You know that feeling when you're craving a movie but can't decide if it's worth the $20? Honestly, the cinema landscape has changed a ton since 2024. But in the 515, if you’re looking for a consistent experience, Cinemark theaters Des Moines basically owns the conversation. We aren't just talking about sticky floors and stale popcorn anymore. Between the sprawl of West Des Moines and the growing energy in Altoona, there is a specific way to play the Cinemark game so you don't overspend or end up in a seat that doesn't recline.
There are two main spots you need to know about. First, there’s the Cinemark Century Jordan Creek 20 and XD. It’s the "big one" tucked into the Jordan Creek Town Center area. Then you’ve got Cinemark Altoona and XD, which is right near Adventureland.
Most people just pick the one closest to them. That’s a mistake.
The XD Factor: Is It Just a Marketing Gimmick?
If you've looked at showtimes recently, you’ve seen the "XD" tag. It stands for Extreme Digital. Is it worth the extra three or four bucks?
Usually, yeah.
At the Jordan Creek location, the XD screen is massive—about six stories high. They use a 50,000-watt sound system that literally makes your seat vibrate during explosions. If you’re seeing a quiet indie flick, don't bother. But for something like the new Avatar or a Marvel sequel, the wall-to-wall screen actually makes a difference.
The Altoona location also has XD, and because that theater is slightly newer (opened in 2016), the tech feels incredibly crisp. One thing most people miss? The haptic feedback in the seats. It’s not a full-blown "4D" experience where you get sprayed with water, but you’ll feel the rumble.
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Secrets of the Luxury Loungers
Let’s be real. We go to the movies to lie down.
Both Cinemark theaters Des Moines locations have converted almost entirely to the Luxury Lounger format. These are electric-powered recliners with footrests.
Pro Tip: Not all recliners are created equal. In the older auditoriums at Jordan Creek, some of the leather is starting to show its age. If you’re picky, the Altoona seats generally feel "fresher" because the foot traffic is a bit lower than the mall crowd.
Also, heat. The theaters are kept cold. Like, ice-cold. I’ve seen people bring full-sized Sherpa blankets into the Jordan Creek 20. Don't be the person shivering through a three-hour epic; just bring a hoodie.
The Concession Hack No One Uses
Concessions are where they get you. We all know it.
A large popcorn and a couple of drinks will easily run you $18 to $20. However, if you're hitting up the West Des Moines location, you've got the "Mobile Ordering" option. You can literally order your popcorn from the Cinemark app while you’re sitting in traffic on I-80.
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They have a dedicated pickup counter. You skip the line of thirty teenagers and just grab your bucket.
Then there’s the food. We’re talking:
- All-beef Eisenberg hot dogs ($6.50-ish).
- Pizza and wings (better than you’d expect for a theater).
- The Alcohol: Yes, both Des Moines area Cinemarks serve beer, wine, and margaritas.
At Jordan Creek, you can actually get "Seat-Side Delivery" for full meals in certain auditoriums. It’s kinda nice to have a burger brought to you in the dark, though it feels a bit weird when the waiter is trying to find your row during a tense scene.
Getting the Most for Your Money
If you’re going to the movies more than once a month, you're lighting money on fire if you don't use Cinemark Movie Club.
It’s about $10.99 a month in Iowa. For that, you get one 2D ticket credit that rolls over if you don't use it. The real value, though, is the 20% off concessions. If you’re buying a large popcorn and a soda every time, the membership pays for itself in two visits just from the snack savings alone.
Also, Discount Tuesdays. This is the golden rule for Des Moines locals. Tickets are significantly cheaper on Tuesdays—usually around $6 to $8 depending on the format. It gets crowded, but it's the best way to see a blockbuster on a budget.
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Jordan Creek vs. Altoona: The Final Verdict
Which one should you actually go to?
Go to Jordan Creek 20 if:
- You want the mall experience.
- You’re planning on eating at the Cheesecake Factory or Joe's Crab Shack before the show.
- You need the biggest selection of showtimes (20 screens vs. Altoona's smaller count).
Go to Altoona if:
- You hate parking garages. The parking lot at the Altoona Cinemark is massive and flat.
- You want a slightly quieter vibe.
- You’re already out east near the outlets or Bass Pro Shops.
Honestly, both are solid. They’ve managed to stay relevant even as streaming tries to kill the theater. There’s just something about that Cinemark popcorn salt that you can’t replicate at home.
Your Next Steps for a Better Movie Night
- Check the App First: Don't just show up. Jordan Creek fills up fast on Friday nights, and sitting in the front row is a recipe for a neck cramp.
- Join the Free Tier: Even if you don't want the $10.99 monthly fee, join "Movie Fan" for free. You still earn points for every dollar spent.
- Validate Your Choice: If you’re seeing a movie in XD, try to sit about two-thirds of the way back. That’s the "sweet spot" where the sound system is calibrated to hit the hardest.
- Avoid the Rush: If you want the theater to yourself, hit the 11:00 AM matinee on a Sunday. It’s quiet, cheap, and you won't have to deal with anyone talking during the trailers.
Enjoy the show. Just remember to silence your phone—nobody wants to hear your ringtone during the climax.