vendors and bars (downtownraleigh.org ). There you can find casual eats or drinks before (and even after) the show. Other nearby dining options include Brewery Bhavana (218 S Blount St., a popular brewpub with Asian-inspired dishes) and Bida Manda (222 S Blount St., an acclaimed Laotian restaurant). Beasley’s Chicken + Honey on Wilmington (just a block away) offers Southern comfort food and cocktails (www.raleigh-theater.com ). On Hargett Street you’ll find upscale spots like Poole’s Diner or Death & Taxes. For late-night, several bars stay open after concerts (the bars inside Morgan Street Food Hall and the Tenth & Terrace rooftop lounge are common after-party spots).
For out-of-town guests, there are several hotels within a short walk of Lincoln. The Sheraton Raleigh Hotel and Hilton North Hills are about a 5-10 minute walk north. The Marriott City Center and many boutique hotels are also just a few blocks away (thisisraleigh.com ). In fact, one visitor notes that one virtue of Lincoln is its central location: “ample bars and restaurants within an easy walk to hit up before or after the show, and several hotels are also a short walk away” (thisisraleigh.com ). In rainy weather, the theatre is all indoors so the show goes on as planned.
What Makes This Venue Special
Lincoln Theatre’s charm lies in its blend of history, scale, and community. Architecturally it still feels like a neighborhood movie palace, and that old-school character sets it apart from modern arenas. Its legacy as Raleigh’s premier African-American entertainment venue in the 1940s and 1950s is on display in the “Honest Abe” mural and continued tradition of diversity on stage (downtownraleigh.org ). Culturally, Lincoln became the beat of Raleigh’s music scene – the place where locals and road bands alike interact on equal footing. Fans and artists appreciate the up-close experience: as one reviewer put it, even after seeing Rolling Stones in stadiums they “still seek out the small, intimate” Lincoln shows (thisisraleigh.com ). Another local fan highlighted Lincoln as hosting “some of the best national and regional touring acts along with local artists and tribute bands,” calling it “magical” for live music. Many performers enjoy playing here, knowing a dense crowd of 800 can feel festive rather than cramped. In recent years the venue has played host to many memorable shows – for example, the Raleigh band American Aquarium treats its Lincoln residency as a homecoming celebration, interacting freely with the audience after the set (thisisraleigh.com ). These kinds of local traditions illustrate Lincoln’s special role: it’s not just another club, but a piece of Raleigh’s cultural fabric where the city’s past meets its present music scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Lincoln is housed in an older building. The main floor is accessible from street level, but the upstairs balcony is reached by stairs only. Patrons in wheelchairs or with mobility issues can watch from the floor area; ask staff for assistance if needed. There are accessible restrooms on-site. For questions about accommodations, it’s best to contact the venue in advance.
What to Bring: Bring a valid photo ID for age verification (alcohol only served to 21+). A small purse or bag (under 4.5″×6.5″) is allowed (thisisraleigh.com ). Outside food and sealed water bottles are generally permitted (thisisraleigh.com ), but avoid large coolers or bulky items. You may carry a small point-and-shoot camera in, but professional cameras or video recorders are not allowed without prior approval (thisisraleigh.com ). A note for smokers: Lincoln’s policy lets you step outside to smoke and then re-enter, so you won’t lose your spot (thisisraleigh.com ).
Venue Rules: Lincoln is all-ages (unless an event is 21+), but minors pay a $2 door fee (thisisraleigh.com ). There is no coat check (thisisraleigh.com ), so plan to keep your belongings with you. The usual concert dos and don’ts apply: do stay aware of your belongings in the crowd and be courteous to others around you. Don’t bring weapons, outside alcohol or glass bottles, tripods, or camping chairs (thisisraleigh.com ). Dress is casual concert attire – jeans, t-shirts, band merch, and comfortable shoes are the norm. If you want a seat on the floor (which has very limited chairs), arrive right at door time and stake out a spot – otherwise be prepared to stand on the GA floor. Earplugs are a good idea for loud shows.
