Eldorado Ballroom

Event venue · Greater Third Ward ·

Eldorado Ballroom

Event venue · Greater Third Ward ·

Historic entertainment hall, community hub, live music, dance

Information

2310 Elgin St, Houston, TX 77004 Get directions

@eater

391,688 Postcards · 10,991 Cities

Houston Chef Chris Williams Revives Third Ward’s Historic Eldorado Ballroom With the New Rado Market | Eater Houston

"A historic Third Ward entertainment hall that served as a center of Black music and nightlife — welcoming legendary performers such as Etta James, Ray Charles, Duke Ellington, and B.B. King — until its mid-20th-century closure. Recently revived through a multi-million-dollar restoration led in partnership with local nonprofits and community stakeholders, the upstairs dance and entertainment space preserves original 1939 elements like flooring, walls, and paneling while upgrading sound to a modern-but-era-sensitive setup. The renovated hall is intended as a reactivated cultural hub for the neighborhood, hosting regular programming (salsa nights, monthly comedy, live music and more), offering rental availability for residents with sliding-scale pricing, and serving as a tangible effort to bring more artistic and social life back into the community." - Brittany Britto Garley

https://houston.eater.com/2023/8/2/23816085/houston-chef-chris-williams-the-rado-market-el-dorado-ballroom-third-ward-openings

Eldorado Ballroom

@eater

391,688 Postcards · 10,991 Cities

Chef Chris Williams’ Upcoming Openings in Houston’s Historic El Dorado Ballroom | Eater Houston

"Built in 1939 by Anna Johnson Dupree and Clarence Dupree to give Black residents a nondiscriminatory place to celebrate and gather, this historic ballroom evolved into a major music hub—hosting local stars like Sam “Lightning” Hopkins and Johnny “Guitar” Watson as well as icons such as B.B. King, Ray Charles, Etta James, and Ella Fitzgerald—and flourished into the 1970s. After later ownership changes and a 1999 donation to Project Row Houses, the landmark was fully restored through a $10 million capital campaign. Now overseen by a local hospitality group, it is being reimagined as a live concert venue and community-centered space that aims to honor its storied past while empowering a new generation of artists and neighbors." - Megha McSwain

https://houston.eater.com/2023/4/21/23689863/chef-chris-williams-historic-el-dorado-ballroom

Eldorado Ballroom

@postcardnews

22,027 Postcards · 1,950 Cities

Third Ward’s 1939 icon is reborn as a vibrant venue and community hub; recent calendars and performances confirm its return, with coverage by Performing Arts Houston and the Houston Chronicle underscoring its cultural weight.

https://www.theeldoradoballroom.com/calendar

Things to Do in Houston (2025)

Eldorado Ballroom

Juanita B.

Google

OMG!! last night at Eldorado Ballroom was pure magic! ✨ I had the most unforgettable experience fan-girling over Paul Cornish , a Houston native and absolute musical genius. The energy in the room was electric, the vibe was soulful, and the fact that it was an all-Black team made the night even more powerful. The evening was beautifully hosted by The Live Music Movement Foundation, and they did not miss a beat. A night filled with culture, talent, and pure Black excellence! I’m still on cloud nine. 🎹🖤

Kevin B.

Google

Saw my good friend, Kyle Turner, along with Althea Renee, and Michael Ward at the El Dorado and the show was amazing! The building was packed, but not in an uncomfortable way, and the staff was courteous and professional. I will be returning!

Tonya B.

Google

I recently revisited [Venue Name] after more than a decade, and I was truly impressed by the transformation! The new design is sleek, open, and bright, creating a welcoming atmosphere for any event. One of the biggest improvements is the addition of elevators—no more climbing that narrow stairway to the ballroom! This upgrade makes the venue much more accessible and convenient for all guests. Whether you're planning a wedding, corporate event, or special celebration, this is a fantastic place to rent. I was thoroughly impressed and would highly recommend it!

DJ CAYJUYN S.

Google

The Eldorado Ballroom is one of Houston's staples. I've been able to experience this space as a DJ for a few events. The staff was beyond helpful on both occasions and accommodating to all vendors. The Sound Techs are very knowledgeable. I was excited to be apart of the event.

LaTonya B.

Google

Based on the initial contact with the managers of the El Dorado I do not recommend anyone consider hosting an event here. The property is owned by Project Row House and managed by Lucille’s Restaurant group. The numbers on the website do not work. Emails are about two weeks delayed. The candly calendar is on the website but no one shows up to the interest call. 🤦🏾 I asked a friend who knows the owner to have someone contact me about an event we wanted to hold here and only then did I get a response. The pictures are from the walk through and the back and forth email with JonTa, who has to be the most inexperienced event planner I’ve ever encountered. The El Dorado is a historical building and has been renovated which would have worked nicely for our holiday gala. When we were ready to move forward with our reservation and asked for specific prices, JonTa who is the person who did the walk through and the person the Lucille group has entrusted to manage the facility promised to send me some packages not once but three times. I never got the packages and contacted Chris, the co-owner who ensured me I would get what JonTa assured me she would send by end of business day because she was currently in a meeting at the time we spoke. He also said it’s just good business to do what you say you’ll do…tuh. You guessed it…never got it. I don’t know why we have to tussle to do business with black owned establishments. Either the service is going to be below standard or the price point is price gauged. If the initial interaction was terrible just to do a walk through and the request for price packages was stressful I can only imagine the day of the event being a disaster if this is the staff that manages the ballroom. Long story short, 1/10 do not recommend.

