Iowa’s Historic Theaters
Nothing is more durable than Iowa’s historic theater. Combining historic charm with modern technology, these theaters have been entertaining locals and tourists for over a century. Whether you’re looking for a live-action performance or want to make the latest movie, check out these 10 spots for a truly unique experience.
Some of these places actually act as theaters when larger activities take place in Iowa. Currently, some of these theaters are still working and others are not. But in his time, these places became a favorite of teenagers.
The State Theater
Recognized by the Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest continuously operated theater, the Washington State Theater has been entertaining guests since 1897. Today, it’s true to its history with the golden waterfall curtains raised before each show, the digital marquee with theatrical events, the vintage 1948 popcorn machine, and the $5 adult admission fee. All of this, combined with 2D and 3D movies, surround sound, upgraded seats, and a digital projection system that displays new carpets, makes it a truly unique entertainment destination. In addition to the late-open theater, you can also experience the best nightlife of Iowa by visiting bars and clubs and spending the best nights.
Brooklyn Opera House
After being abandoned for over 20 years, the 1911 Brooklyn Opera House reopened in 2020 as a newly refurbished 250-seat landmark. With live performances, concerts, speakers, movies, community programs, and other works offered throughout the year, we have regained our position as an iconic community building and exciting destination. Visitors can enjoy modern performances, but they can also admire part of the history of the opera house throughout the building, including the signatures and stickers of former performers stored on the backstage walls.
King Theatre
The theater in Idagrove, nicknamed “Castletown USA,” is called the King Theater. Built in 13s, this historic building has undergone a $750,000 renovation and has been reopened as a state-of-the-art 125-seat digital marquee showing adult-only movies from Thursday to Monday. While waiting for night entertainment to begin, visitors can learn more about the theater’s history by exploring the historical documents on display throughout the lobby.
Englert Theatre
Since opening in 1912, Iowa City’s Engage Theater has gone through a complex history and is once again at the forefront of the Midwestern art scene. The 1,071-seat theater, which once hosted vaudeville theater from around the world, now hosts music concerts, musicals, theater, dance nights, and two innovative annual art festivals throughout the year. In addition to exciting performances, the theater offers guided tours for guests, allowing you to go back in time and explore the glamorous 19th-century aesthetics of the building.
Metropolitan Opera House
Since its construction in 99’s, the Metropolitan Opera House which is located in Iowa Falls has been one of the most famous place in the region. Its opening is the largest social event in the history of the community and has since hosted John Philip Sousa, Otis Skinner, Hugh Jackman and more. Today, beautiful Italian Renaissance buildings delight historians and contemporary film enthusiasts alike. Its state-of-the-art technology portrays the film in clear pictures, and the historic arch with Shakespeare’s engraved busts, musical emblems, comedy and tragic masquerade makes the theater an unforgettable experience. increase.
Phoenix Theater
The Phoenix Theater, recognized as the place where the first talkies were screened in Pottawattamie County, has risen (literally) from the ashes again and has become famous in the area. After the original theater burned down in 1912, another theater was built there, named after a mythical bird born of fire. Today, the 1913 98-seat theater offers nostalgia like a glass facade and an old admission fee of 99 cents, with modern performances ranging from movies, live performances, magic shows to video game tournaments and music festival. It is fused.
