Movie theaters aren't what they used to be. Most are these massive, corporate megaplexes where you feel like a number in a giant machine. But if you’re heading down to 2725 Church Street in Stevens Point, things are a little different.
Rogers Cinema Stevens Point Church Street is that rare beast: a locally owned, seven-screen theater that hasn’t let the modern world strip away its soul. It’s sitting right there on the south side of town, nestled into a shopping center that feels familiar to anyone who grew up in central Wisconsin. Honestly, if you’re looking for the high-gloss, $20-per-ticket experience with heated reclining thrones, you might be in the wrong place. But if you want a bag of popcorn that doesn’t cost more than your car payment and a theater that feels like home, this is it.
The Vibe at Church Street
When you walk into the lobby, you’re hit with that specific smell. You know the one. It’s a mix of real butter, salt, and maybe a hint of nostalgia. The layout is a bit of a labyrinth, which honestly adds to the charm. You’ve got seven screens tucked away in different corners, and the staff—mostly locals—actually seem like they want to be there.
There’s no reserved seating. You just walk in, find a spot you like, and sit down. Some people find that stressful, but there’s a freedom in it. It’s "first come, first served" in a way that feels fair. And the seats? They’re surprisingly comfortable. You get plenty of legroom, which is a blessing because nobody wants the back of their chair kicked by a hyperactive eight-year-old during a three-hour Marvel marathon.
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What Most People Get Wrong About Rogers Cinema
People tend to assume that because it’s an "old-school" theater, the tech must be lagging. That’s a mistake. While the decor might feel a bit vintage, the projection is fully digital.
They’re running the big blockbusters right alongside everyone else. We’re talking Avatar: Fire and Ash, Zootopia 2, and 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple. They even handle 3D screenings for the big spectacle films. It’s a weird, wonderful hybrid of 1990s lobby energy and 2026 digital clarity.
The Price Factor (The Legend of $5 Tuesday)
Let’s talk money. Going to the movies is expensive. Or at least, it is everywhere else. At Rogers Cinema on Church Street, they still run the legendary Five Dollar Movie Tuesday.
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- On Tuesdays, every 2D ticket is just $5.
- If you want 3D, it’s $7.
That is basically unheard of now. Even on a regular Saturday night, an adult ticket is only around $10. Compare that to the $18 or $20 you’d pay in Madison or Milwaukee, and you start to realize why this place is still a cornerstone of the Stevens Point community. It’s accessible. It’s a place where a family of four can actually afford to see a movie without taking out a small loan at the concessions stand.
A Legacy of Local Ownership
The story of this place is really the story of the Rogers family and their partner Scott Koran. They’ve been in the game for decades. While other small-town theaters were being gobbled up by AMC or Regal, Rogers stayed independent.
They have locations in Marshfield, Wisconsin Rapids, Waupaca, and even up in Houghton, Michigan. But the Stevens Point 7 on Church Street is a flagship for them. They’ve had opportunities to sell out, but they’ve kept it local because they feel an obligation to the community. That’s not corporate PR fluff; you can feel it in the way the place is run. It’s basic, it’s clean, and it works.
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Navigating the Experience
If you're planning a visit, there are a few things you should actually know. The "Campus" location used to be the other big spot in town, but for the full multi-screen experience with all the big hits, Church Street is the primary destination.
- Parking: It’s in a shopping center, so parking is a breeze. No parallel parking or paid garages to worry about.
- Concessions: They do the basics well. Popcorn, soda, the standard candy box. They also offer carry-out concessions if you just want the popcorn for a home movie night.
- Cleaning: One thing users consistently mention in reviews is that the place is clean. They actually stay on top of the theaters between showings, so you aren't sitting in a pile of someone else's Junior Mints.
The "Other" Theaters in Town
It’s easy to get confused with the theater history in Point. You might hear people talking about the Fox Theater or the Opera House. Those are different stories. The Fox was a historic gem downtown that, sadly, had to be demolished after years of struggle to save it. The Opera House is currently being revitalized as an event venue.
But for movies—for that specific "I want to see a film on a Tuesday night" itch—Rogers on Church Street is the survivor. It’s the place that stayed open and kept the projectors running through the ups and downs of the industry.
Actionable Tips for Your Visit
- Check the Website First: Their showtimes change, and while they are reliable, it’s always better to verify on their official site or a trusted aggregator before you drive over.
- Arrive Early for Big Releases: Since there is no reserved seating, if a new Disney or Marvel movie is dropping, get there 20 minutes early to snag the center seats.
- Utilize Student Wednesdays: If you’re a student at UWSP or Mid-State, check for their Wednesday discounts. It’s a great way to save a few extra bucks.
- Don't Skip the Popcorn: Honestly, it’s some of the best in the region. They don't skimp on the seasoning.
If you find yourself in Portage County and want a low-stress, high-value night out, skip the fancy bells and whistles of the big city. Head to 2725 Church Street. Grab a large soda, find a seat in the middle of the house, and remember what it’s like to just enjoy a movie without the corporate headache. It’s a local institution for a reason, and in an era of streaming and soaring prices, it’s a bit of a miracle that it’s still thriving.