Howell Theatre
A historic 1935 movie theater beautifully restored, offering affordable films with comfortable seating and a nostalgic charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Howell Theatre
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1935 movie theater beautifully restored, offering affordable films with comfortable seating and a nostalgic charm.
"Best theater for the price, with character and a feel of nostalgia."
🎯 Embrace the Nostalgia
Skip the big chains for a unique, historic movie experience with character.
💰 Unbeatable Value
Enjoy affordable tickets and concessions – a family night out won't break the bank!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Charm
Immerse yourself in the nostalgic ambiance of a 1935 theater, beautifully restored with modern amenities.
Affordable Movie Magic
Enjoy feature films at a fraction of the cost of modern multiplexes, including great deals on popcorn.
Stadium Seating Comfort
Catch your favorite films in comfort with modern stadium seating in two of its four screens.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Nostalgia
Value Beyond Compare
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace the Nostalgia
Skip the big chains for a unique, historic movie experience with character.
💰 Unbeatable Value
Enjoy affordable tickets and concessions – a family night out won't break the bank!
🍿 Concession Perks
Appreciate the handy shelves for popcorn and drinks, a thoughtful touch.
💺 Comfy Seating
Relax in super comfortable, reclining seats, especially in the stadium seating auditoriums.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace the Nostalgia
Skip the big chains for a unique, historic movie experience with character.
💰 Unbeatable Value
Enjoy affordable tickets and concessions – a family night out won't break the bank!
🍿 Concession Perks
Appreciate the handy shelves for popcorn and drinks, a thoughtful touch.
💺 Comfy Seating
Relax in super comfortable, reclining seats, especially in the stadium seating auditoriums.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Howell Theatre for its incredible value, historic charm, and comfortable seating. It's seen as a beloved local spot offering a nostalgic movie-going experience that stands out from modern multiplexes, though some note the screens might be smaller than expected post-renovation.
"Really cool old theatre with lots of history. It’s been well restored with modern equipment and is clean. Staff are friendly and prices are, well there movie theater prices lol. But, this one has character. Our only complaint would be the screens are small after remodeling from the original design."
Tim & Beth Tears
"We visited The Howell Theatre for the first time this evening to view The Polar Express. We love the feel and experience of this theater! There are no frills but we prefer this theater to higher end places like AMC. We enjoyed the popcorn and the shelves to put popcorn and drinks.
We would love to visit again next time we're in the area!"
Amber Jaminia
"Great selection of movies for 4.00 each person. Clean theater, big screens, dolby surround sound, very nice people working there and super comfortable seats that lean back! The regular theater was going to cost us 65.00 for 4 people to get in thats not even popcorn?!?!?!
For $22 we got 4 seats and a large popcorn with 2 extra bags for sharing and we throughly enjoyed our family night out. Best theater for the price."
Angela Bridges
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Howell Theatre is located in Smithfield, NC. Driving is the most common way to get there, with ample parking available. Check local traffic updates before you head out.
Yes, there is parking available at Howell Theatre, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Public transport options might be limited in Smithfield, NC. It's best to check local transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services if you're not driving.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are incredibly affordable, often around $4.00 per person, making it a great deal for a family movie night.
Information on online ticket purchasing is not widely available. It's recommended to arrive a bit early to purchase tickets at the box office to ensure you get your preferred showtimes.
Operating hours can vary based on movie showtimes. It's best to check the Howell Theatre movies listings for the most up-to-date schedule.
Yes, Howell Theatre shows a selection of feature films, including recent releases, offering a more budget-friendly way to see them.
While not explicitly stated, the affordable prices and classic atmosphere make it a potential candidate for group outings. Inquire directly with the theater for group booking options.
🎫 🎬 Onsite Experience
Howell Theatre offers comfortable, reclining seats that lean back. Two of its four screens feature modern stadium seating for an enhanced viewing experience.
While the screens are described as big, some reviews mention they might seem smaller after remodeling from the original design. They still provide an immersive experience.
The theater boasts Dolby surround sound, ensuring a quality audio experience for all movies shown.
Visitors consistently praise Howell Theatre for being clean and well-maintained, contributing to a pleasant movie-going experience.
You'll find convenient shelves for placing your popcorn and drinks, a thoughtful touch that enhances comfort during the film.
🍽️ 🍿 Food & Dining
Howell Theatre offers classic movie theater concessions, including popcorn. They provide great value, with options for large popcorns and extra bags.
Yes, concession prices are considered very reasonable, especially when compared to larger cinema chains. A large popcorn and drinks can be a great deal.
It's generally not recommended to bring outside food and drinks to movie theaters. Howell Theatre's affordable concessions make purchasing on-site a good option.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography during the movie screening is typically not allowed to avoid disturbing other patrons. However, you can capture the historic ambiance of the lobby and seating areas before or after the show.
The lobby area, with its historic architecture, and the comfortable seating arrangements are great for capturing the theater's unique character.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The comfortable, reclining seats and the option of stadium seating ensure that even the youngest moviegoers can sit back and enjoy the show. The theater's clean environment and friendly staff contribute to a stress-free experience for parents. It’s a place where you can create lasting family memories without breaking the bank.
💰 Budget Travelers
Don't forget to factor in the affordable concessions. A large popcorn and drinks for a fraction of the usual cost make it easy to enjoy the full movie experience without overspending. The historic charm also adds an intangible value, offering a unique cultural experience alongside the film.
💖 Couples Seeking a Unique Date Night
Share a budget-friendly popcorn and soak in the classic movie-going atmosphere. It’s a chance to connect and enjoy a shared experience that feels special and a little bit retro, making for a charming and affordable evening out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Howell Theatre's History
Visitors often remark on the palpable sense of nostalgia that permeates the Howell Theatre. Unlike sterile, modern multiplexes, this venue offers a unique atmosphere that transports you back in time. The careful restoration ensures that the classic feel is maintained, making every visit a journey into cinematic heritage. It’s this blend of history and comfort that draws patrons seeking an experience beyond just watching a film.
The theater's dedication to providing an accessible and enjoyable experience is evident in its modern upgrades. With Dolby surround sound and stadium seating in two of its four auditoriums, Howell Theatre ensures that the technical aspects of film viewing are up to par. This thoughtful integration of new technology within a historic framework is what makes it a beloved local institution.
The Howell Theatre Experience: Value and Comfort
Complementing the low ticket prices are the reasonably priced concessions. Visitors rave about the value of popcorn and drinks, noting that a family can enjoy a full movie experience, including snacks, for a fraction of the cost at larger chains. The inclusion of handy shelves for popcorn and drinks further enhances the convenience and enjoyment of the concession offerings.
Beyond the price, the comfort of the seating is another highlight. The theater features super comfortable, reclining seats that lean back, allowing patrons to relax fully during the film. The addition of stadium seating in two of the auditoriums provides excellent sightlines and an even more premium feel, ensuring a pleasant viewing experience for everyone.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit