Tivoli Cinemas

365 reviews

4525 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64111

www.tivolikc.com

+18167511278

About

Tivoli Cinemas is a Movie theater located at 4525 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64111. It has received 365 reviews with an average rating of 4.6 stars.

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F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The address of Tivoli Cinemas: 4525 Oak St, Kansas City, MO 64111

  • Tivoli Cinemas has 4.6 stars from 365 reviews

  • Movie theater

  • "I have always loved the Tivoli and so was relieved and thrilled to hear that it would not be permanently closing, but would be moving to the Nelson! However, I regret to say that I doubt I, or any of my friends, will be using this new theater often if at all"

    "My girlfriend and I visit Tivoli nearly every time they have a new film available"

    "Saw my first movie here when I was 16 and have kept coming back all these years, I love the staff, my fellow movies goers, and the selection of movies"

    "I went and saw the Pink Floyd concert that they filmed in Pompeii Coliseum ruins"

    "I have now been to the Tivoli 3 times since it opened at the Nelson"

Reviews

  • Sydney

I have always loved the Tivoli and so was relieved and thrilled to hear that it would not be permanently closing, but would be moving to the Nelson! However, I regret to say that I doubt I, or any of my friends, will be using this new theater often if at all. First, there’s the parking. $10 to park at a museum is, if expensive, to be expected. $10 to park to then go to pay and see a movie...is honestly ridiculous. Beyond that, it makes seeing these amazing movies far less accessible for the average person, as it adds so much to the price. I honestly thought, “surely movie goers will be able to get their parking validated!” And walked in and asked about it politely when I bought my movie tickets. The answer was a very blunt, “No.” it makes me sad that people who work hard for their money and want the treat of going out to see a movie will be discouraged from seeing the wonderful selection of movies that the Tivoli has to offer due to this added burden of cost. The day I went to the movie it was cold and snowy out, and there really was no other option besides parking in that garage. Beyond that, because the theater is located in a museum, there is a strict policy of absolutely no food or beverages allowed, which I get...except couldn’t that rule be bent for just water? Or something? I mean, we’re sitting and watching a movie in the auditorium, not smearing our dirty hands all over paintings in other parts of the building. Honestly, the experience just left me a bit sad and disappointed, knowing that I will likely not be returning to see another movie at the Tivoli. I really appreciate what they are trying to do and the support they got from the Nelson with the reopening. But this just really, unfortunately, misses the mark for the average person. I’m sure many wealthy, older people in town will still enjoy their experiences here.

  • Becky Corum

My girlfriend and I visit Tivoli nearly every time they have a new film available. Loving Vincent, The Shape of Water, and countless others have been a treat to see over the last year. The theaters are small, but more in the sense of an intimate screening than cramped close quarters. Their are different snacks available than your standard theater - cookies from a local shop and few vegan and gluten free options - and the prices are pretty reasonable for such a small operation. The employees are chill and pretty knowledgable about their practices and future films on tap. I do have to deduct one point, unfortunately, due to the fact that an error while purchasing tickets online was never corrected, even after calling the cinema twice about the matter. Overall, though, this is a great little theater that deserves support from the KC Metro film community.

  • Eric E

Saw my first movie here when I was 16 and have kept coming back all these years, I love the staff, my fellow movies goers, and the selection of movies. My only HUGE compliant is this, the damn atm rests don't fold up! Or have cup holders! So not only can I not cuddle, which is the best part of the movies for this guy, I can't even put my dang water where it's not in danger. I will give you a 5 star review, 2 pints of blood, my second born daughter, and pay an extra dollar a ticket for the next ten years to get some damn armrests that fold up! I wanna make out in the back just one time! Come on!

  • Zeal Zillner

I went and saw the Pink Floyd concert that they filmed in Pompeii Coliseum ruins.... I guess it was the first time that a concert had been played there before ... that in itself was historical...the music was totally awesome.. the light show was incredible... it seems like they offer obscure and unique films there that is worth exploring... it's definitely not one of your normal run-of-the-mill places that show the usual movies this is more unique perspective very interesting I enjoyed it and plan to go back...

  • Stephanie Heiffus

I have now been to the Tivoli 3 times since it opened at the Nelson. I love the location; as a member the parking is free! While at first I thought the times were not the best for me, they have actually been perfect. My only wish is that you could take some water into the auditorium and that maybe some day they might make the seats a bit more comfortable. My boys & men are on the tall side and most of the seating is a squeeze. Otherwise it is perfect - thank you Jerry.

  • Emily Bryan

As a native KC metropolitan, I had no idea this place existed. My mom and I wanted to see “Love, Gilda” and this was the only place nearby that was showing it. They open 30 minutes before first showtime, so keep that in mind. The theatre is old-timely and classic. Everyone was kind. It was an intimate atmosphere, which added to the experience. They have beautiful classic movie posters mostly in French. Very niche, but a wonderful time. We will be back!

  • Justin Lindsey

Kind of nostalgic really. The old school theater style, smell and feel. Older crowd too. Lots of covered parking attached and I saw a security guard. My wife and I both commented on uncomfortable seating, my neck got really stiff the second half. It was the only place playing what we wanted to see at the time. I probably wouldn't go there for an awesome scifi surrounded sound flic, but fine for mello standard movies.

  • Shane Meininger

Great little theater it's nice that we still have theaters like this Sadly the big corporate cinemas are slowly putting these gyms out of business and I get it it is so much more comfortable reclining seats great sound but everyone especially the new generation needs to experience old school like this. I mean don't get me wrong my knees felt like they were going to lock up after the 2 hour movie but great experience

  • Tracy inKC

Who are these critics, talking about the architecture or the drinks? This is a remarkable theatre showing independent films for what, 30 years??? There's an elevator. Take it. The seats and the sound are fine. And don't miss the Tivoli's series showing London theatre. Wow. What a blessing. KC is so fortunate to have such a great indie community, between Tivoli and Glenwood Arts. So much better than Denver, etc.

  • Carol Meunier

Love the Tivoli! Great Theatre in KC. You purchase a ticket, go to the specific theatre, select a seat and enjoy the movie. No hassle with pre-selecting a seat, trying to find the right seat, disrupting others in the audience and if you are late, even more hassle. No one serving food or drink during the movie and disturbing everyone else. Keeping it simple and hassle free at the Tivoli . . . hey, that rhymes.

  • c l

Saw the documentary Fantastic Fungi. Great to have a venue for smart, outside-the-mainstream films in Kansas City. Comfortable cloth seats, & a more intimate feel than a regular / chain movie theater. The Nelson-Atkins Museum has a free parking lot just to the north / towards the east, but it’s small, so was full because of the moviegoers, & I had to parallel park on a side street.

  • Jackie Skidmore

The Tivoli is absolutely my favorite movie theater in Kansas City, the employees work their butts off to make our experience worth while- they're always friendly and always available. Not at all pricey and the movies are quality. The inside of the building is a lovely atmosphere reminiscent of something old. I'm never disappointed when I go here.

  • Kestrel Miles

Has really great movies that the big cinemas don't show! I've really enjoyed the last few movies I've seen here, but I have seen some that are poorly written/painfully slow/boring as well. Definitely check out what they are showing and choose one with a subject matter you are already interested in and you will probably have a great time.

  • Doris Yonker

This is a wonderful theatre that plays independent films. They have good concessions, beyond the original popcorn. It is a gem of Westport. The Tivoli has been in midtown for a number of years. I've seen many great movies there. Many times for special showings the filmmaker attends to speak and interact with the audience afterward.

  • Joe Stanton

I loved Tivoli Cinema in Westport (except for those stairs!) and hated when it closed there. But for all who haven't heard yet, it is reborn at Nelson Atkins Art Museum. It is a new treasure-a phoenix risen from the ashes. Saw a movie there today and am thrilled with the new location and pleased to see a crowd. Yeah! I'll be back!

