All of Chicago's Boozy Movie Theaters
Updated April 4, 2018
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Click filter and select 'Movies' to find venues screening films in Chicago.
Chicago Cinema
Sorry popcorn and soda, these theaters serve more than traditional show time snacks.
Theaters Screening New Releases
Both AMC theatres in Streeterville (Michigan Ave and River East) have a MacGuffins bar serving beer, wine and cocktails. All drinks can be taken into the auditoreums during screenings. Sodas and other nonalcoholic bevvs are available at concessions, mostly CocaCola products.These theaters boast reclining chairs and typically show recent releases. The River East location is adjacent to FTW and Lucky Strike for those wanting to extend the fun to arcade games or bowling. AMC Ridge 6, Ford City 14, also have a MacGuffins bar. The AMC Dine-In Theatre in Block 37 has both a bar and table service during the movie (for both food and drinks).
The ShowPlace ICON has a lobby lounge for guests to order a drink (in addition to traditional concessions. While the theater has perks of free parking, stadium seating and the ability to reserve a spot, only guests in the 21+ VIP section can bring their adult beverages into the theater.
For those wanting fewer distractions, ArcLight Cinemas in New City has a strict policy against late seatings, talking during the movie and cell phone use. Guests can purchase food and drinks in the lobby cafe and bar which can be consumed during the movie. ArcLight also has a gift shop where you can find gifts for the film fanatic.
Regal Webster 11 has a full bar with beer and wine that you can bring into the movie, just don't exceed 3 drinks. Reserved seating is available.
The New 400 Theaters in Rogers Park have four screens to first run releases for competitive prices. Grab a drink at the in-house bar before the show.
In the suburbs, iPic offers full service in the theater.
Independent, Foreign, Mid-Run and Classic Films
The Landmark Theatres Century Centre shows primarily independent film, foreign-language films, documentaries, top-quality studio releases and restored classics. Films at this theater rotate based on audience support, so if you see a title with staying power, it's a hit! The Century Bar has craft beer on tap, a wine list, cocktails, bottled organic tea and other beverages that may be brought into the movie.
The Logan Theatre has been a neighborhood standby in Logan Square since 1915, when it originally opened as a single screen cinema called the Paramount Theatre. The theatre has preserved the theatre's original design and architecture, and movie goers can admire vintage movie posters and other historic film artifacts adorning the theatre walls. Keeping its identity as a small community-oriented venue, Logan Theatre focuses on mid-run movies, independent films, and local film festivals. Similarly, concessions are sourced from local producers when possible. Beverage options include Intelligentsia Coffee, Half Acre, Lagunitas, and Revolution brews.
Brew and View is the Vic Theatre's movie screening alter ego, and tends to show second and third run films. This adults-only movie house is a great place to drink a beer and watch a movie for under $10. There is a full bar as well as coffee, tea, and food for purchase.
Photo: Music Box Theatre
The Music Box Theatre on Southport screens primarily independent and foreign films, but also rotates classic films in the mix. The theatre has maintained its original dark blue ceilings (built in 1929) which look like twinkling stars. Music Box is a unique experience whether going for a new film, one of the ongoing film festivals, special events with filmmakers and actors, or for the movie interested in their membership program. Theatre concessions include beer and wine.
Learn more about the history behind Music Box Theatre:
The Gene Siskel Film Center at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago is dedicated to showcasing emerging artists, international and independent filmmakers, and screens over 1,500 films per year (with over 100 artist appearances). Lectures and screenings support the cinematic art and education of Chicago's community. Memberships give patrons access and discounts to films and special events like film festivals.
And...they have beer!
Bars and Restaurants Screening Films
Delilah's bar is part of Chicago's vibrant music scene, and typically screens music-related films on Saturdays, Sundays and Tuesdays. Check out live concerts, rock related films and other titles from all eras of fringe film making.
If you're musically inclined, you may also enjoy Movieoke movie karaoke nights at The Whistler.
Parson's has partnered with Odd Obsession Movies to put on Deep Fried Flicks nights on Wednesdays, keep up with their Facebook page.
Izakaya Mita has partnered with Anime Chicago for special events screening anime films. Find other locations of anime screenings and events on the Anime Chicago Calendar.
Seasonal Outdoor Movies
Photo: Rooftop Cinema Club Chicago
Chicago's Double Tree Hilton hotel will be screening movies on their rooftop this summer as part of the Rooftop Cinema Club series. For $27, you'll get wireless headphones to listen, and sangria, wine, beer or soft drinks with unlimited popcorn.
