Support your local theaters! This place has a small selection of films playing at any given time, but is super comfortable and serves up immaculate vibes. Ticket prices are reasonable and it can seat quite a few people (pretty comparable to the Regal next door). Absolutely will be back. read more

The lobby is somewhat dated but the Art Deco details are meticulously maintained in the 2 auditoriums. Seats are plush and comfortable. The theater shows a mix of Indie films and commercial releases. I have also seen classic revivals. The attached Gelato place has slightly different hours. There is a window inside the lobby on the wall separating the two for easy ordering. I enjoy coming here to support a local business. read more

See all

The ambiance is just right Sitting in the theater transports me to a different and enjoyable place. Love seeing movies here

Girl organizing line outside was very rude, yelling and not giving clear instructions, wasnt even that many people there

Pros - awesome vintage 1940s ambience, very reasonable prices for tickets and concessions, great selection of indie films, very cushy comfortable seats, friendly staff. Cons - Auditorium can get very cold... When I arrived, they had the front door open and the auditorium door open as well (which was only a few feet from the front door). It was a cold day, and unfortunately leaving the doors open let in all the cold air to the lobby/auditorium. I was totally bundled up but still cold. After the film started, they closed the doors (and I'm assuming turned up the heater) and it did warm up to a tolerable level... but I would suggest keeping the front door closed during the winter/summer months and just cranking the heater/AC, because a theater that's too cold/hot can really ruin the moviegoing experience. Another con is that they don't have any food other than popcorn/candy... so don't expect hot dogs or anything more substantial. I love the indie theater experience and would love for this place to stick around for years to come. Hopefully they can take these suggestions into account and improve their service overall, because they have a lot going for them. read more

My gf and I used to love stopping in just for the popcorn but something changed with the recent changes. I'm not sure if it's the butter or the popcorn but it's just different and honestly not as good as it used to be. read more

It's a wonderful, vintage theater so I love to just be there. And fortunately they show art house films-- my favorite! I also spent many hours there when Davis Musical Theater Company used it for kids workshops and productions. And I love the gelato. Perfect! read more

Attendant selling us our tickets again today is always pleasant, helpful and friendly! ( Saturday July 12th 4:00pm) read more

The only place in Davis where I can catch the new movies I actually WANT to see. Seeing Skinamarink here a while back was an incredible experience (one that I won't soon forget). And I was even able to catch a showing of Everything Everywhere All at Once after I missed my chance on its first run through the theatre circuit. You can get a similar movie going experience at the Regal in town, but I think at this point we're all a little hungry for something new, original, and refreshing. Or stick to Superhero-Movie-#3, I'm not the boss of you! read more

I just had a very disappointing movie experience at the Davis Varsity Theater. The theater was freezing. I had to wear my coat during the movie. Worse though was cold popcorn. We got old popcorn. After we got our bag, more was made. I was told it was all the same temperature. I won't be back. read more

Varisty is an iconic movie theater experience. Old-timey seats, fresh popcorn and excellent gelato from the place next door. Unfortunately, time has taken it's toll on the seats and a little maintenance could go a long way. read more

I bought tickets for a movie showing at 8:20pm. After arriving to the movie theater the doors were locked and the theater appeared to be closed. There was no sign anywhere saying that it was closed and nothing on their website. Even after checking their Instagram and Facebook there was zero update on why the theater was not open during our showtime. Now Im struggling to get a refund through Fandango due to the time of day it is. This is very inconvenient and unreliable. read more

Varsity Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Davis, California

Why are they playing marvel movies when I can go around the corner and watch at the regal? Varsity should've remain committed to playing indie and foreign films. read more

Science fiction double feature Doctor X will build a creature See androids fighting, Brad and Janet Anne Francis stars in Forbidden Planet At the late night, double feature, picture show In the back row.... The Varsity Theater is the place to go in Davis to see art house, foreign and independent films on 1 of their 2 screens. This Movie House is also one of those "Streamline Moderne" architectural landmarks that had my full attention at first sight and watch. read more

Varsity Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Davis, California

I could not use my Downtown Davis e-gift card because the terminal had no place to enter the expiration date, CW and Zip Code. I won't be returning for a month. Hopefully by then the e-gift card issue will be resolved. On top of that, there was little to no air conditioning in the back screen showing Oppenheimer. Instead I suggest people go to the Regal, State Theater in Woodland, or Tower Theater in Sacramento. As of 7/23 the Regal is also showing Barbie and Oppenheimer. read more

