Grace Parks has updated this article on 6/3/25 to reflect the change in ticket prices and the closing of Alamo Drafthouse, Cinemark Palace at the Plaza.
It’s time for popcorn, sodas, and summer movie blockbusters. I remember growing up in an era when most movie theaters were “alike” – the differences from one theater to the next were so subtle it really didn’t warrant going to the other side of the city – we all frequented the local theater. Now, movie theaters are competitive. In-theater dining, gigantic leather seats, 100+ soda selections, bigger, better, bolder screens and sound systems…. the competition is on!
Kansas City’s movie theaters are truly rolling out the red carpet for patrons…. these are our favorites across the metro (with several great runners up):
Union Station Extreme Screen
- Where: 30 W. Pershing, Kansas City, MO. (lower level in Union Station) 816.460.2020
- Fast Facts: Seats 440 for 2D movies and 380 for 3D movies. MDI silver screen, 80 feet by 53 feet. Two 4K digital DCI-compliant Barco projectors. Two lenses with 6.6K lamps. GDC 4K digital server. Three 9-foot-tall JBL stage speakers behind the screen. RealD 3D.
- Ticket Prices: Adults: $8 and Children (ages 3-11) are $7
- The Cool Factor: Housed in the historic and grand Union Station, a fitting location for the biggest and most high-tech theater in the region. Winter 2013 marked the debut of the $400,000 renovation for this theater, the biggest screen in the region offering a real 3D experience. If you’re all about special effects and epic films, this is the place to be.
- Perfect For: A Blockbuster Special Effects Feature Film!
- Tip: Union Station Members receive a free bag of popcorn with ticket purchase.
- While you’re there: Be sure to visit Science City and this year’s Real Pirates exhibit!
AMC Studio 30 with IMAX and Dine-In Theater
- Where: 12075 S Strang Line Rd Olathe, KS. 913.393.3030
- Fast Facts: Free Parking. This theater features something special for every movie-goer. Cinema Suites are a specially designed feature for guests 21 and over – reserved seats, luxury recliners and in-theatre dining. Forks & Screens (guests 18 and under must be accompanied by an adult) – in-theatre dining with a full menu of sandwiches, pizza, appetizers and treats. Sensory Friendly Films – in partnership with the Autism society, films are shown on a monthly basis with lights up, sound down, and opportunity for guests to get up and dance, walk, or talk during the show.
- Ticket Prices: $5.50 (2D matinee) – $15 (varies based on time of day and type of showing – whether 2D, 3D, regular seating or special seating)
- The Cool Factor: Forks & Screens is a great way to enjoy dinner and a movie – and we love that it’s available for the whole family (unlike many other dine-in theaters). The theater is large, luxurious and nice – and they feature Coke Freestyle – the machine that lets you select from 100+ flavors to create your very own soda.
- Perfect For: The whole family!
- Tip: Pre-purchase tickets to new releases – this theater is very popular!
AMC Ward Parkway 14
- Where: 8600 Ward Parkway Ste 14 Kansas City, MO. (Ward Parkway Mall) 888.AMC.4FUN
- Fast Facts: Free parking. Stadium seating, digital projection, Coke Freestyle (all AMC theaters), fresh hot food, and the large plush recliners.
- Ticket Prices: $5.50 (2D matinee) – $13 (varies based on time of day and type of showing – whether 2D, 3D, regular seating or special seating)
- The Cool Factor: True confession? I almost left this one off the list out of pure selfishness…. last week my husband and I took the kids to the very first (early morning weekday) showing of a cartoon feature and we arrived 30 minutes before showtime and it was sold out! Why? Because word has spread my friend… These are the MOST COMFORTABLE seats in Kansas City! The recliners are GIGANTIC! The aisles are so large you could push a shopping cart through. They are ideal for taking the entire family or a date. Without a doubt the nicest, most comfortable, most luxurious theater I have ever enjoyed – at a mere $5.50 / matinee ticket! The theater was renovated last fall and Kansas City caught word – this is one popular movie theater and rightfully so. As much as I love the other theaters on this list (and I do, I really really do) – Ward Parkway won our family over!
- Perfect For: EVERYONE!
- While you’re there: Stop by Trader Joe’s, do some window shopping, and enjoy lunch at Five Guys Burgers & Fries (note: Five Guys serves peanuts in the shell – caution for allergies).