The exterior of the River Oaks Theatre. (Cary Darling/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images)
Relax into a leather recliner, chow down on your favorite snack, and prepare to be transported away as you visit one of these six Houston-area cinemas.
For many, there’s nothing better than sinking into a luxury recliner with a buttery bag of popcorn, an enormous drink, and—if I’m really feeling fancy—a nostalgic candy. There’s also the added bonus of being fully immersed in the movie as opposed to watching it at home from the couch.
I’m inclined to go to a movie theatre two to three times a week during any season (shout out to my Regal Unlimited subscription), but going to the movies is a perfect way to escape the heat in the summertime.
Houston is home to many unique movie-going experiences, from rooftop moments to drive-ins. Check out some of our favorites below.
IPIC Theaters
4444 Westheimer Road, Houston
This is probably the most luxurious (and expensive) theatre on this list. Featuring their Premium Plus Pods, blankets, and a chef-driven menu that features items like spicy tuna on crispy rice, green goddess turkey sliders, and tandoori chicken skewers, going to an IPIC can feel like a night out on its own.
My experience: I’ve been to IPIC two different times (both were for horror movies, my preferred genre of choice) and each time felt like the most perfect, elevated movie-going experience. The service is fast and reliable, though, I did feel like our server came over only during the jump scares, which really elevated the movie. Make sure you come hungry to explore all their menu has to offer.
Star Cinema Grill
Multiple locations
The theater really leans into a vintage Hollywood feel, with posters of Marilyn Monroe and Yoda adorning the walls. This franchise also offers comfortable seating, an extensive food menu that includes items like brisket quesadillas and a Cajun shrimp salad, and a full service bar with a wide selection of beer, wine, and spirits. Star Cinema Grill also offers TheaterEars, technology that allows viewers to hear movies in multiple languages while syncing directly to the movie.
Rooftop Cinema Club
1700 Post Oak Blvd., fifth level, Houston
I know the last thing you might want to do in a Houston summer is anything outside, but hear me out: being on a rooftop provides a great breeze, and most showtimes are late in the evening to beat the sun. Enter Rooftop Cinema Club, where you can watch anything from new releases to cult classics to special events, like the upcoming “Wicked” singalong and “Pride and Prejudice” showing. You can choose from a single Adirondack chair or a double loveseat one for two, and sound is delivered through wireless headphones. The food selection is a little more basic here—there’s freshly popped popcorn and hot dogs— but outside food is allowed at most showings. Make sure to get there early to secure your seats and grab a drink from the bar.
The River Oaks Theatre
2009 W. Gray St., Houston
Most Houstonians know the lore behind The River Oaks Theatre. Since opening in 1939, the historic theater has received various honors and awards, including being listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It closed down in 2021 due to lease negotiations, but reopened in 2024 after being acquired by Culinary Khancepts and undergoing extensive renovations. As a traditional cinema, the theatre only shows a handful of movies, ranging from new releases to classic films. However, they are most known for their live performance of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show,” where actors perform alongside the movie and includes audience interaction.
Alamo Drafthouse
2707 Commercial Center Blvd., Ste. K-100, Katy
Alamo Drafthouse was honestly my first introduction to what a “fancy” movie theatre could look like. If you’ve never been, they abide by some really strict no phone and talking policies that a movie snob like myself can definitely appreciate. If the policies are violated, they’ll actually remove you from the theatre. Kids under 18 also aren’t allowed unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. Like The River Oaks Theatre, Alamo Drafthouse also showcases classic films and offers special menus, like serving exclusive cocktails for the release of “28 Years Later,” to go along with certain films to create an immersive experience.
MoonStruck Drive-In
45 Delano St., Houston
Ready to experience a new film release from the comfort of your car? MoonStruck Drive-In projects on a 60 foot wide scope ratio screen, providing a clear view of the action. FM radios are required to be able to tune in to the audio through your vehicle’s speakers. Concessions are available and tickets are $35 a car, with a maximum of six people per car. According to USA Today, there are only about 300-something drive-ins left in the US, making this a unique way to watch a film.