Very old school but can not expect much from a theater. Personally I prefer going to an Imax one but this was the only with an indie movie showing. It got your basic buttery popcorn stand and gelato on the side. Bonus for free posters box. The inside made me feel a bit dirty especially with the old wobbly seats. But this didn't make the show any less enjoyable. read more

Yaaayyy for indie theaters and yaaayyy for theaters that are clean and look really cool inside. I saw La La Land here, and it was so much fun! I got a small bag of popcorn, good seats, and there were limited commercials. I really liked the design of the theater, and the seats were as you expect. Varsity theater has a such great little selection of movies, and it's always fun checking out was playing. They're also tied to a little gelato and candy shop! They also have some water with little cups for you to enjoy. read more

Varsity Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Davis, California

From the outside it looks so dated, which gives it a retro feel and goes well with the movie selection, but when you walk inside it's just like any other move theater. You can even order gelato in the theater lobby from the place next-door as you are waiting. The seats were those new rocking kind, very comfy. I thought it would be run down inside, but it was the opposite. It was nice and fresh. The bathroom has been redone. The sinks are new and the faucets are the sensor types that turn on with movement. And so does the towel dispensers. I have no idea how this place makes any money. We saw a movie last night and there was around 25 people in the theater. More people should come to this place. It's great. read more

This theater has an old school feel...They only show 2 movies at a time. The seating area is pretty comfortable. It was clean, quaint...a perfect theater to get away from all the craziness. The matinee movie was around $8...the small soda was $4. We watched Lincoln there and the seats were comfortable enough for both of us to take a nap. Parking is pretty horrible...I think most of the streets allow 2 hour parking? Otherwise, I thought the theater was decent...wouldn't mind coming back again...definitely not your usual Century or AMC though! read more

I came here to see Lady Bird (which is an amazing film btw) and was pleasantly surprised. I really appreciated that the prices here are not insane like some movie theaters. We did not get any popcorn or candy so I can't comment on the prices there, but worse case sneak in your own treats ;) The seats were comfortable and the theatre wasn't freezing like most! I was really content with my movie going experience and would visit again. I heard they do cheap movies on certain weekdays also! read more

This theater offers indie movies that are usually not offered at the Regal theaters in Davis. The theater is older so the seats are not very comfortable plus there is no incline to the rows so if someone tall sits in front of you then you may have trouble seeing the screen. Icekrimski Cafe has an opening to the theater offering gelato for purchase. My top picks: -Indie movies that aren't offered other places in Davis My negatives: -uncomfortable seats read more

The Varsity Theatre was truly a joy to experience. The historic facade made me want to see a movie there, but I was pleasantly surprised by the modern screen, comfortable seating, and stadium-style configuration. No disappointments here. read more

Come away with me, to my little corner of the world, Dream a little dream, in my little corner of the world... Before I digress any further in a Yo La Tengo tangent. Let me profess my fond feelings for the Varsity Theatre. My love affair all started many moons ago on a cold winter's night. The theatre facade gave off a vibe as if I was sent back to Pleasantville, but as I looked around, I was still in modern day Davis. I was innocently passing through when I saw the sign saying, "Jeff, Who Lives At Home." It sounded more like a poor eharmony caption, than a movie title. Nonetheless, it was the bait that lured me in- and I haven't regretted it ever since. Unlike other theaters in Davis, Varsity Theatre is a throwback in time. It's a quaint establishment that offers independent features that are commonly not offered in a local cinemaplex. Think Sundance, rather than Universal Studio Blockbusters. Not every film may fit your fancy, you may have to read subtitles since they constantly offer an array of foreign films. They offer a free showing of holiday classics like It's The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown during Halloween and some Christmas classics for the kids to enjoy. The cost to watch a movie here is slightly higher than the other movie theaters. Tuesday discount days is only a $1 cheaper. Students also get a $1 discount with a valid ID. Matinee is only $1 cheaper than regular showing. They charge $1 more for debit card transactions. They don't allow any outside snacks except for Sophia's coffee and snacks, and the gelateria adjacent to the theater. (It goes on the whole theme of supporting independent local businesses. I highly recommend the tiramisu and the green tea gelatos. Fantastic!) Parking can be a pain, especially during Farmers Market hours. Despite it all, I still patronize this place because of it's charm, character, and the movies it has to offer. The Varsity has a je ne se quoi quality that no other place can offer. It will always have a soft spot in my heart, and will be my little corner of the world. read more

Another blast from my past. I remember when they actually did "theater" here. It was then used for a variety of specialty purposes, then for main stream movies. Now that there are a few places that shows movies in town it's harder to go back unless there's something special but then I'm glad you don't have to drive to Sac or Woodland for variety anymore. read more

Somehow, I don't think I have ever seen a movie I disliked at the Varsity. I'm not sure how this is possible, since, as a movie theater, the Varsity shows many different types of movies, and I am not a woman of broad and varied tastes. But I have at least moderately enjoyed every single movie I have seen here, and find their selection to be entertaining, diverse, and of high quality. Aside from the movies themselves, the Varsity is the only theater in Davis in which you can escape the noxious pre-preview commercials that you will be forced to endure at both Regal establishments. Instead, you can peacefully enjoy light classical music in low light, while silent local banner ads display on the screen in an understated, non-disruptive manner. The atmosphere is relaxing and comfortable, and the main theater (just behind the concession stand) is especially nice: it has a retro small-movie-house feel, with wide rows of low-backed velvet (or velvet-like) seats, and nice little retro decor touches on the walls. They have the same variety of concessions as any other theater, at more or less the same rates. Their ticket prices are pretty much the same, too, and they offer discounted student and senior pricing. I noticed on the Davis Wiki just now that they also offer discount Tuesday prices like the other theaters, which I didn't know before. Oh, and you can bring your Mishka's purchases into the theater with you! read more

My experience here is truely UNFORGETTABLE! I was here about a year ago and I still remember each detail. From the outside, it looks like an old, vintage, or abandoned movie theater only showing those "dingy" movies nobody wants to see. Walking in, you're greeted by super friendly staff and a simple old-fashioned concession stand. This place looks tremendously old and you'll just be shocked by walking into the actual theater. Maybe that's what I get for underestimating... It has to be the nicest and most beautiful theaters I've ever been inside. It was almost like an honor to be there... like I was at the Oscar's or something. That might be a little exaggeration but just go with it. The stadium seats were extremely large, clean, comfortable and I enjoyed every second of "500 Days of Summer". The seats recline nicely and even the armrests go up!! So if you're looking to "cupcake" with a special someone and cuddle up, this place is perfect. The most romantic and beautiful theater I've been to, it deserves a try. read more

I had a grand ol' time at Varsity theater! I saw Silver Linings Playbook here, so I wonder how much of my rating reflects how good the movie was. (if I saw Spy Kids 3, would I still give it a 5 star?) Nonetheless, I have nothing to complain about. Staff was very helpful, exterior and interior made me feel like I was going into a 60's style movie theater, and there was a bathroom inside the corridor from the lobby to the screen-- no more missing entire chunks of the movie when you have to pee! Parking sucks, as you might have to park in the whole foods parking lot to find a spot, but it isn't too bad-- definitely not worth -1 star. read more

Nice local theater that shows interesting films. The biggest bonus is the ability to bring in gelato from Icekrimski or coffee from Mishka's. read more

Okay okay, I am totally reminiscing about ** years ago when I was a bit more fresh-faced and the world before me was being viewed through rose colored lens.....*sigh* college days. This is probably the equivalent to the Tower Theater in Sacramento. I love this place due to the quaint location smack dab in the middle of the "town" of Davis. Art-Deco architecture, decent plush seating, a wonderful conglomeration of independent films shown.........and fresh popcorn to compliment. Besides, the prices for students are around $7.75 (it use to be $6 then.....), just flash them your student id. Or if you go on a Tuesday, all movies are $6.50. What can I say.......I caught my first performance on opening night here: Pulp Fiction. If you live nearby, nothing beats a cool evening walking downtown and catching a flick. Highly recommended!! read more

I hadn't been to this Theater in a long time and since I was knocking off my Oscar list my friend and I came here to see The Danish Girl. I forgot how much I liked this theater. Plays a ton of indie films and the staff is super friendly. Place is clean and the popcorn I ordered was great too. One small gripe is there is a slight tear in the screen that was slightly distracting in the theater we sat in (it would be nice if they fixed that!). Also it's not staggered seating so if someone talk sits in front of you you may not be able to see that well. Overall, the place is nice and I will gladly come back again soon! read more

Great movie theater! It reminds me of Tower theater in Sacramento but more nice I guess? It definitely seems like it gets renovated more...the seats are amazing and definitely updated! The only downfall, you get charged extra for using a credit card...and not just on movie tickets, but for like everything! As a college student this bums me out since I never have cash, but I suppose lesson learned. read more

The only theater in Davis I like to frequent. I waited many years for a theater that would show indie movies. I love it. The gelato in the little shop connected to the theater is fantastic. Seats are comfortable, and fewer people send text mesages during a movie (maybe people who attend this theater are really there to see the movie, not to broadcast where they are). I find this practice so distracting that I rarely attend the other theaters in Davis. read more

