Though Iowa is home to many one-screen movie theatres, few have a more compelling story than the Windsor Theatre in Hampton, Iowa. Located on the northwest corner of Hampton’s picturesque courthouse, the theatre plays first-run movies nightly, with extra shows on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
The Windsor Theatre was constructed in 1913 and in continuous operation through May 1996. When the theatre ceased operation, the community took action. A group of students and adults banded together to form a non-profit organization dedicated to reopening the theatre. Over a quarter-million dollars was invested to purchase and renovate the facility, which re-opened in mid-1999.
The beautifully-remodeled theatre features a large screen, plush seating, and sound and picture far superior to most small Iowa theatres. Arrive a few minutes early to peruse the cozy lobby and grab a glass of soda and bag of popcorn to enjoy during the film. Movie tickets are $4.00 for adults and $3.00 for youth; seniors may want to check out the Sunday matinees for the $2.00 special.
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Published August 3rd, 2009 |
Brian McMillin |
Central Iowa, Entertainment, Places |
If you’re in search of an enjoyable night at the movies, look no further than the Lund Theatre in Viborg, South Dakota. Ever since Amanda and I drove by (and photographed) the historic theatre last winter, we have wanted to see a movie there. Last weekend, when Get Smart was in town, we finally had a chance to make a visit.
From the neon marquee to the pleasant lobby to the old-fashioned seats, the single-screen theatre had a nostalgic feel that is truly welcome in today’s world of multiplex cinemas. Beyond the atmosphere, the concessions were top-notch while the picture and sound quality were great, considering the theatre’s age.
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Published July 21st, 2008 |
Brian McMillin |
Entertainment, Places, South Dakota |
Continuing the theme of the last two entries, I wanted to write about one more destination in southeastern South Dakota that’s worthy of mention on this blog: the West Mall 7 Theatres, located in the Western Mall in Sioux Falls.
Unlike most of the destinations I’ve written about to this point, the theatre isn’t full of charm or character. It’s located in the dingiest portion of the mostly-remodeled mall, and almost every aspect of the theatre has seen better days: the carpet needs replaced, the concession counter shows its age, and chairs ocassionally seem on the verge of collapsing when you sit in them.
Nonetheless, if you’re in the Sioux Falls area, a trip to the West Mall 7 is recommended for individuals and families looking for economical entertainment. Tickets are only $3 for any show, any day, and concession food is also competitively priced. It’s also easier to find a parking space and get tickets than it is at the larger first-run theatres in the city. There’s even an excellent website where you can quickly print a page that includes titles, showtimes and descriptions.
Published March 24th, 2008 |
Brian McMillin |
Entertainment, Places, South Dakota |
A few months ago, my wife and I went with a friend to see The Final Season, a movie based on the extraordinary success of the high school baseball team in Norway, Iowa. While the movie itself wasn’t memorable, the theatre we saw it in was.
Instead of seeing the movie in one of the cookie-cutter megaplexes in Cedar Rapids or Iowa City, we opted to go to the cozy, single-screen Bijou Movie Theater, located in downtown Mount Vernon.
The lobby is small, featuring a counter where tickets and treats can be purchased all at once. Prices for popcorn and drinks are modest, and half-price refills make the concessions even more appealing. The owners encourage recycling, so you can even bring in your own containers to be filled for a discount.
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Published January 28th, 2008 |
Brian McMillin |
Eastern Iowa, Entertainment, Places |
The amateur and minor league sports teams in Iowa are a great source for entertainment year-round. Smaller cities like Burlington and Clinton sport professional baseball, while larger communities such as Davenport and Des Moines offer arena football, soccer, and more.
Sioux City is home to the Musketeers, one of twelve teams in the USHL junior hockey league. With over 30 home games this year at the Tyson Event Center, there are plenty of opportunities to catch an exciting game. The atmosphere is great, seating is plush, and the PA, music and occasional lighting effects complement the action well.
Best of all, the price is right: for under $15, you can get a front-row view of the action; or, you may opt to save a few bucks and choose seats in the third row or higher.
Published October 26th, 2007 |
Brian McMillin |
Entertainment, Sports, Western Iowa |
