Plan Your Visit to the Historic Art Theatre
Opened in 1924 as a silent movie house with an orchestra pit and pipe organ, the Art Theatre is the last of over 50 original independent theatres in Long Beach.
Reimagined in 1933 with a striking Art Deco façade and fully restored in 2008 using original blueprints, it now stands as a beautifully preserved Long Beach landmark showing indie, foreign, and first-run films in an intimate, single-screen setting.
About the Art Theatre
When the Art Theatre opened in 1924, more than 50 independent theatres were operating across Long Beach. Today, it is the only theatre of its kind in the area. The Art Theatre is now a dedicated space for film lovers, showing a mix of independent, international, and select first-run films. With just one screen, the focus is on quality over quantity. The setting is intimate, and the programming is carefully chosen. The movies shown are often historical, cultural, and have artistic significance. The restored details, from the marquee to the interior touches, keep the theatre’s history alive. It’s a unique blend of past and present and a popular cultural anchor on 4th Street.
Getting to the Theatre
The Art Theatre is located in the Retro Row district at 2025 E 4th Street in Long Beach.
Street parking is available along 4th and the surrounding residential streets, but it can fill up quickly on weekends and evenings, so we recommend planning ahead and arriving early. There’s a paid lot just east of Cherry Avenue behind the theatre, shared with several local businesses, and a paid lot on the southeast corner at the intersection of 4th and Cherry.
If you’re arriving by bike, racks are available nearby. Long Beach Transit lines 21 and 151 both stop within walking distance. Rideshare drop-offs are easiest on 4th or Cherry. You can also take advantage of the free Circuit shuttle to get to the theatre and around downtown Long Beach.
Tickets & Seating
Tickets for the Art Theatre can be purchased online through their website or at the box office before showtime. Prices vary depending on the film, with discounts available for children, students, seniors, military, and members. Refunds and exchanges are generally not offered, so check showtimes and dates carefully.
The theatre has a single screen and traditional seating arrangements. Seating is usually open and first come, first served, so arriving early helps secure your ideal movie-watching spot. The venue also provides accessible seating options. If you need assistance, contact the box office ahead of your visit.
Concessions & Nearby Eats
The Art Theatre offers classic movie concessions like popcorn, candy, and soft drinks. They partner with their neighbors, RetRoll Sushi and Art Du Vin, so you can enjoy a roll or split a bottle of wine while watching a film.
Retro Row, the surrounding neighborhood, has plenty of dining options within walking distance. Whether you need a quick bite or a full meal before or after the show, you can find cafes, bars, restaurants, and even specialty shops nearby to suit your mood. Here are a few spots we recommend:
The Social List
Location: 2105 East 4th Street
European-style tavern with small plates to share, craft beer, and wine, and delicious gourmet sausages
Tarantella on 4th
Location: 2120 East 4th Street
Homemade, authentic Italian flavors and a perfect spot for date night
El Barrio Cantina
Location: 1731 East 4th Street
Modern Mexican tapas, rotating seasonal specials, and craft cocktails
Alder & Sage
Location: 366 Cherry Avenue
Farm to fork classic California dining, with a charming outdoor patio and herb garden
Lola’s Mexican Cuisine
Location: 2030 East 4th Street
Traditional Mexican dishes with contemporary twists, handmade with locally-sourced ingredients
Art Theatre Events
Beyond its film lineup, the Art Theatre is known for hosting various special events throughout the year. Highlights include its annual red carpet gala and Oscars viewing party, regular showings of The Rocky Horror Picture Show with live shadow cast performances, and screenings tied to local and cultural festivals such as QFilm Festival and the Cambodia Town Film Festival. The theatre is also a hub for community gatherings, live score performances, filmmaker talkbacks, and artist series that celebrate the art of cinema from all around the world.
You can also host your own event at the Art Theatre. It’s available to rent for private gatherings like weddings, birthday parties, and corporate meetings, offering a unique backdrop that is sure to impress attendees.
Plan Your Visit
Catch a new indie release or revisit a film favorite at the Art Theatre and let moviegoing feel special again. The architectural history, curated programming, and neighborhood character make the Art Theatre a Long Beach attraction worth planning around. Visit the number one independent theatre in Los Angeles.
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