best movie theaters IN NY
Quad Cinema
34 W. 13th Street, New York, NY 10011
The Quad Cinema, a pioneer in multi-screen theaters since its 1972 debut, revolutionized moviegoing by offering four films simultaneously. This innovation allowed it to thrive while many competitors vanished or imitated its model. The newly renovated Quad honors its legacy by retaining its name, head projectionist, and community spirit. The theater now features luxurious, intimate screening rooms with unique designs, 4K projectors, and state-of-the-art sound. The lobby boasts a video wall and an extensive concession stand. The addition of the Quad Bar provides a perfect spot for cinephiles to discuss films over a drink.
Nighthawk Cinema
188 Prospect Park West, Brooklyn, NY
Nitehawk Cinema, established in 2018, is a premier dine-in theater offering first-run and repertory films with tableside food and beverage service. It enhances the cinematic experience with a specialty menu inspired by films, archival 35mm projection, and special guest Q&As. Weekend brunch and midnight screenings feature a variety of films, each preceded by a custom thirty-minute pre-show. The cinema houses seven screens, ranging from 48 to 194 seats, and includes an upstairs bar with handcrafted cocktails and local brews. Nitehawk also played a pivotal role in overturning a prohibition-era law, allowing alcohol service in theaters.
Landmark Spectrum 8
290 Delaware Avenue, Albany, NY 12209
Landmark Spectrum 8 offers a diverse range of curated content, including films, music, sports, gaming, live events, and streaming. Known for both historic and contemporary theaters, Landmark provides all the expected movie concessions, along with beer, wine, and spirits at many locations. They focus on state-of-the-art presentations and ensuring a safe environment. Each theater is a social hub, engaging with the local community and listening to guests. Acquired by Cohen Media Group in 2018, Landmark benefits from CMG’s expertise in theatrical exhibition, distribution, and production, with numerous Academy Award nominations and a win for Best Foreign Language Film.
Angelika Film Center
18 W. Houston St., New York, NY 10012
The Angelika Film Center has a rich history and distinctive interior, offering a unique moviegoing experience with a blend of classic and contemporary design elements. The theater features state-of-the-art projection and sound systems, ensuring top-notch presentations. Its interior includes comfortable seating and a stylish café, creating a welcoming atmosphere for cinephiles. The Angelika is celebrated for its diverse film programming, showcasing independent, foreign, and art-house films. This commitment to quality and variety has made it a beloved destination for movie enthusiasts, maintaining its charm and relevance over the years.
Alamo Drafthouse
28 Liberty Street, Suite SC301, New York, NY 10005
The Alamo Drafthouse Theater combines good food, good beer, and good films. Since 1997, it has aimed to provide the best cinematic experience. Passionate about film, the staff ensures that both obscure dramas and blockbuster hits receive attention. The Drafthouse Recommends program highlights innovative films, while classic cinema is celebrated through interactive events and themed menus. Guests enjoy meals, local beers, and cocktails delivered to their seats. The theater prioritizes exceptional picture and sound quality, investing in technology and training projectionists. Many locations feature 35mm and 70mm projectors, preserving the tradition of film presentation.
Film Forum
209 West Houston St. west of 6th Ave.
Film Forum, established in 1970, began as a modest space for independent films. Under Karen Cooper’s leadership from 1972, it expanded significantly, culminating in a major renovation in 2018 that added a fourth screen. In 2023, Sonya Chung succeeded Cooper as Director. Film Forum offers two main programs: premieres of American independents and foreign art films, and repertory selections of classics and retrospectives. Open year-round, it attracts 250,000 annual admissions and operates with a $6 million budget. As a non-profit, it relies on public and private funding, allowing it to support emerging filmmakers and challenging films.
IFC Center
323 6th Avenue, New York, NY 10014
The IFC Center, a premier destination for independent film enthusiasts, opened in June 2005 after renovating the historic Waverly theater. It boasts five state-of-the-art cinemas with luxurious seating, Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound, 3D capability, and both 4K and 2K digital and 35mm projection. The center hosts theatrical premieres of new independent, foreign, and documentary features, along with DOC NYC, America’s largest documentary festival. Other highlights include the monthly “Cruising the Movies” program, “Waverly Midnights” cult movies, National Theatre Live presentations, and the Posteritati Gallery showcasing vintage movie posters. Organic popcorn and unique film-themed merchandise are also available.
Rooftop Cinema Club
60 West 37th Street, New York, NY 10018
Rooftop Cinema Club, established in 2011, has grown from a single rooftop venue to multiple locations worldwide. Known for its unique open-air movie experience, it offers comfortable deckchairs, personal headsets, and stunning city skyline views. Moviegoers enjoy a curated selection of cult classics, new releases, and beloved films, all under the stars. The venue features a full bar and delicious snacks, enhancing the cinematic experience. With a mission to transform movie nights into unforgettable events, Rooftop Cinema Club combines the magic of film with the charm of rooftop settings, creating a nostalgic yet modern movie-going experience.
State Theater
100 Park Street, Tupper Lake, NY 12986
The State Theater, originally opened as The Palace in 1914, showcased silent films and vaudeville acts. Taken over by the Schine movie circuit in the mid-1930s, it was renovated and equipped with sound projectors. After closing in the 1970s, the theater was revived by the volunteer group “Project Pride,” reopening in 1982. Current owner Sally Strasser, who bought the theater in 2004, has continued renovations, including the 2013 installation of digital projectors and 3D capabilities. Known for preserving its old-fashioned charm, the State Theater offers a nostalgic movie-going experience with modern amenities and moderate prices.
The Movie House
48 Main St Millerton, NY 12546
The Moviehouse, a state-of-the-art independent cinema, features three high-tech digital screens and an intimate screening lounge for smaller audiences, private parties, and events. As a 501©(3) non-profit organization since 1978, it celebrates film and fosters community. The Moviehouse is inclusive, showcasing stories from around the world and uniting audiences through laughter, empathy, surprise, and spirited conversation. Whether enjoying a documentary, a cult classic, or a first-rate, first-run movie, there is always something to discover at The Moviehouse.