Charles Theatre

Classic upgraded movie theatre in charm city Baltimore, walking distance from Penn Station, w historical vibes. Gorgeous cinema and extra wide screens makes this place filled with nostalgia for those who grew up going to the movies regularly. So happy these places still exist. I live in DC but it’s cheaper, safer, and better for me to come all the way here than go watch a movie in Gtown, Gallery place, or any other location in DC, now that they shut down E St. Cinema. Thank god for Charles Theatre 😊❤️👍

Staff was polite and friendly. The theatre smelled HORRIBLE!!! Like a nursing home and animal shelter combined. Worst theater in Baltimore. 1st and last time here.

The Charles Theatre, often referred to as simply The Charles, or, even more simply, The Chuck, is the oldest movie theatre in Baltimore. The theatre is a Beaux-Arts building designed as a streetcar barn in 1892 by Jackson C. Gott, located in what is now the Station North arts and entertainment district. The theater was renamed the Charles (for its location on Charles Street) circa 1959 and became a calendar revival house in 1979. Many of John Waters's early films premiered at this theatre; this honor has since shifted to the Senator Theatre. In 1999, it underwent a major expansion and is now a five-screen theater, though the original main theater has been left largely intact and is still the largest theater in the complex. The Charles now serves as an arthouse multiplex, showing a variety of independent films along with some major studio prestige pictures. The main theatre hosts revival series and special screenings several times a week, as well as the occasional live concert performance. The entire theater complex served as the host of the annual Maryland Film Festival from 1999 until 2013. The expanded Charles includes the former location of the Famous Ballroom, where the Left Bank Jazz Society held events in the 1960s and 1970s. That incarnation of the space can be seen in portions of the documentary Sun Ra: A Joyful Noise. 5 screens 1,150 seating

My first time there it's a beautiful work of art. I saw the Cooper Brothers documentary on the Squeegee Kids, I give it a 100!! Absolutely engaging work! Go see it!! I love the concession booth, very nice, clean, pleasant staff. Popcorn was nice and hot. Seats are large and clean, nice leg room.

Heritage place for good movies. A little down on the heels. I don't mind that much - Warehouse is a much tonier place to see a movie but movies worth seeing are so rare there We usually end up at the Charles on movie night. Like the Met movie nights. Popcorn is usually good. Adjacent to three really good restaurants. Make an evening of it.

What a nice venue. While certainly dated, it was clean and comfortable. Definitely a classic feel to it.

Not sure why this theatre has good reviews. I love film and supporting small business, especially local cinemas. However, when it becomes a repeated waste of time to come to this cinema, I figured a kind warning is warranted. Just don’t come. Particularly, don’t come if you like bad audiences, low volume, and poor-quality projectors. I don’t typically write reviews because I don’t feel the need to promote/warn others, but I went to this cinema three times and each time was worse than the time before. Do yourself a favor and don’t consider coming here.

I LOVE this place. I've been coming here since I was a junior in highschool over more than three decades. It's just the most amazing building and the films selections never disappoint. No other place in Baltmore tops it.

Awesome local and historic spot to catch a movie. You don't get all the crazy bells and whistles of an AMC like heated seats and recliner chairs but you get charm and nostalgia and all the real good things about going to the movies. Highly recommend. (incredible restaurants nearby too if you want to do the classic dinner + movie combo)

This is an amazing historic theater on a great spot just steps away from Penn Station. The building was once a streetcar depot and became a newsreel and then a regular theater. My wife and I decided to come here to close out our 13 Taylor Swift Eras Tour concert movie viewings at 13 different venues after going to the Seahawks at Ravens game and grabbing dinner at Brewers Art and before taking the Amtrak back. It is wonderful how vintage the theater is and you can see the screen, even the smaller on our specific theater well. The seats are rather comfortable and the popcorn is some of the best we have had. The staff is extremely friendly as well and they gave me a closed captioning device that worked perfectly. We certainly recommend this theater and would love to go back!

I've been coming to the Charles since 2019 - love an indie theater (even though you won't find the comforts of reclining seats) and I'm so glad movies are back and in full force. The Charles is special bc it shares space with Tapas Teatro - so you can bring in wine and snacks from the soon to close Sofie's Crepes. They do have a concession stand where I will also get snacks (who doesn't like snacks in movies?). The Charles is special because it'll show artsy indie films you can't always find in theaters at the chains. The Charles commercial is the best - I won't spoil it if you've not been - but it's a dog that goes the movies. Enough said.

Love going to this theater. It usually has movies that are hard to find elsewhere. The parking garage across the street was very reasonable at $5.00 on a Saturday and the seats are comfortable, The only small thing is that the steps in the theater are not lit and it is a little challenging finding you way upward. Go early before the theater lights are off or use the flashlight feature on your phone or you may trip getting to your seat.

Recently got tickets to a movie screening that was shown here. It was easy to access and had a cheap parking lot directly across the street. I think it was less than $5. I love how the entryway and concession area have a vintage look. However, all the amenities are updated and modern. The theaters aren't huge which allows for a more cozy atmosphere. Such a cute theater for shows and small presentations. I'm heading back in a few weeks for an event and am looking forward to it?

I went to the Charles Theater yesterday for the first time and really enjoyed myself. The Charles is an independent theater which is very rare and it is so nice to see them thriving. They offer an array of independent movies and films that some may not consider mainstream. You can purchase tickets online before getting to the theater which I highly recommended as the line for tickets is pretty long. The ticket prices are still below the "average" and are great priced. The concessions as well are really reasonably priced also. Between 3-9 dollars for different items. I did not give the theater a 5 star due to the fact that I believe the theater could be a little cleaner. I know they don't have lots of staff but I feel like that more attention to this would be great. The theater itself is also a little tight in the seats but I believe that adds the old world charm. I loved interacting with the other fellow movie goers who were enjoying the movie as well. You can also get something to eat or drink at nearby local eateries which all have something amazing to offer in terms of the menu. I can't wait to go back and see more movies there. The staff are also very friendly. Parking is easy on the street or the parking lot

Used to love the cinema Sunday series. However last week I was verbally attacked by the bagel lady who actually took the bagel off my plate. When the movies was over she came up yelling at me and tutting her finger in my face. Management reply was she's a volunteer. Will never go back here again. I advise you not to also

I haven't been here in so long but it was National Cinema Day! I'm so happy a local independent theater participated in it so I saw a movie for only $5! Charles Theater is a quaint and hidden gem in Baltimore city. Close to plenty of transit and off of North Ave, you won't have any problems getting here. There is only street parking available, but it is still worth the drive. They have indie films they show as well as bigger blockbusters and there is a lot of cool touches of history they kept in the theater. The seats don't recline or do anything fancy, there are only 4 theaters and they really only sell popcorn, drinks and candy, but there is so much character here. Plus, there is a diner, a restaurant right next door & Sofia's crepes so if you need something to eat you can definitely find that here. Overall, I appreciate this theater being in the community and how accessible it is. It's in a great location and you can buy tickets online. Because it is a small theater, you can expect there might be a wait because they don't have a lot of staff.

Yay! Movies are a thing again. This was my first time back at the movies since the pandemic began and I'm glad to have made my return at The Charles Theatre. This movie theatre has a classic, old-school vibe. There's only a few screens which makes for an special experience. They usually show indie films that you can't normally see in other mainstream theatres. The staff at the front are friendly and efficient while getting you your refreshments before the film. One of the things I love best about The Charles is the fact you can get drinks to go from Tapas Teatro next door and bring them over to enjoy during your film. The seats in the theatre are a bit uncomfortable since they aren't very new but that is to be expected with a retro style theatre. The bathrooms tend to be pretty clean too. It's good to be back in a cinema again and I look forward to returning!

Theater is fine. However it was so cold in our theater tonight the few folks at our theater had to wear coats and gloves throughout the movie.

Since moving to Baltimore a year ago, I've seen a few movies at the Charles, and I love it! It's a great, small, indie theater. It shows great movies (indies and retrospectives), and it's just a classic little theater. It reminds me of the small theaters I used to go to when I lived in New York. No, it doesn't have the recliner chairs you can get at an AMC or whatever. And, yes, parking is kind of a pain (there's a small garage across the street where you can pay $3-5 in CASH ONLY or street parking). But it's independent and charming and a great experience for film lovers. Definitely check it out. I'll definitely be back.

I won tix to an advanced screening of Creed III. Wallace is ALL GROWN UP! The theater was packed with people there to see this movie. The line to check in for the promotion was out the door. The event included popcorn and soda for each person, which meant the concession stand workers were hustling in overdrive. Talk about impressive! Even people being given free stuff can find things to complain about and these kids were fielding cranky patrons left and right. The theater itself is really cool. Old nostalgia Baltimore. Hipster area with great restaurants!

I had to look long and hard to find out no, they don't have a kitchen or serve adult drinks. But they were cool about us bringing in our own take-out dinner from nearby, so that was great. We saw Stop Making Sense which the audio system was not up for, we might as well have been listening to the concert on the boombox David Byrne places on the floor at the start:). Friendly staff and I am sure for dialog driven movies it would be fine.

It's a historic movie theater! Very close proximity to the Mount Vernon cultural district and the Baltimore Penn Station is in walking distance. I live a mile away, so the convenience to this theatre is A plus. The parking is directlyaccross the street. However, if you are looking for a plush movie theatre experience, I wouldn't recommend. This theatre is a traditional dated movie theater that only serves soda, popcorn, and candy! They do not serve pizza, chicken tenders or hamburgers/fries. I wish they would change the seats. This theatre could be a "first date" type of venue. Very inexpensive as well. Overall, I enjoy my experience and movie. I was just honestly expecting more of a plushed experience.

Everything is excellent! Appears to be run well. Love the arty film selections. Best theatre in Baltimore!

Just the best. Their revival series is a gift to our City. Always love seeing a picture at the Charles.

What a gem! I loved this theater for the location, the retro feel, the non-main-stream previews, and (very importantly) the leg room!! We saw a weekend matinee ($9 per person) and were in the first theater after you pass through the ticket taker area. The seats were in fine condition and again, the spacious and large theater meant that while there were plenty of people in there, it didn't feel crowded. We didn't get snacks, but it looked like there were a variety of options available.

Ask me how excited I was to learn that The Charles had the new "Pavarotti" movie? So my husband and a dear friend went to the matinee that started at 1:10 PM. We arrived at the theater to find a small crowd forming. It was odd that they did not open the doors until 1:00 PM and then made us wait to purchase the tickets. The theater was clean and comfortable. I have never figured out why movie theaters have to run the upcoming attractions with the sound so loud. It was deafening. We were pleased that the movie was shown at a normal volume level. The movie was fantastic! Ron Howard captured the true essence of the man. There will never be another Pavarotti.

Great theater w adjoining restaurant (tapas). You can purchase beer and bring into the theater which is a nice treat. Movies at this theater tend to be "interactive", hence if that's not your thing, or you simply don't like it, it's something to keep in mind. They also offer some free movie screenings which is nice. Beautiful theater with classic theater goodies you can purchase. Will return, but perhaps for a better film. "The Room" was an odd choice and movie goers shouted throughout the entire production. Again, many patrons love these movies, this was my first encounter hence I was not accustomed to patrons speaking during the movie and throwing spoons haha yes, spoons. They had giveaways of books, t-shirts, cupcakes, and some other treats. Will return.

Classic movie theatre feel with causal atmospheres. Vegan Friendly - YES Food (4 Stars) - coffee bar w basic movie fare Ambiance (4 Stars) - sloped movie theaters front to back Service (4 Stars) - friendly service Jimmy's Hacks - Easy parking garage directly across the and street parking (free on the weekends) Note... reviews maybe updated after future visits. If you find any of my hacks or reviews helpful pls follow & like my review for more. Thx

I am a film guy. Love the flicks. For more than 40 years I have seen some of best in cinema at the Charles Theatre in Baltimore.

This movie theater is one of my favorite places in the city. They always have great movies showing. I went last night and had a great time as always. Parking can be a little bit of a pain but there is parking across the street in a garage. Keep in mind that you have to pay to park ($3) and they only accept cash.

