Best Places For Film Buffs In Chicago
By Angela Hazen
Chicago is a great city to be a film buff. Not only can you see every film here, you can choose the style in which you actually watch your movie. Indoor, outdoor, in a brand new theater or in a classic theater that has historic influence, film fans in Chicago have it all. Here are some of the best places to see your brand new—or classic—movies.
Cascade Drive-In Theater
1100 E North Ave
West Chicago, IL 60185
(630) 231-3150
www.cascadedrivein.com
A well-kept secret in the Chicago area is the Cascade Drive-In Theater. Have an experience that many people haven't had in decades; the enjoyment of watching a movie outdoors. First-run movies are shown and the theater has frequent double features. There are also grills available so you can cook food while you watch your movie. Movies are shown every day of the week and the upcoming week's lineup is posted on the website so you can plan your visit accordingly. This is a cash-only venue, but well worth the $9 to see some great features.
Navy Pier IMAX
700 E Grand Ave
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 595-5629
www.imax.com
Opening-night showings draw crowds from around the city and the surrounding suburbs to this Streeterville-area theater. The biggest movies sometimes create lines of patrons who come to experience their favorite, first-run movies. Not only do visitors get to see their movie on the jumbo 60x80-foot IMAX screen in a theater that fits 440 guests, they can enjoy the lakefront with a view only captured from Navy Pier before and after the show. Every movie buff should have this experience to round out a movie lover's bucket list.
Brew and View at the Vic
3145 N Sheffield Ave
Chicago, IL 60657
(773) 929-6713
www.brewview.com
Want to watch a movie that you've likely seen a thousand times, but see it this time in a theater with a refreshing brew in hand? This is possible at the Brew and View at the Vic. Patrons meet up to relive movie experiences with friends and strangers. There's a cult following for just about every film featured here. A variety of ticket and food specials can make this place an entire night out. Brew and View is a Chicago classic, one that is a great destination for locals and tourists.
Logan Theater
2646 N Milwaukee Ave
Chicago, IL 60647
(773) 342-5555
www.thelogantheater.com
If you missed seeing the latest movie at your nearby theater and it hasn't quite made it to your streaming service or nearby Redbox, you may be able to see it on the big screen at the Logan. Take a trip here and you will find a friendly, old-fashioned theater with classic décor. Some are surprised at the fact that the place has older furnishings and lighting than they are used to seeing in more modern buildings. However, fans of the Logan love it and keep coming back to this theater for their afternoons and nights out with friends and families.
Realted: The Renovated Logan Theatre
Movies in the Parks by Chicago Park District
Various Locations
(312) 742-1134
www.chicagoparkdistrict.com
Movie buffs of all ages will love the Chicago Park District's Summer Movies in the Parks. Being outdoors in a park watching your favorite classic movie is a great way to spend a summer evening in Chicago. Most movies start at dusk, and different movies are shown at a variety of locations around the city. Pack a blanket and some snacks to make it a great date night or relaxing night out with some friends or family. And better yet, all movies are free. Visit Chicago Park District's website for the summer schedule.
