Two Historic Landmarks. One Extraordinary Century.

How the Richey Suncoast Theatre and The Hacienda Helped Shape Downtown New Port Richey

As downtown New Port Richey celebrates a remarkable milestone, it’s hard not to reflect on the history woven into its streets.

In 2026, the Richey Suncoast Theatre celebrates 100 years of entertaining audiences, while just months later, The Hacienda will celebrate its own 100th anniversary in February 2027. Together, these two beloved landmarks have stood at the heart of downtown for nearly a century, welcoming generations of visitors, inspiring memories, and helping define the character of our community.

While each has its own unique story, their histories are beautifully intertwined.

A Town with Big Dreams

The 1920s were an exciting time for New Port Richey.

Florida was booming, and developers envisioned the small Gulf Coast community as a destination unlike any other. Among the town’s biggest champions was silent film star Thomas Meighan, whose passion for New Port Richey helped earn it the nickname “Hollywood East.”

Meighan believed the city’s natural beauty, riverfront setting, and welcoming atmosphere could attract visitors, artists, and entertainers from around the country. His enthusiasm helped fuel a period of remarkable growth that would leave a lasting mark on downtown.

The Meighan Theatre Opens

On July 1, 1926, the Meighan Theatre opened its doors, quickly becoming one of the community’s most exciting gathering places.

Moviegoers filled the seats to experience the magic of the silver screen during Hollywood’s golden age. Over the decades, the building evolved alongside the community, eventually becoming today’s Richey Suncoast Theatre, where live performances, concerts, comedies, musicals, and community productions continue to delight audiences nearly a century later.

As it celebrates 100 years, the theatre remains one of downtown’s cultural cornerstones, connecting generations through the performing arts.

The Hacienda Joins the Story

Just months after the theatre’s debut, another ambitious project was taking shape nearby.

Completed in 1927, The Hacienda was envisioned as a grand destination hotel that would welcome visitors arriving to experience everything New Port Richey had to offer.

Its distinctive Mediterranean Revival architecture, elegant public spaces, and prime location overlooking what is now Sims Park quickly made it one of Florida’s most celebrated hotels.

Guests came seeking warm Gulf breezes, outdoor recreation, and the relaxed sophistication that defined Florida travel during the Roaring Twenties.

For many, an evening might include a performance at the theatre followed by dinner, dancing, or an overnight stay at The Hacienda. Together, the two landmarks helped create an unforgettable downtown experience.

A Century of Change

Over the past 100 years, New Port Richey has experienced tremendous change.

These two landmarks witnessed the Great Depression, World War II, decades of growth, changing travel trends, and the revitalization of downtown.

The theatre adapted from silent films to talkies, then to live performances and community productions.

The Hacienda welcomed generations of travelers before eventually closing for many years. Thanks to the vision and dedication of owners Jim and Alexandra Gunderson, the hotel underwent an extraordinary restoration and proudly reopened in September 2022, once again becoming the centerpiece of downtown hospitality.

Today, visitors can once again experience these historic treasures much as guests did generations ago, enjoying a show at the theatre before returning to The Hacienda for dinner, cocktails, or a relaxing overnight stay.

More Than Buildings

It’s easy to admire historic architecture.

What’s harder to see are the countless memories created inside.

First dates.

Standing ovations.

Wedding celebrations.

Family vacations.

Holiday traditions.

Community fundraisers.

Anniversary dinners.

Generations of residents and visitors have laughed, celebrated, and made lifelong memories within the walls of these two remarkable landmarks.

That legacy is what makes them truly special.

Looking Toward the Next 100 Years

This year, we proudly celebrate the Richey Suncoast Theatre’s Centennial, honoring a century of entertainment, creativity, and community.

Then, in February 2027, The Hacienda will celebrate its own 100th anniversary, marking a century of welcoming guests from around the world.

These milestones aren’t simply birthdays.

They’re reminders that preserving history allows future generations to experience the stories, architecture, and traditions that make places like downtown New Port Richey so unique.

As we celebrate one historic landmark and prepare for another, we’re reminded that the heart of a community isn’t found in bricks and mortar alone.

It’s found in the people who continue writing its story every single day.

We invite you to celebrate with us.

Catch a performance at the Richey Suncoast Theatre.

Enjoy dinner at Sasha’s on the Park.

Take a stroll through Sims Park.

Stay the night at The Hacienda.

Become part of a story that’s been unfolding for nearly a century.

Here’s to the first 100 years… and to the next.

For more information visit RicheySuncoastTheatre.com