Accessibility

The Varsity Cinema strives to be a space for everyone. A major focus of our renovation of this historic space was to upgrade accessibility and meet ADA Guidelines. That said, we recognize that no space can be “fully accessible.” Our goal is to communicate everything we can to meet your needs, but if you have further questions, please email team@desmoinesfilm.org or call our box office at: (515) 259-0167.

Seating and Ticketing
Both auditoriums have accessible seating for patrons using wheelchairs. Our main auditorium has designated reserved spaces paired with companion seating in the back row. The Loft auditorium has moveable seats and the ability to accommodate wheelchairs in Row B, along with designated companion seats.

An elevator provides access to each level of Varsity Cinema. From the street-level entrance, an elevator in the upper lobby can take guests down to the lower lobby and Main Auditorium, or up to the Loft Auditorium on the 2nd floor. Front doors can be opened with automated door openers; restroom doors cannot. Lobby and theaters have clearance for wheelchairs to navigate and concessions counters at ADA height.

Tickets may be purchased via our website or in person at the Varsity Cinema box office. The box office is staffed one hour prior to the first showtime of the day.

In-theater Assistive Devices:
We offer assistive listening headphones, closed captioning receivers and closed captioning glasses. These are available upon request at the box office. The majority of digital films we show are compatible with these receivers, but please note that we sometimes work with alternative formats where captioning is not available. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding specific titles.

Parking:
Free parking is available in parking lots and on city streets. Varsity patrons can park free in the Drake Kinne Lot after 5pm on weekdays and on weekends. Drake Lot A-1 also offers free parking. Free street parking is always available, right in front of the theater and throughout the neighborhood, including both sides of 25th St. on Sundays.

Handicapped park spots are located immediately north of The Varsity on 25th St.

Open Caption Mondays:
On Mondays, Varsity Cinema is proud to offer Open Caption screenings, where films feature English “subtitles” on screen for all audiences. This initiative ensures a more accessible movie experience for everyone. Please note that open captions are available on select titles only, so this option may not be offered for every film.

This program is made possible with support from the Iowa Economic Development Authority.