The Kress Cinema & Lounge

The Kress Cinema & Lounge is more than just a place to watch movies; it is a unique independent art-house cinema, bar, and restaurant located in the heart of Greeley. The establishment occupies a magnificent historic Art Deco building that was once part of the famous S.H. Kress & Co. American retail empire.

Stepping across the threshold, you feel as though you've entered the era of Old Hollywood. High decorative ceilings, authentic columns, and dim lighting create a sophisticated atmosphere that perfectly complements the cinema's repertoire. Here in the USA, such places are valued for their individuality: instead of mainstream blockbusters, they screen foreign, cult, classic, and alternative films.

The main feature of Kress Cinema & Lounge is the combination of cultural leisure and gastronomy. It is a true cultural hub where visitors can enjoy signature cocktails and local cuisine right during the movie or in the cozy lounge. Careful restoration has turned the building into one of the city's most significant architectural and social landmarks.

To check the current showtimes or book a table in the lounge, you can use the following contact information:

The main reason people visit The Kress Cinema & Lounge is the aesthetic pleasure of cinema. You can take a seat in the cozy 85-seat theater and enjoy a rare film while ordering a full dinner or a craft cocktail delivered right to your chair. The menu includes a variety of appetizers, sandwiches, and desserts, turning a simple trip to the movies into a refined event.

A special adventure awaits those who decide to find the Kress Speakeasy—a hidden bar in the building's basement. Entry is gained via a secret switch, and inside you’ll find a Prohibition-era atmosphere, the sounds of jazz, and bartenders who can tell a whole story about every drink. This spot is perfect for a romantic date or a quiet evening with friends.

Additionally, the venue regularly hosts festivals, art exhibitions, and live music nights. During the summer season, a cozy tiki bar often opens, and a second screen allows for an expanded program of events. It is a vibrant space where you can always connect with local culture and sample unique spirits from local distilleries.

The Kress Cinema & Lounge is centrally located in the city at 817 8th Avenue. It is easy to find, as the building is situated in the vibrant Downtown area, close to popular bars and local breweries.

For those traveling by car, there are designated parking zones in the center. If you are driving from Denver International Airport (DEN), the trip north on I-25 will take about an hour. You can also use taxis or Uber/Lyft services from anywhere in the city.

Greeley has a well-developed public transportation network: the UNC bus system and local city routes serve the downtown area. Thanks to its convenient location, the cinema is very easy to reach on foot if you are already in the historic center or strolling through nearby pedestrian zones.

The history of this venue began in the late 1920s when the building was constructed for the famous S.H. Kress & Co department store chain. This company was known for its luxurious Art Deco buildings, which became architectural gems in cities across the USA.

After the chain closed in 1981, the building in Greeley sat vacant for a long time until enthusiasts Ron and Linde Thompson took over in 2008. As historic preservation specialists, they carried out a large-scale restoration, carefully preserving the original light fixtures and massive plaster columns that still create that "Golden Age" of cinema atmosphere today.

Since 2014, management has passed to their daughter Margaret and her husband, who transformed the cinema into a full-fledged cultural center. In 2018, they opened a secret speakeasy bar in the basement, adding an air of mystery to the venue. Today, the Kress is considered one of the primary catalysts for the revival and cultural growth of the city's downtown.

Typically, you should set aside 2 to 4 hours for a visit. If your primary goal is to watch a movie, plan for the duration of the screening (about 1.5–2 hours), plus a little extra time to order food and drinks to take into the theater.

For those who want to fully experience the unique atmosphere of the venue, it is recommended to arrive early or stay after the film in the lounge area or the hidden basement bar. Given the sophisticated cocktail menu and cozy interior, an evening here can easily stretch to 3–4 hours, especially if there are cultural events or live performances scheduled.

The establishment is primarily open in the afternoons and evenings. Showtimes may vary depending on the current repertoire, so it is highly recommended to check the cinema's official website before visiting.

Approximate working hours:

• Monday — Wednesday: 17:00 – 21:00;
• Thursday: 16:00 – 21:00;
• Friday: 16:00 – 23:00;
• Saturday: 13:00 – 23:00;
• Sunday: 13:00 – 18:00.

A visit to the Kress Cinema & Lounge can easily be combined with a walk through the city center. The Downtown area offers many interesting spots—from concert venues to cozy cafes—allowing you to create a full evening itinerary.