Jordan Commons and Megaplex 17 at Jordan Commons050

Megaplex 17 at Jordan Commons offers a movie experience like no other. The large complex built by Larry H. Miller (owner of the Utah Jazz) houses a food court, stadium seating movie theaters, the Cricket IMAX Theatre, and an arcade. The food court is designed to make you feel like you are outside on a busy street in downtown Salt Lake City. Over 10 restaurants offer items such as pizza, Mexican fare, fudge, pretzels, and ice cream - all to be enjoyed either in the food court or in the movie theater. If the food court doesn't appeal, there are several restaurants (located in the center of the parking areas) to choose from: Spaghetti Mama's, for pasta fans; The Mayan Adventure for Mexican dishes; Matilda's, if Australian food is more your taste; Ruby River Steakhouse; and Joe's Crab Shack for seafood. The Megaplex 17 movie theaters offer stadium seating and guarantee a good seat for everyone. Prices are $5.50 for children and seniors and $8 for adults for evening shows. Matinees (shows starting before 6pm) cost $5.50. Prices are a little higher for the IMAX movies. If you come early (as you must on weekends; lines form for the most popular releases), you'll find entertainment in the form of two giant video screens displaying sports, news, and previews of upcoming movies. For movies and showtimes, visit www.megaplextheatres.com. Mondays are Movies for Moms day at the theatre where parents can take in a matinee with the kids in a child-friendly atmosphere (dimmed lighting, quieter sound levels, concession food specials, kids under five admitted free, and valet stroller parking). Check the website for movies and times (typically it's the first movie showing of the day, around 11am). Kids are predictably drawn to the arcade, where games range from the traditional Ms. Pac-Man to the most recent Star Wars Racer. Most popular are the simulators, which include Eighteen Wheeler, in which kids (big and small) race one big rig against another, and Max Flight, a virtual roller coaster with your choice of track. Birthday party packages offered at Jordan Commons include a movie ticket, reserved seating in the theater, welcome announcement with the Happy Birthday Song, candy, small drink, and popcorn for the show. Prices are $11.95/child for ages three to 11. For kids ages 12 and older the cost is $14.95/person for a matinee or $16.95/person for an evening show. Items can be added on such as arcade tokens, pizza, and ice cream cake for about $2.75 each per person. Accompanying adults are admitted for $14.95 each for a matinee or $16.95 each in the evening; prices include a small drink and a small popcorn. Call 801.304.4550 for more information or to make a reservation.