Whether you’re planning a movie night at home with gourmet popcorn or catching the latest release at one of Ames’ local theaters, there are plenty of options to explore! From specialty popcorn shops offering fresh, handcrafted flavors to theaters serving classic movie snacks alongside the newest films, here’s a look at where to find popcorn and movies right here in Ames.
Freshly popped
Located in nearby Nevada, Bricktown Bakery & Popcorn offers a wide variety of mouth-watering flavored popcorn. Choose from classic cheddar and salted caramel to more unique choices like birthday cake and puppy chow. Each batch is locally grown and non-GMO, making it a popular stop for finding fresh, gourmet popcorn for a movie night at home or a gathering with friends!
Pop over to Huxley and explore Fabled Popcorn Company! Choose your favorite flavors from premium, gourmet, butter, and many more! Every flavor is carefully crafted for maximum taste. They even offer a movie night bundle that includes buttered popcorn, chocolate mix-ins, and Iowa-crafted sodas. Now, pick out your movie and dig in!
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Craving a snack that’s anything but ordinary? Head downtown to Homegrown in Ames, where Almost Famous Popcorn is waiting to become your new obsession. With flavors ranging from the buttery nostalgia of “Butter” Than the Movies to the bold kick of Spicy Jalapeño Cheddar, this isn’t your average movie theater popcorn. Sweet tooth calling? The Monster Cookie blend delivers, while their Award Winning Caramel offers that perfect balance of sweet and salty sophistication. Whether you’re a heat-seeker, a dessert lover, or a classic butter devotee, there’s a flavor here with your name on it.
On the big screen
North Grand Cinema has been named the “Best Movie Theater in Story County” for seven years running. This locally owned and operated theater features reclining seats, along with a full kitchen and bar. You can browse the shops in the mall before or after your movie, making it easy to turn a film into a full evening out.
Settle in for more than just a movie at Cinemark Movies 12 in Duff Plaza. Skip the box office lines with their user-friendly ticket kiosks, then explore a food and drink menu that goes well beyond popcorn and soda—yes, cocktails are on the list. Once you’ve grabbed your snacks, sink into one of their luxury loungers and prepare to forget you’re in a theater at all.
ISU Memorial Union: Cyclone Cinema
Bored on campus? Grab a friend and head to the Memorial Union for Cyclone Cinema! With free movies every weekend during the semester, the screenings are open to the public. Concessions are available if you’re feeling hungry. It’s an easy way to catch a movie you’ve been wanting to see right on campus.
Beyond the Theater
When the weather warms up, Bandshell Park transforms into an open-air theater where families and friends gather for free movie nights. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy a classic family-friendly film projected on the big stage. Last year’s feature was The Muppet Movie. This year’s pick? That’s the surprise worth showing up for.
Catch cinema classics on the big screen this summer at The Parc: A Food Lot. Local food trucks will be on-site serving tacos, ice cream, and more while the films roll. Keep an eye on our events calendar for upcoming dates and movie titles.
Ames Documentary Film Festival
Mark your calendars for September 27 when the Ames Regional Economic Alliance launches the first-ever celebration of nonfiction storytelling. The Ames Documentary Film Festival brings together short documentary films under 40 minutes, each telling compelling stories from across the country. It’s a showcase of the innovation, insight, and artistry energy that make the Ames community shine.
