9 best movie theaters in Charlotte to escape the news cycle for a little while
It’s tough to turn off the doom-scrolling when the news cycle has been so active the past few months (or years), but there are some surefire ways to step away from the phone when you need a break. How about trading the pocket screen for the big screen for a few hours?
In the mood for a romantic comedy, a horror flick or maybe a good sci-fi? Check out this list of some of our favorite movie theaters around the Charlotte area, where you can escape reality for a couple of hours.
AMC Theatres
Locations: Multiple
There are many AMC Theatres in the area, with each offering a slight twist on the movie-going experience. Want heated seats? Head to the Park Terrace or Northlake locations. Carolina Pavilion, Park Terrace and Concord Mills offer discounts on matinees.
[WANT A DRINK? Movie theaters in the area with full bar options.]
Ayrsley Grand Cinema
Location: 9110 Kings Parade Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28273
Independently owned movie theater Ayrsley Grand Cinema is a great place to spend an afternoon watching the latest Hollywood releases. Recent reviews tout fresh, hot popcorn, friendly staff and comfy seats. Some even state they’ll only see a movie if it’s playing here.
Belmont Drive-In Theatre
Location: 314 McAdenville Rd, Belmont, NC 28012
Belmont Drive-In has not only been a family treasure, but it’s also been a local favorite for more than 75 years. Until 2023, it was closed for a decade before three siblings reopened the place their parents once owned. Now, you can grab a hot dog or a burger, nachos, cotton candy or popcorn before settling into your seat (the one in your car, of course) to watch the film. Note that it’s cash only and the theater advises you bring a portable radio and not try to use a radio app on your phone, as it may not work.
Charlotte IMAX Dome Theatre at Discovery Place Science
Location: 168 W 6th St, Charlotte, NC 28202
Head to uptown Charlotte for an adventure in your seat at the IMAX Dome Theatre at Discovery Place Science. It reopened in 2022 after closing for two years at the beginning of the pandemic and using that time to complete a renovation. The theater now serves concessions as well, so be prepared to pick out a snack once you arrive.
Cinemark Bistro Charlotte
Location: 9630 Monroe Rd, Charlotte, NC 28270
Cinemark Bistro Charlotte’s team can deliver food to your seat, including burgers, sandwiches, shareable snacks and desserts. Beer, wine and cocktails are available — along with popcorn, of course.
Cinergy Dine-In Cinemas
Location: 5336 Docia Crossing Rd, Charlotte, NC 28269
Show up hungry to your showing at Cinergy Dine-In Cinemas, which offers in-theater dining to your luxury stadium seat. There’s a full-service bar in the lobby, so stop by after the film to order a cocktail and talk about the plot with your fellow movie-goers.
Gem Theatre
Location: 111 Laureate Wy., Kannapolis, NC 28081
The historic Gem Theatre in Kannapolis got a new look (but still 1930s-1940s era!) over the spring, so if you haven’t been lately, it’s a great time to check it out. Sit in the balcony if you’d like to soak up an extra dose of history: Gem Theatre is the oldest single-screen movie theater in the country with balcony seating, The Charlotte Observer previously reported.
[THEATER’S NEW LOOK: See inside the historic Gem Theatre’s makeover.]
The Independent Picture House
Location: 4237 Raleigh St, Charlotte, NC 28213
Support Indie: The recently-expanded movie theater with a signature candy-apple red floor and colorful lobby decor will brighten your day before you even make it to your seat. Grab a popcorn and some candy for the movie, but don’t forget to stop by the new Eighty Eight’s for a coffee or cocktail before or after the show. Pro tip: It’s a 5-minute walk from the light rail’s Sugar Creek Station.
Regal Stonecrest at Piper Glen
Location: 7824 Rea Rd, Charlotte, NC 28277
Regal Cinemas still has two locations in Charlotte, and its Stonecrest at Piper Glen location in South Charlotte offers an interactive 4DX experience. It makes you feel like you’re in the movie, the web site advertises, but choose at your own risk: Reviewers describe popcorn flying everywhere during particularly active movies! There are also IMAX and RPX movie format options at this location.
This story was originally published November 8, 2024 at 6:30 AM.
