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.
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2. Cinema Theater
1914, Rochester – Cash only, double-feature, first-run movies. The City of Rochester’s oldest theater.
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3. Geneseo Riviera
1914, Geneseo – Shows seasonal favorite and classic single-feature movies. Originally opened as The Rex Theater, changing its name in 1936.
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4. Ohmann Theatre
1915, Lyons – First run, single-feature movies. Owned and operated by descendants of the original Ohmann family.
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5. Star Theater
1921, Dansville – Cash only, single-feature, first-run movies.
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6. Glen Theater
1924, Watkins Glen – First-run, single-feature movies.
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7. Aurora Theater
1925, East Aurora – First-run, single-feature movies.
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8. Palace Theater
1925, Lockport – First-run and seasonal favorite , single-feature movies.
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9. The Little Theater
1928, Rochester – Independent and foreign films. Many films accompanied by formal discussion with experts.
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10. Palace Theater
1938, Wolcott – First-run, single-feature movies, cash only.
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11. Spotlight Theater
1948, Warsaw – First-run, single-feature movies.
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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 accompanied by formal discussion with experts.
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Where are your favorite small movie theaters?
Of course, we can’t forget about Drive-In Theaters!