Regal Cinema, officially known as Regal South Beach, is preparing to close after more than two decades as one of Miami Beach’s most recognizable entertainment landmarks. The curtains are officially closing on this Lincoln Road icon, which since 1999 has offered blockbuster films across 18 screens and more than 2,300 seats.
Nestled on Miami Beach’s bustling pedestrian boulevard — famous for its shopping, dining, and nightlife — Regal Cinema was more than just a theater. It served as a community gathering spot for locals, a convenient attraction for tourists, and one of the few large-scale movie venues in the city. From weekend outings to major Hollywood premieres, it gave Lincoln Road an energy that blended mainstream entertainment with the area’s cultural mix of boutiques, art galleries, and cafés.
But change is coming. Recently, the city’s planning board approved a proposal to replace the theater with a new cultural institution: the Superhuman Museum. Designed to feature immersive exhibits, dining, and nightlife experiences, the project is part of a broader effort to revitalize Lincoln Road. While officials highlight the potential for innovation, many longtime residents see it as the end of an era — a shift from the silver screen to interactive art and museum culture.
End of an Era for Regal
The Regal South Beach 18, located at 1100 Lincoln Road, first opened in 1999 with more than 2,300 seats spread across 18 screens. For over two decades, it served as one of the few large-scale theaters in Miami Beach, drawing both locals and tourists.
However, in recent years the theater’s future became uncertain. Broken seats, declining attendance, and Regal’s corporate financial struggles created an atmosphere of neglect. Residents complained about poor upkeep, while rumors of closure circulated.
By mid-2025, Regal was operating on a month-to-month lease, leaving the door open for an inevitable exit.
City’s Decision and Public Reaction
On September 9, the Miami Beach Planning Board heard comments from residents who wanted the city to intervene and keep the theater open. Thousands of letters were submitted in support of preserving Regal.
But city officials clarified their hands were tied. Board member Brian Elias emphasized that Regal itself was leaving, not being pushed out:
“We cannot force Regal to stay. This is their business decision.”
The decision cleared the way for redevelopment — and for entrepreneur Steve Berke, a former comedian and mayoral candidate, to move forward with his ambitious museum project.
The Superhuman Museum Vision
The Superhuman Museum promises to transform the site into an immersive, modern attraction. Plans include:
- Two levels of interactive exhibits exploring art, creativity, and human potential.
- A gift shop and café serving small bites.
- A bar and lounge with alcoholic beverages, aiming to make the space a day-to-night destination.
Berke described the project as a way to “bring new life and culture to Lincoln Road,” positioning it as both an artistic venue and a tourist draw.
What This Means for Miami Beach
The closure of Regal marks the loss of the city’s largest mainstream cinema. For film lovers, this represents a cultural gap in Miami Beach, forcing audiences to travel farther for blockbusters or rely on smaller, independent theaters.
At the same time, city leaders see opportunity. Lincoln Road has struggled in recent years with vacant storefronts and shifting consumer habits. A museum could provide a fresh attraction, drawing foot traffic and diversifying the district beyond retail and dining.
Looking Ahead
While some residents still mourn the loss of Regal, others are cautiously optimistic. The Superhuman Museum could redefine Lincoln Road as a cultural hub — but it also carries the challenge of living up to the beloved legacy of the theater it replaces.
For now, Miami Beach prepares to turn the page: from silver screens to immersive art, from movie nights to museum exhibits. The story of Regal’s departure is the end of one chapter, but perhaps the beginning of another.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q1: Why is Miami Beach’s Regal Cinema closing?
A: Regal Cinema is closing because its parent company decided to end operations at the Lincoln Road location. The theater had been operating on a month-to-month lease, and city officials confirmed the decision was made by Regal, not the city.
Q2: What will replace Regal Cinema on Lincoln Road?
A: The Regal Cinema will be replaced by the Superhuman Museum, a new cultural attraction featuring interactive exhibits, a gift shop, a café, and a lounge.
Q3: When did Regal South Beach Cinema first open?
A: Regal South Beach opened in 1999 with 18 screens and more than 2,300 seats, becoming one of the city’s largest and most popular movie theaters.
Q4: What is the Superhuman Museum?
A: The Superhuman Museum is an upcoming modern, immersive museum project led by entrepreneur Steve Berke. It will feature exhibits on art and creativity, along with dining and nightlife options.
Q5: How are Miami Beach residents reacting to the closure?
A: Many residents are disappointed, as thousands submitted letters urging the city to save the theater. Others are cautiously optimistic that the new museum could revitalize Lincoln Road.
Q6: Will there still be movie theaters in Miami Beach after Regal closes?
A: Regal was the city’s largest mainstream theater. While smaller independent theaters remain, residents may need to travel farther for major blockbusters.
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