Arrival Times: Doors typically open about 60 minutes before showtime. Bands usually start promptly at the advertised start time (thisisraleigh.com ). To get a good spot, especially at GA shows, arrive early. Even if there isn’t assigned seating, lining up just before doors open ensures claims your place. Ticket-holders who arrive late may have to enter at the first convenient break or be directed to balcony. If you’re only looking for a drink or want to skip the crowd, arriving closer to showtime is fine – just note that seating/a good viewing spot is on a first-come basis.
Departure: Shows typically end late at night (often 11pm or midnight). Afterward, rideshare vehicles and cabs are readily available on Cabarrus. Nearby bars and lounges (such as those in Morgan Food Hall) stay open for late-night hangouts. Street or deck parking is usually easy to exit after shows if you parked nearby. Don’t forget your ID and belongings on the way out; Lincoln has no claim check, so retrieve anything from the floor or lobby before leaving.
How much do tickets cost at Lincoln Theatre and where can I buy them?
Ticket prices vary widely by event. Smaller shows may be under $20 in advance, while bigger touring acts often run $30–$50 (or more for VIP seats). For example, a Lucero concert was priced around $34–$51 per ticket (lincolntheatre.com ), and specialty nights might offer GA from $14–$34 up to VIP packages near $70 (lincolntheatre.com ) (lincolntheatre.com ). You can buy tickets online through Lincoln Theatre’s official website or authorized sellers. There is no regular box office, but any tickets left will generally be sold at the door starting when doors open (usually an hour before the show) (thisisraleigh.com ). To catch hot shows, sign up for the venue’s mailing list for advance notice and presale codes.
What is the seating arrangement at Lincoln Theatre?
Lincoln is mainly a general admission (GA) venue. The floor in front of the stage is standing room only, with a few folding chairs along the edges. Upstairs there is a wraparound balcony with fixed seating and standing room. The venue holds about 750 people on the main floor and about 150 in the balcony (thisisraleigh.com ). The best viewpoint depends on your preference: front of floor for maximum immersion, or front/center of the balcony for a broad overview. Some events also sell reserved “table” seats (each table seats four) at the front of the floor (thisisraleigh.com ). Note that if you want a seat, arriving by door time is recommended since seating is very limited and first-come-first-serve (thisisraleigh.com ).
Is Lincoln Theatre wheelchair accessible?
Because Lincoln is in a historic building, the upper balcony is only accessible by stairs. Wheelchair users and others with mobility needs can access the main floor at street level. The main seating area has room for wheelchair spaces and there are accessible restrooms on site. However, the balcony and any second level cannot be reached without climbing stairs. If you require a specific accommodation or seating near the stage, it’s best to call ahead so staff can assist or reserve an appropriate spot.
What items am I allowed or not allowed to bring into Lincoln Theatre?
Lincoln Theatre’s policy is fairly typical for small clubs. You may bring small personal items (like a purse or headphones) and even a small point-and-shoot camera (thisisraleigh.com ). Outside snacks or sealed water bottles are usually permitted (thisisraleigh.com ). Prohibited items include camping chairs, large bags, professional video/DSLR cameras without permission, glass bottles or cans, outside alcohol, weapons, or laser pointers (thisisraleigh.com ). Food from outside (other than light snacks) generally isn’t served here, so plan to eat beforehand. Also note: Lincoln has no coat check (thisisraleigh.com ), so don’t bring more belongings than you can carry.
Does Lincoln Theatre have food and drinks available?
The theatre has a full bar serving beer, wine, and mixed drinks. You can buy cocktails, craft or domestic beers, and other drinks at reasonable prices (around $7–$11 for a beer, per visitor reports) (thisisraleigh.com ). There is no onsite kitchen or restaurant, and only a small snack vending machine for quick bites (thisisraleigh.com ). It’s recommended to have dinner offsite nearby before the show. Fortunately, downtown Raleigh is packed with restaurants steps away (from casual spots in Morgan Street Food Hall to Southern comfort restaurants), so you won’t have to stray far for a meal.
Where should I park for an event at Lincoln Theatre?
