The Tampa Theatre is hands down one of the best places to watch a movie. Forget the giant chain theaters. This place has something they just can't replicate. The building is absolutely beautiful and has almost 100 years of history. You can feel it the second you walk inside. Every room has a presence to it. The atmosphere is unlike anything else. It always feels full, even when it isn't. You're never really by yourself...;) The concessions are great, the staff is always friendly, and I love that they haven't tried to modernize away all the character. The little noises, the old floors, the way the building seems to settle around you during the movie just reminds you this place has seen generations of people come and go. I definitely will be back. I have a feeling something there is looking forward to seeing me again. read more

A Cinematic Masterpiece Before the Movie Even Begins If you are looking for an unforgettable night out, the historic Tampa Theatre is an absolute must-visit. Calling it just a "movie theater" feels like a massive understatement - it is a breathtaking time capsule and a true architectural marvel that elevates the simple act of watching a film into a grand event. From the moment you step through the doors, you are transported into a spectacular, 1920s Mediterranean courtyard. The attention to detail inside the auditorium is stunning, offering an experience that modern multiplexes simply cannot replicate. Here is what makes it so incredibly special: * The Atmospheric Ceiling: You sit under a remarkably realistic night sky, complete with 99 twinkling stars and gently drifting clouds, making you feel like you are outdoors on a perfect evening. * The Architecture: The eclectic, opulent blend of Moorish, Spanish, and Byzantine details - surrounded by gargoyles, statues, and ornate balconies - gives the space a magical, almost surreal charm. * The Mighty Wurlitzer: Arriving early is a requirement! Hearing the historic theatre organ played live before the screenings perfectly captures the golden age of cinema. The programming is just as thoughtfully curated as the decor. Whether you are catching a brilliant independent film, a beloved cult classic, a documentary, or a live event, the venue makes every single screening feel momentous. Grab some popcorn, take in the gorgeous scenery, and enjoy the show. The Tampa Theatre is a meticulously preserved local treasure and truly one of the greatest places to spend an evening! read more

First visit to the Tampa Theatre was a grand time. Attended the viewing of Triumph : Tampa's Untold Chapter In The Civil Rights Movement. Set in 1960s Florida, this powerful documentary uncovers a hidden chapter of the Civil Rights Movement. A courageous group of Black high school students organized peaceful sit-ins that sparked change across their community. Through firsthand accounts and archival footage, the film captures their fight for justice and equality. Triumph will air on WEDU PBS on Thursday, December 4 at 9 PM. Watch and learn more at wedu.org/triumph Popcorn is $7 and there isn't a bad seat in the house! read more

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Was here for a movie sponsored (?) by the Florida Holocaust Museum, and apparently part of a Jewish Film Festival ( thank you for showing this impactful film, Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire). This theater is absolutely beautiful. About 100 years old, according to the one employee I asked, the details are incredible, the seats comfortable, the upcoming movies look great...Unfortunately did not have an opportunity to go to the balcony but I was told that's a must do! Downstairs bathrooms/ architecture follows suit. There is a large bar/ concession area, but I did not utilize this amenity. Get there early for parking, just in case ( a few private pay by app lots....). I am unfamiliar with the area, so there possibly are other options. read more

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I've never been to this place for a show. we had tickets to see Josh Johnson. The staff were extremely helpful but there was a long line just to go through security so they should've had more security so the one who go faster. the bathroom are very tiny, especially for the women's so there's also a long line to use the restroom. But the facilities is beautiful. The inside is gorgeous. I think they built a tour. It would be nice to check out a tire one day. The price of parking is ridiculous $30 to park near there throughout the city of Tampa is a bit much. read more

In the 19 years living in Tampa, I finally attended a show at the Tampa Theatre. The theatre will be 100 years old next year (established 1926). It's well maintained inside and the stage is very beautiful....very reminiscent of The Forum Shops at Caesars in Las Vegas. The bathrooms appear outdated and honestly I couldn't really critique because the lines were so long and the bathroom entrance was narrow. Like a typical theater, they had basic snacks such as candy and popcorn as well as beer and wine. Glad Josh Johnson got me to visit the theater. read more

Tampa Theatre - Theatre stage - Cinema Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Iconic theater. The interior is so beautiful and full of history. This is a perfect date night spot for a movie night. They do a Halloween movie series every year and it's a must! Definitely put on your list when in Tampa. read more

I adore the Tampa theatre. If you haven't been you absolutely have to go. The staff are all phenomenal and so passionate about the events, films and movie offerings they have. Their main theatre is so beautiful and has great live events, comedy shows etc. It is beautiful and spacious but feels so cozy and special. They also offer tours of the historic theatre. It's a nonprofit and truly offering such unique experiences. read more