Great indie theater. Location next to several lunch/dinner places, and would have loved to had a chance to try them. Free available parking across the street. Amenities are plentiful and well priced. Seating in the theater is plenty. Did not have any trouble with finding good seats. Everything was clean. Tickets were great price. Can't wait to go back!

Great movie experience. Staff is friendly and courteous. This is not my first time visiting and will definitely not be my last!

What an awesome tiny Treasure! After trying to find the movie Lion, I was extremely frustrated when it was out of the theaters near me. Imagine my surprise when I discovered CHARLES THEATER (which is a shame because I am all things Baltimore). I had to go! The decorations speak to the films of yesteryear and the support of indie projects is refreshing as I'm a filmmaker myself. The popcorn was just right and I was definitely comfortable. The Only downside is it got chilly towards the end of the movie but it lasted no more than fifteen minutes. The heat was definitely off.

Don't know what the hype about this theater is. But we're not impressed. No recline seats. Popcorn only have one size. Small. Snacks and drinks are limited. Plus you gotta pay for parking across the street. $3. Seems bs. Cool art stuff. But not worth the hassle of a drive and parking situation.

This is going to be your go to for the indie films that you wont find at your local AMC or Reagal. There are a couple garages/open lots around for parking, or worst case scenario--slum it on the street. Matinee is cheap as hell at $7.50 a head [insert the i cant believe its not butter slogan here]. The theaters and screens aren't the most modern but that definitely doesn't take away from the experience.

Let me say that i've been going here for many years, even before they converted to multiple screens. Drove a half hour. Gave the guy a fifty dollar bill, as that was all that I had. "Sorry we don't take fifties". So they didn't get my 9.50 for ticket and the 10.00 or more that I would have spent on food or drink. Funny, I thought ticket sales for theatres have been declining. Apparently, the Charles doesn't want cash customers.

Charles Theater presents a trip to the University of Baltimore neighborhood. I just saw La La Land here and it was perfect on this big old screen... in an old theater ...in the wonderful reviving Station North ...in wonderful old Baltimore. It took me back...its the old theater experience where you line up for a ticket, then for popcorn...and then to get into the actual theater itself. You walk in and it just opens before your eyes ...really large theater for the big shows and some smaller ones. A little of the old plush red left in the theater with some new comfort in the seats. They play art films and some other biggies too...those nominated for Oscars. They will be showing film noir classic, the Third Man too! The thing that is great is that folks come in off the old streets...piling in this great historic place. And what a potential date night with the classic Club Charles across the street, Tapas Teatro, the hot new Colette next door, Pen & Quill on the same block. Bottega and Joe Squared two blocks. A crazy old diner too. Penn Station train station next door, a crapery. And a hipster coffee house called BAMF!. All just steps from the University of Baltimore.

Baltimore's venerable art house cinema. I've visited many times over the decades and again last night for the 9:20 showing of "The Death of Stalin." I brought my son who has an interest in some of the other attractions and anime. Maybe he'll visit more often than I. Great help. Comfortable seats. Cheap parking in the garage across the street. Food options at adjoining Tapas Teatro and Sofi's. The movie? A scream. Satire amid despotism and chaos. My son now wants to read up on Soviet History and its brutality. That's a huge undertaking. But, The Charles and surrounding food and drink joints will empower ye to have a decent night out on the town. Have fun!!

I love going out to watch a movie on the big screen. The Charles Theater is as good as it gets for me. It is the oldest movie theater still operating in Baltimore and it is a local institution. I am a huge John Waters nerd and he premiered many of his movies here at The Charles. I have seen a bunch of movies at The Charles. The last film that I saw here was I, Tonya a few months ago. The ticket prices are as expected. The theater is clean. The bathrooms are clean. The employees are as expected in a movie theater. There aren't usually a lot of annoying kids running around and being annoying during the movies. The architecture is old and quirky. I love this place because it is old and quirky. I love knowing that John Waters premiered his early films here. You can get dinner at the tapas place next door - the food there is great (I only ate there once but it was delicious af). The Charles is a great local experience. Please step away from the chain theaters every once in a while to experience a film the old school way at this local institution. You will be happy that you tried The Charles!

