Lido Theater
A beautifully restored 1939 Art Deco cinema offering free daily movies with a concession purchase and hosting special events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free family movies with purchase
Lido Theater
Best Time
Free family movies with purchase
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully restored 1939 Art Deco cinema offering free daily movies with a concession purchase and hosting special events.
"This theater is an art deco dream, offering free movies with a coffee purchase!"
☕ Coffee & Movie Deal
Buy a coffee or pastry to get free admission to daily movies! Perfect for a budget-friendly outing.
📅 Check Showtimes
Follow @lidotheaternewportbeach on Instagram for daily movie schedules and special event announcements.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Free Daily Matinee Screenings
Main Auditorium
Enjoy classic and family-friendly films for free with a coffee or pastry purchase. A truly unique local perk!
Art Deco Architecture
Entire Theater
Step back in time with the meticulously restored 1930s Art Deco design, from the marquee to the interior details.
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Private Event Venue
Main Auditorium & Lobby
Host your next party or gathering on the big screen, complete with custom marquees and a nostalgic atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Movies with Coffee
Art Deco Charm & Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☕ Coffee & Movie Deal
Buy a coffee or pastry to get free admission to daily movies! Perfect for a budget-friendly outing.
📅 Check Showtimes
Follow @lidotheaternewportbeach on Instagram for daily movie schedules and special event announcements.
✨ Art Deco Ambiance
Soak in the stunning vintage atmosphere; it's a photographer's dream!
🚫 No Trailers!
Enjoy movies without the wait – they often skip trailers for a direct start.
Tips
from all over the internet
☕ Coffee & Movie Deal
Buy a coffee or pastry to get free admission to daily movies! Perfect for a budget-friendly outing.
📅 Check Showtimes
Follow @lidotheaternewportbeach on Instagram for daily movie schedules and special event announcements.
✨ Art Deco Ambiance
Soak in the stunning vintage atmosphere; it's a photographer's dream!
🚫 No Trailers!
Enjoy movies without the wait – they often skip trailers for a direct start.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Lido Theater's beautifully restored Art Deco charm and the unique offering of free movies with a concession purchase. The nostalgic atmosphere, comfortable seating, and lack of trailers are frequently praised. While primarily known for its vintage appeal, it also serves as a popular venue for private events.
"My fiance and I hosted our engagement party here and it was such an incredible experience! The Lido team was super helpful during planning stages. We were able to bring our own food and decor in and they provided popcorn and soda for everyone! We were able to show a video clip that my fiancé made celebrating our relationship on the big screen as well as a throwback movie of our choice! We even got to customize a marquee message! Our guests loved it and the theater itself is beautiful with its art deco vibes! We highly recommend the Lido Theater for your next private event :)"
Juhi Vora
"great old time feel with nicely updated seating to make you feel comfortable watching an old movie. yes you could watch it at home but it's just not the same feeling as in the theater. highly recommended for an old classic."
Keith Butchneski
"Beautiful Art Deco cinema, famous for its link with Bette Davis. Runs vintage and current movies. Must check out ladies bathroom downstairs."
Brian Scott
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lido Theater is located in Newport Beach, California. Driving is the most common way to get there, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options might be limited, so checking local transit routes is recommended.
Yes, there are parking options available near the Lido Theater. Street parking and nearby lots are typically accessible, but it's advisable to arrive a bit early, especially during peak times.
For locals in Orange County, driving is convenient. Some may also consider ride-sharing services for evening shows.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Many showings are free with the purchase of a coffee, pastry, or other concession item from the Lido Café. Check their Instagram for specific details on daily free movie offerings.
For the free movie showings with a concession purchase, advance tickets are generally not required. However, for special events or film festivals, booking in advance is highly recommended.
The theater hosts free movies with concession purchases typically from 7 AM to 2 PM on weekdays and weekends. Evening showtimes for other films vary. It's best to check their social media for the most up-to-date schedule.
Yes, the Lido Theater hosts various special events, including film festivals like the Newport Beach Film Festival and themed movie series. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements. +1
Absolutely! The Lido Theater is available for private events, offering a unique venue for parties, screenings, and celebrations. You can even customize the marquee.
