Historic Movie theatre with everything you need as movie fan. The space is perfect for hangouts. Their patio is perfect for an outdoor drink before a movie. They also have a cozy lounge area. You can always count on the music box for an evening or matinee of entertainment. Support your local business. Music box stands out on beautiful Southport!

The Christmas show, Its a wonderful life, WAS THE BEST MOVIE EXPERIENCE EVER!They had a live piano player that played Christmas songs and then they played the lyrics of major classic Christmas songs on the big screen so the audience can sing along. This went on for 30 minutes before the movie!The movie was phenomenal and I am beyond happy I learned a beautiful life lesson.Highly recommend the Music Box!

This is lovely classic theatre with comfy seats, multiple screens, alcoholic concessions, and film exclusives. Theres nothing to dislike. Modern bathroom as well. Historical and functional. Local and international. I love it.

This theater is awesome! I have nothing bad to say about it. The fact that its still open during covid is awesome.

Cool old theater. Enjoyed the 70mm film festival here. Definitely recommend

Been going here for 60 years. I love this theatre. Plus, real butter on your popcorn. Nice.

My friends and I stop over to this cinema house. We found it nice and worth it to hang out and have fun. The staff was very entertaining, pleasant, and nice towards me. Even the seats of the cinema house were properly arranged. Also, the screen was too big and extreme loudness. We greatly enjoyed it. Thank you. We will come back!

Amazing theater. The atmosphere is awesome, the food and drinks are cheap, and there’s a theater that has an actual organ/organ player before the movie! We saw a special edition of 2001: A Space Odyssey that was printed specifically for this theater and it was fantastic. Can’t recommend this place enough and can’t wait to get back there!!

Love this theater! Excellent service and staff. Very beautiful inside. The organ player before and after shows is a great touch. He is very talented! The concessions have many options for food and beverage (both alcoholic and non). There is a lounge too to hang out before or after shows that is very charming. The 70mm film festival is a great experience.

Still the best. Wish they had better sound in the large theater but the organ cant be beat

Excellent Hitchcock movie, North by Northwest. Very COVID safe conditions.

Love, love, love the Music Box as a place to see a movie! Grab some popcorn with REAL BUTTER and enjoy! The special events the Music Box hosts make it that much more of a special place. At Christmas time, they have a double feature showing of Its a Wonderful Life and White Christmas with an organist playing Christmas Carols before and in-between the shows! So wonderful. I also saw a David Lynch film festival/retrospective there a few years ago which was also amazing. Love the Music Box!

Wow! Saw Its a Wonderful Life! Awesome way to see it. Great old theater. Sing along with Santa. People drinking and having a great time.

Wonderful, old feel, space. Intimate and great sound. We had the chance to see the first episode of the last season of Game of Thrones. There was commentary before and after. Felt very comfortable and bathrooms are super accessible.

Love the music box theatre. First time at the movies since Covid started. They had limited seating and everything was clean. Theyre doing a great job.

One of the last great independent American theatres & a must-see Chicago institution. These folks love movies and are always looking for fun ways to give you an experience you cant get at the big chains.Its a beautiful old theater but the seats are new enough to be comfortable, and theres a good selection of beer at the concession stand.Show up early to have a drink in the lounge and scan their collection of VHS and film books.

Excellent selections. Always a great way to fill a boring evening.

Grand old theatre with nice staff. Cool lounge area. Interesting mix of movies. Saw Mexican horror in smaller theatre (wished we had chosen beautiful mainstage instead!)

Music Box is really a cool Chicago experience. They’re always having unique showings as well as some current/popular options. They do fun events like drink-a-longs too and they have a real organ player before some shows. The popcorn is delicious. My fiancé and I have seen Little Women, Space Odyssey 2001, a documentary about Fr. Theodore Hesburgh, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, and Inside Llewyn Davis here to name a few. Prices are totally reasonable and not above a chain theater. A historical landmark not to be missed!

This is hands down our favorite theater in Chicago. There’s nothing I would change about it!

What a great way to pick yourself up and get into the Christmas spirit. Super sing a long and then watching Its a Wonderful Life.

The only theater nearby that provides 70mm film. It is an old, historic theater, with great architectural features. The concession stand is, surprisingly, awesome. They offer coffee, liquor, popcorn (of course), and other candies/goodies. The counter was staffed well, so everyone in line was taken care of promptly. The theater was clean, for the most part, and their bathrooms were clean, and updated. However, the seating in the theater was awful. My wife, and I wondered seat-to-seat looking for seats that did not sink in. One section, you could smell a foul odor coming from the storm reciprocal in the floor. I recommend the Music Box for special events, and viewings in a grand theater. Though, the theater needs to invest in their seating, and upgrade to a more comfortable arrangement for their guests.