Pros:great revival and anime series. Constantly screens great documentaries as well. Cons: the sound in all the theatres is terrible. I dont think it's been updated the system in the 20+ years since it expanded to 5 screens.

Yet another reason why more artists and the community prefer Baltimore over DC. this theater like the Senator, preserves the authenticity of movie theaters and esp showcasing indie films. It's really winning me over the convenient and technological modern movie theaters. The staff are friendly, clean and unique. Please stay alive!

This place has such a nostalgic and authentic vibe to it I can't get enough. As a frequent movie goer that has trouble finding films in theaters that are sometimes indie or documentaries Charles is always my first place to check. They like to keep a variety of different films playing at all times and usually you can find something you want to see. The ticket prices are also not as pricey as some of the other theaters in the area so that is definitely a plus! Being able to grab food and drinks next door at Tapas is a huge plus and I love grabbing some sangria from there before I head into my film. So to those of you wondering YES you can bring drinks over from next door. Recently saw The Big Sick there which was amazing and seeing STEP documentary soon!

Clean theatre, friendly staff, tasty popcorn, convenient parking, and amazing movies. 5 stars - highly recommended

Baltimore's theater and anchor for the Station North Arts district for many years. They show popular and art house films. Great dining options nearby including the attached Tapas Teatro. They don't have all the newest tech but film selection and location make up for any audiovisual shortcomings.

So clean and cozy. Great view from all seats. Very good popcorn. Great place. Would recommend.

Quaint, cute and small, yet cozy theater playing independent films. They have abundant selection of snacks and beverages to choose and purchase before going in. Individual theaters were cozy yet spacious in individual seating. Love the old school feel of this establishment, and right down the block from Penn station!

While I commend the theater for showing movies that are not being shown in the national chains, my first experience of the Charles had left me not wanting to return. The theater had us worrying in the lobby and only let us into the theater ten minutes after the movie started. When we complained to the management, they would not refund our money or offer any kind of compensation. Instead, they made excuses about how they were unprepared for the holiday crowds and underestimated how long it would take to check tickets. I have a hard time believing that. Did they just open this year? If they knew they were late letting people enter, why start the movie on time? They could have waited. Or given attendees a free popcorn.

It's the only true arthouse multiplex within the city limits. Theater 1 and Theater 2 have decently large-sized screens. Theaters 3, 4 and 5 are the three smaller rooms but are plenty big to enjoy watching a movie on. My only gripe is that when The Charles went to digital, they installed 1080p projectors (also known as 2K). The picture quality, as a result, is a bit muddy, lacks contrast and doesn't have the sharpness of 4K- which is and has been the industry standard. The concessions are cheap and the ticket prices are reasonable enough.

Our experience started out pleasant buying the tickets. The employee was friendly and welcoming, the other staff, food service and the one taking the tickets were all polite and helpful. On top of all that, I accidentally left my clutch under my seat. I got all the way home and realized I didn't have it. We back about a half hour before close and the staff member in the ticket booth gave it to me. All my cards, a little cash and my car/house keys were there. I was SO happy. A BIG thank you to the employees of The Charles Theatre!! Movie was fun too*

THE place to see a movie in Baltimore. 'Nuf said!! Between Club Charles, Zodiac, Sofi's Crepes, and Tapas Teatro...you have some serious options for what to do before/after your film all on the same block! Parking can be nuts when popular films are showing in the evenings, but normally you can park right across the street in the small garage.

