If you grew up anywhere near Okolona or the south side of the city, you probably have a memory tied to the movie theaters in louisville ky rave 16. Maybe it was a first date where you both were too nervous to eat the popcorn. Or maybe it was that midnight premiere of a massive blockbuster back when midnight premieres were actually a thing.
The name "Rave" still sticks in people's heads. Honestly, it’s hard to shake. Even though the signs changed years ago, locals still use the old name as a landmark. "Yeah, it’s right by the Rave," they’ll say, even though the building has been under different management for a long time.
The truth? The theater is still there, and it’s actually better than it was in its "Rave" heyday. But the landscape of Louisville cinema has shifted.
The Rebrand: From Rave 16 to Cinemark Preston Crossings
Around 2013, Cinemark swooped in and bought out the Rave Motion Pictures brand. It wasn't just a Louisville thing; it was a massive $240 million deal that changed theaters across the country. Locally, the Rave 16 became Cinemark Preston Crossings 16 and XD.
It’s weird how a name change can feel like a loss, even if the building is exactly where you left it.
The "16" in the name refers to the number of screens, and they kept that footprint. What really changed was the tech. Cinemark dumped a ton of money into the "XD" (Extreme Digital) experience. If you haven't been lately, XD is basically their version of IMAX—a wall-to-wall screen, custom surround sound, and a projector that’s bright enough to see from space. Well, maybe not space, but it’s crisp.
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What the theater looks like in 2026
Walking in today feels different than it did ten years ago. The lobby is sleeker. The smell of buttery popcorn is still the dominant force, but now there’s a focus on "Luxury Loungers."
Basically, the era of cramped, squeaky flip-down seats is dead.
At the Preston Crossings location, they’ve installed those massive electric recliners. You can practically lay flat. Some of them are even heated, which is a lifesaver during a Kentucky January when the lobby AC is still blasting for some reason.
- The Address: 9700 Preston Crossing Blvd, Louisville, KY 40229.
- The Vibe: High-end but accessible. It’s the "neighborhood big theater."
- The Tech: XD screens, RealD 3D, and reserved seating so you don’t have to do that awkward "is this seat taken?" dance with a stranger.
Why People Still Search for Rave 16
It’s a nostalgia thing. But it’s also a location thing. Located right off the Gene Snyder and Preston Highway, this spot has always been the anchor for entertainment in that part of town.
People search for "Rave 16" because for a decade, it was the gold standard for "the big screen" in South Louisville. Before Xscape moved into Blankenbaker or the newer boutique spots popped up, this was where you went if you wanted the loudest sound and the biggest bucket of soda.
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There's also the community aspect. This theater sits right near the commerce hub of Okolona. You’ve got the Jefferson Mall nearby, a dozen restaurants, and a constant flow of traffic. It’s a convenient "night out" spot.
How It Compares to Other Louisville Theaters
Louisville is actually spoiled for choice when it comes to movies. You have the Cinemark Tinseltown out on Towne Center Drive, which is often the go-to for the East End crowd. Tinseltown has that classic "neon and chrome" feel, whereas the former Rave (Preston Crossings) feels a bit more modern and suburban.
Then there’s AMC Stonybrook 20. That’s the heavy hitter in terms of sheer screen count. If a movie is playing anywhere, it’s playing at Stonybrook. But the former Rave 16 holds its own because of the Preston Highway accessibility.
If you want something totally different, you head to the Highlands for Baxter Avenue Theatres. That’s for your indie films and the "cool kid" vibe. But for a Friday night Marvel drop? You’re going to Preston Crossings.
The Secret to Getting the Best Experience
If you're heading to the 9700 Preston Crossing location, there are a few things most people miss.
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- The App is Mandatory: Don't just walk up to the kiosk. Use the Cinemark app. You can join the Movie Rewards program for free, and it actually saves you a decent amount of money on concessions over time.
- Tuesday is the Day: Like most theaters, they do "Discount Tuesdays." It’s significantly cheaper. If you can dodge the crowds, it’s the best value in the city.
- The Bar: Yes, there’s a full bar now. You can get a beer or a cocktail and take it into the movie. It's a far cry from the days when you had to sneak a soda in your jacket.
- The "XD" Premium: Is it worth the extra five bucks? For an action movie, yes. For a rom-com? Probably not. The sound system in the XD theater is designed to shake your ribcage.
What’s Playing Right Now?
In early 2026, the box office is actually looking pretty healthy. We're seeing a mix of the usual sequels and some surprisingly original sci-fi.
At the Preston Crossings location, they tend to prioritize the big-budget hits. You'll find plenty of showtimes for things like 28 Years Later or the latest Avatar installment. They also do a great job with "Fan Events." Sometimes they’ll bring back older classics for a one-night-only screening, which is a great way to see a movie like Jurassic Park the way it was meant to be seen.
Common Misconceptions
A lot of people think that because the name changed, the quality dipped. It’s actually the opposite. Cinemark’s "Luxury Lounger" rollout was a massive upgrade over the old Rave seating.
Another weird myth is that the theater is "dangerous" because of the traffic on Preston Highway. Look, Preston is a nightmare at 5:00 PM on a Friday—that’s just Louisville facts. But the theater parking lot is huge and well-lit. Just give yourself an extra ten minutes to navigate the turn-offs.
Actionable Steps for Your Next Visit
Don't just wing it. If you want a good night at the former movie theaters in louisville ky rave 16, follow this path:
- Check the specific "XD" times. If you're going to spend the money, see the movie in the best format.
- Reserve your seats at least 3 hours in advance. The center-back rows go fast because they have the best viewing angle for the reclining seats.
- Arrive 15 minutes early. The "Pre-Show" is mostly ads, but it gives you time to hit the bar and the concession stand without missing the trailers.
- Join the Movie Club. If you go even once a month, the membership pays for itself with the waived online fees and the free monthly ticket.
The Rave 16 might be a name of the past, but the spirit of the "big night out" is alive and well at Preston Crossings. It’s still the heartbeat of movies for South Louisville.