There used to be theaters like this in every neighborhood. Im happy that this one is still open, and is doing well. Its literally like going back in time when you walk into the foyer. They have a good drink selection, and also play older movies, you may have never got to see on the silver screen. I went to a David Lynch fest, in the past, and it was amazing. They have a lot of festivals/events, and play some good old movies and new ones too. (Follow on FB to get the run down, always something interesting going on!) Its also a good place to be surrounded with fellow movie nerds, just like me.Keep Chicago alive and authentic, support our local businesses

The music box theater has the charm of its old time construction and decor. Though the seats are not reclining or other style typically found these days, they are quite comfortable. I noticed that the concession stand sells coffee! Which is a real treat if you doing drink soda. And if course they show movies that you wont find elsewhere in the city.

This place is definitely a Chicago treasure. Being in this beautifully restored and maintained 1920s movie palace feels like time traveling. They show a lot of independent and offbeat movies, classic and historical movies, short films and documentaries. Check out a movie (or do you say film?) and enjoy this rare historical theater.

Went to see White Christmas and Its a Wonderful Life double feature with family just before Christmas 2018 and we had a great time! The hot chocolate cocktail is amazing!! Staff was great as well. Highly recommend.

Large comfortable theater with seating for 700+ in the biggest room. We went for a book signing and everything was smooth.

Music box is a chicago gem. staff are great, great selection and programming.

Decent prices, safe measures in place to enjoy films again. Staff is very friendly.

We saw Portrait of a Lady on Fire and the whole experience was wonderful. The theatre has a very cool atmosphere. The only con was that the seats werent comfortable at all. But, overall, it was very nice!

An incredible theater that beautifully reminds one of the birth of cinema while also being set in a modern presence. THE cinema experience in Chicago.

My boyfriend and I came here for a special showing of ‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’. It was a tremendous movie and I recommend everyone see it, however I digress.I was a little nervous about The Music Box because I’d heard mixed reviews about it being old with uncomfortable seating. I’ll admit that the seats weren’t recliners you might find at a big chain movie theatre downtown, but they are plenty comfortable enough to sit for a few hours. Also, there is a FULL BAR with prices that aren’t bonkers expensive.If you’re in the area and you feel like going, I say do it. You’ll be seeing a movie in a place of history. It’s wonderful.

Beautiful theater thats surprisingly large. I had a great time here.

Visiting this historic and beautiful theater is memorable all in its own...seeing a great movie just adds to the experience!!

Clean venue. Great special events. Friendly staff. Beautiful theatre.

SUPER cool theatre. Went to the White Christmas sing along....it was a great time. I heard it gets pretty rowdy at the later showings but we went at 6:30 and there were many families there. Popcorn and soda refills are only like $1.50...alcohol is served. I will def be back in the future.

Nice little movie theater that offers a unique screening experience. We sat in the main theater and theres a good number seats, though they arent terribly comfortable. Tickets are little pricey ($14/ticket) but its to be expected for the cool ambiance and live organ player before shows. They sell typical concession drinks and light snacks. The screen is a good size and the sound system fills the room. Its worth checking this place out and catching a flick.

Best place to see a movie in Chicago. This is a great place to see new and classic films in 70mm, or to come with the family for one of their singalong showings. The lounge and beer garden have been great additions as well.

Beautiful vintage theater with high quality shows.

Adorable and historical! The White Christmas Sing Along is a fun way to get geared up for the season. The staff is kind and efficient, and the live organ is an unexpected treat.

What a FABULOUS experience! I LOVED the place with its ambiance... and the organ player was an unexpected, charming surprise. Cant wait to return again and again.

Great memories went there as a kid grew up in Lakeview area havent been there since I was teenager looks the same way. Live in southern suburbs now. Went with friends to see White Christmas will definitely be doing this every year had a wonderful time. And the popcorn is the best weve had at any theater. Thanks for the memories!

Really enjoyed it here! I came for an event but would definitely come back for a movie or show. It has a sort of old school, creepy vibe. But I was surprised to find the snacks are as expensive as your average movie theatre. I understand they have to make money but it felt oddly out of character for the place.

Love the beer garden patio theater

Super decent. Would recommend

3 of us went to see The Sound of Music sing a long tonight.It was so much fun. We had no idea what to expect and it was all that and more. Fun audience, and fun announcer that kicked it off along with the live organist.It was a family event so there were people from aged 2 to 92. Everyone had a great time and well go back next year. Get your tickets early. They sell out.

This place is a gem and I love going there. I can always count on them bringing the 70mm options to town. They cater to their visitors and take pride in their establishment. They are old-timey in a good way and have traditions that follow suit. Definitely recommend!

