Aero Theatre - Image 1
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Aero Theatre

4.6
·544 reviews·Santa Monica, United States

A vintage Hollywood gem showcasing classic, foreign, and independent films with modern comfort and exceptional sound.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Classic movie atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Aero Theatre - Image 1

Aero Theatre

Best Time

Evenings

Classic movie atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vintage Hollywood gem showcasing classic, foreign, and independent films with modern comfort and exceptional sound.

4.6
(544 reviews)

"It really gives you the freedom to choose any movie on the schedule and know it'll be a great experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check the Aero Theatre Calendar

Always check the Aero Theatre calendar for the latest showtimes and special events. :calendar:

Book Tickets in Advance

For popular films or festivals, Aero Theatre tickets sell out fast. Book online to secure your spot. :ticket:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vintage Hollywood Charm

Vintage Hollywood Charm

Experience the magic of old Hollywood with classic films in a beautifully preserved Streamline Moderne theatre.

Diverse Film Programming

Diverse Film Programming

From silent films to modern classics and foreign gems, the Aero Theatre schedule offers something for every cinephile.

Special Screenings & Q&As

Special Screenings & Q&As

Catch unique events like retrospectives, restorations, and engaging Q&A sessions with filmmakers.

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Planning Your Visit

Catch a Classic Film

The Aero Theatre is a gem for film lovers, showcasing vintage Hollywood, foreign films, and special retrospectives. Check the Aero Theatre calendar for showtimes and book Aero Theatre tickets in advance, especially for popular screenings or festivals.

Pre-Movie Dining Options

Several dining options are available near the Aero movie theater. For convenience, R + D Kitchen is directly across the street. Father's Office is a short walk away and offers a great atmosphere.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Classic movie atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Special programming often scheduled
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Aero Theatre in Santa Monica?

Check the Aero Theatre Calendar

Always check the Aero Theatre calendar for the latest showtimes and special events. :calendar:

Book Tickets in Advance

For popular films or festivals, Aero Theatre tickets sell out fast. Book online to secure your spot. :ticket:

reddit.com

Where can I park near the aero theater?

reddit.com

Best places to grab dinner before a screening at the Aero?

Explore Nearby Dining

Enjoy dinner at R + D Kitchen or Father's Office before your show. :forkandknife:

Street Parking Available

Street parking is generally available, but can be competitive. Arrive early if driving. :car:

reddit.com

Parking at Aero?

Tips

from all over the internet

Check the Aero Theatre Calendar

Always check the Aero Theatre calendar for the latest showtimes and special events. :calendar:

Book Tickets in Advance

For popular films or festivals, Aero Theatre tickets sell out fast. Book online to secure your spot. :ticket:

Explore Nearby Dining

Enjoy dinner at R + D Kitchen or Father's Office before your show. :forkandknife:

Street Parking Available

Street parking is generally available, but can be competitive. Arrive early if driving. :car:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(544 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Aero Theatre's classic Los Angeles vibe, comfortable seating, and excellent picture/sound quality. The American Cinematheque's diverse and well-curated film schedule is a major highlight, offering everything from silent films to modern classics. While street parking can be a challenge, the overall experience is described as magical and a must-visit for film lovers.

"A truly classic Los Angeles movie theater. It’s relaxed neighborhood vibe and old Hollywood charm combined with modern seating and excellent picture and sound quality make for an amazing movie experience. The American Cinematheque runs the theatre and they do an excellent job of programming the schedule. Every genre and decade of film classics from around the world are represented, from silents to modern classics, you absolutely can’t go wrong. It really gives you the freedom to choose any movie on the schedule and know it’ll be a great experience. Whether it’s a cool new discovery or a trip down memory lane, they’ve got you covered. Lots of great places to eat and drink in the neighborhood, very safe and walkable coastal location. Fun fact, the Aero is the theater Travolta & Russo meet up after a showing of the film “Touch Of Evil” in the film “Get Shorty”. I highly recommend. Happy Trails!"

Sean Tuell

"Great little theatre to catch American Cinematheque films. Street parking. Decent prices for drinks/popcorn, bathrooms upstairs."

Eric Shalov

"We had a memorable night watching a fascinating documentary with a Q&A with the director and main characters."

Atieh Abedin

What People Like

Classic Hollywood charm
Diverse film programming
Excellent picture and sound

What People Dislike

Street parking can be difficult

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Aero Theatre is located in Santa Monica, California. It's accessible by car, and public transportation options include bus routes that stop nearby. If driving, be prepared for street parking, which can be challenging during peak hours. Reddit

Street parking is available near the Aero movie theater, though it can be competitive. Arriving a bit earlier is recommended, especially for popular showtimes. Reddit

Many visitors find driving and parking on the street to be the most convenient. Public transport is also an option, with several bus lines serving the Santa Monica area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You can find the most up-to-date Aero Theatre schedule on their official website or through ticketing platforms. It's always best to check directly for the latest listings. TikTok

You can purchase Aero Theatre tickets online through their website or at the box office. For popular screenings, booking in advance is highly recommended. TikTok

While specific discounts aren't always advertised, checking the Aero Theatre calendar for special events or membership offers might reveal savings opportunities. TikTok

The Mubi Theatre at the Aero is a special programming initiative that often features curated selections of independent and arthouse films, bringing a unique cinematic experience to the venue. TikTok

