It’s time to go to the movies and enjoy all the latest new movie releases out now in theaters! This week, we’re focusing on Washington DC movie theaters.
In a city as big and bountiful as Washington DC, there are so many local movie theaters near you to choose from that it can be hard to know where to start. Just searching “movie theaters near me” is overwhelming AF––what’s the difference between one theater and another? Is it worth the trek across town to go to one local movie theater with reclining seats versus the one around the corner? Do I want to ball out and get drinks served at my seat, or keep it chill at an independent movie theater with drinks and unique food offerings? With several movie theaters within the Washington DC area, it’s no wonder you don’t know where to start!
Don’t worry, we’re here to help make your decision easier. We’ve narrowed it down to 10 of our favorite local movie theaters in Washington DC to help you make the most of your Washington DC movie theater experience.
Grab some movie theater popcorn and get comfy as we dive into our movie theater guide!
Not in Washington DC? Check out all of our other local movie theater guides here. Want one for your city? Let us know on Twitter.
Washington DC Movie Theaters: AMC Loews Georgetown 14
AMC Theaters have come a long way from the days of 35mm projectors and the old traditional concession items. Also, with the passing of time comes the emergence of new technologies. There’s digital projectors, doing away with the old reel to reel, and reel to platter projectors. Now nearly all theaters are using digital projectors making the breaking down of prints a thing of the past. But that isn’t all that’s changed. Now theaters are upgrading their seats from seats that fold, to seats that recline, and this AMC is no different. They now have plush signature recliners that make relaxing while watching your favorite film the most luxurious experience possible.
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With seating out of the way, let’s move our focus to the foods you’ll want to enjoy upon your next visit. The AMC Georgetown 14 not only has your classic favorites such as popcorn and nachos, but they began including things like pizza, fries, and burgers. As if those were enticing enough to get you back to the cinema, we;d be remiss if we failed to mention the oh-so popular MacGuffin’s Bar. Here you’ll be able to purchase many of your favorite spirits and beer. Plus, you can take with you to your auditorium. So, best to arrive early, grab your grub and head on in. You don’t want to miss the coming attractions.
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Location is key to making your theater going experience a memorable one. The AMC Georgetown 14 has that on lock. In the heart of Georgetown, near many various shops and hotels, including the Ritz Carlton Georgetown. This theater features plenty of parking underground, as there is limited parking on the street, again, this is Georgetown. Theater patrons can enjoy validated parking (2 hour minimum) whenever they visit. However, the the cost of parking is $10 if not validated. The AMC Georgetown also features many of the same things as many other theaters. This includes assisted listening devices, sensory friendly films, and mobile ticketing for those in a rush.
We love this Google reviewer’s thoughts: “I used the online option to purchase my ticket, as well as popcorn and a drink. That made it very easy to move through and pick up my snacks. The theater recliners are plush with options for a foot rest. Watching our movie was great!”
AMC Georgetown 14
3111 K St NW
Washington, DC 20007
Washington DC Movie Theaters: AMC Courthouse Plaza 8
If quaint and cozy is what you are looking for when you go to the movies, then you’ve come to the right theater. While the AMC Courthouse Plaza 8 doesn’t have all of the IMAX screen that seems to be all the rage these days, they do have are the luxury recliners, mobile ordering and digital projection for the best movie going experience. The AMC Courthouse 8 offers discounts for students, seniors, and military, as well as discounts on matinees and Tuesdays.
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Location, location, location…If it’s the best location possible then look no further than the AMC Courthouse Plaza 8. Surrounded by everything from restaurants, to apartment complexes and hotels, the AMC Courthouse Plaza 8 is within walking distance to all of them. Guests visiting Washington DC on vacation, or for business will be able to unwind after a long day by heading over to the AMC Courthouse Plaza. Take in a show in one of there 8 air conditioned theaters. The perfect way to end your day!
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There are various different reasons why we may all decide to go to the movies, from a relaxing day with friends and family, to a date night with your partner, there is something for everyone. Aside from the movie and the atmosphere, one of the biggest reasons for going to the cinema is for the food. While not a 5-star meal by any means, you will find everything from popcorn, nachos and hot dogs, to the newest offerings like flatbread pizzas, chicken tenders, and pretzel nuggets. So, grab your kids, your partner, or your friends and head on down to the AMC Courthouse Plaza 8 today, you’ll be glad you did!
This Google reviewer’s comments are outstanding: “I saw a 3D movie here and the experience was great. The screen size and volume were good. The chairs were the most comfortable and lounge as far back as possible. There is lots of space in between the rows so it’s easy to get up during long movies without bothering anyone.”
