ACCESSIBILITY
Facility Accessibility
The Downer Theatre’s lobby, restrooms, and concession stand are all wheelchair-accessible, and both auditoriums have reserved seating for guests who use wheelchairs.
Assistive Technologies
Both screens support Fidelio, a wireless audio receiver that delivers descriptive narration to guests who have visual and/or hearing impairments. Each Fidelio receiver comes with a plug-in headset, but guests may use their personal headsets or headphones if desired.
Assistive technologies can be checked out and returned at the concession stand. Please note closed-captioning and descriptive-narration availability is determined by film distributors, so films we screen might not be enabled for CaptiView or Fidelio systems.
AMENITIES
In addition to a full-service concession stand stocked with popcorn, candy, soft drinks, slushies, and other snacks, the Downer Theatre offers a range of import and domestic canned beers, wines, and cocktails. Guests are welcome to enjoy bar beverages and other concessions in our auditoriums.
The North Auditorium is equipped with:
The South is equipped with:
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
How do I know which screen is which in your listings?
Under each showtime North or South auditoriums will be listed. See the coming soon page for more info.
Are child tickets options available if not listed as an option on the website?
Yes! Child priced tickets ($7) are available for all regularly priced films/screenings in person at the box office if not listed on the website.
What's showing at the Downer Theatre right now? Where can I get descriptions of the films?
Check out the Now Playing section on the homepage or the Coming Soon page to learn which films are currently showing and which will be arriving soon. For screenings at The Downer Theatre there is a green "Downer Theatre" tag indicating it's location. Each film page contains a brief description of the film.
How early should I arrive for a typical showing?
We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes prior to a film's start time so you have time to get your ticket, purchase concessions, find a seat, get comfy, and turn off your phone.
How will I know if a movie showtime is sold out?
Check the film's detail page. If a given showtime is sold out and tickets can no longer be purchased, the show time will be grayed out, and you will be unable to add tickets to your cart.
Where should I park? How can I get to the theatre?
The theatre is located at 2585 N Downer Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53211
HISTORY
- Historic Milestone:
- Established in 1915, the Downer Theatre stood as Milwaukee's oldest operating movie theater until its closure in September 2023.
- Architectural Marvel and Modern Innovations:
- Originally celebrated for its modern urban design and elegant Classical style, the Downer featured its own Weickhardt Pipe Organ and an in-house orchestra. It underwent a significant transformation in 1937 to the Streamline Modern style, showcasing its dedication to evolving cinematic experiences.
- Preservation and Renovation:
- Acquired by Landmark Theatre Corporation in 1990, the Downer Theatre was respectfully renovated to honor its storied past. Efforts included reapplication of gold leaf, repainting of the auditorium, and replication of the original 1915 lobby and auditorium carpeting.
- Cultural and Historical Significance:
- Built by notable developer Marc Brachman and cinema pioneers Thomas and John Saxe, the Downer Theatre was a landmark in Milwaukee's N. Downer Avenue Business district, recognized for its historical character even after 1930s facade updates. With an initial seating capacity for 940 patrons, the theater adapted over time to a twin-screen format accommodating 465 viewers, ensuring a blend of historical charm and modern cinema technology.