Katrina ONeil (.

Google

It was a reunion gala. The staff was great. The building was beautiful there was fabulous art as soon as you walked into the doors they have a beautiful meeting area upstairs for all types of functions.

Alvicher W.

Google

The venue is beautiful and decorations were gorgeous. Our class reunion was held there. The parking was sufficient.

Lovely Marshall-Forbes Influencer “Eventbrite Entrepreneur” Creator to C.

Google

I had the absolute pleasure of attending an incredible event hosted at the historic El Dorado Ballroom during Black Entrepreneurs Week who business is a keynote speaker and career coach . This remarkable venue brought together amazing partnerships with companies like Chase, H-E-B, and many others to create a truly inspiring experience. First off, the parking was phenomenal—a rare find for an event space! There was ample parking with clearly marked signs, so no worries about towing or confusion. Security was top-notch, making everyone feel safe and welcome. As soon as you enter, you’re greeted by the beauty of the venue itself. The lighting, AV system, and overall décor were stunning. The panel setup was unique and inviting, featuring cozy couches instead of traditional chairs, which added a touch of sophistication. The AV system was great, but one improvement could be a larger presentation screen placed centrally for better visibility, especially for those seated in the back. What truly stood out was the red-carpet treatment, complete with a sleek black backdrop that encouraged connection and collaboration. This venue has preserved its rich history while offering modern amenities, making it the perfect place to host your next event in Houston’s iconic Third Ward. El Dorado Ballroom is more than just a venue—it’s a piece of history that has stood the test of time, creating spaces for community and celebration. I can’t recommend it enough for your next event! **Celebrated by Lovely Is YOUR Story. Thank you for setting the standard!**

Caim S.

Yelp

El Dorado Ballroom is easily one of my favorite community spaces. There's always something happening that helps me connect with and learn from the community I frequent so often. Their Juneteenth kickoff press party was informative, lively, and filled with the kind of creative energy that makes Houston feel like home for a transplant like myself. The cocktails, sponsored by Gentleman No. 3, were refreshing with fresh watermelon and mint. The small bites (mac and cheese with collard greens, deviled eggs, and jerk chicken) made for the perfect happy hour snack. I genuinely love El Dorado and the range of programming they offer. When you can experience culture, creativity, and community all under one roof, it's a true neighborhood gem. With Kindred Stories moving into the building and ongoing art exhibits, the space just keeps growing. El Dorado makes it easy to learn from your neighbors and get to know them too.

Frankie H.

Yelp

This is an amazing Historical location in 3rd Ward. It is so nice inside and outside. The concert was so great. Looking forward to more.

Brianna M.

Yelp

This place is amazing so beautiful and the renovations were worth wait. I can't wait to come back for another great show. I think my favorite thing was the art deco style that reminded me of Harlem Nights. Great place for a date and soo close to downtown. Parking was easy peasy no fuss or hassle. Love love love

Sharon B.

Yelp

I had the pleasure of returning to the Historic Eldorado Ballroom for a remarkable jazz quartet concert! This is truly a place anyone interested in historical architecture and great music can come to enjoy a drink in a beautiful setting. The Decamera sponsored events bring in such excellent talent it is always a joy to experience!

Renia L.

Yelp

This little gem in the heart of 3rd ward Texas and in reading the history of the ballroom there were a lot of famous musicians that came through the place. This would be a great location for a small wedding or gathering. The event was fabulous. The food and beverages were donated by phoneica and the beer by Saint Arnolds. Luckily my husband had cash so that we could donate to a great cause. We watched old footage from the 60's of some of the greats (Tina turner, Etta James, Gladys Knight) at the peak of their fame. People were dancing in the aisles it was really a ton of fun. My husband and I really enjoyed it and are glad we could be a part of it.

Andrea C.

Yelp

There is swing dancing on Sunday nights and every second Saturday. Built in 1939, the Historic Eldorado Ballroom shares the same nickname as the Savoy Ballroom, "The Home of Happy Feet". Only this ballroom remains standing. Dancing at the Eldorado has a very special link to our nation's history.

Jay A.

Yelp

My name is Jay Aubrey and I am a photographer & we have enjoyed working here on numerous occasions. Very nice place & the owner is an awesome person to work with. One of Houston's great places to have an event.