Parking for downtown events can be limited, so allow extra time. There are a number of public parking decks and lots within a few blocks of E. Cabarrus St. For example, a city garage (One City Plaza) is a couple blocks south on Wilmington. Many smaller pay-lots are scattered on Lenoir, Blount, or East St. On-street metered parking is available but fills up fast on busy evenings. Rates in nearby lots are typically around $5–10 for the night. Some patrons use the nearby Red Hat Amphitheater lot (which sometimes allows event parking) or reserve a space via parking apps. A practical option is to Uber/Lyft: drivers usually drop off at the corner of Cabarrus and Wilmington, right at the theatre entrance.
What public transit options serve Lincoln Theatre?
Lincoln is within easy reach of Raleigh’s transit system. Several GoRaleigh bus routes run through downtown on nearby streets (e.g. on Wilmington St or Modern). Importantly, the free R-LINE circulator bus goes right through the Smoky Hollow area within a block of the theatre (downtownraleigh.org ). Union Station (train/bus hub) is only a few blocks away as well. Use the GoRaleigh trip planner or local transit apps to find a convenient route. Taxis and rideshares are plentiful downtown. Since most attendees use a mix of driving, parking, and buses, just give yourself time to navigate the city center streets when you arrive.
Are there age restrictions or surcharges at Lincoln Theatre?
By default, Lincoln Theatre is an all-ages venue – anyone can attend any show unless it’s specifically labeled 21+. There is a $2 door surcharge for patrons under 21 (so remember to bring a little extra cash if you have teens) (thisisraleigh.com ). If you’re under 21 and plan to buy drinks onsite, you must still have valid ID. (If the show is 21+ only, it will be clearly noted on ticketing materials and at the door.) Otherwise, age is generally not an issue: many families, college students, and older fans enjoy shows here together.
Is there a dress code for attending Lincoln Theatre?
No formal dress code is enforced at Lincoln Theatre. It’s a casual music club, so most people wear jeans, t-shirts, hoodies, or other comfy rock/concert attire. Just keep the usual concert guidelines in mind: no gang-affiliate clothing, costumes (unless it’s a themed event), or outfits that might be unsafe in a crowd. Since you may be standing and dancing, comfortable shoes are a good idea. Overall, dress for a fun night out; you won’t be out of place wearing band merch or casual clothes.
Can I re-enter Lincoln Theatre if I leave during a show?
Yes, Lincoln generally allows patrons to re-enter once the show has started. For example, if you step outside briefly to smoke or get fresh air, you will be allowed back in at the same door (they’ll typically hold your hand stamp or ticket tear). Just be aware that when you re-enter, you’ll return to the back of the line, so plan accordingly. Leaving and coming back should not be a problem, and many fans do exactly that (especially smokers) without issue (thisisraleigh.com ).
What is Lincoln Theatre’s historical significance?
Lincoln Theatre is significant both culturally and architecturally. It was built in the 1940s as one of Raleigh’s only movie theaters serving the African-American community during segregation (downtownraleigh.org ). That heritage is a point of pride for the city. After closing as a cinema in 1975 (cinematreasures.org ), its later revival as a concert venue helped preserve a piece of Raleigh’s history. Today, local sources note that Lincoln is “one of Raleigh’s most established music venues” (theclio.com ). Because of its age and story, it’s often included on walking tours and in discussions of Civil Rights-era Raleigh. Seeing a show there is as much about enjoying music as it is about being in a landmark of the city’s cultural past.
What notable acts have performed at Lincoln Theatre?
Over the years, Lincoln Theatre has hosted a huge variety of performers. Acts range from national touring bands to local legends. For example, Raleigh-based Americana group American Aquarium regularly headlines there. Other notable artists include indie and jam-rock groups (moe., Guster, Lucero), Blues giants (Popa Chubby), and dozens of regional bluegrass, country, and rock acts. The venue is also popular for tribute shows (like Pink Floyd or Lynyrd Skynyrd tributes) and festival sets (Hopscotch festival showcases). Many music fans and performers say Lincoln is a rite-of-passage stage in Raleigh – so its roster reads like a “who’s who” of the Triangle music scene over the past decade.
