Finally took the time and additional funds to see the inside of the Catalina Casino in Avalon California during a shore stop aboard the Quantum of the Sea from Los Angeles. It was a great stop, well worth the money and time. My wife and I have been to Avalon before and the outline of the Catalina Casino dominates the view from the harbor when looking North. I made the obvious mistake of thinking it was a place of gambling and didn't bother going, but later learned that during the 19th and early 20th century, the term 'casino' was used to mean 'a gathering place'. That was the goal of the original owner (William Wrigley, founder of the gum company that bears his name), when he built it in 1929, right during the times when 'talkies' started taking over the movie industry. A massive restoration occurred in 1994. It's walkable from where we got dropped off by the cruise port tender, so I bought two adult tickets online for $21.51 each, for the self-guided tour. There is also a guided tour available that takes a group back behind the stage. We got there right when it opened and the ticket taker already had our names to let us in. The first stop was the main theater on the ground floor, and as we entered it, I couldn't help by saying a long 'Wowwww'. There are 1164 original seats (reupholstered) and we sat in the very back row, admiring the theater and watching a bit of the silent movie that was playing. Cell reception did not work inside, and the free WiFi didn't work well in here either. A little while later, the guided tour came in, and we were able to listen to the guide explain the theater. Some fun facts: -- this was the first theater designed for 'talkies'. However, because it wasn't a sure thing that they would replace the old style silent movies, a Page Theatre Pipe Organ was also installed (which is now one of only three still in its original location...the others being in Indiana). It was broken for a while, but has recently been fixed. -- entire ceiling was covered in silver leaf. -- the acoustics are incredible. As the guided group talked in normal loudness near the orchestral pit in front, I could hear each conversation from the back, just as if the person was right next to me. -- the wall murals was designed by the same artist who did the mural at the Grauman's Chinese Theater in Hollywood. -- architects responsible for the building of Radio City Music Hall in NYC, came for a visit to examine the acoustics, as it was that good. The guided tour ended up going backstage. We then took a winding ramp (there is no public elevator) up to the 2nd floor. Here there was one room where a TV show was on, explaining the history of the island. Another ramp took us to the top floor where the 20,000 square foot grand ballroom is. (The ramps reminded me of a ballparks, and later I learned that it was intentional: Wrigley had requested it based on something similar that he liked from his namesake ballpark). The ballroom has been beautifully restored, with wooden floors and a rotating chandelier. One can roller skate on the floor with rented skates, though nobody was doing it when we were there, thus the floor was empty. There is also a concession stand selling snacks. The height of the casino is equal to a 12-story building, and provides some really great views of Avalon, specifically the bay, from the Romance Promenade that surrounds the ballroom. My wife and I slowly circled it, admiring the views. We did notice the small cove where many snorkelers were admiring the plentiful orange-colored garibaldi. The entire stay lasted about 75 minutes which we felt was about the right amount of time. Would highly recommend if not been there before. read more

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One of the coolest parts about visiting is learning the history-most people assume it used to be a gambling casino because of the name, but it actually never was! It was built as a community gathering space, and the word "casino" just meant "social gathering place" in Italian back then. Getting to explore the building at your own pace is fantastic. The inside is beautiful, and I loved seeing the massive, classic ballroom and the old roller skating area. The absolute highlight, though, is stepping out onto the terrace. The views of Avalon Harbor and the ocean from up there are stunning, and it's easily one of the best photo ops on the entire island. read more

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This image is the main thing you notice when you first dock here. The architecture is just gorgeous. We were so looking forward to tour and see this historic spot. We didn't have any luck on Christmas Day as you would expect as most of the town was closed up. But on Friday we were able to get the self tour option. $20, the guided was $40. Wow they have really kept the place up in pristine condition. This place was purchased by the Wrigley/ Family Dynasty, actually they bought the entire island back in 1929. The reason it is called a casino is not because of gambling but for the Italian meaning for a gathering place. This location was one of the first theaters to have "talkie" films. I was very impressed with the way the caretakers have kept the original fixtures, seating, bars and even the restrooms are all kept in the 20's style. The seating on the first level has over 1800 seats. There is an original organ for when they hosted silent film festivals here. This was a place where all the rich and famous celebrities would gather for all sorts of festivals and events. This is a Must visit if you head over to the island. Impressive! read more

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I've been Lindy Hopping/Swing Dancing since 1996...and finally got a chance to dance at the world famous Catalina Casino Ballroom! I had been to Catalina a few times, but never got a chance to go inside... The historic ballroom is gorgeous, glamourous, ginormous and grand! The symmetry and acoustics carry the music evenly throughout, the lighting scheme with its colors and tones make it magical, even during the day! The first floor theater is a retro art deco dream...incredible! read more

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Beautiful Art Deco building, now a movie theater/event space. Must see if you visit Catalina, if you are cruising in, wake up before dawn to get a breathtaking view of this building lit up. Interior tour is about $20 and well worth the price of admission. read more

Catalina Casino - Casino Dec 2025 - Cinema Near Me - Avalon, California

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Background On Catalina Casino: The Catalina Casino, which dominates Avalon's harbor, isn't a casino in the traditional sense. Built in 1929 by chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr., the Casino was never intended for gambling. Instead, it was created as a hub for entertainment and social gatherings. The word "casino" itself comes from the Italian word meaning "gathering place" or "social club," which perfectly describes the purpose of this iconic structure. Before it became the Catalina Casino, the location was home to a simple dance pavilion known as the Sugarloaf Casino, built in 1920. This structure served as a modest entertainment venue where visitors could enjoy live music and dancing. However, as tourism on the island grew, Wrigley saw the potential for something grander and more sophisticated, leading to the construction of the Catalina Casino that we know today. Location: Not that hard to spot this landmark. Just follow Crescent Ave. which splits off to St. Catherine Way. Ambiance/Decor: Has this creepy, but neat place vibe. Art deco design. Entertainment: 1) You can do a self tour and explore the avalon theatre, wrigley ballroom (There was a roller rink setup in this room when we visited), and ocean promenade (Nice view of avalon and the architecture design) for $19.50. 2) If you like to partake in the VIP backstage tour, you can do that one ($38.50). Includes a guided experience, exploring the theatre dressing rooms, producers' viewing gallery, cinema projection booth, exclusive access, and includes general admission. Catalina Casino For Thought: Might be a long while, but I would love to patronize this place again and hopefully watch a movie/attend a concert. read more

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So amazing!! We made a reservation online for roller skating in the ballroom. It was our first time visiting and the staff member out front was so helpful in directing us all the way up to the ballroom. On a Friday afternoon, there were very few people skating!! It was so nice to have some room -- I'm used to packed roller rinks! Some big band style music played over the speakers and really added to the unique atmosphere. Once we were decidedly covered in sweat, we returned our skates and explored the rest of the Casino. It was breathtaking! I only wish they had a gift shop! I wanted some sort of trinket to remember my visit by. The staff member on the way out recommended some stores on the island that she had seen Casino themed Knick knacks in, which was so nice, but I wish there was one onsite. read more

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One of the coolest theaters I've ever been to, and an architectural marvel. The building is really impressive and makes an immediate impression from the moment you first see it coming into the harbor. The inside is a hodge podge of some of the most interesting architectural styles of the past several hundred years. As you walk up to the theater area, you come to a number of huge almost Roman looking murals outside. Great colors and characters in those. As you enter the theater section, you aren't ready for how fascinating the main theater area really is. There's a 360 degree mural in there and the theater itself is circular shaped. Very impressive and hits you immediately. There's also a beautiful terrace and ballroom on the top floor that have a mission and Roman influence and art deco influence as well. When we went on a Sunday afternoon, it was pretty empty and there were a few minutes where we were the only people in the room. Pretty cool for what this is. The terrace has the best views you'll get on the island without hiking a mountain. Worth the trip! read more

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We've been to Catalina a few times but never had been inside the famous casino. This past weekend we participated in two activities at the casino that were fun. Since last winter they offer rollerskating in the ballroom. You can schedule in advance like we did but it wasn't crowded at all so you can likely just walk up too. They are an hour sessions but no one was counting the clock. We skated until we got tired and had the floor pretty much to ourselves which was rare. A beautiful ballroom to boot and awesome views of the island as the ballroom is a few floors up. The second thing we did was attend a local community play called The Worst Play Ever! Highly entertaining and it was cool to watch a show in the big theater! We saw the flyer hanging in store windows and decided to check out one evening. They even had movies going but we weren't that interested in the show they were playing that night. So glad I was able to finally go in and find some cool activities. They also have VIP behind the scenes tours. read more

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The Catalina Casino is a truly historical treasure that is worth visiting if you are in Catalina. It is easy to do a self-guided tour of the site. Just buy an admission ticket and they will provide you with plenty to read and listen to. It took us about 45-60 minutes to enjoy Catalina Casino (not an actual casino gamblers!) The part I found fascinating was it was a Chicagoan (Wrigley) bringing this to life and that the Cubs used to spring train here. I grew up in San Diego and how I never spent any time on Catalina is beyond me. Trust me, if you love architecture or art deco or even just immersing in the past... a stop is worth it. read more

