Interior of Chelan's Historic Ruby Theatre.  The oldest continuously running movie theaters in Washington.
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Ruby Theatre

4.7
·114 reviews·Chelan, United States

Step back in time at the Ruby Theatre, a 1914 movie palace offering classic films and legendary popcorn in historic Lake Chelan.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Classic movie magic

CrowdMedium
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Interior of Chelan's Historic Ruby Theatre.  The oldest continuously running movie theaters in Washington.

Ruby Theatre

Best Time

Evenings

Classic movie magic

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at the Ruby Theatre, a 1914 movie palace offering classic films and legendary popcorn in historic Lake Chelan.

4.7
(114 reviews)

"It's a PRETTY COOL PLACE! A piece of history and an icon of our town's story."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧈 Popcorn Alert!

Don't miss the legendary popcorn, especially with extra butter! Bring napkins.

🕰️ Arrive Early

To soak in the historic ambiance and secure good seats, especially for popular showings.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.7 · 114 reviews

Type

Movie Theater

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

Entire Theatre

Experience a piece of history in this iconic 1914 movie palace, a true landmark.

Balcony Seating

Balcony Seating

Balcony

Enjoy a unique perspective from the intimate balcony, reserved for 18+ moviegoers.

The Ruby Parlor

The Ruby Parlor

Parlor Area

Explore a scrapbook filled with newspaper clippings and memorabilia detailing the theatre's story.

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Planning Your Visit

Step Back in Time

The Ruby Theatre is a historic gem, operating since 1914. Expect a classic movie-going experience with a touch of nostalgia. Check showtimes in advance, as the schedule can vary.

Popcorn Perfection

Locals rave about the popcorn, especially with extra butter! It's a must-try part of the Ruby Theatre experience. Be prepared for a truly classic cinema snack.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Classic movie magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Popular movie showings
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Members! The holiday season is here, and we’ve got something extra merry for you. 🎞️✨ Member Movie Night is happening Wednesday, December 10 at the historic Ruby Theatre! Join us at the Chelan Tasting Room at 5pm for pre-movie sips → then we’ll stroll to the theater for a 6:30pm showing of Elf. 🎄Festive sweaters and holiday flair encouraged. 📧Check your inbox for full details and RSVP—seats are...
rockypondwinery
33 likes • 849 views

🧈 Popcorn Alert!

Don't miss the legendary popcorn, especially with extra butter! Bring napkins. Reddit

🕰️ Arrive Early

To soak in the historic ambiance and secure good seats, especially for popular showings. Reddit

Last night, Peter and I went to see Drunk Romeo & Juliet at the Ruby Theatre …. and honestly, what a perfect and fun date night… If you haven’t heard of it, the whole concept is that one actor takes five shots of whiskey before the show and then tries to perform Shakespeare… while the rest of the cast attempts to hold the play together. It turns the world’s most dramatic love story into a chaotic,...
r0ssatravels
4 likes • 243 views
‘Ruby Theatre Premiere’ dropping tonight 🎥❤️🎟️
torinfrost
42 likes • 1.5K views

🎭 Live Performances

Check for special events like 'Drunk Shakespeare' for a unique theatrical twist. TikTokInstagram

1️⃣8️⃣+ Balcony

The balcony offers a more intimate experience and is reserved for adults. Reddit

@drunkshakespeare at the Ruby Theatre 🥂 I'm super impressed with The Drunk Shakespeare Society and the super cool work they're doing. Truly an epic night!! ¡Si estás en NY y quieres ver buen teatro y pasarla bien, pon esta en tu lista! . . . #theatre #classicaltheatre #theatrekid #theatrelife #theatredesign #supportlivetheatre #theatrearts #theatrelove #theatrenerd #theatrereview #newyork #newyo...
jaerodri12
67 likes • 3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🧈 Popcorn Alert!

Don't miss the legendary popcorn, especially with extra butter! Bring napkins. Reddit

🕰️ Arrive Early

To soak in the historic ambiance and secure good seats, especially for popular showings. Reddit

🎭 Live Performances

Check for special events like 'Drunk Shakespeare' for a unique theatrical twist. TikTokInstagram

1️⃣8️⃣+ Balcony

The balcony offers a more intimate experience and is reserved for adults. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(114 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Ruby Theatre as a historic gem offering a nostalgic movie-going experience. The legendary popcorn and charming atmosphere are frequently highlighted. Some minor audio issues have been noted, but the overall sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive, celebrating its status as a beloved local landmark.

"WELL, if you ever find yourself looking for something to do while In Lake Chelan Washington,
Stop by the Ruby Theatre.

It's a PRETTY COOL PLACE!

The Ruby Theatre just so happens to be the VERY FIRST JOB I EVER HAD!!

So, needless to say it holds a special place in my heart.

When you first walk into the Ruby Theatre's doors you enter into a part of 1914.......
AND a piece of HISTORY!!

While you're there make sure to step inside the parlor. Where you can find a scrapbook containing newspaper articles, along with other items that tell the story of Ruby!
...... She's MORE THAN JUST a theatre, she's a LONG STANDING Icon of our town's story!

I hope she remains here MANY YEARS TO COME!!

❤️🫶 MUCH LOVE,
Jennifer G.

OH YEA,
try the popcorn 🍿 with extra, EXTRA BUTTER!!......
Make sure to grab EXTRA NAPKINS!!"

Jennifer Gordon

"I’m local - love the Ruby. We always try to go there when there are big screen movies in town. Went to see Jurassic World Friday. The music soundtrack couldn’t be heard unless there was no dialog or sound effects. When the big moment scenes come up, and even on end credits, you could barely hear it. Sounds effects and vocals were PLENTY loud. I alerted the owner, who said they couldn’t control music levels separate from sounds effects or vocals, which I get. I sat in back row to see if he would investigate my claim. Instead I could hear them talking in the foyer over the movie, mainly because there was no music in background as scenes unfolded.

I hope for the sake of patrons over the next week that he actually investigated and complained to the Distributor if indeed levels were that out of whack. I’m just not seeing any noise online about it so I doubt the issue is widespread."

Paul Hunter

"Movie audio & video quality were awesome. The balcony is reserved for 18+movie goers but main floor is open for everyone. The balcony is smallish & offers old style theatre seats."

S Oberly

What People Like

Historic charm
Legendary popcorn
Nostalgic atmosphere

What People Dislike

Occasional audio balance

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Ruby Theatre is located in the heart of downtown Lake Chelan, Washington. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. If you're staying in the area, it's also a pleasant walk from many accommodations. Reddit

Yes, there is typically street parking available near the Ruby Theatre. Depending on the time of day and events, it can get busy, so arriving a little early is recommended. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ruby Theatre showtimes vary depending on the movies being shown. It's best to check their official website or local listings for the most up-to-date ruby cinema showtimes and ruby theater showtimes. [^SEO]

Ticket prices for the Ruby Theatre are generally affordable, reflecting its classic cinema charm. For specific ruby cinema ticket price information, it's recommended to check their website or call ahead. [^SEO]

The Ruby Theatre often shows a mix of new releases and classic films. To see what's ruby theatre now showing, consult their current schedule online. [^SEO]

Yes, you can typically purchase tickets in advance for showings at the Ruby Theatre, especially for popular films or special events. This is a good strategy to ensure you get your preferred seats. Reddit

The main floor is open to all ages, but the balcony seating is reserved for moviegoers 18 and older, offering a more adult-focused experience. Reddit

🎫 🎬 Onsite Experience

The Ruby Theatre offers both main floor seating and a smaller, intimate balcony area. The balcony seats are described as 'old style theatre seats' and are reserved for guests 18+. Reddit

While it's a historic venue, efforts are usually made to accommodate visitors. It's advisable to contact the theatre directly for specific accessibility questions regarding ramps or seating. Reddit

Many visitors recommend trying the popcorn with extra butter and enjoying the historic atmosphere. For a unique experience, look out for special live performances like 'Drunk Shakespeare'. TikTokReddit

One reviewer noted that conversations from the foyer could be heard during quieter movie moments, suggesting soundproofing might be an issue in certain areas. Reddit

The Ruby Parlor is an area within the theatre where you can find a scrapbook filled with historical items, newspaper articles, and other memorabilia that tell the story of the Ruby Theatre. Reddit

🍽️ 🍿 Food & Dining

The Ruby Theatre is famous for its popcorn, often recommended with extra butter. They likely offer standard cinema snacks like candy and drinks as well. Reddit

Yes, the popcorn at the Ruby Theatre receives high praise from visitors, with many specifically mentioning the generous amount of butter. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography during the movie screening is discouraged to avoid disturbing other patrons. However, you might be able to take photos of the historic architecture before or after the show, or in designated areas like the parlor. Always check with staff if unsure.

The historic facade of the theatre, the interior lobby, and the unique balcony seating area are great for capturing the classic cinema vibe. The Ruby Parlor also offers interesting visual elements. Reddit

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