Watched Pirates of the Caribbean here and had an absolute blast! The coolest theater I've ever been to! Murals are stunning, architecture/ambiance is insane, and the staff is so friendly/nice read more

See all

This beautiful, historic theater is located inside the Catalina Casino. They were showing older films the week we were in town (we saw Clueless). The theater itself is GORGEOUS and was a fun backdrop for our experience. The website isn't clear but you can buy tickets at the door via cash or credit card. I'd definitely return! read more

Avalon Theatre - Exterior - Cinema Near Me - Avalon, California

See all

Clueless is a great movie and the Avalon Theatre really enhanced that experience. The theatre and bathrooms are clean and the murals are spectacular and they show the history of the casino. I highly reccomend and I hope that this stays open because I will totally be back! read more

If you are in Catalina, this is the first thing you see. It's beautiful at night. You can watch a movie here or purchase the tour. I heard the place is haunted. I didn't see any ghosts when I visited the theatre. Maybe I'll see it next time. LOL! Inside you'll feel like you are part of history. The tour was so fascinating and the view from the theatre is amazing! read more

See all

Theatre inside casino. Runs show occasionally and not so frequent. Not sure about exact schedule but today 6 pm had Frozen 2 show. Seems to be a great architecture theatre and should have great experience inside. read more

See all

What can I say except it's a beautiful historic building in one of, if not, the most beautiful town. I love seeing movies in the theater because the acoustics are absolutely perfect. I like to arrive early and sit in the back and see if I can hear what other people are whispering about across the room. It's magical. If you got the time and ability to walk up (no elevator) to the top, take the tour. Our guide was named "Franky of Avalon" and he had danced with over 1000 ladies he claimed. Fantastic. read more

A_bsolutely beautiful theatre on the island T_ake in some art & culture while you're here~ * FYI - Historical theater built in the 1920's * FYI - Feels like stepping back in time with its ornately red-hued cinematic décor~ * FYI - Playing movies nightly! Check schedule here = http://www.theavalon.org/films/?date=now-playing * FYI - Watched "Kong Skull Island" here...love action flicks on the big screen! * FYI - Located a short walk along Crescent Ave Cheers~ read more

See all

My family rented a home in Avalon, Ca for the week of 4th of July. We were happy to hear playing at the movie theater in the beautiful Casino theater was Spider-Man a new movie that just came out! So nice to view the beautiful art and decor inside. The screen seemed out dated. The quality was not worth the cost of the movie ticket. There were huge imperfections on the screen. Sad to see this. Have been to this theater many times. It was never like this. This was my husband's first time to the island and theater. They made some upgrades to the food and drinks. But the money needs to go to the picture quality. I wanted to take a picture, but didn't want to be one of those people that have their cell phone out during the movie. It's a movie theater in a beautiful room. The sound only seemed to come from the front. Sounded strange. Again in this big round room I am sure there is a way to have better surround sound. Tuesday is "discount" day, $10 and once we arrived we were told it was cash only. After waiting almost an hour before they let us in I was happy I had the correct amount of cash for five people. No were on their website did it say cash only. No signs posted in their ticket windows either. We walked out the day before to make sure Spider-Man was the movie playing for sure. We walked around took pictures. My husband even talked with one of the tour guides. No mention of cash only on Tuesday. Not everyone carries cash these days. I was lucky I had cash since some restaurants in town are cash only also. read more

