The Fort Payne Opera House opened in September 1890 during the local boom period, was converted into a theatre during the era of silent movies, and closed as a theatre in October 1935. It was purchased by Landmarks of DeKalb County, Inc. in 1969, then renovated, restored, and reopened to the public in 1970. It is the oldest theatre in Alabama located in a building originally constructed as a theatre and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and the National Register of 19th Century Theatres in America.