Capitol Theatre — Attraction in Arlington

In 2022, our group hosted two private screenings at the Capitol Theatre in Arlington, the independent movie house on Massachusetts Ave.

Open since 1925, the Capitol restores an illustrious filmgoing past. There’s the old-fashioned marquee, all aglow after sunset. And the main hallway boasts posters for “Casablanca,” “Grease” and other classics.

In fact, almost everywhere you look, you’ll find an ornamental touch straight out of yesteryear: a fluted white column, a small chandelier, a decorative proscenium, a mythological mural.

Especially worth noting is the Capitol Creamery — the onsite ice cream parlor — with its myriad flavors and toppings and its overflowing cups and cones. (The thick milkshakes are delicious, too.)

As for the rental process, it’s simple and straightforward; the rules are clear and fair. Better still, all the Capitol Theatre team members we met were very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. They welcomed us, answered our questions, assisted us with the projection technology, and made sure our setups and cleanups went smoothly.

In short, I'm looking forward to our next event at the Capitol — our next trip into Arlington's own little...

The Capitol Theatre in Arlington, Massachusetts, is a charming, historic movie theater that offers a nostalgic experience with modern amenities. This single-screen theater first opened in 1925 and has retained much of its classic charm with period details and a warm, inviting atmosphere. It features a selection of independent films, classic movies, and some of the latest releases, often not shown in larger multiplexes.

Visitors often appreciate the Capitol Theatre's unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary film choices. The theater also houses a popular ice cream parlor, which adds to the overall experience, allowing movie-goers to enjoy a delicious treat before or after the show. The seating is comfortable and the staff is known for being friendly and helpful, enhancing the community feel of the venue.

If you're planning a visit, it's a good idea to check their schedule online as the theater sometimes hosts special events and film festivals, which can be a treat for cinephiles. The Capitol Theatre offers a cozy, intimate setting that makes movie-watching feel special and distinct from the more commercial...

I wish I could give zero stars. The owner of this theater uses rat poison for the theater and his other properties and refuses to even respond to repeated requests for an audience about that, despite that our town has lost our only bald eagles (the first to nest here in 60 years), a family of Great Horned Owls, and multiple hawks and screech owls right where the theater is....Not only does this theater use rat poison, but the CEO of pest control company they contract with, Pest End, Inc.--is a prominent player in the state and New England regions in lobbying on behalf of the pest control industry against restrictions to the anticoagulant rodenticides that are killing our wildlife and pets, and sicken children. Until the owner of Capitol Square terminates his contract with Pest-End and vows to not use SGARs any longer at the theater and his other properties, I am indefinitely boycotting going to the movies at either Capitol Theater or his other theater in Somerville. And I will be urging others through my group Save Arlington Wildlife to...