I can now give this theater five stars. I'd always been "ehh" about The Charles. Don't get me wrong, I love the feeling of the place, I've been a million times. But it was always a hassle to come here. Parking was tough to come by (garage or street, or private paid lot if you're a noob). The seats weren't very comfortable. But, more than anything, they were CASH-ONLY. For someone like me, who doesn't carry cash, coming to The Charles on a regular basis is somewhat of a pain. Don't have cash? Use the ATM down the street! It'll only cost you a few dollars to take out cash! We put in a new ATM! It only costs a few dollars! Bah. But now, finally, FINALLY, f-i-n-a-l-l-y, they take credit cards at both the box office and the snack counter. Why did this take so long? I went this past Sunday to see 'Midnight in Paris', at a 4pm showing, and it was packed! Imagine that, people will come out to see non-hyped films on an afternoon to a unique theater setting as long as you make it convenient for them to do so. Now I relish that each individual theater inside The Charles is unique, the seats are old, the on-screen bumpers are older than I am, and on and on. You can still walk next door to Tapas Teatro without ever having to walk outside. You can still lounge on the leather couches before your film starts. You can still come in Sunday mornings for coffee and film discussion. Hell, go across the street to Club Charles (if they're open, I suppose) and have a beer while sitting next to John Waters. But now, you, the customer, can do it more easily.

I love this theatre, it's a blast from the past with its vintage look and feel, cozy vibe and great lineup of non-mainstream films. You know, the really good stuff. Not in the best part of Baltimore and prepare to pay for parking in a nearby lot if you go on a crowded evening. Whether you live in the area or are visiting Baltimore, this is one venue to put on your bucket list. You'll be glad you did.

I come here for all of the indie films that don't come to the regular theaters. I love that people who frequent this theater are all liked minded-- because truly, only a certain type of movie goer comes to this place. The theater has mostly the same things as a normal theater as far as concessions. They even have a side restaurant to get small plates from before or after the movie. There are plenty of restaurants up and down Charles to eat at before or after your movie too. My only criticism is that the theater is pretty classic. This is awesome in a sense, but the seating is not quite stadium style in all the theater rooms, the screens are not huge and the surround sound is just basic. But i already decided that when i come here its more about the movie and less about the theater experience.

I love the concept of this theater, but my most recent experience was a little frustrating. I bought tickets online, but the Charles makes you stand in line at the counter to present your printed confirmation, instead of being able to use the confirmation as a ticket (it has a bar code, which should make that possible.) I felt like I paid an extra fee for added inconvenience. Then, in the middle of our movie, someone on the staff decided it was a good time to fix the theater door with an electric screwdriver. When I told a staff member about it after the fact, I was told that they were concerned the door wasn't closing properly and that would allow too much noise into the theater. It's puzzling that they thought the screwdriver was a better option. The Charles could definitely stand to improve the customer experience.

I really, really, really wanted to like this place. Unfortunately it did not meet my standards. The theatre was dirty with popcorn all over the floors and the floors were ubberly sticky. The seats don't recline, they are literally stuck in the past. I get it...they want evoke feelings of nostalgia, but it's a little too much blast from the past for me. The sound, the comfort, the smell, everything about this theatre reeks old school. That's fine if you like that, but i think it wouldn't hurt to update and upgrade this place. Location is very convenient especially having a reasonably priced garage across the street. Sorry guys, this isn't my #1 choice for seeing a movie, but hey if you want to evoke feelings of nostalgia...go for it!

It's not the most modern theater or the biggest, but I still love the Charles. They show indie movies that other theaters generally don't show. They also have revival nights and anime nights. Tickets are a little less than $10, so it's also cheaper than other theaters. The theater is always clean and the staff are all friendly. Be sure to pop over to Tapas Teatro next door and grab a glass of wine or beer to go to enjoy in the movie!

Nice to see it still going strong! I remember when it was a dingy two-screen hold out in a block desolate but for Club Charles (RIP). Glad this place is still here - the true anchor of Station North. Industrial chic decor, large comfy seats, excellent choice of Indy movies, friendly staff, and lots of restaurants next door. Parking easy if you pay 3 bucks for garage. And they accept Movie Pass. Very nice long-term City institution going strong!

I really enjoy the Charles Theater as it's close to where I live and it's not too far of a walk on a nice evening. Tapas Teatro is next door and you can buy wine or beer and bring it into the movie... great benefit. The theaters are maintained nicely and customer service is great. This theater plays a lot of Indie films, as well as films you won't see in an AMC theater. I've come many times and will continue to see films at the Charles.