A Cultural Landmark
In the scenic town of Estes Park, there’s an abundance of history to discover. Among its notable landmarks is the esteemed Historic Park Theater, a family-owned establishment that holds the distinction of being one of the oldest movie theaters in the entire country. Boasting a rich legacy that spans generations, this venue is a treasure trove of cinematic history.
Stepping inside this iconic theater is not merely a cinematic experience—it is a journey through time. In this video, I’ll tell you everything you need to know about this unique experience and help you decide if it’s worth a visit.
The Historic Park Theater is one of the oldest operating movie theaters in the country and a renowned cultural landmark. Nestled in the heart of the town, it provides a unique cinematic experience, allowing moviegoers to enjoy the magic of the silver screen while being surrounded by historic ambiance. The theater’s cozy seating, vintage architecture, and nostalgic atmosphere create a delightful setting for film lovers of all ages.
Erected in 1913, this cherished picture house has brought joy and entertainment to residents and tourists for countless years. There are varying claims regarding its status on cinema’s Mount Rushmore. Some hail it as the oldest continuously running movie theater in the United States, while others add qualifiers like the oldest west of the Mississippi or the oldest single-screen theater. One thing remains indisputable: this venue is a historical icon that holds a distinguished place among the oldest cinematic establishments still thriving in the country.
The Tower of Love: A Bittersweet Tale
In 1922, Ralph Gwynn assumed ownership of the theater. In 1926, he made a significant addition to the town’s landscape: the landmark tower known as the Tower of Love. Gwynn constructed it as a tribute to the love of his life, but the story behind it is bittersweet. On the day they were meant to unite their lives, Gwynn’s beloved vanished, leaving him standing alone at the altar. Heartbroken and shattered, Gwynn built the tower to represent the beauty of his love—beautiful on the outside but hollow and empty within.
Resilience Through Challenges
Throughout its existence, the theater has endured numerous challenges, including narrowly escaping devastating fires and natural calamities like the destructive Lawn Lake Flood of 1982, which sent a soft drink machine crashing through the theater’s glass door. Despite these hardships, the theater has embraced progress, undergoing renovations and enhancements to preserve its historic allure while integrating modern conveniences.
Placed on the National Register of Historic Places, the theater today showcases a diverse range of films, including blockbuster hits, independent films, documentaries, and classic movies. It also hosts special events, adding to its cultural significance.
How to Visit
Located at 130 Moraine Avenue, the theater offers convenient parking options. You can utilize the free parking area across Elkhorn Avenue, behind Himalayan Curry, which includes a parking lot and street parking. Alternatively, you can park at the Visitor Center’s complimentary parking area and enjoy a riverside stroll along the famed Riverwalk as you make your way to the theater.
What to Expect Inside
The Historic Park Theater exudes charm and character. If you’re accustomed to the lavish amenities of modern theaters, you’ll find this venue a departure from cookie-cutter multiplexes. Instead of cushioned armrests with cup holders and leather recliners, you’ll find vintage wooden chairs. The steps of moviegoers heading to and from the bathroom might compete with the surround sound, and spilled candy from the back row may skitter beneath your feet. If it’s cold outside, the theater can feel like a refrigerator, so dress warmly. Bathrooms, too, are snug.
These quirks and imperfections give the theater its character. They’re a small price to pay for being part of a tradition that has lasted over 100 years. If the seats feel uncomfortable, you can pick up cushions at the back of the theater. Since it’s a single-screen venue, viewing options are limited. On our visit, the theater was playing only The Little Mermaid for a Sunday matinee. There’s no assigned seating, so arriving early is a good idea. However, the theater was only about 20% full during our visit, allowing us to choose any seat.
Nostalgia in the Lobby
In the lobby, vintage cinematic artifacts evoke nostalgia, reminding visitors that movie theaters weren’t always sprawling multiplexes. The concession stand offers a wide array of treats, including familiar snacks like Sour Patch Kids and Bunch-a-Crunch, along with sodas, slushies, and, of course, buttered popcorn.
Tips for the Best Experience
As for seating, I recommend sitting close to the front and in the middle. A stage in front of the screen might prompt you to sit closer than usual. Around the scheduled start time, the theater plays local commercials and advertisements, followed by previews, just like any conventional cinema. Then comes the main feature, offering a vintage movie-going experience.
Why You Should Visit
For movie enthusiasts and history buffs alike, I wholeheartedly recommend visiting the Historic Park Theater. On a rainy day in the mountains, this theater is the perfect sanctuary. While Estes Park has a more contemporary cinema within city limits, the Historic Park Theater offers a unique opportunity to be transported back in time and enjoy a film in a remarkable venue.
