Top 5 Movie Getaways in the Twin Cities

Photo by Zoe Prinds

Movies are your reliable winter escape, and these are your top five options in the Twin Cities:

The Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

9060 Hudson Rd., Woodbury

This Austin-based chain’s only Minnesota location serves cinephiles, beer lovers, and foodies alike. Every film has a custom pre-show, with supplementary clips for a deeper viewing experience. Servers discreetly bring you snacks and drinks during the movie, like truffled Parmesan popcorn and boozy “adult shakes.” Expect new movies, select older films, and themed events aimed at fans of kung fu and cereal.

The Parkway Theater

4818 Chicago Ave., Minneapolis

Restored recently from its 1931 origins, this theater is not just a movie house. Featuring live music, comedy, and a Tattersall-driven cocktail menu, it doubled down on its Art Deco style, with plenty of bright colors and lush details. Thursdays are classic movie nights.

The Omnitheater at the Science Museum of Minnesota

120 W. Kellogg Blvd., St. Paul

The newly reopened Omnitheater’s 90-foot digital laser dome screen (got all that?) is only the third of its kind. Learn something, get inspired, and see giant dogs, crabs, or mummies all around you—depending, of course, on what they’re playing.

The Riverview Theater

3800 42nd Ave. S., Minneapolis

The charming Longfellow neighborhood theater’s mid-century ambience makes waiting for your movie feel like a trip into the decadent past. You may even want to shoot some pictures of your date or your kids pretending they’re on Mad Men. Catch movies that have left other theaters, at a discount.

The ShowPlace ICON

1625 West End Blvd., St. Louis Park

The Shops at West End make the perfect short trip for some good food (Punch Bowl Social, CRAVE) and a luxe movie experience. Order a drink at the bar upstairs, and they almost always tempt you to make it a double. You can bring it right to your (comfy) seat and enjoy it with some frozen yogurt, if you’d like.