In the era of streaming and short-term attention spans, Portland’s historic movie theaters are time capsules of cinema-how-it-was, and watching modern films somehow feels less soul-sucking. We bought the large popcorn — we’re here for all of the marquee humor, discounted tickets, and silver screen nostalgia we can get.
- Academy Theater: Much like the revival films this Montavilla landmark features, this theater is a comeback story in its own right. Built in 1948 and shuttered in the 1970s, the building was fully renovated in 2006, restoring the metallic dome and lobby in a vintage Technicolor palette.
- Avalon Theater: The elder statesman of local cinema was converted to a theater in 1912 (its previous roles include a mortuary and brothel). Today, guests can also play nickel arcade games at Electric Castle Wunderland.
- Bagdad Theater: Portland architect Lee Arden Thomas constructed this Southeast Hawthorne Street complex with a Middle Eastern theme, capitalizing on the exoticism trend that stemmed from the discovery of King Tut’s tomb in Egypt. You can unearth more fascinating history on a tour of this McMenamins gem and a beer at Back Stage Bar is a must.
- Clinton Street Theater: This destination for quirky forgotten flicks and wacky cult classics has presented “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” every week since 1978 — often with an interactive shadow cast.
- Hollywood Theatre: Beyond the iconic facade you’ll find an invaluable platform for film festivals and the cultivation of cinematography in Oregon and beyond. It also just celebrated its 100th birthday.
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