The genius behind the KiMo was Oreste Bachechi, a motivated entrepreneur from humble origins. Oreste Bachechi came to the United States in 1885 and set up a business in a tent near the railroad tracks in Albuquerque. Bachechi's fortunes expanded with the city's growth; he became a liquor dealer and proprietor of a grocery store while his wife Maria ran a dry goods store in the Elms Hotel. By 1919, the Bachechi Amusement Association operated the Pastime Theatre with Joe Barnett. In 1925, Oreste Bachechi decided to achieve "an ambition, a dream that has been long in realization," by building his own theater, one that would stand out among the Greek temples and Chinese pavilions of contemporary movie mania Bachechi envisioned a unique, Southwestern style theater, and hired Carl Boller of the Boller Brothers to design it. The Bollers had designed a Wild West-Rococo-style theater in San Antonio and a Spanish cathedral cum Greco-Babylonian interior in St. Joseph, Missouri. Pueblo Influence Carl Boller traveled throughout New Mexico, visiting the pueblos of Acoma and Isleta, and the Navajo Nation. After months of research, Carl Boller submitted a watercolor rendering that pleased Oreste Bachechi. The interior was to include plaster ceiling beams textured to look like logs and painted with dance and hunt scenes, air vents disguised as Navajo rugs, chandeliers shaped like war drums and Native American funeral canoes, wrought iron birds descending the stairs and rows of garlanded buffalo skulls with eerie, glowing amber eyes. None of the designs were chosen at random. Each of the myriad images of rain clouds, birds and swastikas had historical significance. The Navajo swastika is a symbol for life, freedom and happiness.

I don't even know where to begin.....I requested tickets for a group of individuals (with different abilities) to participate in a tour of the Kimo, as I have done in the past without any issue. But, today was a totally different story. It was brought to my attention when the group returned from their outing that the experience was horrible. The staff that accompanied the group stated that the tour guide was very rude and made many discriminating comment toward the group. At one point he asked the group if anyone has ever acted? A individual raised her hand and the tour guide stated that "Yeah, most of the actors I know are retards" and proceed to giggle. How sick to make a comment like that and find it funny. Also, prohibiting them from going to certain areas stating that "they would damage/scratch $65,000 screen". Don't worry we will not send our individuals to tour again. So, thank you Kimo so much for letting our group be singled out and disrespected and ruining their day.

Been here before to see some plays however, this time I went for a special ghost tour. It was very informative and interesting to learn so much of the history. The guides knew a lot about the buildings past and present, as they had previously worked there or currently worked there. They gave us onsite on the death of a child that occurred there due to a furnace explosion. Very sad however, the tour pretty much revolved around that incident. They say he still hangs around there playing pranks on people. They even have an alter for the kiddo where performers leave gifts. They say if a gift is left their shows will go smooth without incidents such as lights falling, lines being forgot and performers being pushed and falls. It's a pretty big shrine made up of a lot of toys, ballet shoes etc. If you have a chance to partake in a tour, check it out.

WOW!!!! I hadn't been here since I had performed in it years ago!! I've always loved the Kimo, especially since my name is Kim lol I came with some friends for the premier of El Camino and was blown away by the experience. The staff and management were SO nice and hung out with everyone outside as we started to line up. They were there to answer questions and help about an hour before a doors opened. They had concessions for VERY reasonable prices (like $2 for a good sized popcorn), very clean bathrooms, a neat gift shop, good seats, amazing acoustics, beautiful art everywhere. It's history is just, wow! They offer free tours every so often and am definitely planning going on one, you should too if you're not able to see a show here!! I cant wait to go back!!!

Apparently this theater has wonderful acoustics, though we did not make a show there. We went for the tour, which was interesting, but definitely less well paced from sitting vs walking narrative experience. It focused slightly more on the theatrical history rather than the architectural design and was not indulgent to fancies from ghost hunters. The theater itself is a marvel of southwestern decor, with glowing red eyes in the cow skulls surrounding the stage and strong and colorful motifs paying homage to natives. However, this also made it feel a bit dated, belonging to a far off time period - like a 1950s tiki bar - definitely holding on to shtick more than substance.

Being a life long resident of Albuquerque, I've unfortunately never visited The Kimo Theatre, until December 17, 2022. I have to say, it is such a beautiful scene. The carvings and art there are some of the most creative and beautiful I've ever seen! It's just amazing. I was invited to watch The Nutcracker performance and was ultimately blown away by the amazing performance and The Kimo. I heard the theatre is haunted, however, I didn't experience any paranormal activity, although the hallway to the bathrooms was a bit creepy. I look forward to enjoying more performances at The Kimo in the future. I really enjoyed it.

Nicest venue I know of in Albuquerque. I wish more/most people performed here. Not sure if they have a curfew but shows end as early as 930 or 1030 depending on who you see. I've been here many times, always clean, staff is friendly, seats are great and it's never been stuffy in there which is a plus. I've never purchased from concessions but their restroom was clean the one time I used it. This is a beautiful theater full of history and I look forward to events when they are at this particular place. Not overpriced either--$50 and under for anyone I've seen here which is fantastic. Long live the KIMO!

Went to a show here, front row center. The view was good as long as the performers were at the front of the stage. The decor inside the theater was very neat to look at before the show, being my first time here. The seats were OK, really small. I joked that they must have got the chairs from Southwest airlines. Lucky for me the person next to me never showed, so that helped me not fell too claustrophobic. All in all I had a good time at the theater and enjoyed the show. I look forward to going here again. May have to buy the seat next to mine to give me breathing room.

Having volunteered with the Albuquerque Film & Music Experience the past 4 years and using the KiMo Theater as our primary venue has been nothing less than outstanding. The facility is historic and beautiful, capturing some the most unique architecture you will ever see. The staff is very professional and helpful. The volunteer staff that gives their time on a regular basis is delightful and friendly. Their selection of films throughout the year is retro, fun, and interesting. I am looking forward to visiting the KiMo more in the future.

An interesting venue for graduation of the 94th graduation class of Albuquerque Fire Department. Of note is the overwhelming presence of the swastika in the indigenous designs. Found out that it was appropriated by the Natzi party and a symbol of hope and peace was turned into something to represent the worst of mankind. Would have included a photo but unfortunately they all had pictures of Fire Department officials and I did not have permission to post .Not to their reluctance but couldn't reach them to ask permission.

I was recently part of a group organizing a charity event, and I can tell you that everyone at the Kimo was so very helpful. We had wonderful feedback from our attendees about how great it was that we got to set up in such a beautiful theater with an awesome screen. They were very accommodating to all our needs, patient with us during the chaos of set up, and treated us in a professional manner and good humor. We had the best fundraising event ever, and look forward to working with them again.

The theater is wonderful. However we attended the Sunday afternoon performance of the "Nutcracker" My seat Zone BL Row T Seat 8 was terrible. The guard rail split my view of the stage, the only way I could see the stage was to lean forward and hang over the railing. After about ten minutes my back and neck were so sore that I just leaned back and listened to the music. Check out my photo to see my view of the stage. My Wife's seat wasn't much better Seat 7. These seats should be removed!!!!!

This was my favorite theater in the late 50's and early 60's. 10 cent bus fare and 35 cent kids admission then watch a double feature for the entire afternoon. I am sure my parents enjoyed my time away as well(lol). Always in awe of the beautiful interior and took my British wife there and she did not want to leave, comparing it to the spiritualism of some of the old cathedrals we had visited. Really folks, this will impress your visitors as much as the tram if not more. Cheers

Wish I could leave 0 stars. Cancelled Gone With the Wind because of the political rhetoric going on. Seriously? Cancelled a classic movie to appease the few who are "offended". Hopefully the offended keep purchasing tickets, because I sure won't. I will NEVER go into this theater again. The fact that I'm a taxpayer and it's subsidized by the city is a different story. Hope your decision works out for you, but I have a feeling that this is going to cost you, and rightly so.