AMC Courthouse Plaza 8
2150 Clarendon Blvd
Arlington, VA 22201
Washington DC Movie Theaters: AMC Shirlington 7
Located in the heart of Arlington, VA, the AMC Shirlington 7 is surrounded by green space, apartment homes and restaurants galore. The theater is within walking distance of not one, but three parking garages giving you ample space to park, especially when street parking isn’t an option. The AMC Shirlington 7 is also located just off of interstate 395, making it for date nights, as it is easily accessible from virtually anywhere in Washington DC.
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AMC Shirlington 7 offers many of the same amenities as other theaters, with one of the biggest draws being the MacGuffins Bar. Where the AMC Courthouse Plaza 8 was perfect for family date nights, the adults can head on over to the MacGuffins Bar and grab their favorite spirit, or any one of the movie themed specialty drinks on offer when you visit. You’ll be able to also choose from a selection of foods that you can bring with you into the auditorium to enjoy while kicking back and relaxing for the next couple of hours.
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The AMC Shirlington 7 boosts the latest in theater technology and comfort, with the AMC Signature Recliners, AMC Artisan Films (giving people a wider range of films to choose from), and Feature Fare (a wider selection at the concession stand), to all of the normal discounts, mobile ticketing, free WiFi for all AMC Stubs members, and of course private theater rentals. When you really want to show off to your family, friends, and coworkers, the private rentals come in clutch. When you come to the AMC Shirlington 7 you’re home, and as we all know, there’s no place like home!
You have got to see this Google Review: “Great local movie theater with incredibly comfortable reclining seats. Conveniently located across the street from a wide range of bars and restaurants. The bar staff at the theater cannot be beat. They are quick, friendly, and professional. Grab a beer and see a movie. It’s time.”
AMC Shirlington 7
2772 S Randolph St
Arlington, VA 22206
Washington DC Movie Theaters: Regal Gallery Place
If being in the center of it all is what you want most, then you need to head on over to the Regal Gallery Place. Located right down the road from the pillars of Washington DC that everyone goes there for, The White House, The Washington Monument, The Lincoln Memorial, and The Smithsonian. The Regal Gallery Place is the perfect way to end your long day of sightseeing. From the air conditioned theaters, to the restaurants in the surrounding area, the only hard decision you’ll need to make, aside from which movie to see, is where to go for an after movie drink.
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Prepare to immerse yourself in the action the next time you go to the Regal Gallery Place. Regal Gallery Place offers some of the best theater technology, with 3D (still kicking it) and the biggest innovation to date, 4DX, where you will quite literally feel the action. Where other theaters and companies tried to incorporate this technology in the form of D-Box, 4DX takes it to the next level. Seats will move up, down, side to side, front to back, and not just vibrate. Many of the latest films are utilizing this technology and it appears to be here for the long haul.
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Never one to shy away from being different, Regal Gallery Place not only shows the latest in blockbuster films, but they also offer a wide range of kids films, art house pictures, and foreign language films. Aside from the art house and foreign language films, Regal also shows classic films, as well as focusing on their partnership with the Met Op by showing several of their shows throughout the year. So, the next time you find yourself in Washington DC, head on down to the Regal Gallery Place and catch up on your favorite films, both old and new.
We love this Google Reviewer’s review: “First time in Washington and in between museums we caught 2 movies here. Wonderful, friendly, professional staff. We enjoyed both our visits. One of the best parts of our trip. I highly recommend it to families visiting Washington. Kick back and relax with cool AC and delicious snacks!”
Regal Gallery Place
701 7th St NW
Washington, DC 20001
Washington DC Movie Theaters: Arlington, Regal Ballston Quarter
They say location is everything, so when your business is located inside of a shopping mall then you must be on cloud nine. A shopping mall location means that you could make a day of your movie theater outing. You can head down to the Ballston Shopping Mall with your kids right before school starts and get the kids their last minute school clothes and then hit up the Regal Ballston Quarter to catch the summer’s biggest blockbuster movie, the perfect way to end the summer.
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While the Regal Ballston Quarter is the perfect place to take the family on the weekend, it is also known for playing some of the more obscure titles like those from the Metropolitan Opera, and foreign language films that will include subtitles. The Regal Ballston Quarter doesn’t have the latest in technologies like 4DX, RPX, or ScreenX, but it makes for the perfect place to head on a cold winter’s day.
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For those looking for a theater to go to when they need a quick and easy date. Between the food court at the mall, and the restaurants in the surrounding area, there is never a shortage of food options. However, if you don’t feel like leaving, or eating after the show, you can pick up many of your favorite food options at the concession stand. With options like pizza, fries, nuggets (chicken and pretzel), and hot dogs, you are never at a loss for options. So, whether you are visiting Washington DC, or a longtime local, head on down to the Regal Ballston Quarter theater in the Ballston Shopping Mall and let us know what movie you saw.
Read this Google review and we’re sure you’ll agree: “This is a great place to watch a movie. The seats recline, you have a tray to sit your food and drinks on. Great sound system. Love this theater.”
