Featured Image Credit: Jeremy Yap on Unsplash
Sometimes all you want to do is kick back and see a good movie. And while we’re all used to consuming content through a variety of smaller screens, there’s nothing better than seeing a movie on the big screen. From small theaters with local charm to the biggest screen in the Lowcountry, we’ve gathered our top three Charleston movie theaters. So when you’re in the mood for an afternoon or evening out at the theater, hit up one of these establishments.
Terrace Theatre

Image Credit: Terrace Theatre Facebook
The Terrace Theatre should be on the top of your list of Charleston movie theaters if you’re into indie and prestige films that don’t get big releases. For instance, if you’re trying to see all the Oscar contenders for a certain year, chances are they’ll be screening at the Terrace. But don’t count it out if you want to see a blockbuster too. They show big movies like Thor: Ragnarok, The Greatest Showman, and Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Their five theaters are intimate with comfortable seats – many with little trays on the side with a cupholder. And the concession stand doesn’t disappoint either: there’s a selection of wine and beer and a variety of snacks not seen in most theaters.
Cinebarre
If you want to see a movie but also want to get drinks and a bite to eat, you don’t have to look further than Cinebarre in Mount Pleasant. As the name suggests, there is a large bar as soon as you walk in. The seats in the actual theaters are comfortable and you can order hot food from a server right from your seat. The movie selection is good with the most popular movies out at the time showing in eleven theaters.
Citadel Stadium 16 IMAX

Image Credit: Citadel Stadium 16 IMAX Facebook
There’s seeing a movie on the big screen and then there is seeing a movie on an IMAX screen. If you want the IMAX experience, Citadel Stadium 16 is the only one of the Charleston movie theaters to offer it. The theater was recently renovated and the seats are comfortable and recline. You can’t beat the picture quality and the movie-going experience in general here is outstanding. They don’t offer alcohol like the other two theaters on our list, but the concession stand is full of quintessential movie favorites like popcorn and candy.