The Aero Theatre typically operates in the evenings, with showtimes varying daily based on the Aero Theatre calendar. It's essential to check their schedule for specific hours on your desired date. TikTok

🎫 🎬 Onsite Experience

The Aero Theatre has a seating capacity of 425, offering an intimate viewing experience for its patrons. Reddit

The Aero movie theater specializes in classic Hollywood films, foreign cinema, independent features, and hosts special retrospectives and revivals. Reddit

Yes, the Aero Theatre offers decent prices for drinks and popcorn. The bathrooms are located upstairs. Reddit

The Aero Theatre is equipped to screen films in multiple formats, including 35mm, 70mm, and DCP, ensuring a high-quality cinematic presentation. Reddit

Absolutely! The Aero Theatre is renowned for its curated programming and the magical experience it offers, reigniting a love for movies. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

For dinner before a screening, R + D Kitchen is conveniently located across the street. Father's Office is also a popular choice, about a five-minute walk away. Reddit

Yes, the neighborhood surrounding the Aero movie theater has many great places to eat and drink, making it a vibrant area to explore before or after a film. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary, but generally, flash photography is prohibited during screenings to avoid disturbing other patrons and damaging the film. It's best to check with staff on site. TikTok

The theatre's Streamline Moderne architecture and vintage Hollywood charm offer great photo opportunities, especially in the lobby and exterior. Capturing the marquee can also be iconic. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Aero Theatre primarily focuses on classic and adult-oriented films, it can be a unique outing for families with older children interested in cinema history. The theatre's charming atmosphere and comfortable seating make for a pleasant experience. Consider checking the Aero Theatre calendar for any family-friendly classics or animated revivals that might be showing. The nearby Santa Monica beach and pier offer additional family entertainment options for a full day trip.

🎬 Film Buffs & Cinephiles

The Aero Theatre is a pilgrimage site for serious film enthusiasts. Its dedication to showing films in their original formats, including 35mm and 70mm, is a major draw. The American Cinematheque's programming is exceptional, offering retrospectives, revivals, and often hosting filmmakers for Q&A sessions. This is where you'll find those hard-to-see classics and discover cinematic gems. Don't miss out on their special events like the All-Night Horrorthon if you're a genre fan. Booking Aero Theatre tickets in advance is a must for these popular events.

couples

For a romantic and unique date night, the Aero Theatre offers a charming alternative to mainstream cinemas. Enjoy a classic film together in a vintage setting, followed by a stroll along the nearby Santa Monica coast. The intimate atmosphere and curated film selection provide a memorable experience. Consider checking the Aero Theatre schedule for evening screenings that align with dinner plans at one of the many local restaurants. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Aero Theatre's History

The Aero Theatre boasts a rich history, originally opening its doors in 1940 as a tribute to the aerospace industry, built by the Douglas Aircraft Company. Designed by architect R.M. Woolpert, its Streamline Moderne style is a testament to its era. After a period of operation, the American Cinematheque took the helm, spearheading significant renovations in 2005 and further updates in 2019 and 2021. These upgrades included state-of-the-art projection equipment, enhanced sound systems, and facility improvements, ensuring the theatre remains a premier destination for film lovers.

The American Cinematheque's programming at the Aero is what truly sets it apart. They are dedicated to preserving and celebrating cinematic history through Advance Screenings, Retrospectives, Revivals, and Restorations. Visitors can often enjoy in-person discussions with filmmakers, adding a unique layer of engagement to the movie-going experience. Their commitment extends to hosting events like the annual All-Night Horrorthon, catering to diverse cinematic tastes. As an Associate Member of FIAF (the International Federation of Film Archives), the Aero Theatre is deeply connected to the global film preservation community.

This dedication to film heritage, combined with modern amenities, makes the Aero movie theater a magical place. It's described by patrons as a 'soul-feeding experience' that reignites a love for movies, whether discovering a new gem or revisiting a beloved classic. The theatre's ability to offer screenings in multiple formats, including 35mm, 70mm, and DCP, further solidifies its reputation as a haven for cinephiles.

Experiencing the Aero Theatre's Programming

The Aero Theatre calendar is a treasure trove for film buffs, featuring a diverse array of genres and eras. From the golden age of Hollywood to contemporary independent cinema and international films, the programming is meticulously curated. The American Cinematheque's commitment to showcasing film history means you'll often find rare revivals, meticulously restored classics, and thought-provoking documentaries. This variety ensures that whether you're a seasoned cinephile or a casual moviegoer, there's always something compelling to watch.

Beyond just screenings, the Aero Theatre excels at creating an immersive experience. Many showings include Q&A sessions with directors, actors, and writers, offering invaluable insights into the filmmaking process. These live discussions transform a simple movie viewing into an educational and engaging event. The annual All-Night Horrorthon is another testament to their dedication to niche film communities, providing a marathon of scares for horror aficionados. The theatre's ability to screen in formats like 70mm also appeals to those seeking the highest quality visual and auditory experience.

For those planning a visit, checking the Aero Theatre schedule in advance is crucial. Popular events and special screenings, especially those featuring renowned filmmakers or rare prints, can sell out quickly. Purchasing Aero Theatre tickets online ahead of time is highly recommended to avoid disappointment. The overall atmosphere, combined with the thoughtful programming, makes the Aero a truly special destination for anyone who loves the art of cinema.

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