See Movies in Style at These Top Theaters
Don't settle for the sticky-floored theaters with uncomfortable seats.
By Callie Little June 9, 2017
This article originally appeared in the June 2017 issue of Seattle magazine.
Cinephiles all over town are venturing into dark spaces to take part in this month’s annual binge-watching experience—the Seattle International Film Festival (through June 11)—and to see the first of the summer’s blockbusters. These days, they expect more than a creaky seat and stale popcorn, and luckily, some movie houses have upped their game. It’s been a tough week for beloved local movie theaters. But here’s where you can still find an elevated moviegoing experience.
Cinerama
Downtown, 2100 Fourth Ave.; 206.448.6680; cinerama.com. Average ticket price: $16
What it offers: Seattle-centric concession stand that includes goodies from Theo Chocolate and Seattle Cider, and signature chocolate popcorn; plush, reclining, reserved seats; laser projection; wheelchair seating and other accommodations that ensure accessibility.
Don’t miss: The tidy, gender-neutral bathroom located directly outside the screening room streams your film’s audio, so you don’t miss a minute.
Sundance Cinema
University District, 4500 Ninth Ave. NE; 206.633.0059; sundancecinemas.com. Average ticket price: $14.50
What it offers: Luxurious, leather-appointed lobby; A+ bar and concessions; cushy, roomy, reserved seating; 21-and-older audience only.
Don’t miss: “Orca Card” Mondays and “Girls’ Night Out” Tuesdays, when tickets are just $6.
Big Picture
Downtown, 2505 First Ave.; 206.256.0566; thebigpicture.net. Average ticket price: $12.75
What it offers: Lounge and bar for pre-movie enjoyment; seat-side cocktail delivery during the show; cheddar or truffle butter popcorn by the Champagne bucketful; 21-and-older audience only.
Don’t miss: The Bagels & Bloodys special on select Sundays: $18 for a movie ticket, bagel and cream cheese, and your choice of a Bloody Mary, mimosa or beer.
iPic Theaters
Redmond, 16541 NE 74th St.; 425.636.5601; ipictheaters.com. Average ticket price: $16
What it offers: Local, organic, made-to-order food alongside beer, wine, and cocktails.
Don’t miss: Seat-side table service available at the Premium Plus VIP ticket level, available with an $11-per-ticket surcharge.
AMC Factoria 8
Bellevue, 3505 Factoria Blvd. SE; 425.641.3461; amctheatres.com. Average ticket price: $11
What it offers: Premium power recliner seating; free and easy parking.
Don’t miss: Space-age soda machines for customizing endless flavor options.
Rose Theatre
Port Townsend, 235 Taylor St.; 360.385.1089; rosetheatre.com. Average ticket price: $10
What it offers: The Starlight Room, a unique venue with an eclectic selection of décor and seating (sofas, armchairs), cocktails and food (including gluten-free choices) for a 21-and-older crowd.
Don’t miss: The boat! The quickest way to Port Townsend is via the Edmonds/Kingston or the Seattle/Bainbridge ferry (depending on where you live in Seattle).
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