Who doesn’t love a trip to the movies? Here in Chattanooga, we have plenty of movie theaters for film buffs and popcorn fiends to choose from. Whether you’re spending a day with the family, meeting up with friends, or planning a first date, here’s everything you need to know about Chattanooga’s movie theaters!
AMC Theaters
AMC has three movie theaters in the greater Chattanooga area, all of which boast comfortable seating, discount Tuesdays, 3D options, and a wide array of films sure to please the whole family. For the frequent movie-goer, AMC has a rewards program with several tiers to choose from, including a free membership that offers points for ticket sales that can be counted towards discounted concessions.
In the heart of downtown Chattanooga, relaxing at the AMC Classic Majestic 12 is the perfect finale to a full day in the Scenic City. The theater is just around the corner from the Creative Discovery Museum and the Tennessee Aquarium, while several restaurants line the block. Grab a quick bite on the way at Five Guys, or stop in a cozy pub afterwards to discuss the film over a pint. If you’re looking to avoid the downtown traffic, the AMC Chattanooga 18 is just off I-24 and close to several restaurants and shopping centers in the East Ridge area. On the Northshore, the AMC Classic Northgate 14 is also outside of downtown and conveniently located right next to the Northgate Mall.
IMAX
For the ultimate cinematic experience, the Tennessee Aquarium IMAX 3D Theater downtown offers a viewing sure to awe children and adults alike. This theater uses state-of-the-art laser projection technology to bring the wonders of nature to Chattanooga’s biggest screen, from hidden ocean depths to telescope images of the night sky. The IMAX is partnered with the Tennessee Aquarium, offering bundled tickets for an aquarium visit with a same-day viewing of one of IMAX’s educational films. If you only have time for one of their 45-minute films, tickets are $10. You can also catch a major blockbuster film here for $15, with discounts available for members.
Regal Cinemas Hamilton Place 8
If the AMC and IMAX options weren’t enough, Chattanooga is also home to Regal Cinemas, located in East Brainerd near the Hamilton Place Mall. This theater offers a slew of feature films to pick from, as well as plush seating and free membership for their rewards system. Regal Cinema Hamilton Place is easily accessible from the interstate and located amidst the busy shopping area along Gunbarrel Road. This location is ideal for a whole-day excursion: dining at one of the many restaurants in the area, perusing the local and chain retailers, playing a few arcade games at Dave & Buster’s, and finishing off with a new blockbuster film at Regal Cinemas.
UEC Theaters Cleveland 14
If you’re looking for a theater away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the UEC Theater 14 in Cleveland is a great option for an affordable and cozy movie experience. Only 30 minutes from the greater Chattanooga area, this theater shows several feature films with 3D options and a mega screen. UEC is a small chain theater company, with only two locations in Tennessee, but offers all the amenities of larger cinemas, with luxury recliners, discounted Tuesdays, and a free rewards program to earn ticket and concessions credits. This theater is conveniently located just off I-75 and is only a short drive from several local restaurants and Downtown Historic Cleveland. Tickets start at $11 for adults, with discounts available for seniors, children, and matinee showings.
Wilderness Outdoor Movie Theater
Only 15 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, the Wilderness Outdoor Theater is a classic drive-in offering cinema al fresco. Amidst a backdrop of mountains and under a canopy of stars, a movie experience here is sure to be unforgettable. The drive-in is family owned and operated, and tickets are only $7 a person. Be sure to grab some cash before you attend, as this theater doesn’t take credit or debit. The Wilderness Outdoor Theater shows up to four films every weekend across two screens, with two sets of double features to choose from. While waiting for the sky to get dark, visitors can take advantage of the dog-walking area and concessions available on the premises. Whether it’s family night or date night, this theater provides blockbuster viewing from the comfort of your car. Pro tip for drive-in first-timers – bring a radio to tune into the movie audio so you don’t have to keep your car radio running the whole time. It’ll definitely enhance your movie experience!
Enjoy the Show
For generations now, the silver screen has produced movies to fill huge screens projected in a theater. While that might be changing slowly, it will be a long time, if ever, before movies feel just as good to watch at home as they do at the cinema. Memories with an electric atmosphere all around and friends and family waiting in line to get in the door or for concessions during a huge release can’t be made anywhere else. Date night feels more unique and thoughtful when the effort is made to dress up a little and spend a couple hours together enjoying a well-produced movie. These things you can’t get anywhere else but the theater. So, check out the latest releases and grab a loved one. Go have a good time at the movies in Chattanooga!
