Information on Traverse City, Michigan and the surrounding Northwest Michigan area

Elk Rapids Cinema

A community anchor that keeps activity pulsing through downtown all year long, this 65 year-old movie house was once nationally acclaimed for its remarkable art deco ceiling art. In the 1950s, the ceiling was repainted in a natural pine motif done in ultraviolet paints and accompanied by ultra violet-treated carpets, for a stunning "glow-in-the-dark" effect. This spectacle is no longer fully visible, but portions can still be seen.

This theater was built with an audience of neighbors in mind. Although in need of some attention and a few fix-ups, with its interesting d‚cor, old-fashioned lobby and concession counter, and its upstairs "viewing room" to accommodate those with young children, it has the allure of another era.

Despite the rarity of independent theatres surviving in today's small towns, the Elk Rapids Cinema continues to attract crowds and to show timely, relevant movies from fun summer flicks to the latest blockbusters to this year's talked-about independents. Want a real deal? All shows are $5, all the time. The Cinema is located at 205 River Street; 264-8601. (GET MAP)