We frequent this theater on almost a weekly basis. It's about 15-20 miles out of our way but it's well worth the travel.
Santikos Silverado IMAX in Tomball is one of the cleanest, friendliest theaters in the Houston area. It all starts in the parking lot. There's hardly ever any trash laying around which can't be said for many parking lost in Houston. The parking lot itself is spacious and well-lit. I don't feel any anxiety about parking and walking in the parking lot at 8pm or midnight. We always purchase our movie tickets thru the automated ticket machine which we find is fast and easy. I believe there are at least 5 for your convenience. I can't comment on the ticket booth or staff but I know there's never a long line so I can assume they are quite efficient.
Inside the huge lobby is of course the snack bar for your popcorn, pickles, etc. There's a gelato/Starbucks bar dropped right in the middle of the lobby. Which always has a steady stream of visitors. We've tried the vanilla bean gelato and the pistachio gelato. It was very smooth and tasty - not just your normal ice cream. The cup looked small but the gelato seemed to be never ending. We'll worth the approx. $5 cost. I haven't tried any of the games in the arcade but children and teens are always going in and out.
Rough Rider, the 2 story bar and restaurant, has an excellent food and drink selection. The appetizers are full meal portions. And the prices are very reasonable. We have already established a friendly relationship with one of the waitresses, Diana. She greets us with a smile and remembers our drink preference every time. Of course, we over tip her for being such a nice lady. When you stop by go to the upstairs bar and ask for Diana.
What we like best about Santikos Rough Rider bar is that there's a bar overlooking the lobby. It's perfect for people watching. This is theater that allows you to take food and drink (yes, even alcoholic) from Rough Rider into the movie with you. Or you can do like we do and take popcorn and drink into the movie. And speaking of beverages...
Santikos doesn't just have any fountain drink dispenser...no, it has the platinum drink station. The popcorn/snack attendant gives you your cup and you take it to the Beverage Room. This is a full room with several modern, touchscreen drink dispensers. You can choose from Coca-Cola then it gives you the option of flavors. Same with water and other brands. They also have a tea station where you can choose between unsweet, sweet, black or green teas. There are frozen Coca-Cola dispensers as well. You can get a frozen coke or wild cherry. My favorite is the frozen Dr. Pepper one. The refills are free....if you feel the need to step out of your movie.
We have tried the IMAX, 3D, 3D IMAX, and regular movies. We have it on our agenda to try the D-Box seats that are motion sensitive according to whatever movie is playing. All of the screens are clear and free of debris. The seats are large and comfortable with adjustable arm rests and a slight rocking motion which I enjoy. Every theater we've been in has been very clean - worth it in every way.
The ticket pricing is competitive with other theaters. We pay about $9.50 for a regular, non-IMAX or 3D ticket. For some this price may be high but for this theater and the experience you get...it's well worth it. I recommend Santikos Silverado to everyone.
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