The theater itself is great, but the people inside the ticket "office" are unfriendly and snooty. Gone are the days of quality productions most people would be interested in. Now, almost all the musical events are directed at college students, and a lot of it is hip hop or worse. In the Kimo? They also keep sending me emails on what is coming up ON THE DAY OF THE EVENT! Hello, most people need a little heads up folks Just truly lousy management and marketing departments.

Reverse Swastikas in the permanent art work framing the historic, beautiful, old, stage. I assume a reverse Swastika is like reverse racism? I know, I know, they are not reverse Swastikas, they are Native art and mean something completely different. I recommend finding a very old ABQ native who lived here their whole life - they will regale you with stories about watching Elvis movies at the old Kimo theatre. Pretty awesome, actually.

This is an interesting place. We came here to see Bob Odenkirk do charity improv with a local improv group. The acoustics and views were good. The bathrooms and hall areas can fill up fast during breaks. We sat on the bottom but there is also a balcony. There was a small area to purchase popcorn and beer, but this seemed brought in for the show. Essentially it seems like food and beverage is dependent on the organizer.

I love this old theater, but it's impossible to easily buy tickets on-line. Their website doesn't work (currently can't see their calendar of events past Dec 15, 2018, and this is Dec 1, 2018 - and when one clicks on "schedule" it flicks off in a second before you can scroll through). What gives? I tried this on multiple days, so this is not some temporary fluke. Guess I'll have to physically go downtown to buy them .

I was there with my family for Kumbuka Celebration on Feb 1, 2019. It was my first time in this landmark place. It’s size is deceiving from the outside because it’s huge from within and spacious. Its ambience is like a fine wine and made me feel at home. The Kimo should be touted on New Mexico True. The only thing I’d like to see is an additional cushion for one’s back ... I’m still giving it a Five!

I've been attending events at the theater off and on for the last 30 years. It is one of my favorite places in Albuquerque. My grandmother used to go there back in the 1930s and '40s as well and it was one of her favorites as well. The inside is outstanding with it early 20th Century decor. I wish they had more events there because it truly is a special place.

Beautiful Pueblo Deco theater in the heart of downtown. The interior and exterior of the building are truly extraordinary. It's worth visiting the Kimo just to take a self-guided tour. The entertainment is also great, and they are in the process of renovating some of the interior. These upgrades will only improve the Kimo experience.

My experience with kemo has always been really good but recently i witnessed a disgusting act a tour guide taunted and harassed a group of disabled adults i was disgusted it was awful they looked so uncomfortable i wish i was part of that tour so i could give him a piece of my mind do better kemo your losing you touch.

Beautifully renovated historic theatre downtown Albuquerque, really loved it inside, though seats are indeed small. While this didn't bother me as a rather smaller person, i can see how uncomfortable they can be for larger or taller people. Anyway, seen film festival there and it was awesome, definitely coming back!

This theater is old timey and has great architecture and art of the native American theme. The building it self is kinda falling apart. The building is a historic landmark however and is in alright condition. I had a great time at Serenity 2019. It was for a good cause and The Browncoats put on a great show.

A beautiful southwestern themed venue with great acoustics abd no bad seats in the house. We sat front row for Keb Mo (07/09/2015) and worried about sound quality being so close to the PA speakers, but it sounded great. Look closely at the cow skulls hung over the stage, their eyes light up!

Put this on your places to visit for some intertainment. There is so much history here. The interior is so beautiful so arrive early so you have time to look at it close up. We went to the Hocus Pocus Magic show and enjoyed every minute of it. Many magicians in the lobby to entertain you.

I love the history of the theater and the pictures highlighting it as well. There was also a gentleman, I can't remember his name, but taught us alittle history lesson about the theater and several theaters around our State tht are all built by the same person.... so Awesome!!

