In dire times of procrastination or impromptu plans, there is nothing more alluring than watching a good movie. Even better than this is the experience of sitting in that dark room with a cherry slushie and airhead extremes (which can change to each person’s liking) while witnessing a new world unfold before your eyes.
The movie-going experience can offer more than simply buying overpriced tickets and sitting in a dark room. There are a wide variety of theaters near Chatham’s Shadyside campus, many of which offer unique experiences as well as student discounts.
Below is a compiled list of some of Pittsburgh’s best theaters near campus that students should keep a close eye on.
4115 Butler St, Lawrenceville
A personal favorite of mine, the Row House hosts special events on top of the usual movie screenings. Between mid-April “Rocky Horror Picture Show” screenings and Abe Froman Sausage King Sausage Night where moviegoers get to enjoy sausage while watching “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” the Row House has lots to offer. This upcoming summer, the Row House will begin their annual Japanese Summer Film Festival. Nestled perfectly into Lawrenceville, the Row House Cinema is a great location for any other plans you may want to make post-film.
1729 Murray Ave, Squirrel Hill
Within walking distance from the Shadyside campus, the Manor in Squirrel Hill is a more classy theater. Students get weekend tickets after 5 p.m. for $8.50, bringing a good bargain. Around for 90 years, the Manor not only screens newly released films, but also independent, documentary, limited-release art and foreign language films. Those who are of age can enjoy a drink from the M Bar located in the lobby. You can also find themed drinks relating to movies that are being screened.
Rangos Giant Cinema of the Carnegie Science Center
Allegheny Ave, Pittsburgh
Chatham students receive $3 off general admissions to the Rango Giant Cinema, which is inside the Carnegie Science Center. The theater offers daily educational films, special features and the occasional cult-classic screening. Tickets are typically $10-12 for non-members, but students should be aware that tickets are being sold four weeks in advance according to the website.
809 Liberty Ave, Pittsburgh
Located on Liberty Avenue, the Harris Theater works with the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust to provide student discounts. Chatham students can use the promo code “2425CHATHAM” on their tickets during this academic year, or explore the “University Student Tickets” page of the website to see new deals with the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. The Harris Theater offers films that might not be screened at other nearby locations and is one of few to maintain 35mm film projectors that are regularly utilized. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
300 W Waterfront Drive, West Homestead
For those looking for IMAX or Dolby Atmos showings, AMC Waterfront 22 will provide. For those that bring their Chatham ID, certain screenings offer student discounts up to 20% off. With a beautiful inside lobby, AMC offers a little bit of everything, from online snack orders for those who may typically run late to AMC exclusive offers.
549 Moon Clinton Road, Moon Township
While definitely not in direct proximity to Chatham, I have to take a moment to shoutout drive-in theaters. For those with access to a car over the summer, the Moon Township’s Dependable Drive In theater is open all year and I would consider it a special experience that is worth the gas. With the perfect snack bar and old-timey feel, seeing a theater from the trunk of a car is an experience like no other, and one I would urge those who can to participate in.