Tampa Theatre - Kenny Chesney Book tour - Cinema Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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The Tampa Theater is easily one of the best venues in the area. I attended the Morgan Jay comedy show this weekend. The seats are spacious and the staff is so friendly. I would include a picture of the interior of the theater but it's better to look up and be surprised. Such a great spot to catch a show! read more

Tampa Theatre - Outside - Cinema Near Me - Tampa, Florida

I came here for a field trip with my daughters class. They did a great job of filling a whole theater of elementary age kids. The theater was clean and the staff was nice and helpful. It was very pretty inside and they put on a great show. read more

Tampa Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Tampa, Florida

It was Pride and prejudice 20th anniversary and I was so happy they were having an event. Parking was a bit confusing but once we figured it out, the pricing was too bad it was $10 for 3 hrs and the walk was just a block away. Once we arrived they had a flower stand outside to buy from they were so pretty and they were also selling the new edition Jane Austen books. They also had a trivia contest online that you could join before the movie started and the prize was a gift basket. I loved that they also had "leave a book pick one up" for readers and also a station to create your own bookmark. The station had letters to choose from and different flowers and stamps to personalize. We sat in the middle back and had our popcorn and m&ms in hand ready to watch the movie. It was almost a full house. Next time I'll go upstairs and sit above to enjoy more of the view. Overall it was a great experience, lots of laughs and cheering from the crowd it made it so much more special to know it's still a classic story. read more

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Beautiful theatre with good acoustics. They also have employees that can tell you about the history.

Best theatre in all of Tampa! I feel so bougie! Food service is great, the movies are good visuals and sounds. Seats are comfortable! Staff is sweet! Prices are great. My personal favorite place to watch movies! read more

My favorite theater in the whole Tampa Bay area! Actually maybe even my favorite place in general. A grand, majestic, opulent castle in the middle of downtown, with a super fun marquee out front that feels like how cinemas should be. The intricate designs and artwork in the interior are breathtaking. Always playing a great selection of new releases and impressively-curated classics. They've exposed me to so many fantastic masterpieces in film that I never would have heard of on my own! And sometimes they'll have Q&A with local professors or filmmakers that make it such a special experience for film lovers. I will say the chairs aren't as comfortable as the AMC recliners but I could not care less about that when the atmosphere is this delicious. And there is a ton of seating too so it almost never sells out, but when the theater does get completely packed it's such a fun time experiencing it with that big of a group. The concessions are decent, again probably not as much variety as the more commercial movie theaters but that is not a priority here and doesn't need to be. And they pretty much offer anything you'd want for relatively good prices, plus hot tea and coffee which I have not had at any other theater! I could go on and on but this is an ABSOLUTE MUST if you live in the area. Not exaggerating at all when I say winning a membership to Tampa Theatre in a work raffle is one of the best things to ever happen to me. read more

What a wonderful historical Theatre. We just are amazed at the architecture and workmanship. Attended for Jesus Christ Superstar meet and greet with Ted Neeley and the video and sound was perfect. Bathrooms are limited on main floor and to access the main bathrooms you have to go up or downstairs. They are planning a renovation soon to keep this majestic Theatre's updated. read more

i drove two hours just to come here and it was so worth it!! the most beautiful theatre i've ever been to. the staff were very sweet, and the whole place is incredible, well taken care of, and clean. i came to see guillermo del toro's frankenstein on the big screen and it was such an amazing experience. definitely will be returning! read more

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Went to see an old showing of a black and white film with a friend here a couple years back. When we went it was a good time anf they even had a panel talk about the social inequalities and the message behind the movie at the time with its impact today. The theater is absolutely gorgeous and the beverages were a little pricey. But I would argue that is to be expected for upkeep considering most of these places are upkept and maintained from various donors. read more

This is a historic movie house that is almost 100 years old. Built in 1926 in the heyday of grand movie houses, this place has been restored to It's original design. This is a designated historic place and is owned by the city of Tampa and run as a nonprofit. It is a fully functioning theater open 365 days. They play all kinds of movies, old and new. There are live events and concerts. You can rent the place out for weddings and corporate events. Who knew? We recently took a guided tour of this theater and learned so much. I highly suggest doing this 1.5 hr tour. At the end of the tour they play some music on their historic pipe organ. We also went to a live showing of Ancient Aliens from the tv series. There is street parking and also parking lots and garages in the area read more

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First time at this theatre, we came for the Morgan Jay show. The process and amenities inside are very similar to the Florida Theatre in Jacksonville. This theatre is gorgeous inside and out! We sat towards the back of the floor and it was a great view. Very clean inside and nice restrooms. Parking nearby wasn't bad and we felt safe walking to our car afterward. read more

