Best Independent Movie Theaters in Portland, Oregon

Regal Cinemas runs most of the first-run movie theaters in the Portland area, but there are also many wonderful independent movie theaters with great perks like reduced admission costs, tasty food, and the option of drinking beer, wine, or even cocktails while you take in a flick.

Show your support for Portland’s alternative movie houses.

This article has been edited by Joshua Liberles.

01 of 07

Laurelhurst Theater

This historic theater has been a Portland Landmark since 1923. Four screens play second-run movies and classics, too. Parking can be a challenge, but if you get there early, you may score a spot in the theater’s adjacent lot. Microbrews, wine, and Pizzicato pizza are available, all at reasonable prices.

Location

2735 E. Burnside

Know Before You Go

21+ for shows starting after 3 p.m. Those under 21 may attend movies before 3 p.m. on weekends.

02 of 07

McMenamins Theaters

McMenamins Theater and Outdoor Pub with fire pit — McMenamins Pubs, Breweries & Historic Hotels

Usually in historic buildings, the McMenamins theaters are widely known for serving pub grub and their own micro-brewed beers. What better way to enjoy a flick than over food and drinks?

Locations

Bagdad
3702 SE Hawthorne Blvd

Mission
1624 NW Glisan

Kennedy School
5736 NE 33rd Ave

St. John’s Theater and Pub
8203 N. Ivanhoe

Know Before You Go

All shows are 21+. Minors are allowed at the first nightly show and the weekend matinee when accompanied by a parent.

03 of 07

Cinema 21

Portland’s artsy and historic theater, Cinema 21, frequently hosts independent movies before they hit other theaters in town. It’s also where you’ll find the Annual Gay and Lesbian Film Festival.

Location

616 NW 21st Ave

Know Before You Go

Parking can be ugly in this part of town, especially on weekends. Give yourself plenty of time to find a spot and be prepared to walk a few blocks.

04 of 07

Academy Theater

Enjoy second-run movies on three screens. Plus, the Academy offers inexpensive babysitting! Refreshments include Flying Pie Pizza, salads, sandwiches, hot dogs, ice cream, beer, and wine.

Location

7818 SE Stark Street

Know Before You Go

Babysitting is available starting with the 4 p.m. show and ending after the 7 p.m. shows, plus during weekend matinees.

Continue to 5 of 7 below.

05 of 07

Hollywood Theater

The Oregon Film and Video foundation runs the Hollywood Theater as part of its nonprofit work. The theater favors classic movies, second-run features, and foreign films.

Location

4122 NE Sandy Blvd

Know Before You Go

Save on tickets with a discount card, good for ten admissions. They have no expiration and are transferable.

06 of 07

Roseway Theater

Renovated and re-opened in the summer of 2008, the Roseway is a first-run theater with bargain admission. There's only one screen, but the sound system and seats are top-notch.