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October 25 & 26, 2024 | Catalina Island: The Avalon Theatre at The Catalina Island Casino is absolutely breathtaking! What a glamorous way to see a movie, as you relax underneath the 50-foot domed ceiling, surrounded by beautiful murals! There's even a gorgeous organ at the front of the theatre! I hear that sometimes someone is actually playing before the movie starts! Imagine that! Lights, Camera, Action: Before the movie, a short clip of the cartoon Popeye was playing, super cute! I saw House on Haunting Hill in black and white on Friday & Hocus Pocus in living color on Saturday night, just in time to celebrate Halloween! Both movies were entertaining! Tickets: $16.50 Super friendly customer service as your tickets are taken before the movie! You can also order tickets online! There is also a concession stand stocked with goodies to eat and drink! Casino: In Italian means gathering place! You won't find any gambling here, but you will find the most beautiful theatre & with an old world ambience! It was built in 1929! The Theatre also Includes a step and repeat in the lobby, with lighting on both sides, perfect to take a snapshot or two! The lobby is also very moody with plush sofas, chairs, and beautiful, lighting! Being there is an experience in itself! Be Our Guest: The seats are so plush & stylish, especially with details on the end seats! Plenty of seating, as there are over 1,800 seats! Overall: I recommend seeing a movie and/or taking a tour of the Casino, as it's a beautiful place that will have you in awe! I loved it & looking forward to returning, as movies are here on the weekends! Happy Halloween! read more

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We did a tour with Rebecca. It was so amazing to see and learn about 100 year old history of the Casino Building. She was a wonderful guide. I loved her singing the song about Avalon at the end of the tour. If you have an hour, let Rebecca show you and tell you all the wonderful history of the Island and all the details about the Casino. read more

Catalina Casino - Rebecca telling us about the film machines that are still working in the casino theater. - Cinema Near Me - Avalon, California

I'v always loved this gorgeous landmark on Avalon bay. They have casino tours daily and movie showing at the Avalon theatre on weekends. We attended the 50th anniversary NYE gala at the grand ballroom. The event was truly one of a kind and so much fun! Party goers were dressed glamorously and the crowd was classy & upscale. The entire event was very well organized from the beginning to the end. The food was buffet banquet style and served all night long. I enjoyed salads and soup very much. Everyone else loved the prime ribs and tiramisu. The NYE decorations were amazing, since this is a historic place so everything looked grand and beautiful in vintage style! The live band was very entertaining, dance floor was huge and packed all the time. The midnight balloon drop was so much fun to be part of. Our family had a great time and all staffs were amazing the entire evening. The night views of Avalon bay from the balcony was a nice touch to the lovely evening! This is such a special experience, definitely one of the top NYE events I'v ever attended! A very happy way to start year 2024! read more

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If you are not on a tour, you can pay an entry fee to do a self guided tour. Beautiful art deco architecture. Start at the entry and look up to see the detail painting on the walls and ceiling. Once inside you're transported back in time. Enjoy the hallway before entering the theater. Walk up the ramp to the second level and enter the Marine Bar where there is a short film on the history of the casino. Continue up the ramp to the ballroom. The ballroom is now a roller rink with music from the 20's. Walk out onto the balcony around the entire casino. Enjoy the view of Avalon.... And don't forget to look up at the ceiling. read more

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The worst possible experience. Nothing but watching a clean up crew in dark and dingy areas. It was not made clear upon entry that there was no re-entry and nothing was open or functional inside. We walked around in the dark and saw everything in 5 minutes. We did ask for a refund and we were told we were out of luck. read more

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Experiencing this beautiful piece of Art Deco architecture exceeded every expectation. It is stunning and the views of Catalina are unrivaled. Such a fantastic piece of California history. Definitely worth the admission! read more

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Over the years we've watched movies at the casino and toured the different levels of the casino. During our last visit to the island we decided to roller skate in the ballroom. This was well worth it and such a blast. The ballroom is perfect for roller skating, smooth wooden floors and picturesque island views from the top of the casino. Skates were clean and everyone was super nice. Would definitely recommend doing this. read more

I was super excited to do the self-guided tour here after observing it for years in movies, TV and beyond. We did not get any views of the backstage area (extra costs), but we were okay with that given the cost paid. The style is of or similar to the Art Deco stylings that would make Hercule Poirot feel right at home. The casino is very ornate and stylish throughout. The murals and detail work on the seats and wood floors were very aesthetically pleasing to the eye. There are ramps so even people in wheelchairs are good-to-go. I believe we overheard a guide say that the top floor ballroom is the "largest circular ballroom in the world". And it truly is huge and magnificent. It was nice and quiet with low attendance in the morning, so I zoned out and transported myself to what it would be like to attend a big band concert here back in the day. You can feel the history all around you and easily envision the parties, concerts etc. says this creative type. Some restrooms have sofa's and are fancy. There are bars at the ballroom. Movies and concerts are still being held here today. Descanso Beach Club is nearby and worth a sniff for a cocktail at their outside bar Seeing the casino in person inspired me to pull a DVD from one of my favorite old skool private detective shows "Mannix": 'Birds of Prey" episodes (filmed on Catalina) and enjoy comparing and contrasting the island from the 70s' to modern day. read more

Very interesting to visit. General admission was pricey but what isn't these days. Only negative I have is the flags (American, POW and others) were in very bad condition. Very disgraceful. Worth a visit otherwise. read more

We had a VIP 1.5 hour tour of the casino by Paul and it was a 5+. Very knowledgeable and took his time with the many questions we had about the island and casino history. Thanks Paul for a great tour! read more

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The Casino is such a landmark for Avalon and the Island; one should spend some time to visit it. The history is interesting, and how the tour illustrates the changes in cinemograph technology are done well. I've posted some pics of the interior of the building showing the art deco style. And a pic of the views from the ballroom overlooking the harbor. But these pics don't do justice to the grand history of the building and the entertainment that has taken place here over the decades. Our tour guide was quite good and very knowledgeable; the tour has a leisurely pace. So if you want a break from the sun, water or the Island's nightlife, this may be a way to peek into a bit of history and its former glory days. This was our 3rd attempt of getting on the tour. Our 2 prior reservations, on 2 previous and separate trips, were cancelled on us. On this trip, they called us about 4 hours prior to our reservation time to cancel, but offered an earlier time option. We changed our existing plans, and made their earlier time slot. FYI read more

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We took the backstage tour with Rebecca. It was awesome!!! She is a wonderful tour guide who spoke loudly enough for even the hard of hearing in our group could follow along. The history of this place is fascinating. The architecture is almost too grand to take in with just one visit. If you are visiting the island , this is a must do. CAUTION-buy your tour tickets-even general admission - in advance. They only allow a limited number of visitors per day. read more

What a beautiful place to visit!!! It was a beautiful walk to get there along the bay with the palm trees. We got our tickets to go inside and the first floor is an old movie theater with movies playing. The theater was lovely and had paintings around it. We then walked up to the ballroom which was amazing as well. During summer weekends they have events in the ballroom in the evening for all ages. Walking the outside on the top floor was great because of the different views. I would absolutely recommend visiting here for the history and beautiful views!! read more

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If you think this is a waste of time, think again. The Casino takes you back in time to a splendid era. The art is abundant inside, all throughout. If you're not into art, by all means, spend time on the outside balcony for the epic views. read more

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So much history. Also fun to know my Grandmother visited the ballroom to here in her youth. Beautiful views, haunted stories and so many artifacts. Tour takes about 75 minutes and there is a lot of walking, including up a few ramps (think a sport stadium). Just be physically prepared to handle that. We booked the tickets when we got off the boat (green pier, middle of town) after a lady in our boat recommended we do so. It was such a special visit. A must see! PS. They offer weddings in the ballroom, starting at 75K. read more

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Beautiful classic building. Great tour of a historic place. Awesome views or Avalon and the bay from the upstairs ballroom balconies. Definitely recommend read more

Catalina Casino - Santa Catalina Island Casino - Cinema Near Me - Avalon, California

Visiting the Catalina Island Casino while in Avalon is a must do at least once. It's an absolutely beautiful and interesting building from a long ago era and it's well maintained. If you do a self guided tour there isn't much in the way of informational signage to learn more about the history, but it's still cool to see. There are even interesting old-timey bathrooms on the upper levels that are worth checking out. It's a bit pricey and you likely won't spend more than an hour walking around. read more

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Such a wonderful experience. Loved getting to see the history behind the casino and head about all the intricacies that went into building it. Did a tour and so glad I did. The tour guide was very funny. She told a ghost story and didn't know EVERYTHING about the place, but didn't pretend to. Very refreshing having a tour guide who is not putting on a facade. Anyway it was such a nice experience getting to sit in the theater and see the ballroom. We even all took a group trip to the ladies room. The view from the top is unmatched, besides maybe from the Wrigley mansion. Saw a group of seals in the water below us before we left. 10/10 read more

