Regal Cinemas runs most of the first-run movie theaters in the Portland area, but there are also many wonderful independent movie theaters with great perks like reduced admission costs, tasty food, and the option of drinking beer, wine, or even cocktails while you take in a flick.
Show your support for Portland’s alternative movie houses.
1. Laurelhurst Theater
This historic theater has been a Portland Landmark since 1923. Four screens play second-run movies and classics, too. Parking can be a challenge, but if you get there early, you may score a spot in the theater’s adjacent lot. Microbrews, wine, and Pizzicato pizza are available—all at reasonable prices.
Location
2735 E. Burnside, Portland
(503) 232-5511
Admission
$3
Know before you go
21+ for shows starting after 3 pm. Those under 21 may attend movies before 3pm on weekends.
2. McMenamins
Usually in historic buildings, the McMenamins theaters are widely known for serving pub grub and their own micro-brewed beers.
Locations
Bagdad
3702 SE Hawthorne Blvd
Mission
1624 NW Glisan
Kennedy School
5736 NE 33rd Ave
St. John’s Theater and Pub
8203 N. Ivanhoe
Admission
$3
Know before you go
All shows are 21+. Minors are allowed at the first nightly show and the weekend matinee when accompanied by a parent.
3. Cinema 21
Portland’s artsy theater, Cinema 21 is frequently host to independent movies before they hit other theaters in town. It’s also where you’ll find the Annual Gay and Lesbian Film Festival.
Location
616 NW 21st Ave., Portland
(503) 223-4515
Admission
General $7, $6 before 6pm
Students $6, $5 before 6pm
Seniors & children, $4
Know before you go
Parking can be ugly in this part of town, especially on weekends. Give yourself plenty of time to find a spot and be prepared to walk a few blocks.
4. Academy Theater
Enjoy second-run movies on three screens. Plus, the Academy offers inexpensive babysitting! Refreshments include Flying Pie Pizza, salads, sandwiches, hot dogs, ice cream, beer, and wine.
Location
7818 SE Stark Street, Portland
(503) 252-0500
Admission
$3
$2 for seniors
$1 for kids under 12
Know before you go
Babysitting is available starting with the 4pm show and ending after the 7pm shows, plus during weekend matinees.
5. Hollywood Theater
The Oregon Film and Video foundation runs the Hollywood Theater as part of its nonprofit work. The theater favors classic movies, second-run features, and foreign films.
Admission
$6 for adults
$4 for seniors 65+ and children 4-12
Monday night all shows are just $4
Know before you go
Discount cards are available for $40, good for ten admissions. They have no expiration and are transferable.
