Majestic Bay Theatre

What to know

The Majestic Bay Theatre is a cornerstone of the Ballard neighborhood, located at 2044 NW Market Street. The current facility opened its doors on October 13, 2000, designed to maintain Ballard's exhibition legacy by combining a historic style with modern luxuries. This cinematic landmark has served over 3 million guests throughout its 25-year history. The site has a deep history of cinema, beginning with a silent film theatre founded in 1914. Over the decades, it evolved through various identities, including a period in 1929 when it was renamed the Roxy to showcase early sound films known as talkies. Before its closure in 1997, the venue was described as the oldest continuously operating movie theater in the United States. In March 1998, Elltaes Theatres LLC purchased the shuttered property with the goal of remodeling. The venue was subsequently renovated and transformed from a single-screen bargain theatre into a well-appointed triplex. This transition ensured the survival of a local cultural hub while upgrading the viewing experience for contemporary audiences. The theatre's interior is rich with atmospheric details. Visitors will find retro ornamentation and bright neon lights at the old-style box office. The experience is further enhanced by a waterfall curtain that rises to begin each show, and nautical decor that reflects the maritime culture of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest.

Visitor tips

• The theatre opens 15 minutes before the first showtime of the day.
• Be prepared for a cashless experience; the theatre accepts credit, debit, tap-to-pay, or gift cards only.
• Tickets for adults are $16.50, while children 12 and under and seniors 62 and over are $13.50.

Nearby context

Situated in the heart of downtown Ballard, the Majestic Bay Theatre anchors a walkable district known for its maritime history and eclectic shops along NW Market Street.