Exclusive Trip Inside the Loew's Valencia: NYC's First "Wonder Theatre"

Wedged between a tiny linen store and discount clothing outlet in the heart of Jamaica, Queens, is a former theater that — at first look — appears equally unassuming. Though just beyond the front doors is one of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in all of New York. It's time to explore one of New York's greatest hidden gems like never before.

Join New York Adventure Club for an exclusive look inside the historic landmarked Loew’s Valencia Theatre in Queens, one of the five Loew’s “wonder theatre” movie palaces built in the New York City area between 1929-1930.

Led by a member of the Tabernacle of Prayer for All People, the church that has maintained the building since the 1970s, our unique experience at this opulent theatre will include:

• A discussion around the history and story of the Valencia Theatre, from once being the most successful movie theatre in Queens to its acquisition by the Tabernacle of Prayer for All People in 1979
• A walkthrough of the original lobby, parlors, and hallways
• A closer look inside the main 3,554-seat auditorium, which is decorated in a mix of Spanish Colonial and pre-Columbian styles
• An incredibly rare opportunity to see the theatre's atmospheric ceiling in action, with its hundreds of flickering lights representing a starry night

Click here to see pictures from one of our previous visits to Valencia Theatre.

See you there!

*A portion of the tour typically visits the second floor, which is only accessible by a set of stairs

Transportation

By Subway: Take the F train to the 169th street station — theatre is an 8-minute walk away. OR, take the E, J, or Z train to Jamaica Center - Parsons/Archer Station — theatre is a 10-minutes walk away.

By Train: Take the Long Island Rail Road to Jamaica Center - Parsons/Archer Station. Theatre is a 10-minute walk away.

By Car: Limited parking is available around the neighborhood — allow extra time to find a spot. An affordable parking lot can be found at the Jamaica Colosseum Mall (entrance to the Roof Top Parking is on the corner of 164th Street & 89th Ave.).

Testimonials

"The host was amazing." -Peter

"A very detailed look and talk about this histroic interior" -Leonard

"Just getting access to the venue and being able to see the design, construction and ornamentation." -Charles

"We had a great guide and I appreciated the extent of access we were given." -Michelle

"Beautiful theatre in an unexpected place. Fantastic guide who’s passion about the place really showed. And a great group of people on the tour." -Lindsay

"It was great to be able to visit this wonderful place in a informative and relaxed atmosphere." -Thomas

"The woman who led the tour really knew the history of the theater and obviously cared about it. Plus it's a fabulous building." -Beth

"I just loved it. Very personal. Lots of good detail. Gave us plenty of time." -Jeanne

"Beautiful facility, lovely staff." -Myrna

"It was one of the best tours of this type that I ever attended." -Erwin

"Our guide was amazing. Her love of the theatre building was contagious" -Richard

"The sincerity and enthusiasm of the tour guide, the charm of her young cohorts assisting on the tour, and the theater itself." -Robin

"Organization of the tour and the ability to explore the theater without being hurried through" -Matthew

"Very unique and not too long" -Chris

"The Valencia is in pristine condition, lovingly cared for by the church that owns and operates it. Our church-employee guide was knowledgeable and charming. All New Yorkers who appreciate the history of our amazing city should take this tour!" -Marcy

"The host and info were excellent." -Matthew T.

"I liked that we got to take a tour of a beautiful landmark in NYC" -Kimberly

"The opportunity to see this architectural gem , normally not accesible to the public, being a church and also located far off thhe beaten track." -Gabriela

"It’s history and incredible preservation of the place. Truly a “wonder” theater!" -Mary

"Fascinating building and history. Enthusiastic and knowledgeable tour guides" -Katherine

"The beauty of the building and how the congregation has kept it as beautiful as it was in its days as a theatre. The craftsmanship is remarkable and the love they have for this building is truly evident." -Lisette

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Categories: In-Person, Theatre Tours

Host or Publisher New York Adventure Club