What Harkins Theatres is and how to find one

Harkins Theatres is a movie theater chain that operates locations across the southwestern United States, primarily in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas. Unlike national chains like AMC or Regal, Harkins is a regional operator, so you'll only find their locations in those states. If you live in or are visiting one of those areas, you can search for a nearby Harkins theater on their website by entering your zip code or city name.

Each Harkins location is independently operated, which means showtimes, pricing, and available amenities can vary between theaters. Some locations are newer multiplex theaters with premium features, while others are smaller neighborhood theaters. The best way to find out what a specific theater offers is to visit the Harkins website, call the theater directly, or check their social media pages.

Key Takeaways

  • Harkins Theatres operates only in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas, so availability depends on your location.
  • You can buy tickets online through the Harkins website or at the box office, and online purchases often let you choose your specific seat.
  • Harkins offers a rewards program called Harkins Rewards that earns points on concessions and ticket purchases.
  • Matinee showtimes typically cost less than evening showtimes, and prices vary by location and day of the week.
  • Some Harkins locations have premium formats like IMAX or reserved seating, but not all theaters have these features.

How to buy tickets at Harkins

You can purchase tickets in three ways: online through the Harkins website, through their mobile app, or in person at the box office. Buying online or through the app usually gives you the option to select your specific seat before you pay, which is helpful if you have a preference for where you sit in the theater. You'll need to know which theater location you're visiting and what time you want to see the movie.

When you buy tickets online, you'll receive a confirmation email with a barcode or ticket number. You can either print your tickets at home or show the barcode on your phone at the box office to pick them up. If you buy tickets in person, you pay at the box office window and receive physical tickets or a receipt. Ticket prices vary by location, time of day, and day of the week — matinee showings are usually cheaper than evening showings, and weekend prices are often higher than weekday prices.

Some Harkins locations offer reserved seating, which means you pick your exact seat when you buy your ticket. Other locations use general admission seating, where you can sit anywhere in the theater. Check your specific theater's website to see which system they use.

Understanding Harkins ticket pricing

Harkins does not publish a single ticket price across all locations. Instead, each theater sets its own prices based on local market conditions. A ticket at a Harkins in Phoenix may cost a different amount than a ticket at a Harkins in Denver. The best way to find out the exact price is to enter your theater location and showtime on the Harkins website — the price will display before you complete your purchase.

Most Harkins locations offer lower prices for matinee showings, which are typically screenings before 5 p.m. or 6 p.m., depending on the location. Senior citizens and children often receive discounted ticket prices, though the discount amount varies by theater. Some locations also offer special pricing on certain days of the week — for example, some theaters have a discount day on Tuesdays.

Premium formats like IMAX or large-format screens may cost more than standard theater tickets. If a movie is showing in multiple formats at your Harkins location, the website will show you the price for each option when you select your showtime.

The Harkins Rewards program

Harkins Rewards is a free membership program that lets you earn points on ticket and concession purchases. You can sign up for Harkins Rewards on their website or at the box office. Once you're enrolled, you provide your membership number or phone number when you buy tickets or concessions, and points are added to your account.

Points accumulate and can be redeemed for free tickets, concession items, or other rewards. The exact redemption value depends on how many points you have and what reward you choose. The program also sends members special offers and promotions via email, which can include discounts on tickets or concessions.

Harkins Rewards is optional — you can see movies and buy concessions without joining. But if you go to Harkins theaters regularly, the program can save you money over time.

Concessions and food options

All Harkins locations sell standard movie theater concessions: popcorn, candy, drinks, and hot snacks like nachos and hot dogs. Prices for concessions are set by each individual theater, so they vary by location. Like most movie theaters, concession prices are higher than you would pay at a grocery store or convenience store.

Some Harkins locations have expanded food menus that go beyond typical theater snacks. A few locations offer items like pizza, sandwiches, or salads. Check your specific theater's website or call ahead to see what food options are available at the location you plan to visit.

You can bring your own outside food and drinks into some Harkins theaters, but policies vary by location. Call your theater directly to ask about their outside food policy before you bring anything in.

Special formats and premium experiences

Not all Harkins locations have the same technology or screen formats. Some theaters have IMAX screens, which show movies in a larger format with enhanced sound. Some locations have Dolby Cinema screens, which offer higher resolution and brighter images. A few locations may have other premium formats. These premium screens typically show only certain movies, and tickets cost more than standard theater tickets.

Some Harkins locations have reserved seating, where you pick your exact seat when you buy your ticket. Others use open seating, where you can sit anywhere that's available. A few newer locations may have recliners or other premium seating options, though this is not standard across all Harkins theaters.

To find out what premium formats and seating options are available at your nearest Harkins, visit their website, search for your specific theater location, and look at the theater details page. You can also call the theater directly to ask about their screens and seating.

What to know before you go

Arrive at least 15 minutes before your showtime, especially if you're buying tickets at the box office or concessions. This gives you time to purchase tickets, get snacks, and find your theater and seat before the movie starts. If you bought tickets online, you can arrive closer to showtime since your seat is already reserved.

Most Harkins theaters have assigned parking lots. Parking is usually free, though some locations in urban areas may have limited parking or charge a fee. Check your specific theater's website or call ahead if you're unsure about parking.

Harkins theaters are open to the general public, and policies on children, service animals, and other accommodations vary by location. If you have questions about accessibility, service animals, or bringing children to a specific movie, call your local Harkins theater to confirm their policies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy tickets in advance for a movie that hasn't been released yet?

Yes. Harkins usually opens ticket sales for upcoming movies a week or two before the release date. You can buy tickets online or through the app as soon as they become available. This is especially useful for highly anticipated movies that may sell out quickly.

Do I need to create an account to buy tickets online?

You do not need an account to buy tickets as a guest. However, creating a free account on the Harkins website makes it easier to save your favorite theater, view your purchase history, and manage Harkins Rewards points if you're a member.

What's the difference between matinee and evening ticket prices?

Matinee showings are screenings that occur earlier in the day, usually before 5 p.m. or 6 p.m., and they cost less than evening showings. The exact matinee time and price difference varies by location. Check the Harkins website for your specific theater to see which showtimes are considered matinee pricing.

Can I get a refund if I need to cancel my ticket purchase?

Refund policies vary by location and how you purchased your ticket. Generally, tickets purchased online may be refundable up to a certain time before the showtime, while tickets purchased at the box office may have different rules. Contact your local Harkins theater or check the website for the specific refund policy.

Are there discounts for large groups?

Some Harkins locations offer group discounts for parties of 10 or more people. Contact your local Harkins theater directly to ask about group pricing and to make arrangements for your group visit.