Opened in 1904, the Sheldon was one of the very first municipally owned theaters in the United States, built as a gift to the community from Theodore B. Sheldon. More than a century later, it remains a living, breathing work of art — a space where music, theatre, and history share the same spotlight.

A Stage with a Story

Stepping inside the Sheldon feels like stepping back in time. The gold-leaf accents, hand-painted ceilings, and grand balconies glow with old-world beauty — the kind that makes you whisper just a little, as though the walls themselves deserve reverence.

But don’t let the vintage charm fool you. The Sheldon’s state-of-the-art acoustics and lighting make it one of the region’s premier performance venues, hosting everything from national touring acts to local productions. One weekend, you might catch a symphony orchestra; the next, a bluegrass band, a Broadway favorite, or a family film night.

The real magic, though, is how the theater connects generations. Couples who saw their first show there in the ‘60s now bring their grandkids. Locals volunteer as ushers, and visiting artists speak about the warmth of the Red Wing audience. Every seat holds a story — and together, they’ve kept the Sheldon alive for 120 years.

Getting There Is Half the Fun

The journey to Red Wing is just as lovely as the destination. Start your trip in Prescott, Wisconsin, where the St. Croix and Mississippi Rivers meet, and make a weekend of it. Stay at The Port of Prescott Boutique Hotel, a riverside escape surrounded by downtown dining, small shops, and walking trails.

From there, follow the Great River Road, a nationally recognized scenic byway that winds along bluffs, farms, and sleepy river towns. It’s an easy 45-minute drive that feels like a page out of a travel magazine — perfect for a slow Saturday with the windows down and good music playing.

Make It a Night to Remember

Plan your visit around a performance that catches your eye — a concert, a comedy show, or a seasonal classic — and make it your grand finale. There’s something special about seeing a show at the Sheldon: it’s elegant but approachable, historic but alive.

Whether you’re a fan of the arts, a lover of old architecture, or just someone who appreciates stories that stand the test of time, the Sheldon Theatre is a destination worth the drive.

Plan Your Visit: sheldontheatre.org
Location: 443 West 3rd Street, Red Wing, MN
Stay Nearby: The Port of Prescott Boutique Hotel
Route: The Great River Road

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