Arlington, Regal Ballston Quarter
671 N Glebe Rd
Arlington, VA 22203
Washington DC Movie Theaters: Alamo Drafthouse Crystal City
Founded in 1997 Austin, Tx by Tim and Karrie League, the Alamo Drafthouse is a cinema lover’s dream come true. Specializing in dinner, beer, and movies, when you go to Alamo Drafthouse Cinema you’ll be left wondering why all theaters haven’t adopted their philosophy when it comes to theater etiquette. Anytime you enter any Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, you’ll immediately feel at home. From the warm atmosphere of the particular location, they really try to incorporate it with the local aesthetic, to the strict no talking policy, you’re sure to have an experience that you won’t soon forget. So, is that really all that makes the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema special? Well, the short answer is no.
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Unlike your traditional theaters, instead of just a concession stand, you place an order from your seat by looking at a full menu. Write down your order and then placing it like a flag at the front of your table. Then, your assigned waiter will arrive to collect it, get your order placed and bring you your food before you can even “Great Scott!” At the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, your satisfaction is their number one concern.
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The placement of the Alamo Drafthouse Crystal City was no mistake. Its location right on Crystal Drive puts it right in front of plenty of outdoor activities, from an afternoon lounge in the Crystal City Water Park (not that kind of water park) with plenty of fountains to sit near and mellow out to the sound of flowing water, to the Mt. Vernon Trail, where you can go for a stroll and walk off some of the food you ate while at the cinema. The Alamo Drafthouse Crystal City plays not only first run films, but also classics, so whatever your mood, when you attend the Alamo Drafthouse Crystal City you’re sure to have a blast.
This Google Reviewer says it best: “I’m so happy that there’s an Alamo in Crystal City now! Went today and the place is really beautiful. Our server Brandy was super nice and very attentive. Welcome, Alamo!!!”
Alamo Drafthouse Crystal City
1660 Crystal Dr
Arlington, VA 22202
Washington DC Movie Theaters: Alamo Drafthouse Cinema DC Bryant Street
The first of the two Alamo Drafthouses to open in Washington DC, the Bryant Street location has got it all when it comes to location. While the Crystal City locale sits in front of the Crystal City Water Park with their fountains and Mt. Vernon Trail, Bryant Street is on a whole other level. Located near the Edgewood Park makes this the perfect theater to take a date, as you can walk around the park and lake either before or after the show as a way to relax and unwind.
Street Reporter will be shown at the DC Shorts International Film Festival’s The Gamblers Showcase on Fri., Sept. 9, at 1:00 PM at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema – DC Bryant Street NE. If you go, let us know what you thought about the film or films! https://t.co/HX9o0y4ljH pic.twitter.com/4Jx01JslkL
— Street Sense Media (@streetsensedc) September 5, 2022
However, while being close to a park is outstanding, what could be even better is being near a few bars where you can end your date with a little nightcap. While one of its biggest draws is the food and drink during the show, sometimes you just want to enjoy a drink in a social atmosphere where you can talk and get to know your date, or just find out how your partner’s day went. With the strict no talking rule ( one we completely stand behind, by the way) trying to get to know someone at the movies is one of the worst experiences. So, having that special place to go to afterwards that’s public and makes everyone feel comfortable is fantastic.
When you attend an Alamo Drafthouse Cinema you are attending a place where cinephiles thrive. As a cinephile myself, knowing that there is a place I can go and watch not only the current blockbusters, but also the classics that I grew up watching in my youth is one of the most important aspects of going to the movies. The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema DC Bryant Street was built by Tim and Kerrie League to cater to those who are like themselves, and what better place than in the heart of Washington DC. When you come out to the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema DC Bryant Street, you’re coming home. Enjoy!
You have to read this Google review to fully understand: “Feels good to finally be in an Alamo here in DC proper. Speedy service, tasty food/drinks, and best of all… a cinema experience done right! No talking, no texting, no cell phones. Just the movie, a cold beer, and my feet up 🍿🎬🎟️!”
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema DC Bryant Street
630 Rhode Island Ave NE
Washington, DC 20002
Washington DC Movie Theaters: Landmark E Street Cinema
Located on the corner of 11th St. and E. St. in the heart of Washington DC. The Landmark E Street Cinema was built in 2004 and features 8 state-of-the-art cinemas. While many theaters focus on first run blockbusters, the Landmark E Street Cinema specializes in first run independent, foreign language, and art house films. These films seldom find a home in the mainstream cinemas, so having theaters like the Landmark E Street Cinema make it possible for these films to find their audience.
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The Landmark E Street Cinema features many of the same amenities as other theaters with one exception, the concessions. The Landmark E Street Cinema upscale concessions, including an espresso bar, which as we all know, comes in clutch when you need that evening caffeine fix. They also feature discounted parking in their garage for up to three hours, as long as you get your parking ticket validated.This reduced rate is only good Monday thru Friday after 5pm, and anytime on the weekends.
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As a newer theater on this list, it’s important to note that the Landmark E Street Cinema also features high end audio and visuals. There’s 2K and 4K digital projections and Dolby Digital audio in all auditoriums. Also, the two biggest auditoriums offer clear sight-lines from every seat in the house, giving the customer the ultimate theater going experience. The theater is located close to the Metro Central Station and is easily accessible from all six metro lines, thus making the Landmark E Street Cinema the go to theater in this district.
We adore this Google Reviewers thoughts: “Saw a double feature here on National Cinema Day. I love the variety of films and special events that this theater hosts. Great refreshments and helpful staff too!”
Landmark E Street Cinema
555 11th St NW
Washington, DC 20004
Washington DC Movie Theaters: Miracle Theater
In the past if you wanted to watch your favorite movie but couldn’t afford the cost of a ticket, you could always wait to watch it when it hit the second-run cinemas. Growing up in a low income family, this was often the way we went to the movies. Overtime, these theaters have quickly been dying out. So, when we discovered the Miracle Theater, you can imagine how ecstatic we became. While second-run films are a great option for those with little money, they are also amazing for date nights. You can experience the joys of the movies once more at a discounted price.
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The location of the Miracle Theater is pretty ideal, right on Capitol Hill in the historic Barracks Row neighborhood. When the theater opened in 1909, it was used as a vaudeville theater. You could go to watch motion pictures and live shows. Today, the theater operates much the same way, with live performances on occasion, but mainly focuses on second-run films. The Miracle Theater has the distinction of being the oldest theater in Washington DC. It is a must visit when you are in the DC area, either as a visitor or a newly implanted local.
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If food is what you desire most in a theater’s location, then you are sure to enjoy the location of the Miracle Theater. The theater is surrounded by plenty of restaurants. It ranges from family friendly and ethnic, casual and specialty restaurants where you can eat before taking in a feature. Theater does feature your traditional concession fare. However, being able to hit up a nice restaurant before your date could help you make a great first impression. So, the next time you find yourself on Capitol Hill with nothing to do, head on over to the Miracle Theater. Enjoy a fantastic night out on the town and take in the history. You’ll be glad you did!
Can you believe this Google reviewer? “I went to the best show of my life here. The acoustics were incredible and the theater was perfectly intimate. The staff were all so warm and had great energy as soon as I walked through the door! Coming to the Miracle Theater will truly be one of my favorite nights ever.”
Miracle Theater
535 8th St SE
Washington, DC 20003
Washington DC Movie Theaters: The Avalon Theater
One of the oldest movie houses in Washington DC, The Avalon Theater is located in NW Washington DC right near the border of DC and Maryland. Built in 1923, The Avalon Theater was a cornerstone of the community right up until it closed in 2001. However, right after its abrupt closing, a community group formed in an effort to save the theater. Through their campaigning, the theater was eventually saved. In 2003, it reopened to the public after an extensive restoration to bring it back to its original 1923 glory.
The history of The Avalon Theater is an interesting one. The theater was originally called the Chevy Chase Theater. They focused all of their attention on the silent films of the era. However, it wasn’t just films that were shown at the theater. They also played home to the Chevy Chase School of Music, as well as a ballet studio. Later, when the theater was wired for sound it became the go to theater once again. Over the years the theater would undergo numerous ownership changes and renovations. This would bring it to the glorious theater we see standing today.
In celebration of Women’s History Month, DC Public High School students had an opportunity to attend a special screening of “Kindred Spirits” at the Avalon Theatre in Washington, D.C. #WomensHistoryMonth #womenartists #blackartists pic.twitter.com/9GrAw7GwHf
— Kindred Spirits (@KinSpiritsFilm) March 13, 2020
The Avalon Theater, while still a movie theater, has all of the traditional concession stand items. They also have their very own cafe. Customers can enjoy a nice pastry and coffee either before or after their show. Also, with film festivals all the rage, The Avalon Theater plays host annually to film festivals, special events, and independent films, foreign films and commercial film projects. The Avalon Theater will continue to grow in the coming years, so if you are in the Washington DC area, no matter the area, head on over to The Avalon Theater if you want a history lesson in what a historic theater looked and operated like back in the 1920s.
We truly love this Google review: “The only non profit theater in DC shows blockbuster movies and artistic, dedicated films. Beautiful classic interior reminds you that you are visiting the theater, not just the movies. Avalon serves snacks, beverages (soda, apple cider, beer, wine, juices), and in my opinion the best popcorn”
The Avalon Theater
5612 Connecticut Ave NW
Washington, DC 20015
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We hope this rundown of some of our favorite Washington DC movie theaters inspires you to go out and see all of the latest new movies out now in theaters.
View all of our local movie theater guides here.
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