You’re driving down 11th Street, maybe grabbing a coffee or just killing time before dinner, and there it is. The marquee. It isn't the glowing, IMAX-sized neon beast you’d find in West Omaha, but that’s exactly why people love it. The movie theater Nebraska City NE depends on—officially known as the ACX Pioneer 3 Theater—is one of those rare spots that feels like a time capsule and a modern hangout all at once.
Honestly, in a world where we’re all glued to iPhones or arguing about which streaming service hiked its prices this month, there is something deeply grounding about a three-screen cinema in a town of 7,000 people.
It’s local. It’s loud. And yes, the popcorn actually tastes like popcorn.
The Reality of the ACX Pioneer 3 Experience
People ask if the "small town" theater can actually keep up with the big chains. You’ve probably heard the rumors that smaller venues get movies weeks late. That’s just not true here. The Pioneer 3 stays current. Whether it's the latest Disney-Pixar drop like Zootopia 2 or a massive blockbuster like Avatar: Fire and Ash, the films arrive on schedule.
Why the Price Point is a Shock
Let's talk money because, frankly, going to the movies has become a luxury sport in most cities. If you head up to Bellevue or Omaha, you're looking at $15 for a ticket before you even think about a drink.
In Nebraska City? You can often catch a flick for around $7.
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That is wild.
Think about that for a second. You can take a family of four to the movies for the price of one single ticket at a premium "luxury" reclining theater in a metro area. While the seats might not be heated, leather-bound loungers that massage your back, they are comfortable enough for a two-hour superhero epic.
What to Expect at 110 S 11th St
The layout is straightforward. You walk in, the smell of butter hits you—it’s a physical force, really—and you’re greeted by staff who probably recognize half the people in line.
- Screens: There are three of them. Small enough to feel intimate, big enough to make your TV at home look like a postage stamp.
- Accessibility: The theater is wheelchair accessible. They’ve got the ramps and the restroom setups handled, which is a big deal for an older building.
- Showtimes: They generally operate on a "late afternoon and evening" schedule. Don't expect a 10:00 AM matinee on a Tuesday. Usually, doors open around 6:00 PM on weekdays, with earlier starts on the weekends.
The "Tuesdays are Better" Rule
If you are a local or just passing through, remember the $6 Tuesday. It’s a staple. It’s the night when the lobby gets a little more crowded, and the energy picks up. It makes a random weeknight feel like an event.
Beyond the Screen: A Business Perspective
It is tough running a movie theater in a town like Nebraska City. We’ve seen smaller cinemas across the Midwest fold under the pressure of digital streaming. But the Pioneer 3 is part of the ACX Cinemas family (which also runs the Aksarben Cinema in Omaha). This connection is actually its secret weapon.
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Because it’s part of a larger group, it gets the technical support and the film-booking leverage that a standalone "mom-and-pop" might struggle with. They’ve updated the sound systems. They’ve kept the digital projection crisp.
It isn't just about movies; it’s about business survival.
When you spend money at the movie theater Nebraska City NE residents frequent, that cash stays in the local ecosystem. It employs local teenagers. It keeps 11th Street vibrant after the sun goes down.
Dealing with the Quirks
Look, it isn't perfect. I’m being honest with you.
Sometimes the lobby gets a bit cramped when two movies let out at the same time. Occasionally, you might hear a faint rumble from the theater next door during a particularly quiet scene if the blockbuster in Theater 2 is especially explosive.
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But does it ruin the experience? Not really. It’s part of the charm of a three-screen setup. If you wanted a sterile, silent, cavernous megaplex, you’d be driving 50 miles north.
What’s Coming in 2026?
The 2026 slate is looking massive. We’re talking about titles like 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple and the eventual arrival of Toy Story 5. The Pioneer 3 is already prepping for these. They handle the "Coming Soon" cycle through their website and physical posters, which still feel like the most authentic way to pick a movie.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Check the Website: Don't just show up. Showtimes change based on film length. Their official site is the only place to get the real data.
- Loyalty Matters: ACX has a loyalty program. If you’re a frequent flyer, sign up. You get points for the stuff you’re already buying.
- Parking: It’s Nebraska City. Parking is free. You can usually find a spot right on the street or in the nearby lots without the headache of a parking garage.
The Actionable Bottom Line
If you haven't been to the cinema lately, go this week. Specifically, go to the Pioneer 3.
Check the Tuesday schedule to save a few bucks, or grab the family for a Sunday matinee. Skip the overpriced "home premiere" on your TV and go sit in a dark room with your neighbors. It’s a different kind of magic.
Support the local movie theater Nebraska City NE has kept alive for years. Buy the large popcorn. It’s worth it.
To plan your trip, head over to the ACX Cinemas website and select the Nebraska City location to see exactly what's playing tonight.