It was a beautiful space with such beautiful ornate decorations from the past. It was such an enjoyable time and wonderful show. It was showing the Arab Film Festival Opening night and it was magnificent. I am excited that the Castro Theatre supports these types of events and hope to attend more here.

This cinema is a one of kind. Its spectacular. And when you walk around the foyer, youll run into real Tiffany Studio stained glass. Plus, you get a live organ player on the weekend before your picture. Enjoy!

One of the best classic, old school movie theaters still around. Very rare these days that a cinema that has so few screens would stay in business, I sure hope they do stay in business. This place if it isnt, should be declared a landmark. Seen many movies here over the years.

This theater is a complete experience. Its totally worth the half hour drive to get there! The concessions are a very fare priced unlike most theaters and the popcorn and soda are out of this world delicious. Walking into their theaters absolutely takes your breath away. Ive visited 2 of them so far and cant wait until I can experience them all. You definitely get a bang for your buck here. You will not regret a visit here.

I used to be a regular at this theater 30 years ago when I lived in California from 1980 to 1994. It was definitely an amazing place and what was considered normal back then is now charm :-) the theaters are wonderfully adorned and some are new the seats are comfortable for bigger people and the popcorn is pretty good :-)

Is there a better place to see a flick thats not IMAX... Get to the dome if you can. The 3D will run you $20 a ticket but what are you gonna do...

An appropriate name for a theater that survived from a time when the cinema was a grand experience. Forgo the modern multiplex and treat yourself to a picture show in an epic theater from days past.

An absolutely impressive movie theater with an architecture that reminds me of old theaters in NYC. It is just beyond beautiful, inside. Be aware that there are several small theaters inside so there could be a chance that you may not see the main majestic hall. Also, you must park in the street so, parking can be challenging. A wonderful aspect of this theater is that it reflects the sentiments of the community by posting messages with its political and or social views.

There is a huge room upstairs which is comfortable and beautiful. It’s fascinating seen the curtains opening to present the show like the old fashioned and fancy movie theaters.A historic place in Oakland, also it displays some of tools and engines in the cinema evolution.The seating of room downstairs aren’t comfortable. Almost in the same level and doesn’t have neck resting.

Theater is well maintained. Owner never fails to colorize the marquee with a pithy political opinion.

Of course the movie theater is amazing...but what I love most about this theater is the entertainment before the movie. The ticket price itself is worth hearing the organ play and the sound filling the entire theater. The theater decor is outstanding and makes you feel like youre back in the 30s enjoying movies how they were meant to be seen. Plenty of good seats inside the main theater. The other two theaters are wonderful, too. Definitely a must for any film lover!

I have absolutely fallen in love with this theater. I have an affinity for older theatres and this one has stolen my heart. The conversation stand can get a little craaaaazy but the local made soda and biodegradable wares are awesome and worth the wait. The popcorn is great too. My favorite aspect is the organ part on opening night of a movie in the main theater. Stand under the marquis lights and take a picture. Totally reminiscent of a bygone era.

Great retro theater, art deco in-tact, sometimes even get a swell movie emcee and live music in certain theater/times (?)! When I walked into the upstairs theater auditorium, I thought the some of seats in the seating arrangement were kind of wide, offset to the side of the screen, but when I watched the movie it wasnt an issue.I saw Ford v. Ferrari and the sound and imagery was excellent. Im a car lover and was not disappointed with the theater sound quality letting me hear, maybe even feel, the engine sounds!

Wonderful old theatre. Always has a selection of high quality movies. I wish the snack bar was faster service, though, because we always miss parts of the movie due to the long line.

Beautiful old theater in all of its original splendor. Great selection of indie, arthouse and, mainstream movies. Parking can be problematic on Saturdays due to a Farmers Market that uses the, big, public parking lot across the street so just go to late afternoon shows on Saturday.

Amazing building, full of history, and now full of Gods people every Sunday.TFH Oakland began today 1/26/20

Great theater. Definitely has an old-style feel but was very clean and comfortable. I would definitely come here again.