🎫 🎬 Onsite Experience
The Lido Theater shows a mix of classic films, family-friendly movies (including Disney classics), and sometimes current or Oscar-nominated films.
Yes, the Lido Theater often screens family movies on weekend mornings, making it a great spot for kids. The free movie deal with a concession purchase is also very family-friendly.
The theater has been updated with comfortable seating, blending the old-time feel with modern comfort for an enjoyable movie-watching experience.
Yes, the Lido Theater offers concessions, including coffee, pastries, popcorn, and other snacks, which are part of the deal for free movie viewings.
The Lido Theater is a historic Art Deco cinema, meticulously restored to its original 1930s design, featuring iconic neon signage and elegant interior details.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the Lido Theater's Art Deco architecture, neon marquee, and vintage interior provide numerous beautiful photo opportunities. It's a popular spot for capturing nostalgic vibes.
The exterior with the marquee, the lobby, and the main auditorium seating areas are all excellent for photography. Don't miss the unique details in the ladies' bathroom downstairs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 This makes for an affordable and enjoyable outing for parents and children. The theater's charming, historic atmosphere adds an extra layer of magic to the experience, making it more memorable than a typical modern cinema. Remember to check their Instagram stories for the weekend's movie lineup! Beyond the free showings, the Lido Theater's beautiful Art Deco design provides a visually engaging environment for kids. It's a chance to introduce them to the grandeur of classic movie palaces. Consider it for a special treat or a way to make a regular weekend morning feel extraordinary.
💑 Couples & Date Nights
+1 Many evening screenings feature beloved vintage movies, perfect for a cozy night out. You can even enhance the experience by enjoying concessions together. The theater also offers the possibility of hosting private events, which could be an incredibly special way to celebrate an anniversary or a significant milestone. Imagine customizing the marquee with a special message for your partner!
💰 Budget Travelers
This allows you to enjoy a full movie experience for the cost of a beverage, making it one of the most affordable entertainment options in Newport Beach. Beyond the free films, the theater's historic ambiance itself is an attraction. Exploring its Art Deco architecture is a visual treat that costs nothing extra.
It's a perfect way to soak in local culture and history without spending a fortune, especially if you're looking for activities that offer a unique local flavor. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Lido Theater Experience: More Than Just Movies
+1 This historic landmark, opened in 1938, has been a beloved part of the Newport Beach community for decades, recently undergoing a significant renovation to preserve its iconic status. One of the most unique aspects of the Lido Theater experience is its free daily movie showings. With the purchase of a coffee or pastry from their café, patrons can enjoy a variety of films, from classic Hollywood hits to family-friendly animations.
This initiative not only makes cinema accessible but also fosters a strong sense of community, encouraging locals and visitors alike to gather and enjoy shared experiences. It's a refreshing departure from the typical multiplex, offering a more intimate and personal connection to the magic of movies. Beyond its regular programming, the Lido Theater also serves as a versatile venue for private events and special screenings. Its grand auditorium can be customized for parties, corporate events, or personal celebrations, complete with personalized marquee messages and the ability to screen personal videos or favorite films.
A Guide to Lido Theater's Free Movie Offerings
This makes it an incredibly accessible and budget-friendly option for locals and tourists alike. The selection often includes beloved Disney classics, Pixar animations, and other family-friendly films, making it a perfect outing for families with children. +1To stay updated on the daily movie schedule, it's highly recommended to follow the Lido Theater on Instagram. They often share previews of their weekend showings via their stories, allowing you to plan your visit accordingly.
While these showings are generally free with a purchase, it's always a good idea to check for any specific event ticketing or to confirm the daily schedule. The absence of trailers for many showings is also a welcome perk, allowing you to dive straight into the film. This unique offering not only provides entertainment but also supports a historic local business. By purchasing a coffee or treat, you're contributing to the preservation of this beautiful Art Deco theater and ensuring its continued operation for future generations. It's a win-win situation: enjoy a movie and support a cherished community landmark.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit