Movie Theaters in Providence, Rhode Island

The Showcase Cinema is the giant megaplex of Providence, RI at the Providence Place Mall. Right off the highway (Rt. 95) it's easy access. Parking, however, is not free. There is plenty of parking with a huge parking garage, but usually $1 will cover the charge. There are the usual range of fast food restaurants in the Food Court of the mall. However, there is still popcorn and candy available as well as a bar within the theater area.

Call 401-270-4646 for current showings and times. Since the theater is on the top level of the mall, there is plenty to do while you are waiting for your movie to start.

There is also an IMAX theater at the same location. It is an excellent facility. For current information on the IMAX call 401-453-4629. The IMAX has hosted several 3-D screenings recently including "Monsters vs Aliens".

On the other end of the spectrum is the Cable Car Cinema, 204 South Main St, Providence, RI, and the Avon Cinema, 260 Thayer St, Providence, RI. These small, privately owned cinemas serve a more elite and artsy crowd. They are situated perfectly for the college crowd in the area. Both are within walking distance of the Rhode Island School of Design and Brown University.

Both the Cable Car and the Avon are supportive of local film festivals and have made their space available for them. Otherwise, these two theaters show second run, old classics, other kinds of entertainment and hard to find art films. Call 401-272-3970 for details on the Cable Car , website at www.cablecarcinema.com. Call 401-421-3315 for details on the Avon Cinema, website www.cinematreasures.org.

In addition, an old, historic theater in Providence is The Columbus Theater located on Broadway. While the Columbus often hosts other shows such as musicals and runway model shows, it has a large, professional screen downstairs and seats 900 patrons. It also houses a small upstairs venue called the Cinematique which seats 200.

The Columbus is home to the Rhode Island International Film Festival every year and runs hundreds of films in both venues for the organizations. The Columbus also rents out to premieres of local independent films, most recently the black comedy "Nun of That". Further information can be found at www.columbustheatre.com.