Classic Bay Area Movie Theaters

Photo of Danika Peterson
Danika Peterson
10 May 2017

No place in the USA can match California’s movie history. Modern-day film was born here, nurtured, and transformed into the blockbusters of today. In the Bay Area, these classic movie theaters preserve something of the original movie-going experience and remind us of the magic of film.

Castro Theater

Cinema, Theater
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Castro Theater | © titanium22 / Flickr
The Castro Theater is one of the crown jewels of San Francisco. Castro’s shining marquee stands as the thriving focal point of the LGBT neighborhood. Located in the Castro district, this theater has continued to provide an experience unlike any other. The single screened auditorium seats over 1400 people and its original Spanish Baroque remains an extraordinary sight. This theater is one of the city’s primary film festival destinations. Each year Castro Theater hosts the San Francisco international film festival and Frameline, among notable others. In addition to great multicultural festivals, the cinema is also home to some of the best sing-a-longs in the bay area. Even if you’re uncomfortable singing aloud in front of others, it’s worth attending at least once.
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429 Castro Street, San Francisco, California, 94114, USA
+14156216120
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Paramount Theater

Cinema, Theater
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The Paramount Theater is one of Oakland’s greatest treasures. Rightfully so with its grand stage and magnificent architecture. This is a venue that reminds audiences how movies used to be experienced, with flair and poise. What makes this theater unique is that it not only operates as a cinema but also as a performance space. The theater is home to some of the Bay Area’s premier performing arts. Visitors also have the opportunity to interact with the theater through guided backstage tours to learn more about its history and architecture. But Paramount remains true to its heritage as well, presenting classic movies in their original 38mm prints with cartoon reels and previews. This theater is movie gold and the perfect place for old movie buffs and theater fans alike.
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2025 Broadway, Downtown Oakland, Oakland, California, 94612, USA
+15108932300
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Alameda Cineplex

Theater
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The Alameda Theater originally opened in 1932 with an auditorium that seated over 2100 people. After having been closed for decades, the city renovated the old theater and it reopened in 2008 with seven additional screens. Now it stands as a staple in the island town. The theater has a 1940s Golden Age theme, with ornate architecture and dimmed lighting. The main auditorium, although updated, is reminiscent of classic art deco style and a traditional staged screen. The theater not only displays movies but some of Alameda’s finest in a weekly talent show. It also continues to maintain its heritage screening classic films in addition to first run films.
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2317 Central Avenue, Alameda, California, 94501, USA
+15107693456
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Grand Lake Theater

Cinema, Theater, Movie Theater
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This vintage movie palace was built in 1926 as a silent movie house. Today Grand Lake Theater stands as one of the most classic movie theaters in the country. Rightly so, as the venue is a gorgeous cinema maintaining its original architecture. Walking through the front door is step back in time with a elegant film noir feel. The entire building makes you feel as though you are the one underdressed. The main auditorium is vast compared to modern multiplexes, seating over 300 people. The art deco style and old-fashioned curtain provides an experience unlike any other. And the best part? Tickets only cost $5 before 6pm. A price much more reasonable than your neighborhood theater.
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3200 Grand Avenue, Grand Lake, Oakland, California, 94610, USA
+15104523556
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Balboa Theater

Balboa Theater, or New Balboa depending on who you ask, is one of the last remaining neighborhood cinemas in the San Francisco area. Located in Outer Richmond, Balboa is much smaller than the grandiose theaters around the bay. It has only two screens and all together seats about 500. Despite Balboa’s quaint size, the theater provides a more intimate and somewhat familiar experience. The auditoriums and screens are simple. What is notable about this theater, besides its history, is its screening choices. While the theater shows first run movies it is also popular for its independent films and unique double features. Unlike other theaters, Balboa’s charm is its neighborhood. Audiences have continued to visit because it feels like home, something you won’t find at any other cineplex.

Balboa Theater, 3630 Balboa St, San Francisco, CA, USA, +415 221 8184

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