Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, England

Red Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Delphine

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chez Nina Green Brasserie

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

During Winter

Prague 

in Finland

The Northern Lights

Winter Edition

Paris

Best bars

New York Cities

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

On A Budget

5 Star Luxury Travel

You Must Visit

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Avoid Bali belly

How To:

That Are Worth The Trip

Dining Concepts

The World Is Slowing Down

Soft Travel

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Explore

Copenhagens Boutique Hotels

Discover

Tokyos best Ramen

Travel philosophy

The Rise of ‘Soft Travel’

Dublin Best Pubs

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Olympia, WA

North America

United States

# Capitol Theater: A Cultural Gem in Olympia, WA

Capitol Theater, a beloved movie theater located at 206 5th Ave SE, Olympia, WA, serves as a vibrant hub for film enthusiasts and the local community. Known for its classic single-screen setup, this theater offers a unique blend of nostalgia and contemporary cinema experiences. With a focus on independent films and community events, Capitol Theater stands out as a cultural landmark in Olympia, attracting both locals and visitors alike. Its volunteer-run model fosters a sense of community, making it a cherished spot for film lovers.

## History
Capitol Theater has a rich history that reflects the evolution of cinema in Olympia. Originally established as a movie house, it has transformed over the years to adapt to changing audience preferences and technological advancements. The theater has been a venue for various cultural events, showcasing not only films but also live performances. Key milestones in its history include:
- **Establishment**: Originally opened as a movie theater, it quickly became a local favorite.
- **Community Involvement**: Transitioned to a volunteer-run organization, enhancing community engagement.
- **Cultural Events**: Expanded offerings to include film festivals and live shows, enriching the local arts scene.
The theater has significantly influenced the local culture by providing a platform for independent filmmakers and hosting events that celebrate the arts.

## Community
Capitol Theater plays an integral role in the Olympia community, fostering connections among residents and visitors. The theater actively involves local volunteers in its operations, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Partnerships with local organizations enhance its community outreach, and the theater hosts various events throughout the year, including:
- **Film Festivals**: Showcasing independent and international films.
- **Live Performances**: Featuring local artists and musicians.
- **Craft Fairs**: Supporting local artisans and craftspeople.
Sustainability is also a focus, with initiatives aimed at reducing waste and promoting local businesses. The voices of community members are valued, and patrons often express their love for the theater through positive reviews and support.

## Offerings
Capitol Theater offers a diverse range of programming that caters to various tastes. The theater screens a mix of classic films, independent features, and special events. Key offerings include:
- **Film Screenings**: Regular showings of popular and niche films.
- **Concessions**: A wide selection of snacks, including freshly popped popcorn with customizable seasonings.
- **Special Events**: Themed movie nights and community gatherings.
- **Facilities**: Despite some challenges with seating, the theater maintains a charming atmosphere that enhances the viewing experience.
Visitors can explore unique film offerings and enjoy a nostalgic movie-going experience.

## Pros and Cons
Capitol Theater has garnered a mix of reviews, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses. Some strengths include:
- **Community Atmosphere**: A welcoming environment fostered by volunteer staff.
- **Affordable Pricing**: Reasonable ticket and concession prices compared to larger theaters.
- **Unique Programming**: A focus on independent films and community events.
However, there are notable weaknesses:
- **Seating Issues**: Many patrons have reported discomfort due to outdated seating.
- **Inconsistent Facilities**: Some reviews mention cleanliness and maintenance concerns.
- **Operational Challenges**: Occasional delays in movie start times and sound issues.
Overall, while Capitol Theater has its challenges, its community spirit and unique offerings make it a valued asset to Olympia.

## Location & Nearby
Capitol Theater is situated in the heart of Olympia, WA, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. The surrounding neighborhood is vibrant, featuring a mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Notable nearby establishments include:
- **Acqua Via**: A popular dining option for pre-show meals.
- **Basilico**: Known for its Italian cuisine.
- **Thai Pavilion**: A local favorite for Thai food.
The theater's location enhances its appeal, allowing patrons to enjoy a full evening of entertainment and dining in downtown Olympia.

## Visit Capitol Theater Today
If you're looking for a unique movie experience in Olympia, Capitol Theater is the place to be. With its rich history, community involvement, and diverse offerings, it promises an enjoyable outing for film lovers. Despite some seating challenges, the theater's charm and volunteer spirit make it a must-visit destination. Join the community, support local arts, and enjoy a film at Capitol Theater. Check their schedule for upcoming screenings and events, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Olympia!

fced6c80-3a41-492d-a540-4678839bff35

It's great that there's a place like this in Olympia. The staff were friendly, the movie screen and acoustics fine. But. Oh. My. God. The seats!!!!!! I can't go back. The seats are all old, springs broken, the seat portions slope downward. We tried a few in our one trip--and more on the way out (with our backs sore). Almost left a great movie due to the pain of these awful seats. I hate to rag on an local establishment run by volunteers and a fil society. But I feel the need to warn people for the sake of their butts and backs. Someone seriously need to get a fund raiser going to fix the awful seating. At the very least, bring your own pillows.

cf985c69-94d2-4def-a258-3c92e4b00593

What a gem the Capitol Theatre is! Two of us went last night to see all of the Oscar-nominated short films in the category of animation, and it was a real treat. The popcorn was just-popped and perfect for watching a moving picture show. The staff were all very friendly and accomodating as I traipsed around after the movie to snap photos. The 2nd floor concession stand has been converted to a salon that serves beer and wine on Fridays. This would be the perfect place for any film-lover to volunteer. I really want to come back on a Friday night to hang out with the OFS people!

