Top Movie Theaters in Orlando

This super theater located on International Drive within Pointe Orlando is the place to go for that above and beyond movie experience. This is an amazing way to experience action flicks – on a giant 70′ IMAX screen with a sound system that can’t be beat. Though the overall experience might be too much for younger children, and the additional price for the IMAX experience may not be worth it for many movies, I still recommend checking it out for a special outing. Only one theater offers the IMAX experience.

Tips: Give yourself plenty of time to get to the theater since you will have several obstacles to overcome: Traffic on I-Drive, a busy parking garage and a bit of a walk from the garage to the theater. Also, be sure to bring your parking ticket to the theater and get it validated.

With 24 screens, you are sure to find a movie with times to fit your schedule. Six of the theaters offer the Fork & Screen seat-side dining for guests that are 18 and over or children with a parent or guardian. Big, extra comfy seating in many of the theaters, several of which offer reserved seating. Located at the super-busy Downtown Disney area, be sure to give yourself at least an hour to find parking and get to the theater. Last time I checked, each movie seemed to be priced differently, based on the theater’s amenities.

Tips: Make an evening of it, get to Downtown Disney early peruse the many shops or stop in for a bite to eat before the show – you might even find some outdoor entertainment.

Downtown Orlando’s movie theater and the Central Florida area’s only Cobb theater offers an all around great movie experience. Buckets of beer and bottles of wine, good theater food, comfortable seating, great sound and picture quality – what more do you need? The move does offer assigned seating, which some may consider a good thing, others don’t care for it at all – it is a matter of preference.

Tips: Be forewarned that this is the worst parking garage in Orlando. If you are intimidated by narrow lanes, steep inclines and sharp turns, perhaps you should look into on-street parking or at one of the city parking lots. If you do choose the parking garage, remember to get your ticket validated for discounted parking (up to 3 hours). You can occasionally find discounted deals on Groupon.

Part of the Artegon Marketplace (formerly the Festival Bay Mall) this hidden gem is a godsend for residents and tourists. At the north end of International Drive amidst discounted shopping, this theater is the perfect place to drop the kids or relax after a buying binge and see a current movie at an affordable price. Seniors Day, Family Day and Active Military Discounts just to name a few of the specials that are offered. Not overly crowded and easy, free parking. More on entertainment at Artegon.

Tips: Get there a little early and enjoy some of the shopping and dining options at the Artegon Marketplace.

Nonprofit indie theater showing first-run art-house movies. Check on the free outdoor movie nights at the theater or for Popcorn Flicks in the Park (more on free outdoor movies). Throughout the year the theater hosts other special events and popular film festivals. This is the theater to go for when you want something different to do. You won’t find the latest flick, but you will find some interesting movie selections. Only one theater is currently on the property and popular movies will fill the theater.

Tips: Get there early and enjoy one of the daily drink specials at the awesome (outdoor) Eden bar.

At the entrance of CityWalk, this theater adds to the nightlife opportunities at this entertainment complex. A nice theater, but a crowded location. Be prepared for the high parking garage fee of $17 (please call to verify). Florida residents can park for free after 6:00 pm with proof of residency. Annual parking passes are also available.