We love taking our daughter here for shows. Parking is convenient and near by. The theatre is definitely showing its age, and we've seen some issues with things like random spot lights being turned on the audience in the middle of a production. But over all its entertaining.

Refurbished old theater. Unique in all the world. Decorated in "Southwest Art Deco". The building is small. Leg room is limited; aisles are narrow, but that just is what it is. Old theaters were like that. If you can move beyond that, and enjoy the moment, you will love it.

This is a beautiful theater in the heart of downtown Albuquerque. That encapsulates the spirit of the Southwest with beautiful decor. They host many great events, like charity shows and premieres of films. I would recommend seeing an event here at any possible opportunity

The Kimo Theater has a stage surrounded by an arch lined with glowing red cow skulls. A very nice touch for almost any musical performance! Located in downtown Albuquerque, the parking is plentiful and there are lots of restaurants in the area for after the performance.

My first time here. Seating was confusing. No signs and no one to help out. Couldn't enjoy the show because it was so hot inside and uncomfortable. Everyone was fanning themselves. They even had to bring a fan onstage for the performer. Never again. Such a ghetto venue.

Got to see a live performance of Bear Greece. I felt like I got an intimate window into Native American culture, humor, talent and language. I wish this show broadway success. The theater added to the charm with it's intricate architecture and an absolute time warp.

Beautiful historic theater. I have seen such a variety of performances here. Drag shows, Banff Film Fest, and much more. I love that they have beer and popcorn as well! (Don't forget there are 2 women's bathrooms upstairs if the bottom floor one has a line.)

This historic theater had beautiful art work and state of the art laser projectors to show movies on the big screen. It has a small art gallery. It is a designated City Landmark and it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for good reasons.

Funky and historic little theater with tons of Southwest charm. Saw Stephen Marley here and the acoustics were good but not great. Would thick twice about seeing another concert here if I thought I would want to dance as there's not a lot of room to do so.

So much history here I was invited to a program called Tarde de Oro a history of New Mexico so interesting right in the heart of Albuquerque (down town) you get to see the heart beat of N.M as the people wander around some good some bad it's worth a visit.

I visit Kimo about 5 times a year. For the area and price the ambiance is quite eloquent. Whether it be a movie, play, comedy show or performance, I pull out my faux coat and red heels. Plan an extra 15 minutes for parking. Staff are always helpful!

Love the Kimo. Restored interior is so interesting, I notice something new every time I go. Sound and lighting for the performances I have attended is good. Thankful for the parking garage north of the theatre, reduces ABQ downtown parking anxiety.

We lucked into one of the city's free tours of this one of a kind Pueblo Deco building, amazing. But, if you can only view the exterior that is worth a drive by. I'm hoping to time another visit with one of the occasional concerts or movie nights.

Historical theater built in 1927 with a performance stage and later for film. It's a beautiful southwest style building with art decided inside and out. Seating in a little cramped for most people, that's the only "down" side of the venue.

Lovely venue for smaller entertainment acts. Built in the 1920s, it is a beautifully preserved theatre of days gone by. The aucustics are great. We were there for a Jesse Cook concert. The sound was amazing. Please check it out and enjoy.

Easily one of the coolest historic theaters in the United States. Architecturally, it is Pueblo Nuevo, and has amazing accepts inside and out. Films, festivals, and live performances are happening all the time here. Highly recommended!

It's a really old theater, they are celebrating 90 years of theater. The building has a balcony with seats and awesome paintings on the walls. Cow skulls light their eyes when they fine the lights. And there is a ghost there or a few.

Wow! Go check out this gem. If there is an event here it is worth going to if you need a venue check this place out. I am waiting for a reason to need this spot. Dont miss out the charm, beauty, and history of this wonderful theater!

It has been years since I went here but it is beautiful. It was still being renovated. There was a beautiful picture of a woman swinging on a moon from back in the Burlesque days that caught my eye. I have that picture somewhere

Great place to catch a movie, ballet, concert, play, or even lecture! The architecture is beautiful, and the history is very interesting! Check out what is going on and you won't be disappointed! Great, unique place foe a date!

A beautiful and well-kept theater. Somewhat small. Very clean. Staff were friendly and very helpful. Large restrooms. Cash only snack and non alcoholic drink bar. Souvenirs for sale at the entrance. Water fountains available.

My husband and I came for the Nutcracker Ballet. It was fantastic and the historical venue is just amazing. We are lucky to live within walking distance of the Kimo and will be on the lookout for more shows and movies here!

Absolutely awesome venue. We saw Jenny Lewis and I'd happily go see many more shows here. The decor is stunning and very much unlike other venues I've been. The sound quality was great and the drinks reasonably priced.

Such a historic place. Very cozy. Great seats! Doesn't cost an arm and a leg. We saw the nutcracker ballet and loved it. The dancers did a fantastic presentation. The costumes were beautiful, colorful and memorizing.

First visit. Was really great. Notice outside sounds still make it into the theater though. Sound quality was nice but need a little less tweet and a little more bass for the microphones. Enjoyed a great play though.

This was my 1st time seeing a band/musician or singer. Only been here for comedians and short film showcases. The sound engineering was perfect. Definitely can't wait to come back next month for Postmodern Jukebox.

Looked like a really neat theatre. Unfortunately the hours were not posted online and they were closed when we got there. Hours for Summer 2019 are currently....Wednesday thru Saturday 12pm-6pm and Sunday 3pm-6pm.

Very nice theater . There is detail in every inch. The light effects and their sound system is great. There's no free parking lot during the week days. From what I hear, parking meters are free on weekends. …

ABQ landmark!! Just amazing, do beautiful, so much detail. Quaint, romantic and awe inspiring theater. Saw Alice in Wonderland Ballet. The BRT put on a wonderful show. First time here and it will be remembered.

It's a quaint little theater in downtown Albuquerque. It seats maybe 300 people. It's one of the oldest theaters in. Albuquerque. It's great for small production plays. Go see it. Not a bad seat in the house.

I love this theater. I've been going here ever since I moved here back in 2008. We've seen countless shows here but we make sure we get The Nutcracker every year. Staff is friendly and shows are usually fun.

Not a bad seat at the Kimo Theater in downtown ABQ. Excellent sound and comfortable seats. I found a pay lot around the corner for $3.00 for the night. It's a beautiful, historic theater and worth seeing!

Multi Purpose venue, attended an Educational event and a Ghost Tour. A great historic building on Route 66. Planning to go to a concert and see a movie here next month. Street parking is free after 6 pm.

My visit was for a graduation showing of college capstone short films. Throughly enjoyed it, and all the short films were good. This class are going places and will see them make it in the film industry.

Loved the authenticity of the 90 year old theater. We had a delightful tour and story telling session with the theater manager. We were just sorry that there wasn't a show going on when we were visiting.

Beautiful restored historic movie house, which now presents live performances of all kinds. Free parking in parking structure behind theatre. Comfortable seats. Ticket prices depend on the performance.

Beautiful old theater. The decor is quirky and wonderful. Great place to see a movie or live show. Both the exterior and interior are worth a close look. On the National Register of Historic Places.

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Kimo theatre is a definite stapel in Albuquerque. It is a beautiful place to go see a performance and other events. The room off to the side is where people present there art.. Love this place.,,

Beautiful place to check out for any occasion or event. Very clean and antique could not complain about how prived they are to make you happy for supporting any of there seating!. Thank you Kimo

And don't get me wrong I like the show and everything but there was some issues, the sound issues with the movie and the roof was leaking really badly. I would still go to another event there.

Every inch of Kimo Theatre is a marvel. There are no bad seats here. And the staff is repeatedly helpful, gracious and knowledgeable. Bravo to this monument to Route 66 and stage performance.

Only downside was limit women's restroom size. Should strongly look into increasing stalls in women's restroom. Men's side was fine. Otherwise, the old theater feel was a great experience.

