Nebraska's Historic Theatres: 6 Silver Screens to See
Going to a movie is a classic and nostalgic experience. If you want to skip the shiny, modern mega-theatres and enjoy something more unique, take a look at Nebraska’s historic venues throughout the state. From the small towns to the larger cities, each one’s distinct architecture and story are worth checking out as you settle in to enjoy the show!
World Theatre - Kearney
Located in downtown Kearney’s The Bricks Creative District, The World is inside the historic Masonic Temple building, which was constructed in 1927. After a long closure, it re-opened in 2012 and has a complete modern restoration to its classic feel. Guests will appreciate how showmanship meets affordability. There is plenty of leg room plus balcony and floor-level seating options, and all movie tickets are just $5.
Isis Theatre - Crete
The Crete Isis Theatre has a century of history. Built in 1926, it was renovated and is now operated by the Blue River Arts Council. It mixes the historic with the modern and offers inclusive experiences, including TheaterEars, which allows for multiple-language audio, as well as a Hearing Loop assistive listening system to help those with hearing loss enjoy the show.
Midwest Theatre - Scottsbluff
The Midwest Theater opened in 1946 on the site of the older Egyptian Theater, which was destroyed by a fire a year earlier. Its Modernistic architecture is striking, including an exterior tower with neon lights and a well-preserved interior that’s had only minimal cosmetic changes over the years. Grab one of more than 700 seats for a movie or live performance.
Fox Theatre - Sidney
Originally built as a single theatre in 1951, Fox Theatre transitioned into twin sections in the 1970s. It’s gone through closures and ownership changes throughout its history, but today it’s still a great spot in western Nebraska to grab some popcorn and enjoy a nostalgic small-town experience.
Joyo Theatre - Lincoln
The Joyo Theatre has provided a century’s worth of memories for people in the capital city, and it’s one of the gems of the historic Havelock District. This single-screen theatre is also known for hosting private events, including kids’ birthday parties.
Dundee Theater - Omaha
Omaha’s longest-running cinema has gone through several re-inventions since it first opened in 1925, including as both an art house as well as showing more popular Hollywood films. The nonprofit Film Streams renovated it and re-opened it in 2017, and the neighborhood theater now includes the main 300-seat Peggy Payne Theater and 25-seat Linder Microcinema, which focuses on experimental and challenging art.