Have been here a few times over the years. No, it’s not a modern, state of the art theatre, so don’t expect all the bells and whistles. What you do get is an authentic experience you aren’t going to find at those newer theatres, so sit back and enjoy...or stand up and dance. It’s all good here.

Great classic theatre. Sit in the back or the middle row if you have long legs.

Their holiday sing along is such a great cultural experience. Seeing White Christmas on the big screen was so much fun. Hearing the audience sing along & dress up and jingle their bells and throw snow made it such a fun afternoon. I had never seen the movie before and it was totally fine. I didnt feel out of place whatsoever. Santa as the music conductor really makes you feel at home too.

Had a great time watching a 70mm showing of interstellar

Great place, great vibe. Never disappoints.

A great classic theatre. Good place for special events or to see a movie that might not be playing at the big multiplexes. The audience always seems to appreciate the films by staying quiet, respectful, and actually keeping their phones away.

Its a memorable and magical feeling experience coming into this theater. Its like traveling into the past and becoming a part of the theaters 90 year history. Thank you for doing special 70mm showings of such incredible films!! Ill always keep coming back. ️

Like walking down memory lane. A movie theater from my childhood only now, improved. Price was right, movie excellent, Little Women, & company fantastic, 2 program friends!

Astounding! With one step over the threshold, I felt transported back in time to a bygone era of cinema and theater going. I didnt know there was anything like this left in Chicago. I am looking forward to going back soon and bringing friends from out of town.

I saw the Aeronauts here with a friend. I love the interior of the Music Box, which has retained much of its original flavor and history. The lounge alone is a delight, and a wonderful place to relax before a show. To be honest, the sound was a tad loud for the film we were watching, and a slight nudge towards not as deafening would have helped. (This was not so remarkable though, fortunately.) However, Id by and large recommend anyone come to visit this Chicago mainstay!

Overall: One of the most unique movie theaters in the city. They may not play Avengers, but this is the place to go for indie films and the classics.The good: Plenty of out of the ordinary films and events. Whether its The Room or Rock Horror with props and gags all around, theres always something fun on the calendar. Plus all the trending indie and smaller-budget films that you wont find in AMC and the like, and rerunning classics. All of these could also be in 35 or 70 mm! The bar inside offers a great cozy atmosphere with lots of fun decor and unique cocktails or brews. All of the staff is passionate about films and are friendly and funny as well.The not-so-good: The seats are original, and thats not a good thing. Theyre uncomfortable. The bathrooms are pretty old school too and could use an upgrade.

Came here for Valentine’s Day for the showing of The Princess Bride. It was a pretty cool experience with fan dressing up and instructions on how to react and interact with the film.It was my first time to this theatre and grabbed a season schedule as we exited. Seemed like a pretty cool place.

Very nice old, vintage decor. Awesome organ player in the main theater. Well kept bathrooms. Seats are comfortable but have no cup holders.

This is a little gem, in between uptown and downtown kind of, this is an old and hipster looking theater, it gave me such a good vibe and I even enjoy the show-time even more. The popcorn was served in those old style little bags Im not sure about the price since I didnt pay but I had a nice experience I would totally come back and recommend to Chicagoans and anyone who wants to visit Chicago.

Incredible venue with interactive lounge. Always something new and interesting to watch. One of the best theaters the citys got to offer.

We come here every year on Christmas Eve and its the most wonderful place to song Christmas carols and watch a movie. Highly recommend it for the Christmas show and all other movies.

Awesome old theater. Working organ played before an interactive screening of the princess bride, it was so much fun!

The retro movie theater design, the star patter lights inside, the overall experience... definitely a 10/10

Absolutely amazing. We went for the Music Box of Horrors. 24hrs. of horror movie madness. Great vendors with reasonable souvenirs that are one of a kind. Super friendly staff and great crowd. Plus, the vintage ambiance is epic.

You really cant beat this venue for a unique moviegoing experience. Its always great to show up a little early to hear the sounds of the organ. They play a lot of interesting stuff here, as well as new releases.

The theater is nice, old building with solid amenities. Seen the Jay and Silent Bob Reboot screening and it was everything we could hope for. Kevin Smith and Jason M. are wonderful to their fans!

It is a wonderful theatre! The remodeling was done exceptional well. Love that the lights remained in the ceiling- so many old venues removed them when they were remolded. And the fact they still have the old pipe organ is a nice touch. Plant go back for some of the organ events on a sat or sunday.

I love movie theaters and this is one of the best. I only wish theaters did more to protect their experience and Im sad to say, the Music Box as well.

Wow, what an experience. I went during Christmas for a special evening of a christmas movie. I didnt expect the annual sing-a-long inside the theater, the Music Box Carolers who are amazing and the traditional vibe of the theater itself.

