LA's Most Unique Movie Theaters

If you’re in LA, have a sudden desire to watch a movie, but aren’t sure which of the thousands of theaters to visit, then stay tuned—this article outlines the top five movie theaters according to ticket price, seat comfort, location, ambiance, and widest film selection. Although theaters may have multiple distinguished qualities, each theater is categorized by its most outstanding feature.

Best Ticket Price (Relative to Theater Experience): Rave Cinemas

Rave Cinemas Baldwin Hills 15 is located south of the 10 just west of USC. This theater wins for price, not only because a movie ticket is $9.15 for a matinee ($4.65 child/senior) or $11.90 for a late showing ($6.15 child/senior), but also because parking in the adjoining parking structure is free. This easily accessible venue is for those who are looking to save some money and who detest clogged and confusing entry and exit parking, or prefer excess leg room between theater seat rows.
Rave Cinemas Baldwin Hills 15, Baldwin Hills Crenshaw, 4020 Marlton Ave, Los Angeles, CA, USA

Best Seating (Most Comfortable): Arclight Cinemas

Arclight Cinemas is one of the most comfortable theaters you will ever experience aside from your living room sofa, and you can select your seat at the time you purchase your ticket—first come, first served, of course. The benefits of this theater don’t end with the seats, however, as there is a café bar in the theater lobby. You can arrive early for that big new release, choose prime seating, then have a bite or drink while you wait! Plus, movie memorabilia from newly released movies is often on display. Parking garage tickets can be validated, which allows parking (up to four hours) at the price of only $3.00.
ArcLight Cinemas, 6360 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, USA

Most Beautiful/Best Location: TCL Chinese Theater

The TCL Chinese Theater is a must see for those passionate about film and all things Hollywood. One of the oldest and best known theaters in LA, the Chinese Theater provides its audience with a great movie viewing experience, now with 3D and IMAX. This theater takes you back to the era when theaters were an art form and is surrounded by iconic Hollywood landmarks such as the walk-of-fame, Dolby Theater, El Capitan Theater, and the Hollywood sign (visible from the terrace of the adjoining outdoor plaza). The TCL Chinese Theater also allows you to select your seat and validates parking.
TCL Chinese Theater, Hollywood & Highland, 6925 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA, USA

Most Diverse Selection of Films: The Landmark

The Landmark is right off the 405, close to the UCLA campus. This theater is known for showing the newest and most popular films along with a handful of indie films. Unlike most theaters which stand alone, The Landmark is found on the second floor of the Westside Pavillion Mall, right next to Nordstrom. For those who like to keep up to date on indie films, watch a movie before or after a long shopping day, or would like to enjoy a glass of wine while waiting for a movie (wine bar in the theater lobby), this is your theater. Parking is free for the first three hours.
Landmark Theatres, Westside Pavilion Mall, 10850 West Pico Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, USA

Honorable Mention: Regal Cinemas LA Live 14

‘Honorable Mention’ doesn’t really do justice for Regal Cinemas LA Live 14. Even though it was not recognized in the first four categories, it often came was a close second. Neighboring the Staples Center, Regal Cinemas borders the downtown LA buzz. It also houses seats so comfortable that you forget you are in a theater. and become completely immersed in the world of the movie. Regal Cinemas 14 is unique in that no other theater in North America has is a 4D movie viewing experience.
Regal Cinemas LA LIVE 14, 1000 West Olympic Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, USA