Community October 22, 2024

Unique Movie Theaters in Our Area

Many interesting movie theaters in our area have a long, rich history and offer a variety of movies for patrons to enjoy. Whether you want to watch a newly released blockbuster, take in an independent film, or attend a special event, here are some great places to check out.

Firehouse Theater in Kingston, WA

This business earned its name because it is located in a historic firehouse in downtown Kingston. It specializes in first-run, independent, foreign language, documentary, and classic films. With only two screens, it is an intimate venue with many movie conveniences such as concessions, real butter popcorn, beer, wine, and seltzer. Check out their website to see what’s playing.

Special screenings include $7 tickets on Wednesdays, open-caption screenings on Monday afternoons, and Inside the Art House viewings. Inside the Art House is a new video podcast that discusses the insider’s perspective of filmmaking, hosted by Greg Laemmle and Raphael Sbarge.

Drive-in Theaters in Port Townsend and Bremerton

If you’re looking for a fun flashback, consider going to these drive-in movie theaters. Port Townsend’s Wheel-In Motor Movie has been open since 1952. It invites guests to come watch the stars under the stars. Guests listen to the movie through an FM radio station, so make sure yours is in good working order. They also offer a concession stand. Check out their Facebook page and website for current and upcoming showings.

The Rodeo Drive-In Theater in Bremerton is another blast from the past. Established in 1949, it is the largest drive-in theater in the Pacific Northwest with three screens. Each screening includes two first-run features. It’s a great way to watch those newly released blockbusters. Guests can also grab a bite to eat at their concessions stand or take advantage of online ordering for pick-up at a specific time. Check out their website and Facebook page for current showings.

Anderson School Theater in Bothell

If you want to travel a bit (or even make a weekend of it), consider the Anderson School Theater in Bothell. Hop on the ferry from Kingston to Edmonds, and take a short drive to the McMenamins at Anderson School. This McMenamins location offers not only a theater but also a hotel, restaurants, and even a pool.

The theater has an old-world charm. You can order pizza, burgers, drinks, and beer from their brewery, which can all be delivered to your seats in the theater. If you need any hearing or visual accommodations during the show, let a theater employee know. They have closed caption devices and two unique headphone sets. One set amplifies the volume of the dialogue in the movie. Another headphone set describes the scenery and action to those with visual impairments.

Admiral Theater in Bremerton

The Admiral Theater in Bremerton hosts a mix of live theater and movie showings. Their live entertainment includes a wide variety of musical and comedic acts. However, their movie screenings often feature nostalgic films from the past that align with the season for only $5 a ticket. Check out their 2024-25 season brochure for a full list of performances and movie showings at this unique venue.

Roxy Theatre in Bremerton

The Roxy Theatre in Bremerton is the only nonprofit arthouse cinema in Kitsap County. At the Roxy, you can enjoy a mix of movies and live events, including live music. It first opened in 1941, and legends like Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby performed there. After falling into disrepair in the 1980s, it has since been revitalized by the Roxy Bremerton Nonprofit Foundation. Now, it plays movies every day and even caught the eye of the Seattle Times, which recognized its rich history and current offerings.

Blue Mouse Theater in Tacoma

The Blue Mouse Theater in Tacoma’s Proctor District opened in 1923. Over 100 years old, it is the oldest continuously operating theater in Washington state. It has a fascinating history and now aspires to be a community space. In addition to movie showings, it is also available for rent for events, performances, and private parties.

The theater shows first and second-run movies. In addition, it hosts monthly film events. For example, Anime Theater happens on the first Friday of the month. If you’re really into scary movies, Friday Night Frights is a long-standing tradition at the theater. It shows a horror film every 3rd Friday of the month beginning at 10:00 PM. The theater also has your standard concession items for sale, along with beer and wine.

Port Gamble Theater in Port Gamble (Coming Soon)

Port Gamble Theater is also looking to offer a mix of live theater and cinema. In August of 2024, they announced on Facebook that they are working on bringing cinema back to this historic theater. After hosting the Port Townsend Film Festival, they declared they are fundraising for capital improvements to bring this vision to life. Donations can be made here.

 

We’re fortunate to have many great entertainment options to relive cinematic history, enjoy a current hit, or experience a unique night out. If you want to explore our area further, check out our Guide to Kitsap.