The Rowland Theatre is on the National Register of Historic Places. It was built in 1917 by Charles Rowland, who also refurbished the magnificent Rowland Mansion on South Centre Street. The theatre occupies the space of the Pearce Opera House that burned on December 31, 1910. The current marquee is a replica of the original theatre marquee that was made of opaque white and green glass.

The theatre has a lovely lobby with a stained glass skylight and painted murals. Below the stage are dressing rooms and a “green room.” At the back of the building were huge doors that backed onto a railroad siding. When the circus came to town, the animals and big equipment moved directly from the rail cars to the back of the stage. Recent renovations have vastly improved the appearance of the interior. Many celebrities have performed in or visited the theatre over the years. The third floor of the building was once a ballroom.