Tampa Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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I've lived in Tampa almost my whole life and this was the first time I ever set foot in the Tampa theatre... my life was changed with a theatre experience like this! It takes you back in time when you walk in! They keep it in amazing shape, and while I'm sure some of the pieces of decor are not completely original, they've sure fooled me! Just imagine watching a performance (a movie in my case) under a faux night sky, much like you are out in a Romanesque cathedral - statues and stone pillars. It's just an amazing feeling being in there! Simply gorgeous! I will be back! read more

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This past Sunday, 9/21; I and a  friend were looking forward to seeing the film 'The Grand Finale - Downton Abby' and a light dinner afterwards. I pulled into the 'public' lot @  717 Parking L13, between E Twiggs St, E Zack, and immediately to the west of N Florida. It's ONLY rate is $25 regardless of length of time!! and this was a Sunday afternoon around 5pm...I then tried a meter. Apparently the meters along that block no longer work as the only parking app I could find, for both,is 'Metropolis Parking' . We skipped the movie and dinner. I'll never return to downtown Tampa! These rates are obscene. I presume the lot is privately owned, but the parking lot company and the city planning or which ever dept approved the sale of the lot, MUST be held accountable. This WILL hurt small businesses, unless you only want downton residents who can walk.  I'll post this review on the Chamber's, and The Tampa Theater's, TripAdvisor and any other social media I can find.ENOUGH with corporate GREED !WHERE's the city's passion for small businesses and visitors ? read more

Amazing and beautiful theatre. Seating is comfortable with side table up in the balcony area. The large screen is big enough that I didn't need my glasses. A full Dolby sound experience to ensure you feel the intense energy of the plays and movies. read more

Tampa Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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I still love this theatre, but I have some tips for future Christina. I came here with friends to see comedian Ronny Chieng. We got dinner at Haiku at 5:30 p.m., which is right across the street. I was worried about parking so I parked at the Poe Garage. It said there was event parking that night (not sure if the event was Ronny Chieng) so it was $15. When we walked to the Tampa Theatre it was only like three blocks away so very quick. We saw a couple spots on the street so I think if I want to save a couple bucks and chance it I can always just look for street parking. They also said will call would get long, but I never saw a long line for will call. They did a great job separating it by last name groupings. Security was pretty long, it wrapped around the side of the building, but we got in within ten minutes. I'm so glad they have security, because one guy started shouting "rubbish" during the show and I thought I'm pretty sure he wasn't hiding a gun and about to shoot. It's sad these are things we need to think about now. We were sitting in the Auditorium (first floor) and had great seats. On the far right of the theatre there are two unisex bathrooms that no one seems to know about so we were able to quickly use them. There is a concession stand on the second floor that was quicker than on the first. The lines for concession stands are super long though no matter which you go to. I loved watching a comedy show here. We were in the 200s (206-2011 I think) row R and I found that to be great seats (we were right in the middle). It just feels special watching a show here. I'll definitely come back. read more

They made me throw away a dog treat that was clearly labeled for animal consumption I had in my purse. Security is NOT friendly. Otherwise, historic and beautiful theatre. read more

First time at this historic theater. My son and I came here to see the group Home Free. Yes I am a Home Fry! We were lucky to find a spot to park parking lot across from the theater. $25 but it was worth it since it was just across the street. We went to Dio modern Mediterranean for dinner before the show (C separate review for the restaurant). I was very excited about going into an old theater like this. It's been a long time and something I've been waiting to do. Naturally, the place was packed, but we fairly quickly. I think what I was most surprised about was how small this theater was. And the chairs were tiny. People must've been a lot smaller 100 years ago when they built this place. However, I was in awe of the beauty of this place. The stage was quite small, but big enough for the group to get out there and sing. I think my biggest prize was when I went to the ladies restroom downstairs. I understand you keep the historic value of a place like this, but come on that bathroom needs to be updated. I'm sure it can be easily done in the same and perhaps even a bit larger, so two women in that bathroom on constantly bumping into one another. One of the literally sat on the floor. We all got a chuckle out of that. All in all, I really this theater quite and I think no matter where you you had a good view of the stage. A little updating in certain places wouldn't hurt, it just has to be done without ruining the authenticity of read more

Tampa Theatre - Home Free - Cinema Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Great place for movies in a historic setting located in South Tampa. Go early though parking is limited around the theater

Back in 1978, I joined the Tampa Theater's movie club. In 1980, I took my blind date to see Monty Python's AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT on 6/3/80. In June 2021, we celebrated 41 years together by renting the marquee to let the world know that this is where our love started and we're going strong. Sunday, we attended THE BLACK PIRATE with loved ones to celebrate a dear friend's 75th birthday. This is a fantastic venue for movies, concerts, and special events. The tour is incredible, and we learned so much about how the theater was built, its artifacts & history, and visited nooks and crannies. The staff is friendly and helpful. Parking can be a little expensive, if you park on the street or in a lot, but if you have a disable parking pass, parking is free. Carpooling can cut down expenses! Since 1978, seats have become more comfortable, with tables next to some seats for refreshments. The sound system is definitely 100 times better. You can buy concessions in person, or order through the app & get a text when it's time to pick up your order. Buy tickets online or in person. Join the club for discounts on events and to help the theater grow. I love this theater and can't imagine Tampa without it! Note: During Covid, masks are required inside. read more