Nice historic theater. A must see if you are looking for a movie night out.

Spacious seats, great audio, friendly staff, amazing atmosphere and free popcorns!! Our favourite ‘afternoon date’ theatre ;)

Ive been visiting this theater for over 30 years. Its still as magical now as it was when I was a kid. If youre able go see a movie here in the main theater. You wont be disappointed

An old theatre with a good shape still I love it.

Always fun to come here and watch movies

Love this place! The ambiance is great for a scary movie and has so much character. A must visit if you are in town.

Rustic vintage theater. Definitely a must experience. Food is primarily ed fair as well as movie pricing. Seats were comfortable. Only downside is you have to go up 3 flights of stairs to get to the restrooms.

Still my favorite movie house of all time. Theres a certain feeling you get when watching a movie in a place like this, it reminds you of everything you love about the movies.

An Oakland institution—Grand Lake Theatre is a venerable and beautiful space. A great place to watch big, blockbuster films with all the quirky atmosphere of the East Bay.

One of my favorite places in Oakland. Have seen numerous movies here and love the $5 Tuesdays deal and matinees as well. Staff is friendly and helpful. Inside is just beautiful. Old school charm with tasteful decor and interior design. Its like you are transported in a different era all together once you step foot inside.Ive been to 3 different showrooms and they are pretty decent and chairs are comfortable enough. They show 2D and 3D movies here.Oh yea, and popcorn is always lovely and a must really :) Bathrooms are clean which is always a pleasant surprise!But most of all, its a neighbourhood gem so got to love the Grand Lake Theater, so close and so conveniently located!!!

Such a classic and comfortable theatre. No commercials as you sit and wait for the movie to start. Just scores from movies and on weekends an organ player. I feel like I’m a kid again - reminds me of being in the theatre as a kid in the mid 90s

This is an opulent theatre built in the 1920s and restored to its original beauty. Its a great place to see a movie with comfortable seats, great screen and sound.The beauty of this theatre makes the experience all the better. In addition there are great restaurants to eat at before or after your show in walking distance. Metered parking available nearby.

Beautiful historic theater, most reasonable priced theater, I usually go to the matinee, they have free popcorn Tuesdays; perfect to catch a movie solo during the week. Dolby digital surround sound also!

This place never fail to amaze me in every visit. Staffs were kind and friendly. My daughter liked the Frozen 2 movie. Good seats and clean bathrooms.

One of the best buildings in Oakland. Love that they kept the traditional decor. Cheap movies on Tuesdays!

Ive seen movies here for almost 40 years and it truly is Oaklands historic movie theater. Many great memories here!

This is a fabulous theater, beautifully restored. The owner is also very courageous, politically aware, and gifts the theater to groups raising consciousness on vital issues. There is a handicapped access restroom downstairs! There are additional restrooms located upstairs. I greatly enjoy coming to the Grand Lake for regular movies, as well as for their special events. It has a great ambiance and a wonderful staff.

The best movie theater Ive ever been to. It looks like an old opera house the popcorn is absolutely the best without a doubt. And the place is not expensive and everyone that works there is friendly

One of the best things about Oakland is this beautiful theater and the mighty Wurlitzer! A great date night!

Beautiful historic movie theatre with wonderful 1st run movies, and independent movies too.Good prices for matinees, comparable pricing for regular showtimes, popcorn and drinks are a little high considering you dont get refills on the large size popcorn.

Movie was interesting.. The crowd was very quiet & into the movie.. Made it even more real..

Historical movie house. Nice employees!

I absolutely love this theater... The matinee prices are so reasonable and they serve free popcorn on Mondays (Except for Holidays)... I love that the theater has an Old Hollywood feel and that the decor matches that...I am so excited that I live in walking distance as it gives me the opportunity to go back as much as I want!

