Movie theaters have changed quite a bit over the years, but one little theater in Lincoln City, Oregon, has managed to keep the magic of going to the movies alive for nearly 90 years.
The Bijou Theater isn’t a sprawling multiplex with a dozen screens. It’s a historic, single-screen movie theater along Highway 101, where the marquee still announces what’s playing, the popcorn is freshly made, and the experience feels a little more personal.
Originally opened in 1937, the Bijou has survived changing ownership, competition from larger theaters, the transition to digital movies, and even a global pandemic. Through it all, this independent movie house has remained a beloved part of the Lincoln City community.
Whether you’re looking for something to do during your Oregon Coast vacation or simply appreciate a theater with a little history, the Bijou is worth a visit.
What is the Bijou Theaterin Lincoln City?
The Bijou Theater is an independently owned movie theater located at 1624 NE Highway 101 in Lincoln City, Oregon.
Unlike modern multiplexes, the Bijou has just one screen, giving it the atmosphere of a traditional neighborhood movie house. Its distinctive marquee, vintage movie posters, and cozy interior are part of what makes the theater stand out.
The Bijou shows a combination of new movie releases, independent films, and special screenings throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy current films while experiencing a theater that has been entertaining Oregon Coast audiences for generations.
It’s also Lincoln City’s only operating movie theater, making it a unique destination for locals and vacationers alike.
The history of the Bijou Theater: Nearly 90 years of movies
The Bijou Theater originally opened on June 3, 1937, under a different name: the Lakeside Theatre.
Its first movie was Personal Property, a romantic comedy starring Jean Harlow and Robert Taylor. At the time, movie tickets cost just 35 cents for adults and 10 cents for children.
The theater was built during an era when going to the movies was one of the most popular forms of entertainment. Long before streaming services and on-demand rentals, neighborhood movie houses provided communities with a place to gather and enjoy the latest Hollywood releases.
Over the decades, the building underwent several changes. Some of its original Art Deco features were covered during renovations, and the theater eventually closed in 1979. Fortunately, that wasn’t the end of the story.
The theater reopened in 1981, and during the 1980s, it was renamed the Bijou, a French word meaning “jewel.” Renovations helped restore some of its vintage character, giving the building a new chapter while preserving its connection to Lincoln City’s past.
In 1996, Keith and Betsy Altomare purchased the theater, beginning a period of ownership that has now lasted three decades.
Meet the owners who kept the Bijou alive
Keith and Betsy Altomare didn’t originally plan on becoming Oregon Coast movie theater owners. Before moving to Lincoln City, the couple worked in the Los Angeles music industry. After the birth of their daughter, they began searching for a smaller community where they could raise their family.
They eventually discovered the Bijou Theaterand purchased it in 1996. At the time, the theater was already nearly 60 years old and required ongoing maintenance. The Altomares expanded its movie schedule and worked to make the business more competitive.
One of their biggest challenges arrived in 1999, when a six-screen multiplex opened in Lincoln City. Rather than trying to compete by offering the same experience, the Bijou began focusing more heavily on independent films and movies that appealed to audiences looking for something different. The strategy helped the theater develop a loyal following.
When the multiplex eventually closed, the Bijou remained, once again becoming Lincoln City’s only operating movie theater.
How the community saved the Bijou Theater
One of the most remarkable chapters in the Bijou’s history happened in 2012, when movie theaters across the country were transitioning from traditional film reels to digital projection.
For small, independently owned theaters, the change presented an expensive problem.
Without a digital projector, the Bijou would eventually be unable to show most new movies. But purchasing the equipment required a significant investment.
The owners turned to the community for help. Through a Kickstarter campaign and contributions from local supporters, the theater raised approximately $50,000 to purchase a digital projector.
The effort allowed the Bijou to continue showing new releases while preserving its historic atmosphere. It also demonstrated just how much the theater meant to Lincoln City residents.
What movies play at the Bijou Theater?