  • Aaron Barksdale-Burns

As long as Tivoli Cinemas in Westport, we haven't been completely gentrified. Enjoy Kansas City's most beloved independently owned Cinema house, where the art comes first! Catch the best of the best new specialty films, foreign films, documentaries, and live performances broadcast, from the world's great stages.

  • Shá D.

Wonderful place for independent film. Sad it's closing. Streaming has made it difficult for the little guys and soon all theaters. In a few years, we'll all be forced to never leave home, and a night out or social interaction will be a thing of the past. As they about are now anyway due to smart phones.

  • David Rodick

I have no complaints. It's a good fork & show. They'll serve you food while you watch your movie and you can order drinks from The Chesterfield bar next door, too. You write down your orders and they discretely take them so as to not interrupt the movie. Service was fair and the drinks were delicious.

  • Heather Campbell

This is an old theatre, and that's why I love it. No membership cards, no $10.00 buckets of popcorn, etc. Reasonably priced tickets and concessions, and all the "weird" movies play here. Lots of seating, friendly staff. Parking seems tricky, but there is a garage and a lot just beside the building.

  • Jeannine Wyatt

Tivoli Cinemas is located in the eclectic Westport Distrct of KCMO. Love this theater! Situated in a historic building you do have to climb stairs to get to the theater. Elevators are available. The theater is very clean. Concessions are typical but not over priced. Excellent films are shown here.

  • Larry Wright

An unassuming little theater that specializes in films of merit, by which I mean that you won't regret the time out of your life you've spent on their chosen films. Rather like a frame around a fine painting, it is the holder and presenter of the art, and we're lucky to have here in KC. iloviT!

  • Tom Urani

Granted there are more comfortable seats, better sound systems, and wider screens at the corporate theaters, but this is one the only places in Kansas City, if not the only place, you will see many contemporary masterpieces so neglected by our sometimes culturally challenged Midwestern town.

  • Uriel McKay

They show a lot of independent films and documentaries. I've only been once and there were only two other people in the theatre, but I really enjoyed the feel of the place and the movie I saw, and I look forward to returning to see more things that I might not otherwise be exposed to.

  • Rob Bowling

Always showing movies hard to find within an hour of KC. Seen some of the best and most moving movies of my life here. Hint.. Park in the garage, level 2 or 3 b4 7 and possibly 4 in some spaces after 7pm. If it's a Fri/sat they will validate so u don't have to pay $5.

  • Jerushas toybox Spoiler of war

This is a cool little spot but it’s very old fashioned. They are small, haven’t updated in a long while, and there are still no cup holders in the arm rest or anywhere. However if you like hike in the wall nooks that will not likely be packed, here is your spot.

  • Seymore Clearly

Have never seen a bad movie at Tivoli -NEVER. And that's more than I can say for any first-run cinema anywhere. I've seen some crazy movies at Tivoli, some trippy stuff. Always insightful & provocative. This is one theater house that never disappoints!

  • Don Martin

A good place to go for indie, foreign, sub-titled and high quality little-known films. Also once a year, a good place for Oscar-nominated movie shorts - both live action and animated. You can also go to see simulcasts of operas and plays

  • Mackenzie Brisben

This will forever and always be my fav theatre. Thank you for introducing me to Oscar shorts and having a cute voting system after. Thanks for always having Wes Anderson films and cool documentaries. Feels very retro and very cute. Love.

  • Linda Wells

I always enjoy going to the Tivoli. It runs art films not found in mainstream cinemas. The theaters are not the latest and greatest but still comfortable with good sound and picture. The place to go for the off-beat and foreign movie.

  • Jeffrey Hendricks

This is a great place to see indie films ️. It's a hidden gem that only hardcore film enthusiasts know about. The seats are old school. No recliners. They offer some amazing vegan cookies at the concession stand. …

  • Ramesh

Small and nice theater. To watch those indie films best place. Parking is available near by garrage you will pay intially 5$ but while returning you will be reimubursed. Seating is good but sound quality is not that great.

  • Lindy Jensen

Old school theater that plays a good selection of films. Even though the chairs are old, they are so comfortable! Large screens. Concessions are le$$ than average. Always a treat to see a movie at Tivoli!

  • Eli

This is an Art house theater with old fashioned non stadium seating and a Minimalist concession stand (not a bad thing in my opinion) if you like Art Films or Independent releases this theater has them.

  • Max Moore

It's 2015 and the Tivoli is very much alive and doing quite well with its great seats, wonderful sound, and amazing architecture! The Tivoli is THE PLACE in KC to go to see the best independent movies!

  • Mars Muller

The Tivoli is my favorite place to see movies in Kansas City. It's got a small-town vibe and plays films you often can't find elsewhere. Concessions even has vegan cookies-- what more could you want?

  • Wall Flower

They show the best independent and old films. The films here show new perspectives and lives of characters you don't normally get to see. Lots of depth and meaning to these carefully currated films.

  • Anne Gatschet

The Tivoli is a gift! This is where a wide range of interesting, compelling movie entertainment has been available to KC for decades! Get out of the house and enjoy this fantastic oasis of film!

  • Rustic Possum

Older theater with less amenities than the big chains. They show movies that often don't play elsewhere. I glad to have this theater. In Westport, lots of good dining in walking distance.

  • James Symmonds

Best place in KC to get your art film viewing in. Quietly tucked away from the fracass that is Westport. Always worth the trip. Convenient parking in the garage. Good prices on tickets.

  • Courtney Collado

Love seeing movies here - alone, with my young son, or on a date. Reminds me of the Angelica in NYC. Cool interior, good snacks and beverages, small theaters. A must-go for cinephiles!!

  • Graham Green

They could use a refurb in the theaters, the seats are not very comfortable. That said they screen excellent films you often won't find elsewhere and the staff are always friendly.

  • Michele Wagaman

We came down to the plaza last week to look at a watch for an anniversary gift, Amanda was very knowledgeable and helpful, decent selection and great service. Thanks again, M

  • robertito

COOL theater! Good spot for unique films. Saw a screening of the holy mountain here and the cred went straight to 100. Looking for something to do? See what they're playing.

  • Nolan Donovan

Very cool place. Cheap tickets and good indie movies. Theatre was really dark during the movie which I didn't realize I'd appreciate as much as I did. Staff are cool people.

  • Zachary Preheim

You can tell it's an antique theatre. Not the most comfortable seats or the best theatre set up, but it does the job. You can see some of the less common films here.

  • Shannon Holder

Favorite place to see indie and smaller release films. Also close to several restaurants if you want to make an event out of it! Free parking in adjacent garage.

  • Terry Booth

I love the Tivoli its still as cool as ever been going for 30 years great indie movies and you can watch a 3 hour movie and no one says a word it's awesome.

  • Rebecca Ehrich

I love the Tivoli Cinemas! Bringing Kansas City the best films ever made. The concession stand is very nice and the employees are friendly and helpful.

  • Tony Jazz

I LOVE my little secret spot & I like that U can grab a slice of pizza next door & take it in. I really appreciate The Tivoli!.... …

  • Kansas City Taxi (Taxi Tim)

Went to see :What we Do in the Shadows" and "KEDI" it can be pricy but it supports UMKC film and I believe in helping students whenever possible.

  • Gilly Clark

Went to see Loving Vincent here. Good prices & good snack selection. The screen was clear, sound was loud, & chairs were comfy. Great experience!

  • Adam Pankratz

It's a wonderful fine arts theater and a gem for KC! We love that we can see movies here that simply aren't playing anywhere else. Keep it up!

  • Virginia Long

Best art movies in the metro area. Comfortable seats and no steps inside the theaters. (take the elevator up from the tix office if you like).

  • Brittanie Sinisgalli

If I lived closer I would come here every day! Good coffee and a decent concessions selection and price, ticket prices are reasonable also.

