A venue that has an “east parlor” and “west parlor” definitely suggests a sizeable space. This is The Detroit Masonic Temple — an iconic venue in the city that is home to 16 floors and 1,037 rooms. As the world’s largest Masonic Temple, it comes as no surprise that this impressive structure has hosted a wide range of events in the past, from energetic live gigs to intimate concerts.
Background on The Masonic Temple in Detroit
Construction of the building started in 1920 and was completed by 1926. When the theater at The Masonic first opened, the development was marked by a concert performed by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Ossip Gabrilowitsch. As membership in Masonic fraternities began to grow, the Masonic Temple Association of Detroit decided to build a larger Masonic Temple on Bagg Street (now Temple Avenue).
Across the Temple Theatre, Crystal Ballroom, Parlor Room, Greek Ionic Room, and so many more venues within The Masonic there are treasured artistic conceptions and decorative details. From Corrado Parducci’s sculptures on display in the lobby to light fixtures and chandeliers, Parducci’s unique designs add to the magnificence of the building.
What can you do at The Detroit Masonic Temple?
The Masonic is home to lodge rooms, offices, dining spaces, a swimming pool, a handball court, a gymnasium, a bowling alley, and a pool hall. It is also the home of the Detroit Handball Club. Aside from all of these fantastic facilities, you can always catch your favorite bands performing live or find your seat at a mesmerizing Candlelight concert in the Crystal Ballroom. Talented musicians will serenade you with soothing melodies accompanied by classic Italian decor.
How many seats are in Masonic Temple Detroit?
Seating capacity varies for each space. The Masonic Theater can accommodate 4,650 seated guests, whereas the Jack White Theater and the Crystal Ballroom have capacity for 1,586 and 550 guests respectively.
How old is The Masonic Temple in Detroit?
The current building is 105 years old but The Masonic Temple Association was incorporated in Detroit in 1894.
Where to park for The Masonic Temple in Detroit?
Although there is no specific parking at the venue, there are plenty of District Detroit paid lots and garages in the area.
How to get to The Masonic Temple in Detroit?
The Temple & Second and Cass & Ledyard bus stops are the closest public transit stops. If you prefer the light rail, the Sproat St – Southbound station is only an eight-minute walk.
Nearby venues
If you haven’t already found yourself standing before The Masonic in Detroit, you can find the striking building next to Cass Park on 500 Temple St. Within a 10-15 minute walk, you’ll find a number of famous venues, including The Fox Theatre, The Majestic Theatre and Cliff Bell.
Don’t miss out on seeing The Detroit Masonic Temple firsthand and go see a captivating Candlelight concert. The combination of flickering candles and takes on some of your favorite music makes for a memorable evening out. What’s more, the series is illuminating several other venues across Detroit, so you can discover even more of the city’s highly sought-after spaces.