A full house gathers for Pacific Repertory Theatre's
1 / 10

Forest Theater

4.8
Β·65 reviewsΒ·Carmel-by-the-Sea, United States

Historic outdoor amphitheater hosting captivating musicals, plays, and unique puppet shows under the stars.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend afternoons

Catch popular shows

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
A full house gathers for Pacific Repertory Theatre's

Forest Theater

Best Time

Weekend afternoons

Catch popular shows

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic outdoor amphitheater hosting captivating musicals, plays, and unique puppet shows under the stars.

4.8
(65 reviews)

"Being outside to watch a play wasn’t something I’ve ever done so it was such a cool, fun experience for us. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

πŸ§₯ Bring Warm Layers & Blanket

Evenings get chilly! Pack a blanket, scarf, hat, and gloves for comfort.

πŸͺ‘ Cushion for Benches

Wooden benches can be hard; a cushion makes seating much more comfortable.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.8 Β· 65 reviews

Type

Performing Arts Theater

πŸ‘Ά Good for kidsβ™Ώ Wheelchair accessibleπŸ…ΏοΈ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Musical Magic

Live Musical Magic

Outdoor Amphitheater

Experience captivating musicals and plays under the stars with talented actors and live bands.

InstagramReddit
Giant Puppet Spectacles

Giant Puppet Spectacles

Amphitheater Stage

Witness breathtaking puppetry and community art, like the impressive 'EARTH + SKY' show.

Instagram
The Wizard of Oz Under the Stars

The Wizard of Oz Under the Stars

Amphitheater

Enjoy classic tales brought to life with incredible performances and a magical outdoor setting.

InstagramReddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Outdoors

This is an outdoor amphitheater, so dress in layers! Evenings can get chilly, so pack a blanket, scarf, and hat. Consider bringing a cushion for the wooden benches to enhance comfort during longer performances. Reddit

Plan Your Arrival

Arrive early, especially for popular shows! Many visitors arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before showtime to secure good seats in the 540-seat venue. Bringing your own food and drinks is a big plus. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Catch popular shows
Crowd
Medium
When
Early evening
Why
Best seats & cooler temps
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @hana.elson these are all my favorite things to do every time I’m home 🫢🏼 #carmel #carmelca #carmelbythesea #carmelbeach #greenscreen #catrip #beachtown #biglittlelies
@katelynfletcher
44.9K likes β€’ 813.2K views

πŸ§₯ Bring Warm Layers & Blanket

Evenings get chilly! Pack a blanket, scarf, hat, and gloves for comfort. Reddit

πŸͺ‘ Cushion for Benches

Wooden benches can be hard; a cushion makes seating much more comfortable. Reddit

#onthisday Roadtrips to Carmel by the sea 🧚🏼 #travelguide #weekendtrip #minivlog #travel #california #traveltiktok #traveltips #montereycounty #carmelbythesea #carmelvalley #travellife #roadtripideas
@fromabolivian
41K likes β€’ 1.2M views
We love hearing stories about the Forest Theater back in the day! What are some of your favorite memories? #ForestForward
forestforward
145 likes β€’ 3.2K views

🍎 Pack Your Own Picnic

You can bring your own food and drinks, including wine! Great for saving money. Reddit+1

⏰ Arrive Early for Seats

Secure the best spots by arriving 1.5-2 hours before showtime. Reddit

What an absolutely amazing and beautiful couple of days I had making musical magic at the Forest Theater (even with a few raindrops) with the Monterey Symphony, Malinda DeRouen and Bernard Holcumb under the baton of Maestro Hogarth for Love Letter to Paris!! HUGE love and thanks to family, friends, Nicola Shangrow Reilly, Virginia Marine, Noemi Vera, Delia Rose and all of the wonderful stage and s...
lebertaloral
50 likes β€’ 654 views

