12 Things Brits Would Find Surprisingly Different About Going to the Cinema in America
If you’re planning a trip to the States and love catching a movie, you’ll find the cinema experience quite different from back home in the UK. From super-sized snacks to the comfort of the theatres, here’s a fun peek at what makes going to the movies in America a whole new ball game.
1. Cinema screens can be inside enormous entertainment complexes
Imagine stepping into a venue that not only has multiple cinema screens but also bowling alleys, arcades, and sometimes even a few restaurants; that’s a typical American cinema complex for you. This setup means you could literally spend the whole day here, moving from a lunch date to a movie and ending with a competitive game of bowling.
2. Reclining seats are common at many modern cinemas
Forget the standard cinema seating, in the US, many cinemas have upgraded to reclining seats. These comfy chairs can fully recline at the push of a button, allowing you to lie back, relax, and enjoy your movie in the best way possible. It feels more like being in a cozy living room than a public cinema!
3. Popcorn portions can be enormous
When it comes to popcorn at American cinemas, the word ‘big’ just doesn’t cut it. Here, ‘huge’ is more like it. You can expect buckets that are big enough to share with the whole row, though you might not want to! And with flavors ranging from classic butter to sweet caramel, you’ll have plenty to choose from.
4. Butter dispensers let customers add their own topping
Do you like a little popcorn with your butter? In the US, many cinemas have self-service butter dispensers, allowing you to add as much or as little butter as you want. It’s a dream come true for butter lovers who can tailor their popcorn topping to their own taste.
5. Drinks can look comically large to British visitors
Drinks in American cinemas can often be as big as the popcorn. You might even find the smallest size larger than what you’re used to back home. With these giant drinks, staying hydrated (or getting a sugar rush!) during a long movie is never a problem.
6. Some cinemas serve full meals at your seat
Imagine this: you’re watching the latest blockbuster and you don’t even have to miss a scene to grab dinner. Some US cinemas offer full meal services right at your seat. From gourmet burgers to sushi, you can enjoy a delicious meal while enjoying the film.
7. Free refills may be available at some chains
Got a large drink and finished it before the movie’s halfway through? No problem. Many cinema chains in the US offer free refills on large drinks and sometimes even on popcorn. This means you can go back as many times as you like — perfect for those extra-long movies!
8. Cinema parking is often free outside major cities
One of the perks of watching a movie in a suburban American cinema is the abundance of free parking. Unlike in many UK cities where parking can be a nightmare, here you can usually find a spot right by the cinema without having to pay a penny.
9. Drive-in cinemas still exist
The nostalgic drive-in movie experience is still alive in the US. Pack a car with friends or family, grab some snacks, and enjoy a movie from the comfort of your vehicle. It’s a unique way to watch a film and a must-try for any movie fan visiting the States.
10. Some cinemas have bars and restaurant-style menus
Beyond just popcorn and soda, some cinemas in the US also feature full bars and restaurant-style menus. This means you can enjoy a craft beer or a cocktail along with your movie, making for a more adult-friendly cinema trip.
11. Premium screens can feel more like private lounges
For a more exclusive experience, some cinemas offer premium screens where the setting feels more like a private lounge than a public theater. With luxurious seating and top-notch sound systems, these screenings make a movie feel extra special.
12. A cinema trip can easily become an entire evening out
In the US, a trip to the cinema can easily extend into a full evening out. With so many facilities and dining options available right at the cinema complex, you can combine dinner, entertainment, and a movie all in one go. It’s a great way to spend an evening, whether you’re with family, friends, or a special someone.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.