You’re driving down Builders Way, thinking about catching the latest Marvel flick or a quiet indie drama. You pull up to the spot where the big red neon sign used to glow. But wait. Something is off. If you haven't been here since 2022, you might be staring at a building that looks familiar but feels totally different.
Honestly, the situation with Regal Cinema Niagara Falls is a bit of a mess for anyone relying on old Google Maps bookmarks. People still search for it. They still expect to use their Regal Unlimited passes there.
The reality? It isn't a Regal anymore.
The Rebirth of 720 Builders Way
In early 2023, specifically February 1st, the theater underwent a massive identity shift. Regal Entertainment Group walked away from the lease during a corporate bankruptcy scramble that saw dozens of theaters shuttered nationwide. It was a dark moment for local movie buffs.
But then Dipson Theatres stepped in.
They didn't just keep the lights on; they rebranded the whole place as The Capitol Theatre. It was a nod to the original Capitol Theatre that opened in Niagara Falls back in 1926. It’s local. It’s family-run. And frankly, the vibe changed the second the new management took over.
Why the Regal Brand Still Confuses People
You’ve probably seen the "Regal Niagara Falls" listings still floating around the internet. Third-party ticket sites are notorious for this. You might even find a stray "Regal" sign if you look at old Street View images.
Here is the kicker: users have actually shown up with tickets bought on the Regal website, only to find out they can't be scanned. Imagine the frustration. You’ve got the kids, the overpriced snacks are on your mind, and suddenly your digital QR code is worthless.
- Fact Check: The theater at 720 Builders Way is officially The Capitol Theatre.
- Ownership: Dipson Theatres Inc.
- The Switch: Happened in February 2023.
If you’re still trying to use a Regal Crown Club card here, you’re out of luck.
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Pricing Wars: "This is not New York City"
One of the biggest gripes about the old Regal setup was the cost. Michael Clement, the owner of Dipson, was pretty vocal about this when they took over. He famously noted that $19 for a movie ticket in Niagara Falls just wasn't sustainable. He was right.
Under the Regal banner, a night out for a family of four could easily clear $100 before you even touched a kernel of popcorn. Dipson slashed those prices. They dropped the average ticket to around $8 or $9. That is a huge swing.
They also introduced Bargain Tuesdays. It’s the classic move—cheaper seats, half-off popcorn, and discounted drinks. It’s a strategy to get people off their couches and away from Netflix. In 2026, where every streaming service costs twenty bucks a month, a ten-dollar movie ticket feels like a relic from a better time.
The "Dated" Seating Dilemma
Let’s be real for a second. The biggest complaint about this location—whether it was Regal or now Dipson—is the seating.
If you’re looking for those massive, motorized leather recliners that practically turn into a bed, you might be disappointed. For years, the Builders Way location relied on stadium seating. It’s fine. It’s functional. But it’s not "luxury."
The new management has been working on upgrades. They’ve been rolling out renovations in phases. While some auditoriums have been refreshed, others still have that classic, slightly stiff theater chair feel. It’s a trade-off. You pay less for the ticket, but you aren't sitting in a vibrating lounge chair.
What to Expect Inside
The layout is still the 12-screen complex people grew up with. The lobby has that familiar cavernous feel, though the "Regal" branding has been scrubbed away.
- Concessions: They’ve expanded the menu. Think beyond just popcorn. There’s been talk of beer and wine licenses, which is basically standard for theaters now.
- Cleanliness: This is a big one. Recent visitors have noted the place feels "fresher" than it did in the final, decaying days of the Regal era.
- Special Events: Dipson loves their niche programming. You’ll find things like "Thursday Night Terrors" or "Flashback Cinema" where they play older classics.
Finding a "Real" Regal Nearby
If you are a die-hard Regal Unlimited member and you need those credits, you have to drive. You won't find what you're looking for at 720 Builders Way.
The closest active Regal locations are usually:
- Regal Transit Center (Williamsville)
- Regal Elmwood Center (Buffalo)
- Regal Walden Galleria (Buffalo)
These spots still have the IMAX screens and the ScreenX tech if that’s your thing. But for a local night out in the Falls without the "tourist tax," the rebranded Capitol is usually the smarter play.
Making the Most of Your Trip
If you're heading to the theater formerly known as Regal Niagara Falls, do yourself a favor and check the Dipson Theatres website directly. Don't trust the aggregate sites that haven't updated their databases since the pandemic.
Parking is still free and plentiful. It’s located right near the Home Depot and a bunch of other retail spots, so it's easy to grab dinner before the show. Just remember: bring your Dipson loyalty info, not your Regal app.
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To ensure a smooth experience, verify your showtime on the official Capitol Theatre page to avoid the "wrong theater" ticket mishap. If you're looking for the best value, aim for a Tuesday screening where the concession discounts actually make a dent in the bill. Always check for their "Flashback" series schedule if you prefer seeing 80s or 90s hits on the big screen rather than the latest blockbuster.