There are over 20 movie theaters between Boston, Cambridge, Somerville, Braintree, and neighboring towns. With many of them playing the same new releases, it can be difficult to decipher which will offer up the most pleasurable experience. We’ve narrowed them down to our top Boston movie theaters, based on seat comfort, proximity and accessibility, snack options, and viewing experience!
Lights, camera, action!
1. Alamo Drafthouse, Seaport
The new cinema opened its first New England location in Seaport. Known for die-hard movie fans, the upscale cinema also has a no cell phone and no talking rule that is strictly enforced. If you’re caught so much as chatting, you’ll be asked to leave. The Texas-born chain offers delicious award-winning cuisine and an addicting truffle, herb, parmesan popcorn! They also host special fun “dress up” movie watch party screenings encouraging guests to wear an outfit that reflects the era of the film they’re watching all while reclining in the theater’s heated seats!
2. Coolidge Corner Theatre, Brookline
Built as a church in 1906 and renovated into an Art Deco cinema, the Coolidge Corner Theatre has kept its old-school charm for nearly 100 years. The tiny theatre boasts a main viewing room for new releases in addition to more intimate 16-count rooms that feel more like a family viewing experience.
The Coolidge Corner Theatre is always throwing it back, highlighting 35mm films in addition to old re-runs and classic movie marathons.
3. AMC, multiple locations
The classic movie theater chain has locations all over the city. You can reserve your seat in advance, and they’re always super comfortable. This is the spot to catch the latest new releases. You can also “dine-in” and enjoy food service to your seats without disturbing your neighbors. Find your local AMC at one of these locations:
- Boston Common, Boston
- Causeway 13, North Station
- Assembly Row, Somerville
- South Bay Center, Dorchester
- Braintree
4. Landmark Kendall Square Cinema
If you can’t decide whether you want a modern viewing experience like the AMC or a retro vibe like Coolidge Corner, the Landmark is a happy medium. The digital cinema shows new releases, but it is also known for its wide assortment of hard-to-find indie and foreign films.
5. Brattle Theatre, Harvard Square
The Harvard Square mainstay is the home of many film festivals and special screenings. With just one room and 225 seats, decision making comes easy at this Cambridge movie theater.
6. Somerville Theatre, Davis Square
The majestic 1914 cinema offers five screening rooms with a gilded balconied theatre that feels more like a visit to the opera house. The theater leans into its historic origins often playing vintage formats, 70mm film, in addition to the latest modern movies. The theatre also hosts stand-up comedy and special events.
7. Capitol Theatre, Arlington
Sister to the Somerville Theatre, Capitol is another gilded cinema with a balcony and stunning sculptural work. The best part is the cinema allows ice cream from the adjacent ice cream parlor, The Capitol Creamery, into its six auditoriums!
8. Harvard Film Archive, Harvard Square
Catch art-house cinema and archival films at this limited-screening film fanatic spot offering an in-depth look at films and the people who make them. Notorious filmmakers often are a part of the Harvard Film Archive events calendar which serves as inspiration for the next generation of filmmakers.
9. Apple Cinemas, North Cambridge
The small local chain offers lots of space and comfy recliners at this cinema, plus, ample parking.
10. Majestic 7, Watertown
Bostonians love this cinema in Arsenal Yards when in the mood for a quite viewing experience with good food and beverage. Prices run higher at this Majestic 7, but cited as worthy of the modern and lux amenities.
11. Showcase Super Lux, Chestnut Hill
Speaking of “lux,” enjoy a super lux viewing experience at this well maintained elevated movie theater just outside the city. They frequently play the latest blockbusters. The premium cinema from Showcase offers customizable recliners with adjustable headrests for optimal comfort!