San Francisco movie theaters are some of the oldest and most renowned in the country. It’s time to go to the movies and enjoy all the latest new movie releases out now in theaters!
With so many options, deciding which movie theater to visit in San Francisco can seem daunting. Fortunately, we’ve done all the research for you! We’ve put together a list of our top 10 recommended local theaters offering distinct experiences ranging from classic flicks at independent venues to deluxe recliners and served drink set-ups where you don’t even have to leave your seat. Let us take care of sharing with you the best San Francisco theaters have to offer.
Don’t worry, we’re here to help make your decision easier. We’ve narrowed it down to 10 of our favorite local movie theaters in San Francisco to help you make the most of your San Francisco movie theater experience.
Grab some movie theater popcorn and get comfy as we dive into our San Francisco movie theater guide!
Not in San Francisco? Check out our other local movie theater guides here. Want one for your city? Let us know on Twitter.
San Francisco Movie Theaters: The Castro Theater
The Castro Theatre is one of the most iconic movie palaces in San Francisco and a must-visit for locals and visitors alike. Built in 1922, this beautiful theater was designed in the Italian Renaissance style by architect Timothy L. Pflueger. It stands at a staggering 2,800 seats with an ornate Baroque-style lobby and auditorium that features French Renaissance-inspired architecture.
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The Castro Theatre quickly became an entertainment destination for social events and silent films, as well as hosting vaudeville acts from time to time. In September 1976 it was designated San Francisco Historic Landmark #100, further cementing its status as a beloved city landmark. One Google reviewer highlighted his experience at the San Francisco Silent Film Festival, stating that he’s “been here twice for the 12+ hour “Day of Silents.” Today, the theatre still shows classic films on a regular basis, providing audiences with a unique movie-going experience that can’t be found anywhere else.
With its gorgeous interior design, state-of-the-art sound system, and an array of concession stands to choose from, the Castro Theatre offers something for everyone — no matter your age or taste in films! Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic trip back through time or simply want to take advantage of one of San Francisco’s premier movie theatres, the Castro is sure to leave you enchanted!
The Castro Theatre
429 Castro Street
San Francisco, CA 94114
View The Castro Theatre movie showtimes and buy movie tickets here.
San Francisco Movie Theaters: Balboa Theater
The Balboa Theater is an iconic independent cinema located in San Francisco that has been around for decades. Its commitment to providing the highest quality of entertainment has made it one of the most beloved local movie theaters in the area. The theater shows a mixture of big Hollywood releases, along with smaller indie films and special screenings.
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Over the years, it has established itself as a venue for film lovers to find unique experiences and explore artistry from all over the world. The Balboa often hosts events in addition to its regular screenings, such as Q&As with filmmakers and directors, festivals dedicated to specific genres or cultures, and special presentations featuring rare or obscure gems. It also provides discounted tickets for seniors, children, and students so everyone can enjoy a vibrant cinematic experience without breaking the bank. Not only is this theater a great place to watch movies in a comfortable and friendly atmosphere but it also serves delicious snacks like popcorn, candy, pretzels, and more!
A Google reviewer spoke to its humble roots best saying that “it has strong neighborhood ties with adorable swag and good local drinks.” All these elements make the Balboa an important part of San Francisco’s cultural landscape that will continue to delight moviegoers for many years to come!
Balboa Theater
3630 Balboa Street
San Francisco, CA 94121
View Balboa Theater movie showtimes and buy movie tickets here.
San Francisco Movie Theaters: Alamo Drafthouse Cinema New Mission
The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema New Mission in San Francisco is a premier theater chain for movie lovers to enjoy the newest and classic cinematic offerings. It has become an iconic destination for those looking for a unique experience, with its signature cocktails and creative bites readily available seat-side. This theater houses seven screens featuring state-of-the-art Dolby Atmos sound systems and projectors that boast pristine 4K video presentations.
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Guests can also enjoy a wide variety of snacks including freshly made pizzas, vegan options, sandwiches, and more. Furthermore, the theater offers an impressive selection of craft beer on tap, as well as wines and signature cocktails like their signature margarita or Manhattan. Additionally, Alamo Drafthouse prides itself on its strict no-talking/texting policy during films – allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in every moment of their favorite movies without any disturbances from other viewers.