See all

The only thing really worth checking out in Avalon. Please note they close the ticket booth at 5 PM so make sure you show up on time for the tour to buy the ticket. Coming here makes you feel Iike you have entered another era. This was the only place on the island that I felt had any real meaning. The rest of the Avalon has been commercialized and is just about making money. The tour guide was informative and made us feel like he was sharing a history of a place that once was. A sense of awe sweeps over when first walk under the naked mermaid into the dark entrance. The ceiling looks like red carpet..but it is really coral pressed into the ceiling made to look like palm leaves. The color is original but still after 80 years but is so vibrant in the redness you would think it was new. Then your eyes will soak in the walnut wood panels with special designs and you are in awe that someone would spend so much money to give you a feeling as if you are in another place standing in a castle. Then you enter the theater and it's like nothing else you have ever seen..... The first thing you notice are the red chairs that are thick and beautiful. You almost don't want to sit in them because they look so nice. Then the ceiling is shaped like a bowl so the sound is evenly distributed. The lights are built into gold stars with a pale silver background. Then as your eyes move away from the stage you notice the mural that is all around you. It's beautiful very colorful and makes you feel like you are elsewhere... After watching a brief film on how great Avalon was you feel a sense of sadness. A sense that this island has been left to relive the glory of what once was without any real hope of creating new memories. They used to make movies here...but that was a long time ago. After the movie the tour guide ushered us to the great ballroom. Yes, the ballroom is directly above the theater and the floor is made of beautiful wood surrounded by white arches and a patio all around to see the boats floating around the beach. Our guide was gracious enough to let is stay past the tour to take pictures. I wished I could of been here when Avalon once was. read more

Avalon Theatre - The outside of the Casino....note it's a place of "gathering." - Cinema Near Me - Avalon, California

Visited this past weekend to watch KONG. Movie updates every other week so check their website! Beautiful classic theatre that remains elegant and a sight for sore eyes. The only thing i would improve is the sound system. BIG THEATRE & LOW VOLUME???? Surround sound nonetheless considering it's a 90+ yr old theatre! Secret: Dine at Avalon Grille during a distinct time to get free tickets!! read more

What an amazing structure, the even my they set up, the personnel and the atmosphere were right on point. read more

Avalon Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Avalon, California

The cinema looks classy with the art deco architecture and the art work of John Gabriel Beckman. Mr Q and I went for their Thursday movie night. The tickets man was super friendly and chatty. If I had more time, we could have a great conversation. The man who performs the organ is drowning in his own world. It was nice in the beginning, but 20+ minutes for a loud organ performance? I can't wait for the movie to get start. This cinema may not needed the mic phone to let the show begin, because of the shape of the room, but it's not a good thing when people brought their own candies, chips...you name it. The sound of chewing candy, eating chips, you can hear it all, loud and clear with echo. The seats are low, you will be a bit uncomfortable with a slightly back pain. The movies screen is above the wooden stage. There is some reflection on the wooden stage while you are watching the movie. That was a bit annoying and the sounds were a bit mono. I still suggest my friends to come here to experience this for once. read more

Avalon Theatre - Avalon Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Avalon, California

A super cool movie theater within the Catalina Casino. The interior wood architecture and painted dome ceiling is something you have to see for yourself and take in in person! Surround sound is epic with the shape of the theater and there are more than enough seats to find your perfect spot. On some nights there's even a musician who comes out and plays the organ before the start of the movie. read more

Avalon Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Avalon, California

A MUST!! They have current movies that change every few days... We went to see The Martian on a Friday night- it was a little pricey at $15/person, but worth every penny once you walk inside and see how AMAZING the theatre is. So much character and old school charm. There's even hat hooks on the back of each velvet chair. (BTW, The Martian (with Matt Damon) was so good!) read more

Avalon Theatre - Gorgeous theatre, so much character! - Cinema Near Me - Avalon, California

Not sure about parking me and my son rode in a local cab. Which was great service by the way... We went on the night The Nun was playing after 2 very relaxed nights on the island we decided to habe a movie night me and my son both get ready and head to the theatre. Both him and I excited to visit the theatre we get out of the car and take pictures. We but our tickets and we were greeted by a gentleman who was sitting at the entrance in a chair I want to say his name started with the letter E greeted us and let us in me and my son go into the theatre and back out then he started asking about the casino we went back to the gentlemen and we asked he rudely said those tickets need to be purchased and turned around. We figured he was having a bad day, but then a couple walks in which did not purchase tickets at all walks in and he starts telling then even the history of the paint he walked them in without paying and sat them on a lounge chair sofa type furniture and even told them history on that very chair. When me and my son asked him excited to hear as much history and the previous couple he rudely told us to move and we could pay for those tours. I would never ever go back to that place. read more

