What’s more magical than going into a movie theater and getting lost in the stories projected onto the screen? From the hush of the theater to the buttery popcorn and the feeling of anticipation as the lights dim and the movie begins, seeing a movie in the theater never gets old. Many don’t know that Iowa is actually home to the oldest movie theater not only in America, but in the world! If you haven’t been yet, it’s definitely worth a trip.
The State Theatre in Washington, Iowa was originally known as the New Graham, and originally opened as an opera house in 1893.
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The theater was verified as the world’s oldest continuously operating cinema theater by Guinness World Records in April of 2016.
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Movies were shown at the State Theatre very early in the history of film. In fact, they started motion pictures way back in 1897.
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Up until 1930, the theater was used both for movies and live shows.
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Damaged by fire six years ago, it has now been restored to the way it looked back in 1946.
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The theater offers patrons a unique opportunity to see first run movies in a beautifully restored, historic theater.
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Throwbacks to a different era include a balcony and a gold waterfall curtain that is lifted before each show.
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You’ll even enjoy digital projection and full surround sound as you take in a film.
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This theater is a historic gem and one that will be enjoyed by the community for years to come.
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Have you been to this amazing theater? What did you think? For more interesting Iowa destinations, here are 10 Places In Iowa You Must See Before You Die.
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