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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Classic movie atmosphere
Aero Theatre
Best Time
Classic movie atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vintage Hollywood gem showcasing classic, foreign, and independent films with modern comfort and exceptional sound.
"It really gives you the freedom to choose any movie on the schedule and know it'll be a great experience."
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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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
Catch unique events like retrospectives, restorations, and engaging Q&A sessions with filmmakers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Catch a Classic Film
Pre-Movie Dining Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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:
Where can I park near the aero theater?
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:
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
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
What People Dislike
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.
Street parking is available near the Aero movie theater, though it can be competitive. Arriving a bit earlier is recommended, especially for popular showtimes.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
You can purchase Aero Theatre tickets online through their website or at the box office. For popular screenings, booking in advance is highly recommended.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, checking the Aero Theatre calendar for special events or membership offers might reveal savings opportunities.
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.
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.
🎫 🎬 Onsite Experience
The Aero Theatre has a seating capacity of 425, offering an intimate viewing experience for its patrons.
The Aero movie theater specializes in classic Hollywood films, foreign cinema, independent features, and hosts special retrospectives and revivals.
Yes, the Aero Theatre offers decent prices for drinks and popcorn. The bathrooms are located upstairs.
The Aero Theatre is equipped to screen films in multiple formats, including 35mm, 70mm, and DCP, ensuring a high-quality cinematic presentation.
Absolutely! The Aero Theatre is renowned for its curated programming and the magical experience it offers, reigniting a love for movies.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎬 Film Buffs & Cinephiles
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Aero Theatre's History
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
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit