Metro Cinemas

If you are looking for the perfect place for cultural relaxation in the center of Eugene, then Metro Cinemas is exactly what you need. It is a modern cinema that has managed to preserve the warmth of an independent venue, while being the only one of its kind in this region of the USA to be entirely locally owned and operated. Here, coziness meets high technology, creating a unique atmosphere for moviegoers.

Guests have seven auditoriums at their disposal, each equipped with luxury power recliners. The capacity of the rooms ranges from intimate spaces with 19 seats to spacious auditoriums designed for over a hundred viewers. The cinema is famous for its diverse repertoire, where major Hollywood blockbusters sit alongside niche foreign films and bold independent projects.

The gastronomic component deserves special mention. Metro Cinemas is not just about movies, but also about great food. Unlike standard popcorn bars, the local kitchen offers homemade pastries and hot dishes prepared on-site. You can complement the experience with a glass of Pacific Northwest craft beer, regional wine, or a cup of professionally made espresso.

For your convenience, we have gathered the main contact details of the cinema in one table. If you have questions regarding the current repertoire or special events, you can always contact the administration directly.

At Metro Cinemas, everyone will find something to enjoy. The main reason people come here is, of course, the cinematic experience. You can choose a large-scale premiere with stunning special effects or prefer a thought-provoking art-house film. Viewing takes place in maximum comfort: soft recliners allow you to literally lie back and fully relax.

Beyond the movies, the venue offers a full gastronomic adventure. Be sure to stop by the concessions, where instead of the usual snacks, you can find homemade food and fresh pastries prepared right there. For connoisseurs of quality beverages, there is an extensive drink menu including craft cider and beer from local Northwest breweries, as well as exquisite cocktails and regional wines.

The place is perfect for warm gatherings with friends or family outings. You can arrive early to sit in the cozy lounge area with a cup of aromatic espresso, discuss the upcoming film, or simply enjoy the calm atmosphere that sets this independent cinema apart from the noisy corporate giants.

Metro Cinemas is located at 888 Willamette Street, in the heart of the downtown district. Thanks to this location, the cinema is within walking distance of major shopping galleries and cultural centers that Eugene is famous for.

For those who prefer to travel by car, several convenient parking options are available. The Parcade (at the corner of 8th Avenue and Willamette) and Overpark (at the intersection of 10th Avenue and Oak) multilevel garages are nearby. A nice bonus: parking there is free after 6:00 PM on weekdays, as well as all day on weekends and holidays. Additionally, you can receive a validation with any concession purchase, giving you two hours of free parking in these garages.

If you decide to use street parking, remember that there are parking meters in the city center. Parking time is usually limited to intervals of 30 minutes to 2 hours. However, after 6:00 PM and all day Sunday, street parking also becomes free. Public transport users can take advantage of local bus routes that run regularly through the nearby central station.

The history of Metro Cinemas began in 2013. Initially, the venue was intended as a modest addition to the existing two-screen Art House cinema (which was called Bijou Art Cinemas at the time). At the start, it was a small, cozy theater with only four screens, focused on the local community.

A significant turning point in the venue's development occurred in 2019. During this time, Metro Cinemas expanded into the neighboring building. This allowed for the addition of three more modern, spacious auditoriums. As a result of the expansion, the spaces on Broadway and Willamette Street merged to create a large-scale cinematic hub.

Today, this venue proudly holds the status of being the city's first and only fully independent, locally owned and operated multiplex. This has turned Metro Cinemas into a vital part of the city's cultural identity, proving that local businesses can successfully compete with major chains while maintaining a unique, soulful atmosphere.

When planning your visit to Metro Cinemas, you should primarily account for the duration of your chosen film session. Typically, watching a movie takes between 1.5 and 3 hours. This is the classic option for those who simply want to enjoy the latest release.

However, we recommend arriving early—about 30–60 minutes before the session starts. This time will allow you to order signature snacks or craft drinks at the local bar without rushing, relax in the cozy lobby, and set the right mood before immersing yourself in the world of cinema. Thus, the total visit time may be around 3-4 hours.

The cinema is open to visitors daily. On weekdays (Monday–Friday), the doors open at 2:00 PM and welcome guests until 10:00 PM. On weekends (Saturday and Sunday), Metro Cinemas starts earlier—from 11:00 AM, also closing at 10:00 PM.

It is important to remember that the exact start times for the last sessions may vary depending on the film schedule. To ensure you don't miss the start of the movie you're interested in, we strongly recommend checking the current schedule on the official website before planning your visit.

A stroll through the neighborhood around Metro Cinemas is a great way to complement your evening after watching a good movie. The city center offers many historical landmarks and interesting locations that can be reached on foot in just a few minutes.

Exploring the local streets will allow you to see not only modern art installations but also touch upon Oregon's history, captured in historic buildings and memorial markers. Below is a list of the most interesting places nearby: