Regal Macarthur Center
About
Regal Macarthur Center brings the magic of movies to life in the heart of downtown Norfolk with state-of-the-art IMAX screens that make every scene feel larger than life. This modern multiplex theater offers comfortable stadium seating, the latest family blockbusters, and all the classic movie treats kids love, making it a perfect rainy-day activity or special weekend outing for families.
Highlights
- ✓Massive IMAX screens that create an immersive viewing experience for big blockbusters
- ✓Stadium seating with cup holders ensures kids can see over adults
- ✓Wide selection of family-friendly films from Disney, Pixar, and other major studios
- ✓Classic movie theater concessions including fresh popcorn, candy, and slushies
- ✓Climate-controlled indoor entertainment perfect for hot summer days or rainy weather
Pro Tips
- 1.Book tickets online in advance for weekend showings and new releases to avoid sold-out screenings and skip the box office line with kids in tow
- 2.Matinee showings (before 4 PM) offer significantly discounted tickets, perfect for budget-conscious families
- 3.The theater is located inside MacArthur Center mall, so arrive early to find parking in the attached garage and allow time for restroom breaks before the movie starts
- 4.Bring a light sweater or jacket for kids,theater air conditioning can be chilly during summer months
- 5.Check their website for special family programming like sensory-friendly screenings and summer kids' movie series with deeply discounted tickets
Best Time to Visit
Weekday matinees (Tuesday-Thursday, 11 AM-2 PM) are least crowded and most affordable. Weekend mornings work well for popular family films, but expect bigger crowds for evening showings and opening weekends of major releases.
What to Know
Parking is available in the MacArthur Center parking garage with mall validation. Full concession stand offers popcorn, candy, nachos, and drinks at typical theater pricing. The venue is wheelchair accessible with elevator access.
Seasonal Notes
Year-round indoor entertainment. Summer months feature special kids' movie series with discounted tickets. Holiday seasons (Thanksgiving-New Year's) bring major family film releases but expect larger crowds.
Nearby Eats
MacArthur Center mall houses a full food court with kid-friendly options like Chick-fil-A and Sbarro. For sit-down dining, try P.F. Chang's or The Cheesecake Factory, both located within the mall with extensive children's menus.
More Activities Near Norfolk
Waterside District
Waterside District offers families a vibrant waterfront destination where kids can enjoy open spaces, watch boats on the Elizabeth River, and explore a variety of family-friendly restaurants and shops. With free events throughout the year, scenic boardwalks perfect for strolling, and plenty of outdoor seating areas, it's an ideal spot for a relaxed family outing that combines dining, entertainment, and beautiful water views.
Bowling Barn
Bowling Barn in Norfolk is a family-friendly bowling alley that takes the stress out of bowling with young kids. With bumper lanes to keep balls out of the gutters, lightweight balls sized perfectly for little hands, and an arcade area for when kids need a bowling break, it's designed to keep the whole family entertained without the frustration that can come with traditional bowling.
Ghent
Ghent is Norfolk's most charming pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, perfect for families who love exploring on foot. With tree-lined streets connecting independent bookstores, delightful ice cream parlors, playful parks, and welcoming restaurants, it's an ideal destination for a leisurely family day out where kids can safely wander and discover neighborhood treasures.
Lamington's Farm
Lamington's Farm brings agriculture to life for families through hands-on seasonal activities that get kids excited about where their food comes from. From picking your own berries and pumpkins to bouncing along on hayrides through the fields, this working farm offers an authentic farming experience that's both educational and entertaining for the whole family.