So, you’re in Alexandria. Maybe you’re here for a weekend at the lakes, or maybe you’ve lived in Douglas County your whole life and just need a Friday night escape that doesn't involve a boat. When you start looking for an Alexandria MN movie theater, you’re basically talking about one place: Cecile Cinema.
It’s local. It’s loud. It’s exactly what a small-town theater should be.
In an era where every massive multiplex feels like a sterile airport terminal, Alexandria keeps things a bit more grounded. You won’t find 24 screens or a virtual reality lounge here. What you will find is a reliable, five-screen theater that smells like actual butter and still feels like a community hub. Honestly, there's something about catching a flick at 2307 South Broadway that just hits different than the massive corporate chains in St. Cloud or the Cities.
What to Expect at the Alexandria MN Movie Theater
Cecile Cinema is owned by Odyssey Entertainment. That's a big deal because it means they actually have the infrastructure to get the massive blockbusters on opening night. You aren't waiting three weeks for the new Marvel movie or the latest Pixar release to trickle down to central Minnesota. They get them Day One.
The theater itself is a "Longfellow" style layout—long hallways leading to those familiar dark rooms.
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People ask about the seating a lot. Look, these aren't those motorized, heated leather recliners that make you feel like you’re in a dentist’s chair. They are traditional theater rockers. They’re comfortable, they’re clean, and they do the job. If you’re a "luxury or bust" kind of person, you might be surprised, but most locals appreciate that the ticket prices haven't skyrocketed to $20 just to pay for a footrest.
Ticket Prices and Getting the Best Deal
One thing that genuinely surprises people is the affordability. In most metropolitan areas, a family of four is looking at a $100 night out once you add the popcorn. In Alexandria? Not even close.
- Matinees are the secret weapon. If you go before 6:00 PM, you’re saving a significant chunk of change.
- Tuesdays are legendary. Like many Odyssey locations, they often run specials that make a midweek movie cheaper than a fast-food meal.
- Military and Senior discounts. They are very consistent with these. If you qualify, use them.
The concession stand is exactly what you want. Salty popcorn, those giant tubs of soda that definitely hold too much ice, and every candy box imaginable. Pro tip: The popcorn here is consistently better than the pre-bagged stuff you find at the big chains. They actually keep the kettles moving.
Why People Still Choose the Big Screen Over Netflix
You’ve got a 65-inch 4K TV at home. I get it. We all do. But there is a specific energy to the Alexandria MN movie theater that a living room can't replicate. It’s the shared gasp when a plot twist happens. It’s the way the floor slightly vibrates during an action sequence because the sound system is punchier than your soundbar.
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Also, Alexandria is a "talky" town in the best way. You’re going to see your neighbors. You’re going to see your kids’ teachers. It’s a social event.
Accessibility and Location
Location-wise, it’s tucked right in that commercial corridor on the south side of town. It’s incredibly easy to find. You’re right near the Viking Plaza Mall, so the "dinner and a movie" combo is basically built into the geography of the city. You can hit up a local spot like D. Michael B’s for a burger and then drive two minutes to catch your show.
Parking is never an issue. Unlike trying to find a spot in downtown Minneapolis, the lot here is massive and free. You park, you walk twenty feet, you’re inside. Easy.
Managing the Busy Season: Summer in Alex
If you are visiting during the summer, things get crazy. Alexandria’s population basically triples when the lakes warm up. This means Friday and Saturday nights at the theater can sell out, especially for the big summer tentpoles.
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- Buy online. Seriously. Don't be the person standing in line while the "Sold Out" sign goes up. Use the Odyssey website or Fandango.
- Arrive 20 minutes early. The lobby isn't huge. If there’s a crowd, it gets tight.
- Check the local listings daily. Sometimes showtimes shift slightly based on demand, especially for those 3D screenings.
Comparing Cecile Cinema to Nearby Options
If you’re willing to drive, your next closest options are in Fergus Falls or Sauk Centre. But honestly? There’s rarely a reason to leave town. The Fergus Falls theater (Cinema 9) is great and has more screens, but for the average moviegoer, the five screens in Alex cover 90% of what’s currently trending in Hollywood.
Sauk Centre has the historic Main Street Theatre, which is a cool experience if you want that "old-school cinema" vibe, but for modern sound and standard multiplex comfort, the Alexandria MN movie theater stays the top choice.
Technical Specs for the Geeks
The projection is all digital now. The days of clicking film reels and "cigarette burns" in the corner of the frame are long gone. The image quality is crisp, and they do offer 3D for the big spectacles. The sound is 7.1 Surround in most houses, which provides plenty of immersion without blowing your eardrums out. It’s balanced well for the room size.
Actionable Tips for Your Visit
To get the most out of your trip to Cecile Cinema, keep these specific strategies in mind:
- The Rewards Program: If you go more than three times a year, sign up for the Odyssey Rewards. You earn points on tickets and concessions. It actually adds up to free popcorn faster than you’d think.
- Avoid the "Front Row" Trap: Because the screens are relatively large for the room size, the first two rows are a bit of a neck-strain. Aim for the middle-back for the best viewing angle.
- Matinee Timing: The first shows of the day are usually the quietest. If you want to avoid the teenage crowds on a Friday night, the 1:00 PM or 4:00 PM slots are your best friend.
- Gift Cards for Locals: If you're looking for a gift for a student at Alexandria Technical & Community College, a theater gift card is basically gold. It's one of the few consistent entertainment options in town during the winter months.
Check the current schedule directly on the Odyssey Entertainment website or through a quick Google search for "Cecile Cinema showtimes." They keep it updated daily. Plan for about $12-$15 per adult for evening shows, and remember that the theater usually opens about 30 minutes before the first show of the day starts.