b01d5ee2-be5d-4246-996a-cb7209f1767f

As a longtime member, I can tell you that this place is in serious decline. The seats are small, hard and filthy. It's actually painful to sit through a movie. Some seats have springs coming out. You will be amazed at how dirty and stained these seats are. It's way too cold in the winter and way too hot in the summer. No ventilation at all which is crazy. Movies frequently start late and/or something is wrong with the sound and picture. They use volunteer projectionists and it shows! The bathrooms are incredibly small and incredibly gross. Main floor bathroom is single occupant (!) which isn't great when there's a few hundred people in attendance. The customer service is always awful. Ticket seller is grumpy and rude for no apparent reason. Concessionaires are slow and confused. They're volunteers too, of course. Hopefully the theater will be sold soon. It's time someone else had a turn with the place.

d21b839a-d1c4-45a6-853d-af2c7fbb77d0

Just watched the Lord of the Rings trilogy, three nights in row. We hadn't been to this theater since moving here 2 years ago. It was SO fun! The retro feel, the volunteer staff, the concessions- we can't wait to go to another show here. We're looking at music concert tickets and movies coming up in the next few months. Capitol Theater is a huge asset to Oly!

bd82a394-da29-46e5-81a1-d0acf655eb3d

Volunteer ran place. It is usually a bit chilly in here so dress warm. Great old style theater at decent prices. I paid $8 for a showing at 2:30pm on a Sunday. No parking lot at the theater, you must find street parking or a parking lot near by.

4c21beb0-e016-448a-ae81-f269fcc7c776

Classic single screen movie theater. Live shows too! Move over Netflix! do you Like old film, no "FILM"? This is your house! I saw Jonathan Richmond here in an intimate back stage show. Road runner, road runner!

59075797-1983-48e3-848c-ccdc18ab3bc0

This is one of Olympia's best gems. The always have a great array of movies and films showing. The staff is super helpful and their concession stand is on point. Their concession stand literally has a ton of different options and seasonings for the popcorn. This theater is also used for different craft faires, etc. throughout the year. It is an essential part of the downtown Olympia area.

e0bf159f-ba4d-4081-aa7c-b73d72e72722

One of the things I was most nervous about when I moved away from Seattle was losing my beloved art house movie theaters. I was a devotee of Landmark and the Grand Illusion and all those little awesome places that showed all those little awesome movies, and I was afraid that moving to Olympia meant I was going to be leaving all that behind me. Fortunately for me, I have the Olympia Film Society. I love that they show obscure things, I love that they rotate through them at a fairly rapid pace and two-at-a-time, and I love that they have special events. I love that it's never crowded and you can lose yourself in a movie without having to squish into seats, and you can put your feet up on the balcony while chewing on popcorn. I love that it's run by volunteers (I still need to get around to becoming one myself). This is an excellent place, and I'm glad it exists. THE ONLY THING that I don't like about it is the seats. Which I am sure everyone knows. Someone give this lovely place a huge donation so they can buy themselves some new seats :)

c2bac257-d81e-4e09-8164-7ffcd580fe8a

Visited this theater for the first time Sunday. We saw the documentary "Jane". It's an old little theater in downtown Oly, but it's so cute! Everyone that works here is a volunteer and they are all so nice & welcoming. We bought some popcorn & candy and I was honestly shocked at the affordable prices of everything! I'm used to paying around $10 for a small popcorn! They also have a selection of popcorn flavorings that you can add yourself which is a plus. The seating is pretty small, so please be aware that if you're tall like my boyfriend is, 6ft, your legs might get uncomfortable after a while. I've seen all of Jane Goodall's documentaries and I love them all. I really enjoyed coming here & will DEFINITELY be visiting this wonderful little theater again!

7580a148-38a3-4586-adbe-f39d5e4f8e29

Nearly everywhere I've lived there has been an indy theater of this sort. Capitol may not be the fanciest or newest, but it consistently shows the best films. And it's clean, is run by friendly people, and serves great coffee. AND their concession prices are shockingly reasonable. We should all be supportive and visit more often. It's easy, since it's surrounded by so many great places to eat... Acqua Via, Basilico, Thai Pavilion, QB, etc. It would be tragic to lose this theater. Go ahead... sign up for a membership and start hanging around downtown more often. You'll be a better person.

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Capitol Theater in Olympia, WA. Enjoy delicious cuisine and unforgettable entertainment in a historic setting. Visit today!

Capitol Theater in Olympia WA - Historic Venue & Cultural Landmark

Olympia

Capitol Theater

Washington

Discover the charming Capitol Theater in Olympia, WA. Experience classic films, indie movies, and special events at this beloved downtown venue.

Capitol Theater Olympia, WA - Historic Film & Theater Experience

Enjoy a diverse selection of movies, live shows, and community events at the historic Capitol Theater in Olympia, WA. A cultural gem in the heart of downtown.

Experience Film at Capitol Theater Olympia, WA - Iconic Downtown Venue

Opening hours for Capitol Theater, Olympia WA. Find opening hours for Capitol Theater, Olympia WA on 206 5th Ave SE, Olympia.

Capitol Theater Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at Capitol Theater

Rush In Dumplings

The Brotherhood Lounge

Tacos California