Although Houston isn’t necessarily known as a movie town, Houston does indeed have a rich historical movie history. With some of the most beloved movies filmed in Houston – in this writer’s opinion – that history has expanded into a wonderful cinematic seen manifested in Houston movie theaters located across the city.
Whether you’re wanting to watch the next A24 mind-bender, Marvel blockbuster, or instant Pixar classic with the kiddos, check out our list of the best cinemas in Houston.
1. River Oaks Theatre
Established in 1939, the River Oaks Theatre was a beloved destination for movie enthusiasts, thanks to its timeless art-deco architecture and carefully curated film selection that earned the admiration of both the local community and cinephiles.
Despite facing economic challenges brought on by the pandemic, the theater was forced to close its doors four years ago. However, in 2022, Star Cinema Grill stepped in and acquired the theater, intending to preserve its legacy.
While initially slated for reopening the previous year, organizers now anticipate welcoming the public back to the River Oaks Theatre in 2024.
2. Reel Luxury Cinema
Situated at 9595 Six Pines Drive Suite 8200, Reel Luxury Cinema offers an upscale cinematic experience featuring five screens, state-of-the-art laser-projection technology, and advanced Dolby sound systems.
Additionally, patrons can enjoy maximum comfort with the theater’s luxurious recliners, which include “ultra-lux front row love seat style chaise lounges,” along with amenities like blankets, privacy pods, and heated seats.
3. Moonstruck Drive-In
Moonstruck Drive-In, a permanent outdoor cinema in Houston, provides an exceptional movie experience for enthusiasts, combining nostalgic charm with contemporary technology.
With its expansive screen and breathtaking skyline views, this drive-in theater is unbeatable, especially during the captivating pre-movie sunset. The venue includes a bar, an on-site concession stand, and a variety of food trucks on rotation.
4. Rooftop Cinema Club
Situated atop the Whole Foods in BLVD Place in Uptown, Rooftop Cinema Club stands as an open-air theater that fosters a concept known as “social cinema.” This unique setting allows audience members to move around and engage with the surroundings while the movie unfolds.
In recent years, this cinema has offered an unparalleled viewing experience in Houston, showcasing a diverse range of films, including the latest blockbusters, cult classics, sing-alongs, and more.
5. iPic Theater
iPic Theater is an immersive luxury entertainment experience that merges cutting-edge technology with lavish ameninities. The theater features a chef-driven restaurant menus, with carefully crafted and seasonally inspired dishes.
Alternatively, patrons can visit the bar and lounge before the screening to engage in lively conversation with friends about the movie over crafted cocktails from a skilled mixologist.
6. Regal Cinema
As part of the second largest theater circuit in the states, Regal Cinemas is American cinematic institution. Emulating a ‘regal’ ambiance with state-of-the-art facilities, including an iMax experience, Regal Cinemas regularly screens a diverse range of films, from blockbuster hits to independent gems in an immersive and enjoyable movie-watching experience.
Regal Cinemas boasts cutting-edge technology, including high-quality sound systems and crystal-clear projection. The theaters cater to the preferences of diverse moviegoers, providing a comfortable and visually stunning environment.
7. AMC Theaters
You gotta respect the classics. AMC is a national mainstay for a reason. Established in 1920, AMC grown become one of the largest and most recognizable cinema chains globally. AMC provides an immersive and cutting-edge movie-watching experience, offering a wide range of films, from Hollywood blockbusters to independent and foreign films. Plus, you can get a special Yellow Ticket deal to get discounted access to all the excellent new films!
8. Showboat Drive-In
Situated on the site that once served as a horse pasture, Showboat Drive In pays homage to the past. Chris Rumfolo, the owner, chose the name for this drive-in theater as a tribute to her grandfather’s establishment, a drive-in restaurant that operated in the 1950s in Houston.
This two-screen, open-air cinema showcases a diverse selection of films, ranging from family-friendly options to horror movies and the latest blockbusters.
In terms of concessions, the theater offers a snack bar stocked with traditional movie treats. Additionally, it boasts a complete kitchen for those moments when nostalgia strikes and you crave a burger or hotdog.
9. Alamo Drafthouse
The Texas-founded cinema chain is one of the most near-and-dear to this writer’s heart. Located in Katy, Alamo Drafthouse is a gastropub-flavored cinema with a chef-driven kitchen, full bar, and state-of-the-art screens.
In addition to the latest hit movies, Alamo regularly screens cinema favorites, cult-classics and the best of arthouse, as well as hosts movie parties, quote-alongs, graveyard shift screenings, and other fun film-themed events for movie-lovers.
10. MFAH Brown Auditorium Theater
Housed inside the Law Building of the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, Brown Auditorium Theater is the oldest repertory theaters in Houston. It’s a go-to for cinephiles as the theater screens arthouse golds, foreign films, and cult classics.