You know that feeling when a place you’ve visited since you were a kid finally decides to join the 21st century? That’s basically what’s happening at Regal Hollywood Stadium 20 & RPX Greenville right now. For years, people in the Upstate had a bit of a love-hate relationship with this spot. It was the "big" theater—the one on Woodruff Road that everyone went to—but it was also getting, well, a little crusty.
Then the renovations hit.
If you haven’t been to 1029 Woodruff Road lately, it’s a different world. We're talking about a massive shift from those old-school, squeaky folding chairs to actual luxury recliners in almost every auditorium. It’s about time. Honestly, the competition from places like the Amstar in Anderson or even the smaller local spots was starting to make Regal look like a relic from the 90s.
The RPX Experience: Is It Actually Worth the Extra Cash?
One of the big questions people always ask is whether the Regal Hollywood Stadium 20 & RPX Greenville premium format is actually better than a standard screen. RPX stands for Regal Premium Experience. It’s their version of IMAX, but without some of the specific aspect ratio requirements that IMAX demands.
Think bigger. Way bigger.
The RPX screen is massive, and the sound system is usually a significant step up from the standard rooms. They use what’s called "ButtKicker" technology in the seats sometimes, which basically means your chair vibrates when something explodes on screen. It’s subtle enough that it’s not annoying, but it definitely adds a layer of "oh wow" to a movie like Avatar: Fire and Ash or whatever blockbuster is currently dominating the box office.
The seats in the RPX room are typically even a bit plushier than the ones in the standard theaters. If you’re the type of person who needs perfect sightlines and doesn't want to hear the person in the next theater over eating their popcorn, RPX is the move.
4DX: The New Kid on the Block
Recently, they added 4DX to this location. If you haven't tried it, it’s basically a theme park ride disguised as a movie theater. The seats move, you get sprayed with a light mist of water when it rains on screen, and there are even scents and "leg ticklers."
It’s intense. Some people hate it because they just want to watch the movie without being jostled around. Others love it because it’s the only way to experience a high-octane action flick. Just a heads-up: don’t bring a full tray of nachos into a 4DX screening. You’ll regret it.
The Reality of Woodruff Road Logistics
Let’s be real for a second. The biggest hurdle to visiting Regal Hollywood Stadium 20 & RPX Greenville isn’t the theater itself; it’s the location. Woodruff Road is a special kind of traffic nightmare that South Carolinians love to complain about.
If you’re planning to catch a 7:00 PM show on a Friday, you need to leave your house way earlier than you think.
- Timing is everything: Getting there at 6:15 PM gives you enough time to navigate the parking lot, which is often packed because of the nearby Topgolf and various restaurants.
- The Concession Struggle: The theater is cleaner than it used to be, but the concession lines can still be a beast. If there’s a major Marvel or Star Wars release, expect to wait.
- Mobile Ordering: Use the Regal app. Seriously. You can buy your tickets and pre-order your popcorn so you aren't standing in line behind someone trying to decide between a medium and a large for twenty minutes.
Comparing Regal Hollywood to the Competition
Greenville has a few other options, and it’s worth noting how they stack up. You’ve got Regal Cherrydale, which is fine but often feels a bit more "worn in" than the Hollywood 20. Then there’s the Camelot, which is a local favorite for its old-school vibe and slightly lower prices.
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But Regal Hollywood 20 is the flagship.
With 20 screens, it almost always has the smaller indie films that don't make it to the 8-screen theaters. It also hosts the "My Way Matinee," which are sensory-friendly screenings with lower sound and brighter lights. It’s a great touch for families with kids who might find the standard theater experience a bit overwhelming.
Is Regal Unlimited the Way to Go?
If you live in the Upstate and see more than two movies a month, you’re wasting money if you aren't on the Unlimited plan. It’s around $24 a month. Since a single RPX ticket can run you close to $20 with fees, the math works out pretty quickly.
The plan covers all standard 2D movies. You do have to pay a small upgrade fee for the RPX or 4DX screenings, but it’s usually just a few bucks rather than the full price. Plus, you get 10% off concessions. That adds up when a large popcorn costs more than a steak dinner.
Making the Most of Your Trip
When you head out to Regal Hollywood Stadium 20 & RPX Greenville, don’t just treat it as a "sit and watch" event. Since it's right in the heart of the Woodruff Road shopping district, make a day of it.
The renovations have finally made the interior feel like a destination again. The lobby is bright, the restrooms have been getting more attention from the cleaning crews (though they can still get hit hard during a rush), and the overall vibe is much more modern.
It’s not perfect—no corporate theater is—but it’s a far cry from the dingy spot it was five years ago.
Pro Tip: If you're going for a midday matinee on a Tuesday, the place is practically empty. You can get a prime seat in the RPX auditorium and feel like you have the whole theater to yourself. It’s the best way to see a movie without any distractions.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Download the Regal App: Check the specific showtimes for the RPX screen versus standard screens; they often offset them by 30 minutes.
- Check the Rewards: If you have an old Crown Club card, log in and see if you have points. They expire, and you might have enough for a free drink.
- Scout the Parking: Avoid the spots right in front of the door. Drive toward the Topgolf side of the lot; it’s easier to get out once the movie ends.
- Join Unlimited: If you're planning to see at least three movies this month, sign up before you buy your next ticket to start saving immediately.