Three unique spots to catch a flick on Cape Cod
First published May 10, 2016, updated April 18, 2018. Details such as hours, prices and rules may have changed since; check with each place before you go.
Take a break from the sun and enjoy a movie while you are on vacation. In addition to the large multi-screen movie theaters, Cape Cod is home to a handful of historic and unique places to catch a flick.
Pick a movie to see and get ready to mix a bit of nostalgia with your popcorn.
1. The Chatham Orpheum Theater, Chatham
A first-rate theater, the Chatham Orpheum has an interesting history. The Orpheum was first opened in 1916 and was Chatham's first and only movie house. Until 1987, locals and visitors gathered at the Main Street theater to watch stars of the silver screen.
In 2011 a grass roots organization formed to bring back the Orpheum. The building was purchased, restorations began and the Orpheum reopened as a state-of-the-art, two-screen cinema with cafe in 2013. Since then, the Orpheum has been featuring first run films and special events.
2. The Cape Cinema, Dennis
A true historic gem, the Cape Cinema has delighted movie goers since 1930. The exterior architecture and seating (individual arm chairs of black lacquer and suede) pale only in comparison to the stunning 6,400 square foot mural that adorns the auditorium ceiling.
Designed by Rockwell Kent (1882-1971), an American painter, the heavens sparkle and sway above the theater's 317 seats. In addition to harder to find Indies and new releases, Cape Cinema features MET Opera, live musical performances and special screenings.
3. The Wellfleet Drive-In
The Wellfleet Drive-In is the only drive-in theater on Cape Cod. It is one of only three drive-ins in Massachusetts. In fact, there are a little under 350 drive-ins in operation in the country, down from thousands, several decades ago.
The drive-in screens two first run films per night. The heart of the drive-in, which was built in 1957, is the 100' x 44 ' screen. Updated through the years, the drive-in features Dolby Digital sound and Barco Digital Projection.
Enjoy the double feature from the comfort of your car and when you get out to stretch your legs, grab some popcorn from snack bar. There's a playground for the kids too.
If you go:
- The Chatham Orpheum, 637 Main Street, Chatham, 508-945-4900 (open year-round)
- The Cape Cinema, 35 Hope Lane, Dennis, 508-385-2503 (open year-round)
- The Wellfleet Drive-In, 51 State Highway (Route 6), South Wellfleet, 508-349-7176 (open-round)
The fascinating ceiling mural in the auditorium of Cape Cinema in Dennis is just as much a reason to visit this historic movie house as the movie itself. Photo by Maggie Kulbokas.