Best Landmark

Built in the 1920s, The Fox Theatre was originally designed as a Moorish-style Yaarab Temple for the Shriners organization. Before it was completed, though, the Shriners realized they were in over their heads financially and cut a deal to turn the enormous structure into a movie theater. After the era of downtown movie palaces passed in the early ’70s, the building fell into decline and was threatened by “progress.” Plans were made to raze the building and build a parking lot until Atlanta Landmarks Inc. intervened and launched a four-year “Save the Fox” fund-raising campaign. Today the 5,000-seat palace has been restored to its former glory and is a venue for Broadway shows, film festivals and the occasional concert. less...