One reviewer on Google spotlit the “nostalgic atmosphere” and raved about its “top-rate menu fare with superb seat service.” With top-notch quality, exceptional hospitality service, and comfortable seating, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema New Mission is truly the ideal place to see new releases and classic films alike.
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema New Mission
2550 Mission Street
San Francisco, CA 94110
View Alamo Drafthouse Cinema New Mission movie showtimes and buy movie tickets here.
San Francisco Movie Theaters: Century San Francisco Centre 9 & XD
Century San Francisco Centre 9 and XD is a popular destination for movie-goers in the city of San Francisco. Located in the heart of downtown, this theatre offers patrons the latest blockbuster films, a variety of concessions, and a comfortable environment.
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It boasts state-of-the-art digital projection and sound, allowing viewers to experience cinematic marvels in unparalleled audio-visual quality. The theatre also offers superior seating options with advanced cushioning and ergonomic designs, ensuring a pleasant viewing experience. The food was also a hit at this theater with one Google reviewer commenting how “they serve Starbucks coffee, wine, beer along with other great snacks.”
In addition to movies, Century San Francisco Centre 9 and XD regularly host special events such as film festivals, trivia nights, and other promotional activities throughout the year. For an even more memorable visit, the theatre provides luxury amenities like private event rooms and VIP seating areas. With its highly acclaimed standard of service, Century San Francisco Centre 9 and XD is undoubtedly one of the premier movie theatres in the city.
Century San Francisco Centre 9 and XD
845 Market Street, Suite 500
San Francisco, CA 94103
View Century San Francisco Centre 9 and XD movie showtimes and buy movie tickets here.
San Francisco Movie Theaters: AMC Kabuki 8
The AMC Kabuki 8 movie theater in San Francisco is a hub for cinematic entertainment within the city. Located in the historic Japan Center complex, this eight-screen multiplex boasts an expansive selection of films, ranging from Hollywood blockbusters to independent and foreign films.
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Cushioned seating and wall-to-wall screens ensure an immersive experience within each auditorium, while guests can choose from a variety of snacks and refreshments at the concession stand. The AMC Kabuki 8 also offers special screenings throughout the year, such as Sensory Friendly Films that present movies with reduced sound levels and brighter lighting for guests with autism or sensitivity needs. One Google review highlights how this theater is a “really great venue for a date night” as well!
In addition, film buffs will appreciate the theater’s Reel Alternatives series; every month, these special showings explore iconic directors or genres through their works on the big screen. With convenient parking nearby and discounted ticket options available, AMC Kabuki 8 is your go-to destination for quality entertainment in San Francisco!
AMC Kabuki 8
1881 Post St.
San Francisco, CA 94115
View AMC Kabuki 8 movie showtimes and buy movie tickets here.
San Francisco Movie Theaters: Presidio Theatre
The Presidio Theatre is a San Francisco staple, providing locals with a place to view the latest films since 1964. The theater itself provides an atmosphere of comfort and tradition; its large wooden doors open onto a spacious lobby with classic movie posters lining the walls. It has two screens, seating up to 800 people, for watching movies in digital or 35mm format. Both screens are equipped with state-of-the-art surround sound systems, allowing cinemagoers to be fully immersed in their viewing experience. Additionally, the theater offers competitive prices for tickets and snacks.
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Rather than being a big chain theater, the Presidio Theatre is locally owned by a family that has kept its historic roots alive throughout the years. People often come from all over town just to experience its timeless charm — something not found in many other theaters. According to one Google reviewer, the Presidio Theatre has seats so comfy that his “girlfriend fell asleep” which created a great, lasting impression as well.
In addition to serving as an entertainment hub for locals, the theater also plays host to various community events such as film festivals and movie marathons. This gives locals another great reason to visit this beloved piece of history and indulge in everything it has to offer.
Presidio Theatre
2340 Chestnut Street
San Francisco, CA 94123
View Presidio Theatre movie showtimes and buy movie tickets here.
San Francisco Movie Theaters: Roxie Theater
The Roxie Theater, located in the heart of San Francisco’s Mission District, is a historic movie theater that was founded in 1912. This non-profit community arthouse has presented an eclectic array of films over its long history, ranging from silent films and international releases to classic Hollywood films and independent art-house productions.
