Decatur’s culture and arts scene is primarily rooted in the downtown area. Residents and visitors can view art from local, regional and national artists at the Carnegie Visual Arts Center and attend local and national performances at the Princess Theatre Center for the Performing Arts. Several local theater groups and artists are also very present in Downtown Decatur.

Decatur's historic Princess Theatre serves as the city's performing arts center, presenting diverse and award-winning artists in a major 677-seat venue in north Alabama, providing innovative educational programs that introduce the arts to young people and strengthen the school curriculum and serving as a multipurpose rental facility in a beautifully restored art deco landmark. Each year in its commitment to artistic excellence, the Theatre brings artists like Chris Botti, The Del McCoury Band, Ricky Skaggs, Arlo Guthrie and Dianne Reeves to the Princess stage! From national tours of Broadway, music, dance, lectures and film to local arts events, the Princess has entertainment for everyone. Originally built in 1887 as a livery stable, the Princess has been a theater since 1919 and an icon in downtown. 112 2nd Ave NE. For rental and ticket information, visit www.princesstheatre.org or call 256-340-1778.

The Carnegie Visual Arts Center is located in the former Carnegie Library building on 207 Church Street NE near Bank Street. The center showcases the works of both nationally-recognized and local artists. The center also offers art classes and supports public art projects. For more information about the Carnegie Visual Arts Center, visit www.carnegiearts.org.

Visitors to Downtown Decatur can enjoy free art thanks to the supporters of public art initiatives. In 2009, the streets of downtown were filled with brightly colored butterflies. The Arts Aflutter project, supported by local business and residents, placed large butterflies created by local artists throughout the downtown area. Click here to view current public art initiatives.