Movies are one of the most affordable family entertainment activities, but we all still want to save money where we can! If you're looking for discount movie tickets and strategies for saving money on movie tickets, the good news is that you have several options.
From theater membership programs to group rates and special offers, here are several reliable ways to get discount movie tickets.
Save By Being Flexible With Showtimes
Matinee movie tickets are almost always cheaper than tickets to shows after 5pm. Sometimes the discount is significant. Not everyone can catch a movie during the daytime on a weekday. If you can, it's a classic money-saving ticket strategy that, happily, still works.
Also look into Student, Senior, and/or Military Discounts at your local theater. They might not all be on offer, but most theaters offer these ticket discounts. Note that you might need to present an ID at the theater to get one of these discounts.
Membership Has its Privileges
Major movie chains, and many smaller ones, offer membership or loyalty programs that reward frequent visitors. Many have a free tier where users can accumulate points with each purchase. These points can be redeemed for tickets and/or discounts on future visits.
Most programs also offer a paid tier for which a monthly fee covers at least one ticket, sometimes with the option to roll over unused tickets to future months. Other discount pricing such as companion ticket prices and concession discounts may also be part of the program. Each one is different, so check your local theater to see their options.
Skip the Online Fees
With reward programs like Cinemark Movie Club, AMC Stubs A-List or Regal Unlimited, you won't just earn points and discounts. You can avoid online ticketing fees, too. That immediately lops a few dollars off your purchase, or more, depending on where you live. It's one of the quickest ways to save if you go to more than a few occasional movies.
Discount Days and Group Rates
Some theaters will offer discounts for large groups or special events. This can be a great way to save money if you're planning to watch a movie with friends or family. You may also be able to buy movie tickets in bulk at a discounted rate. The most obvious use for these discounts is for gifts or corporate events, but those who want to plan ahead and can put down the lump sum for many tickets at once might be able to save.
Third-Party Deals on Movie Tickets and Memberships
And while the benefits of some rewards memberships are tied to a monthly fee, movie membership discounts are available, too. Check Groupon for deals on multi-month and annual memberships, which can significantly decrease your monthly cost for a top-tier membership.
For those who work at larger companies, you may have access to a retail portal that offers discount movie tickets. Major movie chains all offer these discounts, and the savings can be significant — as much as 40%, depending on the theater chain!