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The cozy atmosphere of this small two-screen theater and its dedicated staff have made it a favorite among local film fans as well as visitors from all over the world. The Roxie offers year-round programming of foreign and American features, documentaries, and shorts covering a wide variety of genres and topics. In addition to current releases, the Roxie also hosts special events such as film festivals, retrospectives focusing on particular directors or actors, and educational programs for students. There is also an extensive library with many rare titles which patrons can browse through at their leisure.
One Google review looked at the theater’s size, commenting how it is “small, old, with a vintage feel.” They also go on to highlight how the Roxie Theater caters to all but especially to the queer community and offers a variety of indie films often hard to locate.
The Roxie isn’t just a place to watch movies; it also serves as an important cultural center for San Francisco’s vibrant arts scene, providing access to filmmakers from around the globe who come together to celebrate movies both old and new. A visit to the Roxie Theater is sure to be a memorable experience for any cinephile.
Roxie Theater
3117 16th Street
San Francisco, CA 94103
View Roxie Theater movie showtimes and buy movie tickets here.
San Francisco Movie Theaters: AMC Matreon 16
The AMC Matreon 16 movie theater in San Francisco is a premiere destination for the latest blockbuster films. Located conveniently in the heart of the city, this theater features sixteen state-of-the-art screening rooms equipped with the latest digital projection and sound systems, ensuring an immersive cinematic experience for every patron.
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In addition to its selection of movies, AMC Matreon 16 offers a variety of concessions such as popcorn, candy, soft drinks, and more. The theater also has a comfortable lounge area where guests can take a break from the action of their film or just relax before or after the show.
One Google reviewer made sure to mention the “friendly people” who work at this establishment. With its combination of modern amenities and a comfortable atmosphere, AMC Matreon 16 is sure to provide moviegoers with an entertaining evening out on the town.
AMC Matreon 16
135 4th Street, #3000
San Francisco, CA 94103
View AMC Matreon 16 movie showtimes and buy movie tickets here.
San Francisco Movie Theaters: Regal Stonestown Galleria
The Regal Stonestown Galleria movie theater in San Francisco is a one-stop destination for all your cinematic needs. The complex boasts multiple screens featuring new-release films with plush seating and an extensive concession stand to satisfy any craving.
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The theater also offers premium Screen X and 4DX offerings, where viewers may marvel at bright, clear images paired with powerful sound — all given life by motion-enhanced seating and an array of environmental effects like wind, fog, and scent that turn viewers into a part of each scene as if they were truly there. One Google review even goes on to mention how seeing films at the Regal Stonestown Galleria really “takes movie watching to the next level.”
It’s the perfect place to gather friends or family for a night out at the movies! With its convenient location in central San Francisco, easy access via public transportation, and affordable ticket prices, it’s no wonder why this theater is so popular. Plus, you can even take advantage of special promotions such as discounted tickets on Wednesdays and Free Refills Tuesdays where you can get free refills on large popcorn! Perfect for those wanting to relax while enjoying a film — Regal Stonestown Galleria has something for everyone.
Regal Stonestown Galleria
3251 20th Avenue
San Francisco, CA 94132
View Regal Stonestown Galleria movie showtimes and buy movie tickets here.
San Francisco Movie Theaters: Vogue Theater
The Vogue Theater in San Francisco is a historic landmark and one of the city’s oldest movie theaters. For over a century, the theater has been providing residents and visitors alike with quality films on its single screen.
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It was originally opened in 1912 as part of an entertainment complex that housed five different vaudeville theaters. Throughout its many years of operation, the Vogue Theater has continued to provide patrons with classic films as well as contemporary titles. A Google reviewer recently raved about the theater’s “eclectic mix of vintage films, live performances, and the best of current releases.” Films are presented with state-of-the-art digital projection and pristine sound systems that create an immersive viewing experience for all guests. The facility also offers concessions such as popcorn, candy, and other snacks to enjoy during screenings.
The theater is often host to special events such as live shows, premieres, parties, and more, creating unique opportunities for viewers to discover new films and appreciate old favorites alike. With its rich history, impressive amenities, and wide selection of movies, the Vogue Theater is truly one of San Francisco’s premier places to watch films.
Vogue Theater
3290 Sacramento Street
San Francisco, CA 94115
View Vogue Theater movie showtimes and buy movie tickets here.
We hope this rundown of some of our favorite San Francisco movie theaters inspires you to go out and see all of the latest new movies out now in theaters.
View all of our local movie theater guides here.
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