The Bijou Theater shows a rotating selection of films, including first-run movies, independent productions, and occasional classics. Because it’s a single-screen theater, the Bijou typically focuses on one featured movie at a time rather than offering numerous films simultaneously.
Regular showtimes have traditionally included afternoon and evening screenings, although schedules vary depending on the movie or special event. The theater has also hosted film festivals, themed screenings, and other community events.
For example, the Bijou has welcomed special presentations of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, complete with live performers from Portland’s Clinton Street Cabaret. During the summer, the theater has offered discounted children’s movie screenings, providing an affordable activity for families visiting the Oregon Coast.
For the latest movie listings, trailers, and showtimes, visit the official Bijou Theater website.
What makes the Bijou Theater different from other movie theaters?
There’s something appealing about a movie theater that hasn’t completely abandoned its old-fashioned character. The Bijou still has many of the features people associate with traditional cinemas, including a classic marquee, movie memorabilia, and a smaller, more intimate screening room.
But that doesn’t mean the theater hasn’t modernized.
Comfortable seating and recliners
The Bijou has made improvements to its seating over the years, including the addition of nine recliner seats in 2019.
These upgraded seats have been available for an additional charge, with proceeds supporting local nonprofit organizations. It’s a small detail that reflects the theater’s connection to the surrounding community.
A classic movie theater atmosphere
The Bijou’s historic setting is a big part of its appeal. Instead of navigating a massive theater complex, visitors enter a traditional movie house with vintage character and a single auditorium.
The theater’s décor includes movie posters and memorabilia celebrating different eras of Hollywood.
Even the restrooms have a little personality, with Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley posters marking the entrances.
Live organ music before select movies
One particularly unusual feature of the Bijou is its history of live organ performances. The theater has featured an organist performing before select afternoon screenings, offering visitors a throwback to an earlier era of moviegoing, when live music was part of the cinema experience.
Visitors interested in hearing the organ should confirm whether performances are currently scheduled before attending.
Food, drinks, and popcorn
No movie theater visit is complete without something to snack on. The Bijou offers traditional movie concessions, including popcorn, along with additional food and beverage options. The theater has also offered beer, wine, and food from Zellers, a local Lincoln City business.
Offerings can change, so check the theater’s current concessions menu if you’re interested in something beyond the usual popcorn and candy.
How much are tickets at the Bijou Theater?
Ticket prices at the Bijou Theater depend on the movie, screening, and seating selection.
The theater has traditionally offered affordable admission compared with larger movie chains, and special events may have their own pricing. Certain upgraded recliner seats have been available for an additional fee.
For the most accurate ticket prices, check the theater’s official website or contact the box office directly.
Because the Bijou has only one screen and a relatively small seating area, arriving early is a good idea for popular movies and special screenings.
Is the Bijou Theater good for families?
The Bijou can be a fun stop for families visiting Lincoln City, particularly when the theater is showing a movie appropriate for younger audiences.
Its smaller size makes the experience different from visiting a large multiplex, and the theater has a history of offering special children’s screenings during the summer.
It’s also an opportunity to introduce kids to a traditional movie theater, complete with a vintage marquee and classic cinema atmosphere. Families should check movie ratings and showtimes in advance, since the theater generally features one movie at a time.
Make movie night part of your Lincoln City vacation
A trip to Lincoln City doesn’t have to revolve entirely around the beach. The Bijou Theater offers a chance to experience a piece of local history while enjoying something as simple as a good movie and a bucket of popcorn.
With nearly 90 years of history, independent ownership, and a community that has helped keep its doors open, the Bijou is more than just another place to watch a film. And when the credits roll, the Oregon Coast is waiting.
At Surftides Plaza Rentals, you can enjoy the comfort of your own condo in Lincoln City, with select units offering balcony views of the Pacific Ocean. Spend the day exploring local attractions, catch a movie at the historic Bijou Theater, and return to your condo to unwind.
After all, a beach vacation can have a little movie magic, too.
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