Million Dollar Theater — Attraction in Los Angeles

I have walked past this theatre so many times and wanted to check it out, but never managed to pass it when the outside gate was up. Tonight, however, the gate was up and the lights were on.

So like the failed burglar I am, I tried breaking into the building through the front doors, but they had cleverly removed the handles AND locked them. However, a gentleman, David (lead building engineer) was kind enough to open the doors and ask what I was looking for. I explained I'm a sucker for amazing architecture and I've always wanted to check out this building and it wouldn't be possible to come in and take a quick peek?

David was kind enough to let me tour the first floor of the theater, showing me the recent restoration work they've been doing awesomely ornate woodwork. It was also kind enough to tell me a little bit about the history of the place, including how the construction was so unusual for the time that people had serious questions about whether it was structurally sound to hold people on the second floor. The theater used a multitude of sandbags show it was perfectly safe, and now we have 100 plus years of seismic activity to show that yes indeed, this building is structurally sound.

Places like this make me wish I had bigger paychecks, simply cuz I want to throw a party in there so I can better explore it! It is open to leasing for celebrations and whatnot, and I hope you ever get the chance, you get to meet David so he can tell you a little bit more about this amazing, beautiful...

Came here for a free screening of "the chef" with special appearance by Roy Choi and John Favreau, director of Ironman! Great movie but the theatre did not live up to my dtla-hidden-gem-expectation.

The theatre looked fancy with its European architecture decor inside. Located right next to Grand Central park. They were OK with us bringing in food.

Parking isn't easy unless you pay.

All the seats are so close together i didn't have much leg room (5'1"). Tall people will definitely suffer. Luckily we sat in the front where the rails were so we got to stick our legs out while I bump into someone's knee everytime I leaned back.

Another disappointing thing is that there's only one bathroom. They have a lot of space to accommodate hundreds of people inside but there's only one bathroom for ladies which is located on the second floor. I saw the line grow all the way into...

The Million Dollar Theatre is one of Los Angeles’ historic gems, located in the heart of downtown. Built in 1918, it was one of the first movie palaces in the U.S., and its elaborate Spanish Baroque-style facade immediately stands out. Even without going inside, the intricate architectural details are stunning — from ornate carvings to the grand marquee that reflects the glamour of early Hollywood.

The building has a sense of old-world charm and cinematic history, sitting right next to the Grand Central Market. Just passing by, you can feel the significance of its role in LA’s cultural and entertainment past.

It’s definitely a landmark worth stopping to admire while exploring downtown. I imagine that the interior, with its historic design, must be just as impressive as...