I’ve been to the lovely El Capitan Theatre numerous times over the past two years but never have I been allowed to bring a camera inside with me. During a tour of the El Capitan Theatre and Soda Fountain with Disney, that changed. This Hollywood landmark is host to a wide range of sensational events including film premieres and simply put, the most beautiful theater that I’ve had the pleasure of visiting.
Having just celebrated it’s 87th anniversary, the El Capitan Theatre is filled with rich history and memories. The stage has been graced with a copious amount of stars throughout the years including Will Rogers, Clark Gable, and Joan Fountaine. Although I wasn’t able to have been there during that time, I was fortunate enough to be there when the talented Elton John took the stage during the Gnomeo and Juliet premiere.
The theater underwent a museum-grade quality renovation that restored the stage to its original 1926 dimensions. There have been improvements to the high-speed center stage lift, lights, dressing rooms, and state-of-the-art special effects.
The El Capitan Theatre is currently home to about 10-12 movie premieres each year. I’ve been invited to attend a few of those over the last couple of years and it’s always been a fantastic time.
Conveniently located right next door to the El Capitan Theatre, Disney’s Soda Fountain and Studio Store occupies 4,700 square feet of storefront along Hollywood Blvd. Disney’s Soda Fountain offers ice cream sundaes, cones and shakes, as well as other family-friendly favorites including hot dogs, grilled cheese sandwiches, and Mickey Mouse-shaped PB&J sandwiches.
In addition to their tasty offerings, the Soda Fountain also offers a wide assortment of Disney DVD/Blu-ray titles and exclusive merchandise related to Disney films. It’s also home to the Disney vault.
Over the years many celebrities have visited the Soda Fountain. There are photos along the walls to showcase some of these visits. I can spot Miley Cyrus and Guy Fieri.
These two Hollywood favorites should definitely be on your to-do list if you are planning to visit. And if you are visiting this summer, here are some fun things going on at the El Capitan Theatre. For tickets, call 1 (800) DISNEY6 or visit www.elcapitantickets.com.
- IRON MAN 3 is currently playing at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, CA until June 20th in Disney Digital 3D and Real D 3D
- June 21st – August 8th: MONSTERS UNIVERSITY (Plus, see Mike & Sulley in the MU Pep Rally with the Sprit Squad Live on Stage!)
- August 9th – September 19th: Disney’s PLANES
TerriAnn @ Cookies & Clogs says
That place looks amazing! I get a ton of invitations to premieres there but I’m about 7 hours away from in Northern California 😛
Vanessa: the queen of swag ! says
I love the El Capitan. Such history! What a great experience.
Lisa says
This place looks awesome!
Jennifer says
I would love to visit here
Mellisa says
I think the El Capitan Theatre is beautiful inside and out!
Jeana says
I agree, both places are a must see. I love visiting each of them.
Tammy says
I always wondered whether the Disney Vault was real!
Tiff @ Babes and Kids says
Oh wow, that is such a beautiful theater! I can’t imagine the feeling you actually get inside it.
Marybeth Hamilton says
The theater is certainly the most gorgeous one I’ve ever seen, too! I like the pictures in your post–the theater tour was fabulous, too!
Jennifer @ The Quirky Momma says
I haven’t toured much (read ANY) of Hollywood–it’s definitely on my list! The theatre is beautiful.
Ty @ Mama of 3 Munchkins says
That theater looks totally amazing!
Shell Feis says
I’ve been to the El Capitan but not the Soda Fountain! I’ll have to go there next time I’m in LA.