Movies are, and probably always will be, one of the best go-to date nights. They’re just so darn easy, aren’t they? Pick a flick, fork over $40 for tickets and snacks, and float away to another world for two hours.
These days, theaters are adding lots of perks in the hopes of enticing you off the couch, away from your NetFlix subscription, and back into their cushy seats. Here are a handful of local favorites that are going above and beyond the typical theater experience:
Enzian Theater
Besides screening a constant line-up of noteworthy independent and international films, Enzian gets big points for its living room-esque layout, a fabulous pre- or post-movie bar (Eden Bar), and a full menu of meals, snacks, and drinks all delivered to your table by an attentive yet discreet server.
Cobb Plaza Cinema Café 12
Downtown’s only movie theater, Cobb’s perks include leather seats, beer/wine and a full menu plus $7 student tickets every Thursday. The theater also validates parking for moviegoers who park in the attached Plaza/Solaire parking garage’s third level, which means it’ll only be $2.50 to park.
AMC Downtown Disney 24 Dine-In Theatre
You’ll have 24 movies to choose from at AMC's Downtown Disney location, which also features the in-seat dine-in option. Consider opting for a Fork & Screen ticket, which includes reserved seating with upgraded seats, a personal call button, and seat-side service. Use the entrance by Planet Hollywood to access this dining experience. $14/person for non-IMAX films.
The Picture Show at Altamonte
This no frills, old school theater has one thing going for it…. $1.25 tickets (and 75 cents on Tuesdays!). Most of the movies are just a few weeks from DVD release, but for those flicks you just have to see on the big screen, this little dive is worth a visit.
More fabulous movie experiences…
Date Night at Leu Gardens – a movie shown on the giant outdoor screen on the first Friday of most months. Cost is $5 + tax and the movie usually starts around 8:30pm. Don’t forget to bring some wine and snacks.
CityWalk Meal and a Movie Deal – dinner at one of CityWalk’s participating restaurants plus a movie at AMC Universal Cineplex 20 for only $21.95… sweet deal.
Wednesday Night Pitcher Show – Enzian shows film favorites and cult classics shown on an outdoor screen adjacent Eden Bar. The film, which typically starts at sundown, is free, and drinks are cheap.
Silver Moon Drive-In – if you’re really up for an adventure, take a drive to Lakeland where the Silver Moon Drive-In Theater, one of the state’s oldest drive-in movie theaters, still shows blockbusters on two screens starting at sunset. Movies are scheduled on weekends and tickets are just $4 per person.
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