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I'm so glad that I followed everyone else's advice to take the VIP backstage tour of the casino. Rebecca was our lovely tour guide and her passion for the casino and its history was palpable, which made the tour very entertaining. The time just flew by! It was also a lot of fun to walk through the backstage areas and learn about how casino performers and employees navigated the space in its heyday. One of the benefits of going on these kinds of tours, that I don't often hear about, is that the tour guides are locals, and they very often have useful and interesting information to share about Catalina, beyond the content of tour. Thanks Rebecca! read more

This is such a beautiful place. It makes me feel so glamorous. I'm glad they've preserved it. Some days they play regular movies in the theater. I wish was able to see one! read more

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It is must when in Catalina. We are lucky to have our your guide Paul. My kids were the only young ones in the group and he kept everyone attentive. The museum and its history are simply gems of the community. read more

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Wow! What a surprise and such a deal! We decided to take the VIP Backstage Tour of the casino! Worth every penny! Our guide, Katelyn, was very knowledgeable and brought the history of the casino to every part of the tour. We were able to tour the theater and go backstage behind the curtains; peek at the private dressing rooms of the actors and actresses; the private screening room of Wrigley; vintage projectors; best of all...the huge dance floor! You could just imagine it all in its heydays. We will definitely tour again next time we're here and bring our guests. Thanks! Darla and Geoff read more

You have to check out the roller skating on the ballroom (upper) floor of this majestic round building! The skates are new and the floor is so smooth. What an amazing way to celebrate the historic venue, listening to music from decades ago and skating to outdoor views of the sky. The circular building once you step out of the ballroom has such pretty ocean views! The theater below has murals painted by the same artist who worked on Grauman's Chinese Theatre. What a gem! read more

The entry ticket costs more than a movie ticket at this place. Otherwise a must see for the island visitors. The theater has impressive acoustics. The big ballroom at the top is spacious, and perhaps even more impressive. Can easily spend an hour here. read more

Mr. Wrigley sure dropped a lot of coin on this Island. Where all his money came from they don't say on the tours. That's OK, as long as he doled it out in wheelbarrows, which he did to build this monument to Catalina... and to his largess. To me the Casino is even more stunningly beautiful after touring the inside. The ballroom is one of my absolute most favorite places on Catalina, second only to sitting across from The Lovely and Gracious Mrs. Yelper at one of the seaside cafes. We took the basic (not insider) tour, a little pricey at $39 each but well worth the price if that's what it takes to keep this place in good shape. read more

Catalina Casino - Stunningly beautiful place. - Cinema Near Me - Avalon, California

We had a great time touring the casino. We did our own excursion from the Royal Carribean Navigator of the Sea. It was worth the walk to the Casino to see the beautiful tiles and the history of the Casino. The employees were very helpful and friendly. The tour was informative and it felt like we took a time machine into the 1900s. I would recommend this. read more

Catalina Casino - A tile from the wall leading to the Casino. - Cinema Near Me - Avalon, California

Simply gorgeous! We were visiting for the day and were recommended to check the Catalina Casino out. Please do not go in expecting to gamble as this is NOT a traditional gambling type of casino. This activity is moreso a tour/museum, however, do they do host events/movie showings on specific nights. Prices start at $19.50/adult and offer cheaper tickets for children and active military/veteran personnel (must show ID/proof). Overall, this activity took us approximately 45 minutes to an hour to tour the entire structure (on our own) and let me just tell you, this is was definitely worth it - beautiful architecture with so much history and detail behind it. read more

Rebecca our guide was amazing. Lots of stories, History of Casino, back stories. Loved it

Great architectural building and one of the most famous tourist attraction in Catalina island. Not as such casino in lay man language. Looks stunning being next to ocean and great side pathway to walk to it. They have threatre inside and play movies. Today show was Frozen 2. Also there is a small booth with an attendee to assist on the casino tours option. $20 for adults and runs timely. We couldn't do immediate one since next tour was like 1 hour later. Seems during tour from balcony there is a great view of the island. read more

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I was not really sure what to do when I stopped in Avalon on the cruise. Once I got here and I heard it was a Wrigley I had to go just for that aspect alone. Of course, I had no idea the treat in store for me as a theater, history, and retro lover. The first talkies were showed and broadcasted from here??? WhAAAA????? I learned that, "the Casino" was never a casino. Casino means, "meeting place" in Italian. This place was so amazing I never wanted to leave. I was so entralled with the antique theater and organ. I did do the backstage tour as well, which was worth the extra few bucks. I also toured on my own. You will get your steps in for sure. I loved it so much I put their NYE ball on my bucket list of things to do before I die list, I took a million photos I will update and post a few. Catalina has an amazing history so check it out. A must do for theater lovers and history buffs. That ballroom, sigh! read more