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Cinemas

El Capitan Theatre

πŸ“ Central LA, CA

β˜…4.7(3,492 Google reviews)πŸ‘ΆAll ages

Disney-owned Hollywood landmark where new Disney films premiere first. Themed decor changes with each film, weekend pre-show entertainment, pram access, and lap-sitting kids under 2 enter free.

βœ“ Historic Disney theaterβœ“ Themed decorationsβœ“ Pre-show entertainmentβœ“ Premiere venueβœ“ Family atmosphere
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β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…Featured review by Sadie Meyers

We've always loved the El Capitan and this was our 2 year olds first time. We went to a 10am show on a Saturday. Kids 2 and under are free if they sit on your lap. For 3 and older, they need a ticket, but they do have booster seats. Parking is across the street at the Ovation parking garage and (with validation) it is only $3 for 4 hours. There is a little scanner in the movie theaters main lobby across from the main concession stand. That is where you validate your parking ticket. As always, the theater does a great job of decorating to fit the movie being shown. I should have taken more pictures because it was all really cute. My son loved running around and looking at stuff after the movie.

πŸ† Family Action Verdict

Families with Disney-age kids (2–10) get the most from this venue β€” themed decor, pre-show entertainment, and the historic setting make an ordinary movie feel like an event. Best for a planned special outing rather than a casual drop-in. Weekend morning sessions are the least crowded slot for young children.

ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go

πŸ’‘Validated parking at the Ovation garage across the street β€” pick up validation at the theater lobby
⏰Kids under 2 enter free when seated on a parent's lap; booster seats are available for older children
🎟️Arrive early on weekends to catch the pre-movie entertainment and see current film-themed decorations
πŸš—Morning Saturday sessions run quieter than afternoon or evening shows

πŸ’¬ What Families Are Saying

View all reviews β†’
4.7
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3,492 Google reviews

Beautiful historic venue45%
Themed decor matches current film30%
Pre-show entertainment15%
Premium concessions10%
S

Sadie Meyers

3 months ago

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β€œWe've always loved the El Capitan and this was our 2 year olds first time. We went to a 10am show on a Saturday. Kids 2 and under are free if they sit on your lap. For 3 and older, they need a ticket, but they do have booster seats. Parking is across the street at the Ovation parking garage and (with validation) it is only $3 for 4 hours. There is a little scanner in the movie theaters main lobby across from the main concession stand. That is where you validate your parking ticket. As always, the theater does a great job of decorating to fit the movie being shown. I should have taken more pictures because it was all really cute. My son loved running around and looking at stuff after the movie.”

A

A.J. Foucault

5 months ago

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β€œThis beautifully-restored movie theater is owned by The Walt Disney Company and is where most of their movies premiere. I have visited several times over the years and it's always nice to see what new things they're showing. In that particular evening that I went, they were rolling in a giant skull (the head of Jack Skellington) because they were going to show a special edition of The Nightmare Before Christmas. 10/10. Highly recommended spot to catch a movie.”

K

Kaya M Landingin

7 months ago

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β€œattended the Freakier Friday showing at the iconic El Capitan Theatre and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The historic charm of the building adds so much character, and the atmosphere was lively and welcoming. While the popcorn was on the expensive side, it was delicious. A solid five-star visit!”

D

Dawn Castellano

8 months ago

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β€œI love this theater. The staff is excellent. It’s always spotless. Just a beautiful theater. On weekends there is pre movie entertainment. And there are often costumes and props from the current films on display.”

Reviews from Google

Overview

El Capitan Theatre is Disney's dedicated premiere venue on Hollywood Blvd, fully restored to its 1926 atmospheric grandeur. Themed decorations transform the lobby and auditorium for each new release, and weekend pre-show entertainment runs before most screenings. Special packages include unlimited popcorn and themed gift bags. Booster seats available; under-2s sit free on a parent's lap.

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