Theater is clean and the staff is great. There is a parking structure with decent prices (I paid $7 for 3 1/2 hours). The prices are excellent, for the price of a ticket at some other the places I bought a ticket, hot dog, candy a drink and a popcorn. It doesnt have 20 movies like the bigger places but its a comfortable and affordable theater and Id recommend checking it out.

This place has found a special place in my heart. Go here on Friday evenings or weekends for their organ performance. Itll bring you to feeling like youre in 1950s. Food, snacks and drinks are actually sold at a reasonable price as well. Alamo Drafthouse house and Grand Lake Theatre are the two best theatres in the bay area in my opinion.

Its an absolutely amazing old theater! I will definitely be going back for more movies.Picture quality isnt IMAX level but Im not going here for IMAX

I love the Grand Lake. Beautiful landmark theater. Owner supports free speech. Oaklands gem! (Warning, break-in. Dont leave valuables in your car in back lot)

Oaklands Historic Movie Palace that still runs current movies. I especially enjoy going to movies on Friday and Saturday evenings where in the main theater (#1) they play the Mighty Wurlitzer before each performance.

Great old community based theatre! Low, low prices for first run films. Friendly staff. Politically astute management. Tiffany stain glass window in lobby that is featured in the Metropolitan Museum of Artin New York! Enjoyable place to spend an afternoon or evening and watch a movie.

Lovely historic cinema with a lot of charm. The staff are very friendly and the place has a great feel. The concession stand doesn’t have a huge variety of snacks and drinks and there aren’t too many different films available but the ticket prices are very reasonable and the kitsch decor provides a great backdrop and lovely atmosphere.

Great old theater, comfortable and has a good atmosphere. Good place for movie date nights

This place is more a 2.5 star place, than 3. The actual building feels pretty rundown and neglected. Would be great if they made it look like the theater in Alameda which still has the original architecture and character but feels kept up and taken care of. The service at the snack counter was friendly so that got it a 3* review.

This theatre is gorgeous and enchanting. The service is great too :)

An Oakland treasure, cozy seats, clear sound, tasty popcorn, and engaged audiences! Also, the marquee is always on point.

The theater is showing its age but we like the programming and the main theater is really nice and cozy.

Great old place to watch modern new movies. If youre longing for the old grand theater experience, grand lake is your place of nostalgia.

Great place to see a flick some of the people that go there can be a little wierd though and maybe crazy enrgy

Great place to watch movies. Historical theater with plush seats and an old timey vibe thats a throwback to what movie theaters were 5 decades ago. Late afternoon/early evening showings in theater 1 feature a performance on the Wurlitzer organ. Very reasonable prices for the experience.

The theatre is clean and nice. Very charming. Great movies are always playing. It is diverse and inclusive. The prices are great. But the costumer service could be better. Overall, it is a fantastic place and would recommended. This theatre gets 4 stars.️️️️

Great local independent theatre. Definitely see a movie in Theater #1. It is a great throwback to the Hollywood glamour days of film and as the theatre fills a pianist plays popular songs on an organ.

Definitely has the charm of an olden days movie theatre, but I dont think that would be lost with some modernity in terms of cantine offerings (which definitely adopted state of the art pricing with 5$ water bottles).

Unbelievably lovely cinema, with good picture and sound on both screens. And an organist, to begin the perfect experience.

Our local jewel. Even though the grandness of the movie house is diminished by having been chopped up. Plenty of touches remain to make the movie experience a bit more special. Good mix of blockbusters and films that appeal to a narrower audience. Good popcorn. The shame (or the blessing) is that the beautiful theater is SO underutilized. I have never walked over, fearing that a show will be sold out. They never are! Oaklanders, make this your default option when choosing a theater!

BEST theatre in the Bay Area! The staff is great, the place is BEAUTIFUL! And the prices are great! The Friday/Saturday organ performance is a great touch! Been coming to this for almost 30 years now, my kids have all been coming here and but this is is around long enough to bring the grand kids.Many many wonderful memories in this place!

Exceptional theater. Beautiful, inside and out.