Tips

from all over the internet

πŸ§₯ Bring Warm Layers & Blanket

Evenings get chilly! Pack a blanket, scarf, hat, and gloves for comfort. Reddit

πŸͺ‘ Cushion for Benches

Wooden benches can be hard; a cushion makes seating much more comfortable. Reddit

🍎 Pack Your Own Picnic

You can bring your own food and drinks, including wine! Great for saving money. Reddit+1

⏰ Arrive Early for Seats

Secure the best spots by arriving 1.5-2 hours before showtime. Reddit

🎢 Enjoy Live Music

Many performances feature live bands, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(65 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Forest Theater's magical outdoor setting and the quality of live performances, from musicals to puppet shows. The ability to bring your own food and drinks is a major highlight, enhancing the relaxed and communal atmosphere. While the wooden benches can be uncomfortable, most attendees find the overall experience charming and highly recommend it for a unique night out. InstagramReddit+1

"My husband and I went on a weekend to see The Wizard of Oz. The actors were incredible. Snacks were reasonably priced; however, you can bring your own food and drinks in, bonus! You can arrive 2 hours before the performance starts and snag a good seat; it was already maybe 1/2 way full by the time we arrived 1.5 hours before. The bathrooms were clean and workers were nice. Being outside to watch a play wasn’t something I’ve ever done so it was such a cool, fun experience for us. Definitely recommend!"

Christina George

"Wonderful live performances with live bands. Outdoor seating. It can get chilly at night, so bring a blanket, scarf, hat, gloves, and a pillow to sit on (the wooden benches are hard), etc. One can bring their own food and beverages including wine. Many very entertaining musicals!"

Lynn Stockman

"This was our first time seeing a performance at the Forest Theater and loved it! I especially appreciate how you can bring in your own food & drinks. Would love to attend another show here 🎭"

Heather Lang

What People Like

Magical outdoor setting
Quality live performances
Bring own food/drinks

What People Dislike

Uncomfortable benches
Evening chill

Frequently Asked Questions

πŸš‡ πŸ—ΊοΈ Getting There

Information on specific public transport or driving directions to the Forest Theater would be helpful here. As it's an outdoor venue, consider parking availability and potential shuttle services if offered. Reddit

Details on parking lots, fees, and accessibility for the Forest Theater would be beneficial. Many visitors arrive early to secure parking spots. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets are typically available online through the venue's official website or ticketing partners. It's advisable to book in advance for popular shows. Reddit

The Forest Theater operates based on performance schedules. Gates usually open 1.5 to 2 hours before showtime to allow guests to find seats and enjoy pre-show activities. Reddit

Yes, you absolutely can! Bringing your own food, drinks, and even wine is a popular and encouraged practice, making your experience more enjoyable and budget-friendly. Reddit+1

Yes, concessions are available, offering snacks and drinks. However, many visitors opt to bring their own, which is permitted. Reddit

🎫 πŸͺ‘ Onsite Experience

The Forest Theater features outdoor amphitheater seating with wooden benches. Bringing a cushion is highly recommended for comfort during performances. Reddit

Information regarding accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair access and designated seating areas, would be valuable for planning. Reddit

The Forest Theater hosts a variety of live performances, including musicals, plays, and concerts featuring live bands. They are also known for unique events like giant puppet shows. InstagramReddit+1

Generally, photography and videography may be restricted during performances to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. Check the venue's specific policy. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While concessions are available, the best strategy is to pack your own picnic. Popular choices include snacks, drinks, and even wine, as permitted by the venue. Reddit+1

Exploring nearby dining options before or after a show can enhance your visit. Research local eateries for a complete evening out. Reddit

πŸ“Έ πŸ“Έ Photography

Capture the magic of the outdoor amphitheater, especially during sunset or with performers on stage. The unique architecture and natural setting offer great photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Professional photography might require special permits or advance arrangements. Always check the venue's policy regarding photography, especially for commercial purposes. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2
Forest Theater (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide