As the summer blockbusters come out, a lot of people will be heading to the local cinema or the bigger one in the next town over to see a few flicks. Most modern movie theaters seem pretty much the same, so let's change it up. These 8 theaters have stood the test of time and are some of the oldest still operating in the state. They usually don't have more than one screen due to their small size, but they will give you a viewing experience you wont forget while taking part in a bit of North Dakota's history. Plus, they're usually way cheaper than the big modern chain theaters. Let's go!
1. Mystic Theatre - Marmarth
This is considered one of the oldest theaters in North Dakota and one of very few that have a timber frame. It originally opened in 1914, meaning it is a little over a century old - WOW! And it is still open today, showing old and new movies. Visiting this historic gem offers a one of a kind experience.
Mystic Theatre is located at 51 Main Street, Marmarth, ND.
2. Lyric Theatre - Park River
Downtown of the picturesque town of Park River is home to this little theater that looks like it belongs on a postcard. The Lyric Theatre - or just The Lyric - opened in 1917 and is still active and showing movies, new and old, today on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Only one screen at this place, but it seats 226 and admission is only $7.
To visit The Lyric, go to 416 Briggs Ave S in Park River.
3. Fargo Theatre - Fargo
This theatre is one of the most popular and well-known spots in downtown Fargo, and has been since 1926. There are a plethora of movies shown here, from classics to new releases, to treasures waiting to be discovered that you might not have heard of before. Plenty of events and live shows also happen at this theatre. There's always something going on here, so check back often and go twice as much. It's so worth it!
The Fargo Theatre can be found at 314 Broadway in Fargo.
4. Mayer Theater - Hebron
This cute movie house was built in 1949 and was recently restored and reopened. Like most small town theaters, they show movies on the weekends for the low price of $7 a ticket, $5 for children. You won't find another one like it and it is a great way to break the norm and try something different.
If you're looking for the Mayer Theater, head to 531 Main Avenue in Hebron.
5. Audi Theater - Cando
The Audi Theatre in Cando is always busy with movies showings old and new, and events of all types. Giving this place a visit is well worth it, especially when tickets are only $6 and they have actual fresh popcorn available for just as cheap. I think I'll take that over an expensive excursion to the regular cinema where you'd swear their popcorn must be coated with liquid gold instead of butter in order to justify their prices. Plus, it's always great to support historical places and keep them running, especially after a hundred years of service.
If you're interested in stopping by the Audi Theater, head to the corner of 4th Avenue and Main Street in Cando.
6. Avalon Theater - Larimore
The Avalon Theater began its life in 1925 as the Grand Theatre and later closed in 1938, was remodeled into the art deco style you see now, and reopened as the Avalon. Today, the theater is used both for movies and for live performances. With nearly 400 seats, there's plenty of room for lots of people to come and enjoy the show.
Avalon Theater is located at 210 Towner Avenue in Larimore.
7. Scenic Theater - Lisbon
The Scenic Theater is certainly true to its name and still shows movies and has been since 1911, giving it the title of one of the oldest theaters that have been continuously in operation in the entire country. They show new releases on the weekends and throw in some free showings, too. This theater deserves a lot of support so if you're itching to see a movie, consider here instead of the normal chain. It'd make your evening a lot more interesting just to say you've been there.
The Scenic Theater can be found at 419 Main Street in Lisbon.
8. Kenmare Theatre - Kenmare
Though the Kenmare Theatre started off as the Lyceum Theatre in 1920, with a few other name changes in between, it is still alive and well today with newly released movies playing on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays. Like most small town theaters, they show a different movie each weekend. Why not check out what they have playing this weekend and check it out?
To visit the Kenmare Theatre, go to 9 W Division Street in Kenmare, North Dakota.
What movies are you looking forward to see this year? These theaters will make watching them a little more unique, and way more affordable, too! Plus, it's always great to support local businesses.
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