You know that feeling when you pull into a massive parking lot at a shopping center and the neon lights of a theater basically scream "Friday night" at you? That is the vibe at ua westbury stadium 12 imax & rpx. Located right in the heart of the Westbury/Garden City shopping corridor, specifically at 7000 Brush Hollow Road, this place is a bit of a local institution. It's not just a place to see a movie; it's a survivor of the changing theatrical landscape.
It's actually a Regal theater now, though many locals still call it "the UA" out of habit.
The theater sits in a prime spot. You’ve got the Source Mall (or what’s left of it) nearby, Roosevelt Field just down the road, and enough restaurants within a two-mile radius to feed a small army. People come here because it's convenient, but they stay because of the tech. Between the IMAX wing and the RPX (Regal Premium Experience) screens, it’s basically a playground for people who actually care about things like contrast ratios and Dolby Atmos sound systems.
The IMAX vs RPX Dilemma at Westbury
Most people walk in and get confused. Do you go for the IMAX or the RPX?
Honestly, it depends on what you're watching. The IMAX screen at ua westbury stadium 12 imax & rpx is one of those experiences that feels massive, though purists will argue it's "Lie-MAX" compared to the massive 70mm setups in Manhattan. But for Long Island? It’s stellar. The sound vibrates your teeth. If you are watching a Christopher Nolan film or the latest Marvel epic, you want those expanded aspect ratios.
Then there is RPX.
RPX is Regal’s "Premium Experience." It’s sort of their answer to IMAX. It usually features a giant screen, beefed-up sound, and sometimes—though check the specific auditorium—better seating. If the IMAX showtime is sold out, RPX is a very solid runner-up. The difference is often subtle to the casual viewer, but the RPX audio often feels a bit more "directional" while IMAX feels more "enveloping." It's a toss-up. Pick based on the start time.
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What the Experience is Actually Like Inside
Walking in, the lobby is huge. It has that classic, slightly cavernous multiplex feel that makes you want to spend fifteen dollars on popcorn.
Speaking of popcorn, the concession stand is exactly what you expect. It's expensive. It’s salty. The soda machines are usually those freestyle ones where you can make some weird cherry-vanilla-lime concoction that shouldn't exist. There is also a bar. Having a beer or a glass of wine while watching a three-hour epic is a game-changer for many parents and date-night couples in the Westbury area.
The seating has seen upgrades over the years.
While some older Regal locations still have those "rocker" chairs that feel like they're from 1998, a lot of the premium screens here have moved toward the luxury recliner model. You have to check your specific ticket, though. Not every single one of the 12 screens is a recliner heaven. Some are still standard stadium seating. If you have a bad back or just like to nap during the slow parts of a movie, check the seating chart on the app before you commit.
Why Location Matters for ua westbury stadium 12 imax & rpx
Location is everything. If you live in Westbury, Carle Place, or East Meadow, this is your home base.
The parking is a massive plus. Unlike the theaters in some of the more cramped parts of Queens or the parking garage nightmare at some malls, the lot here is sprawling. You can almost always find a spot, even on a Saturday night when a blockbuster is opening. This makes a huge difference if you're running five minutes late because of traffic on the Meadowbrook Parkway.
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- Pro Tip: If you’re coming from the Northern State, take the Post Ave exit. It’s usually faster than fighting the mall traffic on Old Country Road.
- Dining: There’s a Cheesecake Factory nearby, but if you want something faster, there are plenty of spots in the nearby plazas.
- Crowds: Friday nights are loud. It’s a popular spot for teenagers. If you want a quiet, "refined" experience, go for a Tuesday matinee.
The "Value" Factor: Regal Unlimited and Rewards
If you're going to ua westbury stadium 12 imax & rpx more than once a month, you are wasting money if you aren't using Regal Unlimited. It’s basically a subscription service. You pay a monthly fee and see as many movies as you want.
For a theater that has both IMAX and RPX, this is a steal, though you usually have to pay a small "surcharge" for the premium formats. Even with the surcharge, it’s cheaper than paying twenty-plus dollars for a single ticket. The Regal Crown Club is the free version—you earn points for every dollar spent. Use those points for the popcorn. It makes the $9 bucket feel slightly less painful.
Addressing the Common Complaints
No place is perfect.
I’ve heard people complain about the temperature. Sometimes it’s an icebox in there. Bring a hoodie, even in July. Seriously. Also, because it's a high-traffic theater, the restrooms can get a bit "lived in" by the end of a busy Saturday night. It’s the trade-off for being at one of the busiest hubs on the island.
Some people also find the "noises" of a 12-screen theater distracting. You might hear the bass from the action movie next door during a quiet scene of your indie drama. That’s just the reality of multiplex architecture. If you want total silence, you’re better off at a smaller boutique theater, but you won't get the massive screen.
Technical Specs for the Geeks
Let's talk about projection. The ua westbury stadium 12 imax & rpx utilizes digital projection across the board. The IMAX wing uses dual projectors to hit that brightness level needed for 3D and large-format 2D.
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The screen size in the IMAX auditorium is significant. It’s not a "true" 1.43:1 ratio screen like the Lincoln Square IMAX in NYC, which is legendary, but it’s a 1.90:1 ratio. This means you still get about 26% more picture than a standard screen for movies shot with IMAX cameras. For most people, that's more than enough to feel "immersed."
The sound in the RPX theater is often touted as being 7.1 or even 11.1 surround. It’s crisp. You can hear a shell casing hit the floor on the left side of the room. It’s that kind of detail.
Practical Steps for Your Visit
If you are planning a trip to the ua westbury stadium 12 imax & rpx anytime soon, don't just wing it.
First, download the Regal app. It allows you to skip the kiosk lines which, on a busy night, can be a soul-crushing experience. You can scan your ticket right from your phone.
Second, if you're going for a blockbuster like the next Avatar or Star Wars or whatever the current massive franchise is, book your seats at least three days in advance. The center-middle seats in the IMAX theater go fast. If you end up in the front row of an IMAX theater, you’re going to spend two hours moving your head like you’re watching a tennis match. It's not fun. Aim for rows F through K for the best viewing angle.
Lastly, check the "Value Days." Regal often does discounted tickets on Tuesdays. It’s a great way to see a premium format movie without the premium price tag.
Westbury’s theater isn't just a building with screens. It’s a part of the local culture. Whether you’re a film nerd chasing the best technical specs or a parent just looking to distract the kids for two hours, this spot hits the mark. It’s reliable, it’s loud, and it’s got that specific Long Island energy that you can’t really find anywhere else.
Next Steps for Your Visit:
- Check the official Regal website or app for specific "Premium Format" listings to distinguish between standard, RPX, and IMAX showtimes.
- Join the Regal Crown Club before purchasing tickets to ensure you earn points on your first visit.
- Plan to arrive at least 20 minutes before the "showtime" if you want to catch the trailers and settle in, as the "Pre-Show" advertising can run long.
- If you have specific accessibility needs, call the box office ahead of time to confirm which auditoriums have the latest assisted listening and captioning devices available.