Vegas Vacation Movie Night at The Avalon Theatre in Avalon, CA

Read the full experience

On a warm evening in Avalon, California, the lights drop at The Avalon Theatre — located at 1 Casino Way — and the Griswolds tumble onto the big screen in Vegas Vacation (1997). This 1 hour 33 minute Warner Bros. comedy is a family-friendly PG romp that plays well for anyone who wants a sit-down, laugh-filled escape from the island bustle. The theatre’s main auditorium presents a focused, communal viewing where a classic studio comedy feels immediate and alive. Arrive early to claim good seats and soak in the pre-show atmosphere. The box office lists General Admission at $16.50 (children 2–11 $14.50, seniors 65+ $14.50, Avalon residents $12.50) and admits one per ticket. This presentation is wheelchair accessible and offers an assistive listening device, making it a practical option for many visitors. Note that photography and videography during the feature are prohibited, outside food and drinks are not permitted, and the venue enforces a strict code of conduct; disruptive patrons may be escorted out. There are no refunds or exchanges, and youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult chaperone who is at least 21 and limits to five minors. The screening is a tidy cultural stop for travelers who want a low-effort evening—no hiking boots or ferry reservations required—just a few hours in a shared room of strangers laughing together. It’s an easy complement to a day of beachtime, bike rides, or coastal walks in Avalon, and it’s a reliable indoor option if marine fog rolls in or the sun drops early. Practical tips: check the theatre’s seating layout on arrival, arrive at least 15–20 minutes before showtime to avoid lines, and bring photo ID if you are chaperoning minors. Consider bundling the screening with a stroll of the nearby streets before or after the show to keep the evening moving. This kind of movie-night outing is an understated piece of local recreation: a place where visitors and residents converge for communal entertainment, accessible seating, and a carefully run program. Vegas Vacation is pure, uncomplicated fare—perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers who want a comfortable night out and a dose of '90s cinematic chaos. If you prefer a longer itinerary, tack this screening onto a day of island exploration; if you need an easy indoor plan, reserve a seat and settle in for laughs. Tickets admit one at the door; the listing specifies ADMIT ONE. With a concise runtime and PG rating, Vegas Vacation suits mixed-age groups. Wheelchair-accessible seating and assistive-listening equipment make the picture friendly for diverse needs. Allow extra time for parking and ferry disembarkation, and respect the no-outside-food rule to support the theatre’s operations. Enjoy the film, then linger briefly to scan upcoming shows at the box office.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

1–2 hours.

Fitness level

No fitness required; accessible seating makes the program suitable for most visitors

Frequently asked questions

What is the runtime and rating?

Vegas Vacation runs 1 hour 33 minutes and is rated PG.

Are refunds or exchanges available?

No — the listing indicates no refunds or exchanges for this screening.

Can I take photos or video during the film?

No — photography and videography are strictly prohibited during the feature presentation.

Is the theatre accessible?

Yes — the venue is wheelchair accessible and offers an assistive listening device.

Are outside food and beverages allowed?

No — outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the theatre.

Do minors have special rules?

Yes — under 18 are not admitted without an adult chaperone (chaperones must be 21+, show photo ID, and accompany no more than five minors).

Local insights

Wildlife

Brown pelicans
Common dolphins

History

Vegas Vacation is a 1997 Warner Bros. release and part of the Vacation film series; the showing reflects the theatre’s role as a local screening venue.

Conservation

Support the venue by arriving by foot or shared transport when possible, dispose of waste in provided bins, and respect no-food rules to reduce cleanup impact.

About The Avalon Theatre

The Avalon Theatre is a historic movie palace located in Avalon, California on Santa Catalina Island. The theatre programs classic and contemporary film screenings, special events, live scores, and expert discussions that celebrate cinema and local history. Housed in the Avalon Casino complex, the venue hosts curated showings such as 3D screenings of Universal Monsters, centennial presentations of The Phantom of the Opera, modern blockbusters like Star Wars: The Last Jedi, and community-oriented documentary screenings. The Avalon Theatre presents unique cinematic experiences with attention to film history and presentation quality. Guests can attend screenings that include rare archival footage and live musical accompaniment; the Phantom of the Opera event features live music from Michael Mortilla and commentary from Academy executive Randy Haberkamp. The 3D Screening includes a world premiere score, rare 3-D photos, and expert discussions. Other programmed titles have included Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, Hollywood's Magical Island, and Frankenstein, demonstrating a range from genre classics to local history. Located in downtown Avalon, the theatre is accessible to visitors arriving by ferry or private boat and serves island residents and tourists. Programming emphasizes preservation, education, and entertainment, partnering with historians, musicians, and film professionals when possible. The Avalon Theatre maintains a reputation as a cultural hub on Catalina Island, offering memorable film events in a historic setting. Visitors should check event listings and ticketing information for specific screening dates, times, and special presentations. Concessions, local exhibits, and accessible seating improve visitor experience during screenings.

Base locationAvalon, California

Tours offered6+

Adventure tips

Arrive earlyGet to the box office 15–20 minutes before showtime to secure preferred seating and avoid lines.

Bring photo ID if chaperoningAdult chaperones must be 21+ and show ID; one adult may accompany up to five minors.

No photography during the filmRespect the no-photography policy—save photos for the marquee and lobby before or after the screening.

Mind accessibility optionsAsk staff about wheelchair seating and assistive listening devices when you check in at the box office.

Recommended gear

Photo ID: Required for adult chaperones and useful for any age-restricted seating checks.
Light jacket: Theatre lobbies and coastal evenings can feel chilly; a jacket keeps the experience comfortable.
Payment card or cash: For box office purchases or concession items—note outside food is not allowed.
Comfortable shoes: You may walk nearby streets before or after the show, so wear shoes you can stroll in.