Older building, but very nostalgic! Steep staircases in the theater and sometimes no rails, so caution is a must especially when the theater is dark - and it gets DARK! Limited concessions and the popcorn isnt great, but this is a good place for more independent films along side some big names.

Nostalgic and CHEAPEST MATINEE PRICES IN OAKLAND. Only gave it a 3 because there are few theaters which means not a large selection of movies at any given time. I believe there are at the most 4 movies to choose from at a time. BUT I have loved the Grand Lake Theater since I was a child.

Very old fashioned but thats the charm. Also the movie ticket prices are good.

I have been going on and off for 30+ years. Still has charm and atmosphere. Went with my family yesterday and after our movie I showed my 5 year old son around the other theater upstairs and the main theater. He declared, this is the best theater in Oakland. I believe he is right.

Great popcorn with real butter. Wonderful decorations in every theater. Support a locally owned treasure.

Oaklands grand movie palace! Seeing films in glorious art deco never felt so stylish.

Hands down the best local Oakland theater. The Black Panther premiered here! Great location close to lots of delicious restaurants and the constant fun at the lake. Anyway, the tickets are the right price, the interior is amazing, and the staff is cool.

Best independent movie theater in Oakland. Big fan of the organ master who plays before the shows in Theater 1. See a movie the way theyre meant to be seen.Great political commentary on the marquee is also not to be missed.

Old theatre with 70’s look, might be performance theater before but nicely maintained now too....great art and decor. Loved it.

Such a beautiful place. Walking in its like stepping in another era. Its well kept and preserves such rich history. I feel in love with this place. Staff is friendly and the showing rooms are comfortable. Ill take this place over any IMAX theater any day.

Great location to have TFH church/ ok Oakland

Gorgeous & well maintained movie palace. Fresh popcorn. Even a balcony in the main auditorium

Best part is the first cubicle in the ladies restroom. Go take a look. It made my day.

The word Grand its best for this theater. Just attending a movie here brings you back in time. I love this place. Its Historic

Awesome place for any event.

They make amazing snacks. I know this is a weird thing to care about for a theater but

Historical, landmark theater.There is still an organist adored by an applauding audience.Brocaded curtains and gilding throughout. A grand opening to expose the screen.So much more character than the generic boxes of theaters.

Really neat old theatre with good concession prices

Great to have a quaint movie theater in the neighborhood!

This is a theater Ive been going to all my life. Its changed over time. But its still very nice and fun experience.

This is such a great place to watch movies, also very inexpensive!

Cant go wrong. Tuesdays are 5 bucks. Best date ever.

A bit run-to-seed but full of history.

An institution and one of the best places to see movies in the Bay.

Lonnie their reasonable pricing and progressive politics.

Best theatre ever. Beautiful, unique, big, great photo opp, definitely better than amcs

Beautiful theater! I would visit again.

Cool old theater. It is one of the last of its kind for the times.

Great movie theater I fully enjoyed it

My favorite theater since childhood, it stll has the decor & charm of days gone by. Love the location its close to freeways, food, shopping, banks and Lake Merrit. Cant get a better deal or experience like you can at the Historic Grand Lake Theatre.

Just a great theater. Far better and interesting than the big chain cinemas. Beautiful interior.

Great community theater! I love their marquee. They always support the community in meaningful ways.

The building is beautiful, the theatres are cozy it feels so extravagant here. Perfect date night activity. So many residents and restaurants and its so beautiful by the lake. Easily one of my favorite places in the world.

I love this theater! The matinee price is very cheap, and I love the interior of the different movie theaters; they feel so old and regal, but the chairs are still comfortable and you have plenty of space to wiggle around. Will continue to come back here!

My favorite theater in the bay area. beautiful building, great prices (even on concessions), and friendly staff. i just wish it was bigger so i could watching every movie that comes out here.

A gorgeous classic movie theater; gracious friendly staff

Beautiful old school movie theatre!

One of my favorite movie theaters Ive ever been to! Reasonable pricing, beautiful decor and the famous Marquee!