The tour guide was super super disrespectful and was making fun and down gradding at the mentally disabled. What a historic place that was a s#it stain like that to ruin the whole place.

The seating was small and really close so you're practically sitting on top of your neighbor and the AC didn't work very well so it was hot enough to make me sweat just sitting there.

Beautiful Theater. Amazing sound. There really isn't a bad seat in the house. The theater alone, is a reason to go. Even better if there is a performance. Go early to take it all in.

It's awesome going to a place that had been around for a long time. The theater seems to be well kept, the people working there were every pleasant. We went to go see a movie there.

I very small and personal theatre. Two levels, each seat has a great view of the stage. A variety of shows frequent the small establishment. It's a nice place in the downtown area!

I'm a prep coach so when I am at the Kimo I'm there for a bodybuilding event. I love how the Kimo has that old fashioned touch to it. Glad that they have kept up with the facility.

The Kimo...best venue in the city for performances, movies, lectures. Delightful pre-show entertainment looking at the architecture. Excellent sound system; it even has a balcony!

Beautiful theater. There is a parking garage behind the theater and also a parking lot a block away. Staff is nice. A lot of security around the place. Very busy area on central.

Seconded time going to watch a show. Not a bad seat in the house. We watch A very star wars Christmas! It was funny and sweet! Please continue to put on wonderful show like this!

This is truly a classic and historic theater! The theater itself is a work of art and is must see in Albuquerque, but the venue also offers some excellent shows and concerts.

This is a wonderfully Southwest venue. I highly recommend going here for performances that interest you. It is an intimate excellent performance space with good acoustics.

Very beautiful theatre inside, attended a graduation here, and the interior is just absolutely gorgeous. Supposedly the theatre is haunted though so that's a bit spooky.

Went for the guided tour. Very interesting!! It was a fun stop for visiting places along Route 66 in Albuquerque. Thank you for being accommodating for wheelchairs!

Went to see Bear Grease Live! Enjoyed the show, good seating no matter where you sat. Theater clean, employees very helpful. The only thing was the bar was closed.

The Kimo theater is great it's very historic building it's got very interesting artwork and lots of really cool people come there so yeah it's a great venue

Always a wonderful experience. The Kimo has been a part of my life from the production Madame butterfly to the Albuquerque concert band always a good show.

Love the classic film series they run. Amazing Pueblo Deco architecture, should not be missed on a visit to Albuquerque. Docent led tours. Open most days.

An Albuquerque gem! The wood carvings in the theater were very cool with distinctive local flavor and presence. Check it out as opportunity arises. …

I went for the Southwest Comedy Fest. I love Dana Goldberg. Always a good lineup of comedians. The theatre is spectacular. Must see. They have tours.

Every seat in the house has a clear view of the stage, and parking was convenient nearby. Beautiful, historic décor around the theatre, as well.

Beautiful place! I contemplated subtracting one star due to no where to change a baby's diaper in the whole building but I like the Kimo anyway!

Lovely performance today of the NM young actors and Beauty and the Beast! The facility was clean , organized, well run and an artistic beauty!

This place appears to be a dump. My wife was too frightened to get out of car and go inside do to the street rifraf... we just left instead...

The seats are EXTREMELY uncomfortable and it's very cold inside. Historical and cool to see but adter 2.5 hours I was very sore and stiff.

A beautiful and ornate stage. Saw Welcome to Night Vale here. The seating is comfortable and the sound carries well. Possibly haunted

Excellent theater, however no elevator and you must climb many stairs, very hard for a disabled person. Otherwise wonderful!!!

This is a cute theatre. The building details are beautiful. Definitely worth a trip if they are playing something you like.

It's a beautiful venue. I had an easy time getting tickets to the show I wanted to see through the Hold My Tickets website.

On Sundays they have FREE guided tours. Learn about the origin, history, and haunted ghost stories of this iconic theatre.

Couldn't think of a better venue for a show. Especially music. The acoustics were outstanding and it's size is perfect.