5 of Atlanta’s most glorious places to catch a movie
Atlanta has transformed into the Hollywood of the South, with numerous movies filmed on the streets and in studios around town. And what better way to show support for the booming industry than by indulging in one of the most beloved pastimes — watching movies?
Atlanta has plenty of theaters bound to fulfill your desire for the silver screen! Check out five of the most glorious places to watch a film in Atlanta, each with its own unique appeal and charm.
Plaza Theatre
Welcome to Landmark’s Midtown Art Cinema, located on Monroe Drive. This art-deco-decorated cinema is your go-to spot for various movies, including commercial hits, indie flicks, foreign-language films, and eye-opening documentaries. But that’s not all — the real fun starts at the concession stand! The theater boasts a mouthwatering selection of gourmet candies, baked treats, and plenty of beverage options.
Location: Midtown - 931 Monroe Dr NE; Website: landmarktheatres.com
Starlight Drive-In Theatre
For more than 70 years Starlight has provided Atlanta with a unique and unforgettable movie experience. Here, you can go back in time and watch your favorite movies under the stars from the comfort of your car — just make sure you have a working FM radio.
The theatre also hosts a flea market every Saturday and Sunday from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: Southeast Atlanta - 2000 Moreland Ave SE; Website: starlightdrivein.com
Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre
Step back in time at Marietta’s Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre. This iconic landmark on historic Marietta Square opened in 1935, with an elegant Art Deco style and an opulent red and gold auditorium you can still see today. The Strand Theatre hosts live theatre, films, concerts, comedy shows, private events, and even has its own piano and cocktail bar, Lumiere, perfect for history buffs and culture connoisseurs or anyone looking for a memorable night out. The theatre also hosts Brew with a View from its rooftop terrace on weekend nights.
Location: Cobb - 117 N Park Square, Marietta, GA 30060; Website: strandmarietta.org
Tara Theatre
Last year, Regal Cinemas shut down Atlanta’s beloved independent film theater, leaving its fate uncertain. However, Christopher Escobar, owner of the Plaza Theatre, refused to let Tara Theatre fade away into obscurity. Together with a team of investors, he’s breathing new life into the theater and plans to reopen its doors this spring. After finalizing a six-year lease deal, with the potential for an extension of up to 10 years, the future of Atlanta’s indie film scene looks brighter than ever. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported the good news in February, and moviegoers can hardly wait for Tara’s grand reopening.
Location: Northeast Atlanta - 2345 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE; Website: facebook.com