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Wow just wow, this theater has history and the architecture is amazing. My biggest issue is they aren't seat friendly. Im a big guy, linebacker physic so the seats not the best. They are narrow and on top of each other but it's from the 1920's and guys where not built the same. read more

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A Tampa gem!!! The theater's architecture is so beautiful, it makes for a romantic and magical movie viewing! The staff is so welcoming and you can tell they can't wait to share their love of this tampa masterpiece! Make sure to check the website, they have so many wonderful movie series and special events to see! There are several paid parking lots near by and plentiful seating inside (the balcony seating is so fun!). Not to mention they have a full bar with gluten free drink options, like Woodchuck Cider. And if you're lucky you may even see a ghost :) read more

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What a gem the Tampa Theatre is. As you enter you feel as you have stepped back in time. I had been here previously to see a live show. As I sat in awe of this magical palace I knew I had to return. I had the opportunity to do a 1 1/2 hour tour of the theatre and immediately purchased the tickets. Our tour guide was James and he was extremely knowledgeable. We were able to tour the entire theatre even behind the scenes. Our tour ended with the organ rising from the floor of the stage and the organist playing as they did almost 100 years ago. This theatre is a historic landmark and opened in 1926. Sadly in the 50's and 60's many of these Theatre's became obsolete. By the 70's many of these beautiful grand movie palaces had been demolished. In 1973 plans were in place to tear Tampa Theatre down too. Because of the architectural and historical significance this gem was saved. The theatre is owned by the city of Tampa and operated as a non-profit. This theatre is a City of Tampa Landmark and on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2017 the lobby was fully restored. The "Tampa " marquee located in the front of the theatre is a perfect spot for photos! I highly recommend going on the tour if you have the opportunity. If not, hopefully you can enjoy a movie or show at this incredible movie palace! read more

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We are so lucky to have this fully restored historic movie palace in downtown. It's worth a visit for the architecture alone, unlike any other movie theater in the area. The theater offers a variety of programming with over 600 events every year! They have first run movies, classic movies, comedians, a speaker series, an Oscars watch party, ghost tours, and more! My most recent visit was for their Valentine's Day vow renewal. I am such a fan of Tampa Theatre and continue finding new events to enjoy here! read more

I really love this place. I have seen a few acts there and it is a lovely set up. Parking is a bear and you have to leave time for parking. They didn't have electronic tickets last time I went, so leave time to stop by will call or you can't get them mailed (but don't lose them if you get th months in advance lol). It's a beautiful theater and no bad seats as far as I can tell. They also have great pricing! read more

I greatly enjoyed the white Christmas sing a long! The crowd participated making it more enjoyable!

Place as perfect to catch its a wonderful life. Theatre was beautiful and kept in Pristine condition ! read more

I haven't been to the Tampa theater since I was a kid. So this was a great experience to catch a movie with my husband on a date. First of all, the theater is just stunningly beautiful, from the stage to the twinkling lights on the Ceiling. It is historic and a step back in time. The concession stand was fully stocked and were decently priced. The theater is very clean including the restrooms. We sat in the balcony. The sound was perfect and loved every second. There is a reason this theater was named one of the top 10 most beautiful theaters in the world. I will be back more often cause this was perfect for a date night! read more

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I was in Tampa most recently for a work conference and made a trip out of it. My perspective on the theatre is a bit limited because it was closed when I visited. I will say that I've always been a fan of old school theaters. There's something to be said for old school charm and sophistication. The theatre looks majestic from the outside. I peaked through the windows to get a glimpse of things inside. While getting to experience a movie here would be epic, it was nice to get to see it from the outside too. read more

It was comfortable clean and nice, and great customer service. I am determined to make this at least a monthly hobby.

As I travel I'm always on the lookout for historic movie palaces to explore and was happy to find the Tampa theater. It's a historic movie palace that I had fun exploring. I arrived early for a showing of Top Gun 2 so I could wander around and take pictures. It's a nice bonus when an old movie palace is actually showing a movie instead of hosting a concert or play. When the lights go down for the movie, little lights shine in the ceiling and around the screen to make it feel like u are watching the movie outside under the stars. Check out my pictures to see a sample of the beauty of this place. It's right up there with the best movie palaces still standing. read more

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Very cool experience. Went for free movie Sunday during the summer and saw Apollo 13.

Most of the reclining seats do not work, other than that it was a decent theater. Not over crowded.