Power Rankings: Bakersfield’s top movie theaters

Chances are, if you’re reading this, you’re bored and on a budget just like me. So how do you stay in town and have a good time? For starters, you can see a movie.

Want to see a movie right now? Check out movie times, even buy tickets here: http://www.fandango.com/bakersfield_ca_movietimes

When it comes to watching a movie in Bakersfield, there are really only three options. I’ll rank them for you right now.

If you want to see a movie in Bakersfield, go to Edwards. Just look at it, Greek gods could live here. (Photo from bluefier.com)

1. Edwards Cinema (9000 Ming Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93311 Phone: [661] 663-3042): If there’s any place to be when you’re in the mood for a movie, it’s here. For starters, it’s a sight to see on the inside. It’s clean, and there’s an awesome bathroom upstairs if you’re willing to make the 30-second trek. On the outside, it’s just as good. The Edwards Cinema is located in the Marketplace, the biggest social hub in town. It’s in a nice part of town and there’s all kinds of food everywhere, which is always a plus. The only down side to this location is that on Friday nights, the place is crawling with eighth graders.
2. Reading Cinemas (2000 Wible Road, Bakersfield, CA 93304 Phone: [661] 833-2230): This places second on my list just because it’s better than what’s next. I like this one because it’s close to the mall, just in case you want to spend a lot of money when you’re done with your movie. Good luck finding a parking spot in the same time zone, though.
3. Maya Cinemas (1000 California Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93304 [661] 636-0484): This place is nice and spacious on the inside, complete with the best arcade selection on the list. If you’re going to see a movie here, go in an armored car… or a tank. Your movie-watching experience would be untouched as far as your satisfaction is concerned. That is, until you go outside. The Maya isn’t exactly in the best part of town, and is known for the robberies that go on in it’s parking lots.

These are my top three movie theaters here in town. However, there are two more that need mentioning: The Dollar Theater and Regency Theaters at the East Hills Mall. These are great if you’re feeling adventurous and brave or you want to shake off a terrible date.

Here’s the link to buy tickets at Edwards: http://www.fandango.com/edwardsbakersfieldstadium14_aaede/theaterpage