The Best Cinemas in Adelaide: Where to Catch the Latest Flicks

Whether you’re heading out for a night with the girls to catch a cheeky romcom after grabbing an early dinner, joining your family to see the newest blockbuster to come out of Hollywood, or taking yourself on a little movie date to really lose yourself in the film, there’s something quite special about catching the latest release on the big screen.

Feel the sparks fly as the lights dim on date night or stick on your comfiest clothes and dig into a huge bucket of popcorn and giant soft drink for a more relaxed experience - what’s not to love!? We’ve rounded up the top cinemas in Adelaide, from heritage buildings to brand new modern spaces to find the best new releases, silver screen classics and special events not to be missed!

Palace Nova 

There’s something for everyone at the popular Adelaide cinema spot Palace Nova! The latest releases? Certainly. Cult-classic double bills? You bet. French Film Festival? Oui. You can also catch National Theatre Live and The Met Opera screenings to give you that live performance feeling at a fraction of the cost. Be sure to check the website regularly for special events happening in the month ahead, like a ‘Girlfriends Getaway’ featuring an Audrey Hepburn classic.

3 Cinema Place, Adelaide

98 Prospect Road, Prospect

Capri Theatre

The film on the big screen isn’t the only work of art you are treated to when you take a trip to The Capri. The beautiful 1941 heritage listed building is known for having a WurliTzer organ in pride of place and for its independent, not-for-profit mechanics. It's run by volunteers with a love for film – whether it’s the new releases they show or the much-loved classics, with ticket profits going towards the restoration and maintenance of this iconic South Australian building. For an event to remember, The Capri is also available for exclusive hire.

You'll feel as though you've been transported back in time from the moment you step into this classic, old-school theatre. Why not dress up and make a night of it?

141 Goodwood Road, Goodwood

Mercury Cinema 

Expect a heavy ratio of arthouse films to big blockbusters as the Mercury Cinema celebrates all the things that make cinema truly great. Book in for their ‘Silverscreen’ program for lovers of film and afternoon tea or take it a step further with ‘Cinematheque’ - a membership exclusive to the Mercury where great movies meet book club, with lively discussions and debates over a wide variety of film genres.

13 Morphett Street, Adelaide

Odeon Star (Image credit: South Australia)

Odeon Star

Opening as a cinema in 1920, the Odeon Star is perhaps our oldest contender! With its retro décor and charm, The Odeon Star is a much loved and trusted family-run favourite among Semaphore locals, offering the newest releases at the bargain price of just $10 a ticket – now that’s a movie ticket price we love to see.

65 Semaphore Road, Semaphore

The Regal Theatre

Originally opening in 1925 and showing silent films and pantomimes, the Regal Theatre has a rich history of cinema and entertainment. You can now book in for the latest film releases, live shows and Fringe performances, as well as the absolutely amazing option to host your very own movie night, choosing from new and classic films for you and all your friends to enjoy on the big screen.

275 Kensington Road, Kensington Park

Lobethal Cinema

Undergoing a recent renovation to upgrade technology including Dolby sound, the Lobethal Cinema is a charming town movie theatre with decent pricing, the latest releases and a real community feel. They have hosted successful fundraisers over the years, as well as offering free movies for volunteers to give back to society.

Lobethal Centennial Hall, Main Street, Lobethal

Moonlight Cinema

There was no way we could talk about the best cinemas in Adelaide without giving an honourable mention to Moonlight Cinema, who are planning another magnificent season of movies under the stars next summer. When the weather warms up, there is nothing we love more than grabbing our picnic rug and snacks from the on-site food trucks and finding a spot at Botanic Park to catch a classic romcom or old-school action film in the great outdoors. A truly unique experience, this outdoor cinema in Adelaide a must-do summer activity for movie fanatics.

Botanic Park, Hackney Road, Adelaide

The Piccadilly

This elegant theatre in North Adelaide has re-opened its doors, and we could not be more excited! The stunning space is rich in history, first opening in 1940, and remnants of the way things were can still be seen throughout the interior and exterior structure. Take a moment to admire the art deco styling as you settle in for your film or line up for snacks. Part of Wallis Cinemas, The Piccadilly is the place to go to watch the new releases surrounded by a stylish old school feel.

181 O’Connell Street, North Adelaide

Event Cinemas

As much as we adore the art deco exteriors and cosy appeal of the older cinemas around Adelaide, there is no denying sometimes you just need a modern space, with all the candy bar options you could possibly dream of and every new release on rotation. Event Cinemas have popped up in Marion and Glenelg, and the mammoth screens, impressive sound systems and popcorn supply is seriously impressive. Go for gold, as this gold class cinema in Adelaide is the ultimate way to enjoy a film in luxury. Enjoy lounge access, fully reclining seats and in-seat service for the ultimate date night.

Westfield Marion, 297 Diagonal Road, Oaklands Park

2 Cowper Street, Glenelg

Now you know where the best cinemas in Adelaide are, why not book yourself into one of Adelaide’s best new restaurants before your movie? Before finishing the night off on a rooftop bar because why shouldn’t you live the luxury life of a movie star?