  • Todd Puckett

I love this theater. Quiet and no crowds. I do wish they would add a little variety, it is overtly targeted toward the "progressive" crowd.

  • Jessie Mehl

Lots of interesting, independent movies. Comfortable seats. Parking is the only downside and that really just depends on the time of day.

  • Matthew Koussa

The only place I know of in KC where you can see all those indie films you've heard so much about! Also friendly staff and decent prices!

  • J. Micheal W.

Unfortunately, this Thursday will be just day for this theater -- it is closing. Sad. So many years in KC for independent films, etc.

  • Philip Hooser

Always a great selection for art/indie cinema and just generally a cool place. Friendly, helpful staff and Mexican Coke, too!

  • Erik Carlson

Inexpensive and quaint. Great place to watch a movie if you're one who prefers to avoid the mainstream "theater experience."

  • Patrick Lamb

Great place to see short run art films you won't see anywhere else in town. They jave been a film community venue for years.

  • David Angel

This place is great, it's very clean and the pricing seems decent. Good vibe to it, excellent staff and delicious pop corn

  • Jonathan Modisett

Great experience. Move was good. Overall, I liked the Cinema and will probably return next time I am looking for a movie

  • Ryan Barba

Super cool indie theater. Old school feel that makes you feel like you're going back in time minus the sticky floors.

  • Susan Farrell

Have seen some of the best movies there..Indies usually. Fair prices. Comfortable seats but would like cupholders.

  • Jes Caylor

Great theater, comfy clean chairs, clean floors and bathrooms, and the best movie theater popcorn you can find.

  • Stacey Stephens

An artsy theater, plays foreign films and independent films. Small, quaint, older theater, but clean and tidy.

  • Steve Crockett

While showing it's age in the era of modern theaters, its the go-to place for arts movies and does a fine job.

  • Bridget Clonts

Fantastic theater in the heart of Westport that shows independent and art house films. We go there regularly!

  • Bastien M

Friendly service and a great film selection. Mostly more indie and art films that are hard to find elsewhere.

  • Jason Frank

Nice theater for viewing a movie. Would have been more fun outside, but the weather chose not to cooperate.

  • Michael Patrick

The best Arts Movie House!! I rarely miss. Week and located in Westport with great parking a true winner!!

  • Katrina Bruce

Love this older local theatre. Friendly staff. Great concessions. Best place in town to see arts films.

  • Anthony Evangelista

They have no cup holders which is really annoying..the seats are comfortable and screen quality is ok.

  • Julian

One of the finest establishments in Kansas City history. It will be missed. Thank you for everything.

  • Dean Dunham

A fine venue for independent films; KC is very fortunate to have the Tivoli and Jerry and his crew!

  • Jim H

A nice independent movie theater, good selection of movies you won't see anywhere else in the area

  • Corinne Mahaffey

If you are a museum member, parking is free. If you aren't, it's $14 on top of the show ticket.

  • Bryan Wohlwend

Love this theater. They play great art house and indie films you can’t find elsewhere in KC.

  • Jim De Priest

Free, easy parking garage. Cozy theatre with great, up to date independent/art type films.

  • Ambs Òrç

I have a class here and it's nice but I wish the seats were updated and more comfortable

  • So Sher Perkins

Nice theater. Decent staff. A bit dated but had a great experience with the grandkids.

  • Mark R

THEEEE best theater in Kansas City and maybe the whole midwest for indi films .

  • Tim Neaves

Great place to see indie movies, or that unique foreign film. Great nice staff.

  • Dennis Breed

Great Art House. One of the few places in Kansas City to see Independent films.

  • Kris

Great indie theatre with easy parking and a nice, clean, new look and feel

  • angus cormack

The best place to see small films in town! Support your local theaters!

  • Ken Shipley

Love this small theatre. It shows movies not shown elsewhere. A gem.

  • Denniel

Awesome theater, reasonably priced movies you can't find elsewhere

  • Meghan Thille

Best theater in the city! They show the movies worth seeing!

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