Bijou by the Bay
Historic waterfront arthouse cinema, a non-profit gem revitalized by Michael Moore and the Traverse City Film Festival.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Bijou by the Bay
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic waterfront arthouse cinema, a non-profit gem revitalized by Michael Moore and the Traverse City Film Festival.
"A great place for a fun night out! Really great theater and friendly staff."
🎟️ Affordable Tickets & Snacks
Enjoy budget-friendly ticket prices and incredibly affordable popcorn and drinks. A great value!
🤝 Friendly Volunteer Staff
Expect a warm welcome from the smiling, efficient volunteers who make this place special.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Independent & Arthouse Films
Catch critically acclaimed indie flicks, cult classics, and unique cinematic experiences you won't find elsewhere.

Traverse City Film Festival Venue
Experience the magic of the TCFF, with special screenings and a vibrant atmosphere during the festival.

Waterfront Location
Enjoy a movie with a beautiful backdrop. The theater's prime spot on the bay adds to its unique charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Arthouse Vibe
Plan for Film Festival Buzz
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Affordable Tickets & Snacks
Enjoy budget-friendly ticket prices and incredibly affordable popcorn and drinks. A great value!
🤝 Friendly Volunteer Staff
Expect a warm welcome from the smiling, efficient volunteers who make this place special.
🎬 Arrive Early for Popular Films
Lines can form quickly, especially for buzzed-about movies. Beat the rush and secure your seat!
🛋️ Comfortable Seating Options
Seats are comfy, and armrests can be lifted for couples. Great for a cozy movie date!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Affordable Tickets & Snacks
Enjoy budget-friendly ticket prices and incredibly affordable popcorn and drinks. A great value!
🤝 Friendly Volunteer Staff
Expect a warm welcome from the smiling, efficient volunteers who make this place special.
🎬 Arrive Early for Popular Films
Lines can form quickly, especially for buzzed-about movies. Beat the rush and secure your seat!
🛋️ Comfortable Seating Options
Seats are comfy, and armrests can be lifted for couples. Great for a cozy movie date!
✨ Unique Local Charm
Appreciate the murals and quaint atmosphere – a refreshing change from chain theaters.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bijou by the Bay is widely praised as a charming, non-profit arthouse theater offering affordable tickets and snacks with a friendly, volunteer staff. While seating is comfortable, it's noted as standard, and film selections may lag behind major releases. It's a beloved community gem for independent film lovers.
"Great little arthouse theater. Created in the space of a now defunct museum, this 160-seat auditorium is host to great independent and art flicks, is a venue for the Traverse City Film Festival, and is staffed by volunteers from the surrounding area. Owned by the TCFF, this little gem is a non-profit and a great part of the Grand Traverse Bay community."
Erik Callaway
"A great place for a fun night out!
Really great theater and friendly staff. There was a long line that went out the door for the movie we wanted to watch, but it went very quickly and smoothly. The staff (a man with glasses and several ladies) were very fast and efficient, but above all... were extremely friendly.
Thats kinda hard to pull off working customer service when it gets busy, but they did it. It was such a good experience we'll be back. Thanks for making our memory of seeing "Wonka" in theaters a really sweet one!"
D Fuson
"We love this little theater. It's a very cool setting, and a great spot to watch a good film. Everyone who volunteers at Bijou is smiling and friendly."
Dru Dominici
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bijou by the Bay is located on the waterfront in Traverse City, Michigan. It's easily accessible by car, with nearby parking options. Public transportation might be limited, so checking local bus routes is advisable if you're not driving.
Parking availability can vary, especially during peak times or film festival events. It's recommended to check local parking regulations and consider arriving a bit early to find a spot.
If you're staying in downtown Traverse City, Bijou by the Bay is within walking distance, offering a pleasant stroll along the waterfront.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are very affordable, especially compared to larger chain theaters. You can expect budget-friendly admission, making it a great value for movie lovers.
While specific online ticketing options might vary, it's always a good idea to check the Bijou by the Bay or Traverse City Film Festival website for the most up-to-date information on purchasing tickets in advance.
Opening hours are typically tied to movie showtimes. It's best to check their schedule for the specific day you plan to visit, as hours can vary based on screenings.
As a non-profit, Bijou by the Bay focuses on affordable pricing. While specific discounts might not be advertised, the general ticket and snack prices are already very reasonable.
Information on accessibility features like wheelchair access and seating should be confirmed directly with the venue. It's always best to call ahead to ensure your needs can be met.
🎫 🎬 Onsite Experience
Bijou by the Bay specializes in independent films, arthouse cinema, cult classics, and features from the Traverse City Film Festival. You'll find a curated selection beyond mainstream blockbusters.
The theater offers comfortable, standard movie theater chairs. Some reviewers note that the armrests can be lifted, making it cozy for couples.
Yes, they offer popcorn and drinks at very reasonable prices. While some reviewers mention a lack of butter, flavor powders are available, and the overall cost is a significant perk.
The atmosphere is charming and quaint, with walls often painted with local murals. It's a community-focused, volunteer-run space that offers a unique, non-corporate movie-going experience.
Bijou by the Bay is staffed by volunteers from the community. If you're interested in contributing, you can inquire about volunteer opportunities through their website or by contacting them directly.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography during the movie screening is not permitted to avoid disturbing other patrons. However, you might be able to take photos of the theater's interior and exterior before or after the show, respecting any venue rules.
The waterfront location offers scenic views, especially around sunset. The unique interior murals and the theater's marquee can also make for interesting shots.
While sharing your experience is encouraged, always be mindful of copyright and avoid filming or photographing the movie itself. Focus on the ambiance, the building, and your overall visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💑 Couples & Date Nights
🎬 Film Buffs & Cinephiles
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Arthouse Experience
The theater's programming often includes special events and retrospectives, making it a dynamic cultural hub. It's also a key venue during the annual Traverse City Film Festival, drawing filmmakers and cinephiles from around the region. This commitment to diverse and quality cinema makes Bijou by the Bay a must-visit for anyone looking for a more curated and engaging movie-going experience beyond the typical Hollywood fare. The affordability of tickets and concessions further enhances its appeal as an accessible cultural institution.
Community and Non-Profit Spirit
The non-profit status means that any revenue generated goes back into supporting the theater's mission: to provide access to diverse cinematic experiences and to serve as a cultural anchor for the Grand Traverse Bay area. This commitment extends to its programming, which often features films that might not otherwise be shown in commercial theaters. Visitors often remark on the quaint charm and local character of the Bijou, noting details like the murals painted on the walls, which reflect the spirit of Traverse City itself. It’s more than just a movie theater; it’s a community asset.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit