Boston

Popular Movie Theaters in Boston

1. AMC Boston Common 19

• Location: 175 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02111 (near Boston Common)
• Movies Shown: Primarily mainstream blockbusters, popular franchises, and some limited indie releases.
• Ticket Costs:
  • Standard tickets: ~$15–$18 for adults.
  • Discounts: AMC Stubs members can enjoy discounted tickets on Tuesdays (around $6–$7). Students and seniors may also receive discounts with valid ID.
• Amenities:
  • Recliner seats in most auditoriums.
  • IMAX and Dolby Cinema options for premium viewing experiences.
  • Concessions include popcorn, candy, and hot food like nachos and pretzels.
• Accessibility:
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating.
  • Assistive listening devices and closed-captioning devices available.
• Online Booking: Available via the AMC website or app.
• Tips:
  • Arrive early if you’re visiting during peak times (weekends or evenings) as it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists.
  • Consider joining AMC Stubs A-List for unlimited movies if you’re staying in Boston for an extended period.

2. Coolidge Corner Theatre

• Location: 290 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA 02446 (just outside Boston, accessible via the Green Line C branch).
• Movies Shown: A mix of indie films, foreign films, documentaries, and classic cinema. They also host special events like midnight screenings, filmmaker Q&As, and themed series.
• Ticket Costs:
  • Standard tickets: ~$14 for adults, ~$12 for seniors and students.
  • Discounts: Memberships offer reduced ticket prices and other perks.
• Amenities:
  • Historic Art Deco design with a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
  • Concessions include locally sourced snacks and craft beverages.
• Accessibility:
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating.
  • Assistive listening devices available.
• Online Booking: Available on their website.
• Tips:
  • Check their schedule for unique programming like "Science on Screen" or cult classic marathons.
  • Coolidge Corner Theatre is a beloved local institution, so it’s a great way to experience Boston’s indie film culture.

3. Kendall Square Cinema (Landmark Theatres)

• Location: 355 Binney Street, Cambridge, MA 02139 (near Kendall/MIT station on the Red Line).
• Movies Shown: Independent films, foreign films, and documentaries, with occasional mainstream releases.
• Ticket Costs:
  • Standard tickets: ~$15 for adults.
  • Discounts: Discounted tickets on Tuesdays (~$8). Memberships offer additional savings.
• Amenities:
  • Comfortable seating and a quieter, more intimate atmosphere.
  • Concessions include gourmet snacks and alcoholic beverages.
• Accessibility:
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating.
  • Assistive listening devices available.
• Online Booking: Available on the Landmark Theatres website or app.
• Tips:
  • This theater is a favorite among cinephiles and academics, given its proximity to MIT and Harvard.
  • Arrive early to explore the Kendall Square area, known for its tech startups and trendy restaurants.

4. Brattle Theatre

• Location: 40 Brattle Street, Cambridge, MA 02138 (near Harvard Square on the Red Line).
• Movies Shown: Classic films, retrospectives, indie films, and foreign films. They often host themed series and special events.
• Ticket Costs:
  • Standard tickets: ~$14 for adults, ~$12 for students and seniors.
  • Discounts: Memberships offer reduced ticket prices and free admission to select screenings.
• Amenities:
  • Historic single-screen theater with a vintage charm.
  • Concessions include popcorn, candy, and beverages.
• Accessibility:
  • Limited accessibility due to the historic nature of the building. Contact the theater in advance for specific accommodations.
• Online Booking: Available on their website.
• Tips:
  • The Brattle is a must-visit for film buffs who appreciate classic and arthouse cinema.
  • Check their calendar for special events like director retrospectives or themed film festivals.

5. Somerville Theatre

• Location: 55 Davis Square, Somerville, MA 02144 (accessible via the Red Line at Davis Square).
• Movies Shown: A mix of mainstream films, indie films, and special screenings of classic movies.
• Ticket Costs:
  • Standard tickets: ~$12–$14 for adults.
  • Discounts: Matinee pricing and occasional student discounts.
• Amenities:
  • Historic theater with a mix of modern and vintage charm.
  • Concessions include popcorn, candy, and beer from local breweries.
• Accessibility:
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating.
• Online Booking: Available on their website.
• Tips:
  • The Somerville Theatre also houses the Museum of Bad Art (MOBA), a quirky and fun addition to your visit.
  • Davis Square is a lively area with great dining options, so plan to grab a meal before or after your movie.

---

General Tips for Visiting Movie Theaters in Boston

1. Book Tickets Online: Most theaters in Boston allow online booking, which is highly recommended, especially for popular screenings or during weekends. Apps like Fandango or Atom Tickets can also be used for convenience.

2. Membership Programs:

   • If you plan to watch multiple movies, consider joining membership programs like AMC Stubs, Landmark Theatres’ Film Club, or Coolidge Corner Theatre’s membership. These programs often provide discounts, free tickets, and other perks.

3. Public Transportation:

   • Boston’s public transit system (the MBTA, or “T”) is the easiest way to get to most theaters. Parking can be expensive and limited, especially in downtown areas.

4. Cultural Nuances:

   • Boston audiences are known for being engaged and respectful during movies, especially at indie and arthouse theaters. Expect lively discussions at venues like the Coolidge or Brattle after screenings.

5. Food and Drinks:

   • Many theaters in Boston offer more than just standard popcorn and soda. Look for craft beer, wine, and gourmet snacks at places like Kendall Square Cinema and Coolidge Corner Theatre.

6. Special Events:

   • Keep an eye out for film festivals and special screenings. Boston hosts several film festivals throughout the year, including the Boston Independent Film Festival (IFFBoston) and the Boston Jewish Film Festival.

7. Accessibility:

   • Most theaters are wheelchair accessible and offer assistive listening devices. If you have specific needs, it’s a good idea to call ahead to confirm accommodations.

---

What Makes Boston’s Movie Theater Culture Unique?

• Historic Venues: Boston is home to several historic theaters like the Coolidge Corner Theatre and the Brattle Theatre, which offer a nostalgic movie-going experience.
• Intellectual Vibe: With its proximity to world-class universities like Harvard and MIT, Boston’s movie culture leans intellectual, with a strong focus on indie, foreign, and classic films.
• Community Engagement: Many theaters host Q&A sessions with filmmakers, themed screenings, and community events, making the movie-going experience more interactive and enriching.

---

By exploring Boston’s diverse movie theaters, you’ll not only enjoy great films but also get a taste of the city’s rich cultural and intellectual atmosphere. Whether you’re catching the latest blockbuster at AMC Boston Common or diving into a classic at the Brattle, there’s something for everyone in Boston’s vibrant movie scene.