We come to this classic movie theatre for the christmas movies every year, and we love the vibe.

This is absolutely my favorite place in Chicago. The indie films, the old cult classics, the guest speakers, the lounge/garden area – the Music Box is the best place to spend your time in Chicago. I wish I could live there.

The Music Box Theatre opened on August 22, 1929, a time when the movie palaces in downtown Chicago each had seating capacities of around 3,000 people. The Music Box, which sat 800, was considered an elaborate little brother to those theatres. Theatre Architecture magazine noted in 1929 that the theatre “represents the smaller, though charming and well equipped, sound picture theatre which is rapidly taking the place of the ‘deluxe’ palace.”

This is an awesome place to see a movie. The 70mm showings are truly unique, and the old theater really brings a fantastic atmosphere for the viewing experience. Be sure to get there about 30 or 45 minutes before the showing to get a good seat.

A Classic Theater, holding onto its Classic Roots.A wonderful Art House that shows modern Film while being independent from the Chain Theaters allowing it to run Shows that you wont find at any other Theater!Its not just a Theater, its an experience!

Very excited space for a smaller theater! Comfortable seats and old flair work good drinks!

Seeing Clue was great. Audience participation was fantastic, the acting along was cute and the balloons were a cute touch. Big fan of seeing classics here.

Great vintage theatre. I go ever year to their White Christmas showing. People dress in Holiday themed clothing, they sing and add hilarious sound effects. It is a must, if you live in the city or are visiting. Ive seen multiple films here and recommend everyone visit it at least once.

Loved this place! Came for the monthly Rocky Horror Picture Show performance and we had an absolute blast. The theater is really cool and unique. I love the layout and the decorations. The show was hilarious and everyone was having fun. Super raunchy and very weird, so make sure youre into that. Im happy they play some really unique movies here.

A great place for a cinephile. I only wish the seats were more comfortable.

Great classic movie theater

Old movie theater -feel. I love documentaries & here you can get your fill!! Snacks a little pricey, but so is everywhere!! Go there!!!

Wonderful selection of films. Great art house. Main theatre seats are very uncomfortable. Go on a day they have the organist. Hes excellent.

I love the look of the theater. Howeever it feels like youre in an airplane watching a movie. If the seats got more comfortable, it would change my rating to a 4. The Joker was great though.

In love with its atmosphere! Everyone who come to Chicago should visit Music Box Theatre!

Best Chicago movie theater. The organist plays lively tunes before the movie, and improvises medleys.

This place is amazing. HIGHLY recommend their production of Rocky Horror Picture Show.

An unrivaled institution. No better place to watch a flick. Also, they serve beer which every theater should be required to do by law.

The cozy experience of their smaller theater really is a treat and the films they play are really interesting

Beautiful original Chicago theater. Plays a wide variety of both new and vintage films. Fun events that keeps things interesting. Im a third generation patron to this theater, my baby girl will be the 4th

Not sure how many old school movie houses are left in town, but this is one of them. Always a great experience, with respectful movie goers means youll see what you came for without interruption.

I absolutely LOVED this place. It has been kept/restored to how it probably was originally, and walking in is like walking into another time period. That said, conveniences are available, such as e-tickets, a bar, the things we are now used to that make it easier for us to enjoy our experience. The prices are reasonable and we found easy, free street parking 2 blocks away. The workers were friendly, the theater was smaller and comfortable. Everyone was there to see the show, so we had no issues with disruptive audience members. We saw an Japanese anime movie from the 80s and it was fantastic! I would love to go here again!

Very cool historic theater runs old movies. We loved the showing of Its A Wonderful Life with a sing along on screen before the movie. Nice lounge/ bar.

Love this place! Authenticity at its best!!

I recently saw One Upon A Time In Hollywood in 70mm here. The projection was misaligned so there was constant flickering throughout the whole film. And the volume was too high for what their system can handle. A lot of the dialogue was unintelligible and if I hadnt already saw it in a different theater before this I wouldnt have know what characters were saying.Overall very disappointed and bummed because its an awesome place with cool history.

I was here for the Tan France event and I just have to complement both the theater and bookstore staff. Ive been to other book signings and its taken 2-3 hours to get to the front of the line for photos, etc. We were in and out of the line in literally seven minutes once our group was called (and it only took about 20 minutes from the end of the event to our group being called). PHENOMENAL event production!

We’ve come here for a decade for bing crosby’s White Christmas. Fun sing along film. Go for the evening show—much livelier than daytime...

Great theatre for off the beaten path films and festivals. Wish the venue was nicer, but the films and festivals are worth ignoring any of the facilities shortcoming. The lounge area is lovely, however.

Great independent theater with a wonderful lounge area that welcomes you to play games while enjoying a tasty drink.