Looking for the ultimate movie experience in the heart of Toronto? Look no further than Scotiabank Theatre Toronto in the Entertainment District. As one of the best movie theaters in Toronto, this iconic venue offers more than just blockbuster films—it delivers an unforgettable cinematic journey. From cutting-edge IMAX with Laser technology to UltraAVX and D-Box motion seats, every visit promises premium comfort and jaw-dropping visuals. Nestled in the bustling Entertainment District, this theater is a favorite for movie lovers and a key venue for the renowned Toronto International Film Festival. Whether you’re catching the latest Hollywood release or attending a special film event, Scotiabank Theatre Toronto stands out among the best cinemas in Toronto for its exceptional viewing options and vibrant atmosphere. Get ready to explore why this theater is truly one of Toronto’s best cinemas and a must-visit destination for film enthusiasts!
Location & Accessibility
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto in the Entertainment District is conveniently located at 259 Richmond St W, Toronto, ON M5V 3M6. Positioned in the vibrant heart of Toronto’s Entertainment District, the theatre is surrounded by popular dining, shopping, and nightlife options, making it an ideal destination for a complete entertainment experience.
The theatre is easily accessible by public transit. It is a short walk from the St. Andrew and Osgoode subway stations, and multiple streetcar routes run along Queen Street West and King Street West, providing seamless connectivity. For those driving, several paid parking lots and street parking options are available nearby.
Guests can enter the theatre from Richmond Street West, where the box office and main entrance are located. The auditoriums and amenities are on the third floor, accessible by both escalators and elevators. However, it’s important to note that the escalators may occasionally be out of service, making the elevators the more reliable option.
This central location and convenient access make Scotiabank Theatre Toronto one of the best movie theaters in Toronto and a top choice among the best cinemas in the Entertainment District.
History of Scotiabank Theatre Toronto
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto in the Entertainment District has a rich history as one of the city’s premier cinema destinations. It first opened its doors on May 19, 1999, as Paramount Theatre Toronto, debuting with the release of Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. At its opening, the theatre featured 14 screens and introduced Toronto’s first 3D IMAX screen, setting a new standard for immersive movie experiences.
In 2005, following the acquisition of Famous Players by Cineplex Entertainment, the theatre was rebranded to Scotiabank Theatre Toronto under a sponsorship agreement with Scotiabank. This transition marked its evolution into one of the best movie theaters in Toronto, offering state-of-the-art technology and premium amenities.
A key milestone in the theatre’s history is its strong connection with the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Serving as one of the main venues for TIFF, the theatre has hosted numerous high-profile film premieres, further cementing its status among the best cinemas in Toronto.
Over the years, Scotiabank Theatre Toronto has continually upgraded its facilities, including the introduction of UltraAVX, D-Box motion seats, and the IMAX with Laser projection system, ensuring it remains one of Toronto’s best cinemas for film enthusiasts seeking cutting-edge viewing experiences.
Theatre Features & Amenities
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto in the Entertainment District offers a wide range of features and amenities that make it one of the best movie theaters in Toronto. Designed to provide an exceptional movie-going experience, the theatre combines advanced technology with premium comfort.
Auditoriums & Screens
- The theatre houses 14 auditoriums, including:
- A state-of-the-art IMAX auditorium for immersive viewing
- An UltraAVX auditorium equipped with D-Box motion seats
- Six 3D screens for dynamic visual experiences
- A ScreenX auditorium with a 270-degree panoramic screen
Premium Viewing Experiences
- IMAX with Laser projection technology offers stunning 4K resolution, superior brightness, and vibrant colors, delivering an unmatched visual experience.
- UltraAVX provides crystal-clear 4K visuals and enhanced Dolby sound for a more immersive atmosphere.
- D-Box motion seats add motion effects synchronized with on-screen action for a dynamic experience.
- ScreenX expands the film beyond the main screen onto side walls for a 270-degree viewing effect.
Arcade & Entertainment
The Cinescape arcade offers various gaming options, making it a popular pre- and post-movie activity for guests of all ages.
Food & Beverage Options
- The theatre provides standard concession stands with popcorn, snacks, and beverages.
- Licensed alcohol service is available in all auditoriums, allowing guests to enjoy drinks during the movie.
- The nearby Milestones Grill and Bar offers additional dining options for a complete entertainment experience.
These features and amenities make Scotiabank Theatre Toronto stand out among the best cinemas in Toronto and the best cinemas in the Entertainment District, offering a premium destination for movie lovers.
Special Events & Festivals
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto in the Entertainment District is more than just a place to watch movies—it’s a key hub for some of the city’s most exciting film events. Its prime location and state-of-the-art facilities make it one of the best movie theaters in Toronto for hosting major festivals and special screenings.
Toronto After Dark Film Festival (Since 2013)
Since 2013, Scotiabank Theatre Toronto has been the official venue for the Toronto After Dark Film Festival. This annual event showcases a variety of horror, sci-fi, action, and cult films, attracting genre fans and industry professionals alike.
Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)
The theatre is also a significant venue for the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). During TIFF, the theatre hosts numerous high-profile film premieres and screenings, solidifying its reputation as one of the best cinemas in Toronto for experiencing world-class cinema.
Special Screenings and Premieres
In addition to festivals, Scotiabank Theatre Toronto regularly holds special screenings, advanced movie premieres, and exclusive film events. These experiences provide moviegoers with unique opportunities to watch highly anticipated films before their wide release.
By hosting these major events, Scotiabank Theatre Toronto continues to be a standout among the best cinemas in the Entertainment District and a must-visit destination for film enthusiasts.
Unique Attractions
Scotiabank Theatre Toronto in the Entertainment District has offered several unique attractions over the years, setting it apart from other venues and reinforcing its reputation as one of the best movie theaters in Toronto. These distinctive features have provided guests with memorable and innovative entertainment experiences.
Star Trek Spaceship Décor (Removed in 2018)
For years, the theatre’s box office and escalator areas were decorated with large spaceship models from the Star Trek film series. This iconic décor added a sci-fi flair that made the theatre a popular destination for fans. However, in August 2018, the Star Trek ships were removed and disposed of, marking the end of this beloved feature.
First IMAX VR Center in Canada (2017–2019)
In November 2017, Scotiabank Theatre Toronto became the first location in Canada to introduce an IMAX VR center. This cutting-edge attraction allowed visitors to experience immersive virtual reality games and interactive experiences using advanced HTC Vive and StarVR headsets. The IMAX VR center was operational until early 2019, when IMAX shut down its VR program.
Barco Escape Auditorium (Introduced in 2016)
In July 2016, the theatre introduced the Barco Escape premium large format, becoming one of only three Cineplex locations in Canada to feature this technology. The Barco Escape auditorium offered a 270-degree panoramic viewing experience, with extended screens on the sides for an immersive environment. Star Trek Beyond was the first film optimized for this format, with 20 minutes of footage designed specifically for the experience.
These exclusive attractions have contributed to Scotiabank Theatre Toronto’s standing among the best cinemas in Toronto and the best cinemas in the Entertainment District, offering guests innovative ways to engage with films beyond the traditional movie experience.
Future Plans
The future of Scotiabank Theatre Toronto in the Entertainment District is uncertain, as the site is slated for demolition to make way for a new condominium development. Although an exact timeline for this project has not been confirmed, the planned redevelopment signals a significant change for the area and for moviegoers who consider the theatre one of the best movie theaters in Toronto.
This potential closure would impact Toronto’s cinema scene by removing a key venue known for hosting major film festivals like the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and the Toronto After Dark Film Festival. As one of the best cinemas in Toronto, Scotiabank Theatre Toronto has been a central hub for premium movie experiences, offering IMAX, UltraAVX, D-Box, and ScreenX formats that are hard to replicate elsewhere.
The demolition raises concerns about the availability of large-scale, state-of-the-art cinemas in the downtown core. Losing such a prominent venue could leave a gap in the Entertainment District, known for housing some of the best cinemas in the Entertainment District.
If the demolition proceeds, it could significantly reshape Toronto’s best cinemas landscape, making it even more important for film enthusiasts to enjoy the unique experiences at Scotiabank Theatre Toronto while they still can.
Visitor Information
Planning a visit to Scotiabank Theatre Toronto in the Entertainment District? Here’s everything you need to know to make your movie experience smooth and enjoyable at one of the best movie theaters in Toronto.
Operating Hours
- Friday – Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 10:45 PM
- Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 10:45 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM – 11:15 PM
These extended hours make it convenient for guests to catch the latest films throughout the week.
Contact Information
- Contact: (416) 368-5600
- For inquiries about showtimes, special events, or theatre amenities, guests can call the theatre directly.
Socials
Ticket Purchasing Options
- Online: Tickets can be purchased in advance through the Cineplex website or mobile app for a seamless experience.
- Box Office: On-site ticket counters are available for walk-in purchases.
- Scene Rewards: Members of the Scene loyalty program can use their points to redeem tickets or receive discounts on movie purchases.
With multiple ways to purchase tickets and flexible operating hours, Scotiabank Theatre Toronto stands out among the best cinemas in Toronto and the best cinemas in the Entertainment District, providing a hassle-free and enjoyable moviegoing experience.
Tips for Visitors
To make the most of your visit to Scotiabank Theatre Toronto in the Entertainment District, here are some helpful tips to ensure an enjoyable and seamless experience at one of the best movie theaters in Toronto.
Best Times to Visit to Avoid Crowds
- For a quieter experience, plan your visit during weekday afternoons or early morning screenings.
- Avoid peak times like Friday and Saturday evenings when the theatre is busiest.
- Midweek showings, especially on Wednesday mornings, are typically less crowded.
Choosing the Right Auditorium for the Best Experience
- For the most immersive experience, choose the IMAX with Laser auditorium for stunning visuals and powerful sound.
- The UltraAVX auditorium offers a larger screen with premium seating and Dolby sound—ideal for action-packed blockbusters.
- Opt for the D-Box motion seats if you enjoy a dynamic, interactive viewing experience.
- The ScreenX auditorium provides a 270-degree panoramic view, perfect for visually rich films.
Using Scene Rewards for Discounts and Offers
- Sign up for the Scene loyalty program to earn points on every ticket and concession purchase.
- Redeem Scene points for free or discounted movie tickets and snacks.
- Look out for Scene member-exclusive deals on premium formats like IMAX and UltraAVX.
By following these tips, you can make the most of your visit to Scotiabank Theatre Toronto, one of the best cinemas in Toronto and a top choice among the best cinemas in the Entertainment District.
FAQs
- Does Scotiabank Theatre Toronto have IMAX?
Yes, it features a premium IMAX with Laser auditorium for an enhanced cinematic experience. - Is there parking available near Scotiabank Theatre Toronto?
Yes, several paid parking lots and street parking options are available nearby. - How can I buy tickets for Scotiabank Theatre Toronto?
Tickets can be purchased online, at the box office, or by redeeming Scene rewards points. - What events are hosted at Scotiabank Theatre Toronto?
It hosts the Toronto After Dark Film Festival and is a major venue for the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). - Are there dining options nearby?
Yes, Milestones Grill and Bar is located in the same complex, and the theatre offers standard concessions.