This place survives purely because it's the only of it's kind in Davis. The screen on the left has had a noticeable tear for at least the past 5 years. The service is indifferent. The owner is an asshole. I get the point of showing a really popular movie until it's appeal is gone, but keeping one (mainstream) film out for 3 months while Oscar season passes us by so that we in Davis are forced to go to Sacramento is irritating for a place that insists on it's importance to the local community. Also, if you agree to accept vouchers from online services (groupon, etc) don't turn people away because your new pos system is no longer equipped to process them. And sure as shit don't, as the owner of the establishment, tell your employees that it's all the customer's problem because you "don't understand those online assholes". You're a dick, and when people say you resemble Morrissey, it's not in a good way. read more

Perfect seating extremely comfortable seats and the isles are big if you need to get up and get out it's extremely easy. For a old theater this place is not only comfortable the staff is extremely friendly. read more

I've frequented Icekrimsky gelato quite often, and did want to see Silver Linings Playbook back when it was playing but never got the chance. Fast forward: First time inside was this past Christmas when they had free showings of How The Grinch Stole Christmas on the main/bigger screen. Second time was recently to see Foxcatcher on a discount Tuesday ($8 nowadays) during its last week, on the smaller screen/auditorium. Definitely missed out on Birdman and Theory of Everything. I do like it more compared to the other Regals in Davis, and Tower Theater in Sac when it comes to indie films. My favorite "old" theater by far is the Grand Lake in Oakland, so classy. Can't wait to try the new gimmick, dinner AND a movie (Studio Movie Grill in Rocklin, or whenever Alamo Drafthouse finally open in SF). Not as cheap as the Regal Rewards discount Tuesdays, but a much different experience overall, charming and worth it. read more

Varsity Theatre - Cinema Near Me - Davis, California

See all

The boyfriend and I came to watch Midnight in Paris on discount Tuesday! The movie theater was small and old fashioned looking, with cute, colorful haired girls working the concessions. In the theater, the seats were plush and leaned back. The boyfriend mentioned that he could have used a little more air conditioning in the theater, but the seats were super comfy! Varsity seems to only show indie films. I've previously watched Black Swan and Blue Valentine here with friends. Classical music plays in the background of the ads before the previews, which is a cute quirk. Tuesday movie deals here are more expensive than the Regal Theaters $5 Tuesday at $7, but the Varsity plays more artsy films for longer periods of time. The boyfriend remarked that the legroom was more than adequate to compensate for the tippy nature of the chairs, but personally, the person behind me kept accidentaly kicking my chair, so I didn't like how the chairs tipped back. Overall, a cute place to go on a date if you want to see a film that's different than your usual blockbuster! read more

This theatre may only have more "indie" films, but to me its on of the best theatre experience i had when i was in davis. The place is quite nice inside and its like the old fashioned theatres of a generation past. The seating is still stadium and the concessions is down right old fashioned. This place may show some of the more artsy films, but its adds a great variety to davis, because the nearby regals only have small selections Also there is a gelato place next door, which happens to have a window opening into the theatre which is AWESOME. read more

I'm so happy that Davis finally has a place where you can watch indie films. Although I still love Tower and Crest and it's not that hard to get to them, it's so nice to have a place in town. The theaters are usually not very crowded and also not freezing from over air conditioning. The place has nice socialist realism art on the walls of the bigger theater; makes me fee like I'm in China or Russia during the 1940s. Bonus: The gelato store next door cut a hole in the wall so you can buy gelato to enjoy with your movie. read more

This is such a cute small old time theatre. It seems so vintage looking but I really enjoy that. I also love that they show films that are sometimes not shown in other theatres. I came here with my friend to watch Perks of Being a Wallflower since it was not showing anywhere else close to where I live in the Bay. I was so thankful Varsity was showing it. The theatre seems really old because the chairs are not as comfy as others can be. The theatre was huge though! It made picking a seat easy (but it was pretty empty that night too). Prices are a dollar cheaper for students so that's always nice. However, I didn't like that the seats were all at an even level so the screen seemed so far high up. Overall, it was a nice experience. read more

Heading into this theater I was ready for a dive, but it was the only theater showing the movie I wanted to see. Then I walked into the auditorium and was shocked to find a very nice, clean, stadium seating theater! The seats recline and the armrests are the right height. This theater also shows some interesting artsy films. It is the nicest theater in Davis. read more