The Tivoli was the second theater in America designed and built for talking movies (the first was Brooklyn Paramount in November of the same year). When it opened on Christmas day, 1928, 4,000 people lined up to see and hear its first show.

The Tivoli was built for local businessmen, Gustav Bunge and George Bunge, a father and son team. The architects were Van Gunten and Van Gunten and local builder J.T.Schless handled the constructions. The building was intended to be a one-stop entertainment venue for the whole family. It included the movie theatre, a bowling center, game room, residential hotel, stores and offices. With just over 1000 seats, and restored to its original art deco glory, it is a treasured architectural gem in the Downers Grove downtown business district. Not only does the theatre play first run and art films, it also is host to many local cultural events.

For a full history and more photos of this lovely building, visit this old webpage.