Img 9829 Scaled E1770174393855 Auburn — AMC Classic Auburn 14 in Auburn after closing its doors ( Katherine Yanes / Bama Buzz )

After nearly 30 years in Auburn, AMC Classic Auburn 14 has closed, marking the end of an era for many local moviegoers.

The 14-screen movie theater was located at 2111 East University Drive across from Auburn Mall. Visitors to the theater’s website are now being directed to the nearest AMC location in Opelika.

The Auburn theater first opened in 1999 as Carmike Wynnsong 16 and served the community under that name for nearly two decades. In 2017, the theater transitioned to AMC branding following the company’s acquisition of Carmike Cinemas.

Over the years, the location became a familiar spot for students, families and longtime Auburn residents, often serving as a go-to option for weekend outings and movie nights.

What’s next for the site

Img 9844 Scaled E1770176906298 Auburn — The AMC street sign outside AMC Classic Auburn 14 along East University Drive ( Katherine Yanes / Bama Buzz )

With the theater now closed, attention has shifted to the future of the large commercial space along East University Drive.

The nearly 73,000-square foot property has been listed for sale since summer 2024. According to the public listing, the site offers redevelopment potential, with options ranging from reuse of the existing structure to a complete redevelopment of the lot.

Its location near Auburn Mall places it within one of the city’s busiest retail corridors, surrounded by national retailers and restaurants.

While no official plans have been announced, the size and location of the former theater have prompted conversations about what could come next.

Community discussion follows closure

Img 9841 Scaled E1770176931640 Auburn — The interior of AMC Classic Auburn 14 is seen through the doorway after the theater closed to the public ( Katherine Yanes / Bama Buzz )

Following the closure, Auburn residents began sharing ideas online about possible future uses for the site.

In the What’s Happening in Auburn and Opelika Facebook group, many commenters discussed the idea of an ice rink, pointing to the lack of a local facility in the area. Some noted that Auburn’s men’s and women’s hockey teams and figure skating programs currently travel out of town for practices and events, making a closer option appealing for both athletes and the broader community.

Other commenters suggested alternative uses, including a roller skating rink, a renovated movie theater with upgraded seating and amenities or other community focused spaces.

Some also raised questions about traffic, infrastructure and whether the former theater location would be the best fit for a large recreational facility.

A familiar place for moviegoers

Img 9835 Scaled E1770175736540 Auburn — A sign posted on the door of AMC Classic Auburn 14 directs moviegoers to nearby locations following the theater’s closure ( Katherine Yanes / Bama Buzz )

The theater was closed to the public this week with signage posted on the doors redirecting moviegoers to nearby locations.

For many in Auburn, the closure represents more than just the loss of a theater. The location served as a backdrop for first dates, group outings, late night premieres and quiet weekday matinees throughout the years. For college students in particular, the theater was often a familiar and convenient option during their time in Auburn.

What comes next for the former AMC site remains to be seen. For now, the darkened theater stands as a reminder of a longtime local fixture and the memories made there over the years.