When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Raleigh
Why Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Raleigh is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in Raleigh, North Carolina, offers a distinct moviegoing experience that combines film, food, and social atmosphere all in one place. Located at 2116 New Bern Avenue Suite D, this cinema is not just about watching a movie — it's a vibrant place to meet up with friends and enjoy entertainment beyond the screen. The theater stands out for its creatively designed ambiance, featuring nostalgic elements like giant VHS tape tables and pink neon lights that add to the fun, retro vibe. Guests can explore an impressive collection of collectible VHS and DVDs displayed throughout the lobby, offering a unique cultural touch and a conversation starter for movie lovers. The cinema also features a lively bar area right at the entrance, stocked with a variety of drinks, making it easy to unwind and socialize before or after the film. For added entertainment, there are classic games such as Simon Says, Operation, and Ms. Pacman available, which makes the venue appealing even for extended visits. Inside, the theaters are thoughtfully arranged with dining in mind; each seat includes either an individual or shared table, allowing you to enjoy a full meal comfortably during the movie. The menu caters well to diverse tastes including vegetarian options, underscoring their attention to guests’ culinary preferences. Altogether, Alamo Drafthouse Raleigh represents a multifaceted venue ideal for social outings, film aficionados, and those looking to combine dining and entertainment in a uniquely welcoming setting.
Here's what people think of Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Raleigh
As of recent, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Raleigh holds a 4.7-star rating based on 6743 reviews.
User reviews of Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Raleigh generally express high satisfaction, reflected in its strong 4.7 rating from over 6,700 reviews. Patrons often praise the theater for its creative and immersive environment, noting the nostalgic decor and exceptional entertainment options beyond just movies. Many highlight the spacious and thoughtfully designed seating arrangement that includes tables ideal for dining, which enhances the overall viewing experience. Food quality receives positive remarks, with many guests appreciating the variety and especially the vegetarian choices. The integration of a full-service bar and classic arcade-style games contributes positively to the venue’s atmosphere, allowing for a fun and social gathering spot before the show starts. On the other hand, some reviews point out minor inconveniences related to ordering food during the movie through note passing, which can sometimes interrupt the flow. A few employees mention challenges with scheduling and hours, indicating that while the company culture is generally supportive, there might be inconsistencies in staff management. Despite these minor issues, the positive reviews strongly outweigh the negatives, with visitors frequently recommending Alamo Drafthouse Raleigh as a top destination for combining film, food, and community in a unique cinematic setting. This consensus positions it as an attractive option for anyone looking to enjoy a richer movie night experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Alan Michael Woods
I enjoyed this place and the nostalgia of movie selections from comedy to horror. My favorite are the classic zombie movies they sometimes play here. We had a great time and ordered the pepperoni pizza with popcorn and beer 🍺. They have parking and shops near by. The food was also really good. The server did his best. Our seats and light were not working at all. So we couldn't relax in the seats. If our seats were not broken I would give 5 stars. We don't think they should let us select seats in broken or not functional seating. Also, we enjoy the monthly plan they offer as well. All in all I would recommend for the nostalgia and different theater experience.
E Frank (SourceNRG)
The best way to enjoy a movie in the area! I honestly can’t recommend The Alamo Drafthouse in Raleigh enough. The staff is truly top-notch attentive, accommodating, and always going above and beyond to make sure your experience is perfect. Service here is a solid 5 stars every time. The theater itself is spotless, clean and comfortable, making it a real pleasure to settle in for a movie. But what really sets this place apart is the food. It’s honestly some of the best theater food I’ve ever had. My favorite has to be the Royale w/cheese and fried egg; seriously, it’s next-level delicious. And the fries with ginger garlic sauce? Absolutely incredible. I find myself craving them! Whether you’re here for a casual night out or a special occasion, the team at Alamo Drafthouse Raleigh makes every visit memorable. Great food, fantastic service, and a cozy atmosphere, this is a true gem in the city. Can’t wait to come back! Would you like me to tailor it further or add any specific details?
Lost Memories
Love the theaters inside. Has a feel of memories of the past. There's a full bar, place to sit when you walk in. When you walk into the cinema area, there are reclining seats, a whole full menu to choose from for food. Tried the fried pickle spears, full of flavor and juicy. The fried cauliflower was just right amount of spicy! So tasty. And came with fries. Plus huge portions. Bathrooms are clean, like how there are quite a few stalls more like rooms. More privacy. My go to theater
Monikalee.photograhy
We absolutely LOVE to visit this great art film house. Wonderful aesthetic, food great, huge lounging chairs to watch movies in and order an extensive menu from your seat. Great full bar and open area with records, videos and everything else !!! Can’t wait to go back !!
James
Had a great time here, they have a very good setup for going to the movies. The seats are comfortable, staff is kind and the food is great. Popcorn comes in a larger bucket than a normal movie theater. Milkshakes are really good.
How to reach Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Raleigh
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Why Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Raleigh may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Raleigh with your friends? This cinema is much more than just a place to watch movies; it's a complete entertainment experience designed to foster connection, excitement, and fun among groups. With an outstanding 4.7-star rating from over 6,700 reviews, it clearly stands out as a top destination for social outings. What makes it ideal for friends or family gatherings is its unique blend of cinematic presentation, gourmet dining, and a lively atmosphere that caters to movie lovers of all ages. The venue’s welcoming staff and the theater’s strict no-talking, no-cell-phone policy create an immersive environment that enhances the shared experience, allowing you and your friends to focus entirely on the film and each other. The spacious, comfortable seating equipped with trays lets you enjoy delicious food and drinks right at your seat without disrupting the view. Additionally, its location in Raleigh offers easy accessibility, making it a convenient meetup spot. The attached Video Vortex lounge and video rental store add a nostalgic and interactive element for groups to explore before or after a movie, making the outing both fun and memorable.
