BEST OF DAYTON 2018: The best places to see a movie in Dayton

Looking for the perfect place to curl up with family, friends and an extra large tub of hot, buttered popcorn to watch a movie?

There are cinemas everywhere — from multiplexes, to luxury theaters, to discount theaters, to arthouse theaters and more. But which are the best?

These are the theaters that rose to the top in Dayton.com’s Best of 2018 contest, Best Movie Theater.

WINNER: The Neon

Credit: HANDOUT

The charming little theater in downtown Dayton has been bringing some of the hottest independent movies around to our fair city for more than three decades.

The Neon is famous for being the destination in Dayton to see some of the most critically acclaimed films of the year. It’s also a host to special events and film festivals that support local filmmakers, LGBT filmmakers and more. It’s also famous for its annual Oscar party.

It’s fun. It’s funky. It serves beer and one of the best movie deals in town: $5.50 Tuesdays.

What makes the Neon stand out from the rest?

"Our prices are the best in town, the customer experience is among the best around, and the films we bring to this market are among the best in contemporary cinema. We also partner with many local filmmakers, grassroots organizations, and companies to bring their events to life...and all of those relationships help build awareness," Jonathan McNeal, Neon movies manager, told us when he was featured as our Daytonian of the Week.

Credit: Photo: Amelia Robinson

Want to go?

130 E. 5th St., Dayton | Website | Facebook

SECOND PLACE: Cinemark Huber Heights 16

Credit: Lisa Powell

Choose your own seats. Luxury recliners. Stadium seating. 16 screens. This multiplex stands out from the rest for its size, comfort and a menu that offers traditional movie theater treats plus beer, wine and mixed drinks.

Texas-based Cinemark, which bought Rave in 2013, operates theaters in Beavercreek, Huber Heights, Piqua and West Carrollton.

Want to go?

7737 Waynetowne Blvd., Huber Heights | Website

THIRD PLACE: Cinépolis Dayton at Austin Landing

The 12-screen theater at Austin Landing features plush automated reclining seats. All seating is reserved at this luxury theater, which offers a full bar featuring seasonal cocktail, beer and private-label wine selections. Classic concessions like popcorn and soda are for sale alongside premium items like sliders, sweet potato fries, cheese plates, hummus and more.

>> PHOTOS: Cinepolis Dayton grand opening

>> 9 things to know about the luxury theater at Austin Landing

Want to go?

10251 Penny Lane, Miamisburg | Website

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About the Author

Dayton.com Staff