Old, eclectic,but we still enjoyed the show here. There was an organ player before the start of the movie. The prices for the popcorn and sofas were not bad. The chairs need to have new foam put in and they need to put cup holders. We had to put our snacks and drinks on the floor. read more

See all

Frankie the tour guide was so rude! All the ticket booths on the island close at 5. The Twilight Tour starts at 6:15. If you don't buy your tickets before they booths close and try to attend, Frankie will tell you "if you don't have cash, you can't come. There's nothing I can do about it" and shut the door in your face. We didn't have $100 cash on us. But some people did, and I'm sure he pocketed it when he took it from them!!!! Also, it was my birthday. I thought they were supposed to be extra nice to you on your birthday In short, Catalina Island Company really sucks!! They control the whole Island. read more

Huge artistic theater! The artwork is beautiful. But they could increase the sound for movie nights a little. Ample seating. Going to a 7:30 pm movie is a great little walk after dinner and not too expensive to pass a few hours of entertainment. I appreciate the theater as an option during our stay here. The concession stand wasn't too shabby either. read more

HEAR YE, HEAR YE! I now award my 20th 5 star rating out of 700+ reviews. I rarely dole out 5 star ratings however the Avalon Theatre deserved it. I was completely surprised by how well preserved this historic building is. The classic architecture of a 100 year old movie theatre is apparent from the moment you walk in. The acoustics are top notch with beautiful hand painted murals and fresco designed by craftsmen from a bye gone era. The classic pop corn poppers in the lobby is also a treat to see. The dynamics between the past and present were on full display when I saw the movie Sing. This might be the coolest place to see a movie on the West Coast or the country. If you are a fan of the cinema, you owe it to yourself to come here. read more

Not knowing what else to do in Avalon we made our way over to the Theater. They show one movie for 2 weeks and then the movie changes. Show starts at 7:30pm every night. $15 charge for adults. Beautiful Art Deco theater with excellent popcorn. read more

Avalon Theatre - Love the seats - Cinema Near Me - Avalon, California

See all

The one showing except Saturday's has a organ player who plays before the show. Amazing experience in a throw back to a different a time vibe. Beautiful frescos on the ceilings and amazing acoustics. Wooden floors and dance row ends with working lights. This is totally worth the $15. read more

See all

Such a cool experience watching a movie in here! I felt like I was taken back in time. As we were walking in, we heard a lady tell her friend that the seats in the last few rows are the most comfortable - we took the hint. They look like they are the original seats and further up the seats are newer (and I guess not as comfortable). Great experience! And get there early- there is a live organ player that is incredible! read more

Avalon Theatre - Magical! Get there early to enjoy a live organ player - very cool. - Cinema Near Me - Avalon, California

History and art meet in this beautiful place. How the words "they don't make them like this anymore"! Great place to visit and see a new movie ... read more

This is a lovely and historic movie theater inside the old casino. They only show one movie at a time (expect the latest commercial blockbuster) and only at 7:30pm during the week, so you have to plan accordingly. I'm sorry I missed the live organist and the silent film festival! read more

Simply amazing It was soooo beautiful when we went here Too bad it's on catalina island cause i would go more often read more

We took a Behind The Scenes Casino Tour which included the theatre and the ballroom. Our guide, Joe, was very knowledgeable about the history of the casino and the island. We learned a lot and were overwhelmed at the beauty of the place! We enjoyed watching The Hobbit in the theatre on Friday night. on our earlier tour of the casino, Joe let us know there is a free pipe organ concert an hour before the movie on the weekends. We arrived early and had no problem getting a great seat. The consessions and service were great! read more

Cool spot for our son to watch his first movie in a theater! Hopefully he won't expect an organ player, and a lot of fancy decorations all over the place the next time we go to another movie. Prices are probably about the same as most theaters, so it's definitely worth a try. read more

It's a gorgeous theater but I think I'll skip it the next time I'm in Catalina. There was an echo that was distracting at times, and I think the volume is lower than most movie theaters. The organ and speakers were placed in front of the screen and would block a small corner of the frame depending on where you're seated. Also the seats near the front don't have a lot of leg room. I'm average height and my knees would hit the seat in front of me if I slouched just a little. read more

Gorgeous theater. Quiet off-season night so there was only about 10 of us in this theater that seats over 1000. I thought the seats and sound were awesome but I can see how it would be different with ten times as many people. Definitely a fun thing to check out if you're staying a few nights. read more

What a treasure. First it's huge. This theatre is an architectural gem for sure. The floor is all hardwood and the acoustics are amazing. Sit anywhere and get great sound. There is only one showing (usually what is most likely to be the most popular movie out) which is kind of a drag but understandable given that it's a small island town and all. Loved walking from my hotel over the the show, then to one of the restaurants. Balmy dreamy nights make this just perfect. i may have to go back more often. I did see a house for sale on the cliff, maybe I'll...... read more

There's only 1 theatre on the whole island it was showing 'Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn part 2' !!! ...Noooooo!!!!!! Say it ain't so. Stuck on on island with 1 movie and it's Twilight??!!! That's Hell!!! read more

The customer service at this theater is terrible!! I have visited Catalina Island multiple times and I have not experienced such terrible customer service. The employees are not helpful whatsoever. And management doesn't believe in "the customer is always right" either. I couldn't believe it. I understand it's off season, but I am ver displease with their customer service. Worst movie theater I've been to yet. read more

Seats are NOT comfy but it was somewhat magical watching a movie (Pain & Gain did definitely not match the ambiance but it was the only one playing) in an old fashioned huge theater. The sound and picture quality were surprisingly good. There was an event going on up in the Ballroom but if you get a chance sneak up there...I heard it was even more gorgeous. We went for the matinee which saved us quite a bit and was perfect for a late afternoon rest after the day's activities. read more

To be able to watch a movie in such a beautiful, historic setting is really an honor. The price is the same as the Bay Area movie theaters without the rich history and art. Definitely worth it. I've done it every summer thus far read more

Cool place to catch a movie. Saw monuments men here with my girl. If u go an hour early Fridays and Saturdays, an organist will play the theater organ before the movie. Free. Popcorn was small for a large tho. And minus a star because there is a $10 minimum to use a debit card, WHICH IS ILLEGAL. But cool place. read more

This place is good. The negatives are that it only shows 1 movie for about a week or two at a time, and has very limited showing times. But the plus is the size of the theater, and this inside. I would take somebody just to show them the inside of the theater. It is amazing. And cool, when they turn off the lights for the movie, little LED lights stay on the ceiling so it looks like stars. I would definitely recommend coming here. read more

A trip back in time! The theater is beautiful. Their art deco murals are stunning. Don't expect to be blown away by the screen size but that's not really the point of seeing a film here. Be sure to show up early so you can listen to the guy play the organ. read more

Watching a movie in this theatre was a cool expereince. Arrived early to listen to the organist play. It was fine but wouldnt go out of the way to make it early to view it. Played music that was familiar and quite a few disney songs, not sure if it was because the movie that was showing was a disney film. Inside of the theatre is interesting art wall work that is great to look at. The concession stand is a bit steep in prices. read more

The movie theater was amazing... if you are in Catalina Island you have to go to the movie theater... it is beautiful and has perfect acoustics!.. The paintings, the woodwork.. the sound... and the movie... oh, and the popcorn was pretty darn good also... read more