What activities can we enjoy at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Raleigh? The primary highlight, of course, is the diverse selection of films, ranging from blockbuster hits to rare documentaries and indie films not typically found in other theaters around Raleigh. This variety ensures that your group can always find something exciting and unique to watch together. Beyond just watching movies, the cinema offers a full-service dine-in experience where friendly wait staff bring a menu filled with creative dishes, snacks, and a wide array of craft beers and cocktails. Whether you want to share a hearty jerk chicken sandwich, indulge in gourmet burgers, or simply munch on popcorn and snacks, the food complements the cinema vibe perfectly. The reclining seats come with sturdy trays allowing comfortable dining while watching. Furthermore, the Video Vortex lounge acts as a social hub where groups can rent vintage VHS tapes and enjoy a quirky retro atmosphere before or after a screening. This blend of movie culture, food, drink, and interactive lounge makes it an all-in-one destination suitable for any meetup occasion.
Why is Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Raleigh the perfect venue for a group meetup? First, its unique "no-talking, no-texting" movie policy maintains an environment that all guests respect, enhancing the communal movie experience without distractions—a real blessing when watching with friends who value quality sound and image. The assigned seating guarantees your group sits together comfortably without the stress of finding last-minute spots. The cinema houses 11 auditoriums with ample seating for groups large or small, making it easy to plan gatherings whether intimate or celebratory. The attached Video Vortex is a standout feature, a fun bonus for those who might enjoy diving into classic or quirky films on VHS, adding a playful, nostalgic rift to the event. Friendly staff ensure efficient service, and the mix of restaurant and theater encourages groups to linger, socialize, and enjoy the venue well beyond the movie itself, turning a single outing into a full afternoon or evening experience.
What makes the dining experience at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Raleigh distinctive for group outings? Unlike standard theaters, Alamo offers a thoughtfully curated menu that reflects both classic and modern flavors, appealing to a variety of tastes. The menu features more than just typical concession stand fare; guests can order from freshly prepared sandwiches, appetizers, and meals, accompanied by a solid selection of craft beers and cocktails. This makes it easy to enjoy dinner and a movie all in one spot, avoiding the hassle of coordinating separate dining plans. Although some reviews mention occasional service delays or minor food temperature issues, the overall experience is elevated by the friendly ambiance and convenience. The presence of comfortable seats with trays enhances the ability to dine without compromising comfort or engagement with the film. For groups, this format is ideal for fostering conversation and sharing while also enjoying the entertainment together.
How does the environment and design of Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Raleigh enhance your group experience? The theater’s design prioritizes comfort and social interaction. Seating includes spacious recliners with footrests—although the seats do not fully recline, they do offer a pleasant level of comfort uncommon in many cinemas. Each seat has a sturdy tray table perfect for placing food and drinks, facilitating an enjoyable dining and viewing experience simultaneously. The theater's strict policy on phones and talking during the movie ensures minimum disruption and maximum immersion, making movie watching a shared experience rather than an interrupted event. The lobby, decorated with unique memorabilia and offering merchandise including video rentals, is a lively social space where groups can mingle, browse, and enhance the nostalgic film vibe. This environment encourages socializing before and after the movie, serving as an excellent icebreaker or wind-down space for groups.
What kind of movies and special screenings make Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Raleigh a unique entertainment option? Unlike mainstream theaters focused mainly on blockbuster releases, Alamo Drafthouse is known for programming a diverse selection of films, including documentaries, cult classics, independent movies, and themed special screenings. This curation attracts movie enthusiasts interested in experiencing less-commercial cinema that they might not find elsewhere. The cinema often hosts special events such as quote-alongs, sing-alongs, and film festivals that transform a regular movie night into a lively interactive occasion. Such events are perfect for groups looking for something more engaging and communal compared to a typical theater outing. This emphasis on movie culture and community involvement creates opportunities for groups with shared interests to bond over curated cinematic experiences.
How does the Video Vortex lounge complement the overall Alamo Drafthouse experience for groups? Attached to the Raleigh location, Video Vortex is a retro-themed lounge and video store where guests can rent a wide variety of old-school VHS tapes free of charge. This unique feature is rare for modern cinemas and provides a fun, nostalgic diversion, especially for groups that enjoy exploring film history or who appreciate vintage media formats. The lounge also functions as a bar space, offering drinks in a relaxed atmosphere that encourages conversations and socializing. For meetups, this means the experience is not just about sitting quietly in a theater but also about mingling, sharing tastes in films, and creating memorable interactions beyond the screen. It’s an ideal complement that balances the formal viewing of movies with casual entertainment and social activities.
Why do customers recommend Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Raleigh for group gatherings? Consistently praised for its friendly and helpful staff, the cinema delivers attentive service that adds to the overall positive experience when visiting with friends or family. The combination of high-quality picture and sound systems with a no-nonsense policy about movie etiquette creates a premium environment that movie lovers appreciate. While there have been some critiques about food service speed and minor issues like occasionally cold meals, most visitors still find dining and movie-watching combined to be a major plus. The venue's location and accessibility also make it a convenient destination for meetups in Raleigh. Overall, group visitors enjoy the blend of comfort, cultural experience, and imaginative atmosphere that only Alamo Drafthouse can offer, making it highly recommended for social outings centered on entertainment and connection.