How to Go to the Movies in Atlanta

As one of the fastest growing cities in the nation, Atlanta also boasts a copious amount of multiplex theaters around the Metro area. And while Atlanta doesn't house their own Angelika Film Center, it has some great art houses that are showing more and more limited release flicks. Read on to learn how to go to the movies in Atlanta.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• A tolerance for traffic
• Student/Senior/Military ID

Multiplex Theaters

1. If you're in the mood for some mainstream, blockbuster fare and you're not bothered about location, head to one of the local multiplex cinemas. Search sites such as Moviefone and Fandango to find out the cinemas closest to you. If you're in Midtown or South Buckhead check out Atlantic Station, off of 17th street. There are tons of shops and restaurants to enjoy as well. If you're in the Northern suburbs, such as Roswell or Alpharetta, try AMC Mansell Crossing or United Artists North Point Parkway. In Duluth, Regal Cinemas Medlock Crossing houses 18 theaters, and if you find yourself in the Chamblee area, check out the massive Regal Cinemas Hollywood 24.

2. Once you look on one of these show times websites, make sure to double-check with the site of the actual cinema that the times are correct. As always in Atlanta, traffic can be unpredictable and insanely backed up so leave early, especially if you're going to the movies on a weeknight.

3. If you're going to the movies on a Friday or Saturday night--especially if it's a new release--arrive early and think about purchasing tickets online so you can avoid long lines.

Independent Cinemas

4. Know that one of the good things about living in Atlanta is that you can usually find foreign and independent releases somewhere near you. Occasionally these are shown at the multiplex theaters such as Phipps Plaza in Buckhead or LeFont Sandy Springs, but often you have to seek out the smaller places.

5. Keep in mind that Midtown's Landmark Art Cinema is located at 8th Street and Monroe, and you're sure to find a good variety of films here. Landmark also hosts several film festival and film clubs throughout the year, so check the website. Also in this area are Tara Cinemas (on Cheshire Bridge) and LeFont Plaza Theatre, which clings to its tradition of showing midnight screenings of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" each Friday night.

6. Know that another gem of Atlanta's film scene is the Georgia State University-run Cinefest theater downtown. Catch great limited release films at bargain prices; tickets are only $3 before 5pm and $5 afterward, and GSU students and faculty go free. Check the Cinefest website for special features and film festivals.

IMAX

7. If you're looking for an indoor outing with the kids or just want the larger-than-life experience of IMAX theaters, check out Atlanta's very own, located conveniently within the renowned Fernbank Museum. Look at their website for other special events and exhibits going on at the museum. If you decide to leave the kids at home, check out their weekly 'Martinis and IMAX' event each Friday evening.

Tips & Warnings

• Enter your zip code into show time websites in order to find your most convenient cinema.
• Check to see what discounts are offered; many cinemas do not give them on the weekends.
• Some of the 'art house' cinemas offer a variety of alcoholic beverages and gourmet food.

[seventy4]

on 8/12/2008 I didn't know about GSU, great info!