Many of these small movie theaters first opened during World War I and in the Roaring ’20s. All have since transitioned to digital, with the intentional exception of Eastman Museum’s Dryden Theater.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m truly pleased with the luxurious recliners available in mega-plex theaters these days, but there is something about a 100-year-old movie house that enhances your experience and transcends you through space and time.
1. Strand Theater
1908 – Brockport
First-run, single-feature movies. Second oldest active movie theater in the country. Changed name from Lyric Theater to Strand Theater in 1916 when remodeled.
2. Cinema Theater
1914 – Rochester
A double feature every night starting at at 7:00 PM. The City of Rochester’s oldest theater.
3. Geneseo Riviera
1914 – Geneseo
Shows seasonal favorite and classic single-feature movies. Originally opened as The Rex Theater, changing its name in 1936.
4. Ohmann Theatre
1915 – Lyons
First run, single-feature movies. Owned and operated by descendants of the original Ohmann family.
5. Star Theater
1921 – Dansville
Cash only, single-feature, first-run movies.
6. Glen Theater
1924 – Watkins Glen
First-run, single-feature movies.
7. Aurora Theater
1925 – East Aurora
First-run, single-feature movies.
8. Palace Theater
1925 – Lockport
First-run and seasonal favorite , single-feature movies.
9. The Little Theater
1928 – Rochester
Independent and foreign films. Many films accompanied by formal discussion with experts.
10. Palace Theater
1938 – Wolcott
First-run, single-feature movies, cash only.
11. Spotlight Theater
1948 – Warsaw
First-run, single-feature movies.
12. Dryden Theater
1951 – Rochester
All films shown in their original format, including nitrate films, initially opened to screen the museum’s film collection. Many films are accompanied by formal discussion with experts.
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Which ones are your favorite small movie theaters?
Share your thoughts with us in the comments. Your insight and experience is invaluable!