Seattle moviegoers are losing a major place to watch big-screen movies, at least for now.
SEATTLE — The Boeing IMAX Theater at the Pacific Science Center (now known as IMAX at the Center) has suspended screenings of feature films, a move that disappoints moviegoers across the city.
“We’re not dead yet. But it’s a hard blow,” said Amelia Anguirus, social media manager for Scarecrow Video, one of the last remaining video rental stores in the area.
Angelus said the loss highlights a broader trend of declining movie theater attendance in Seattle.
“I think it’s really sad because Seattle is considered a big city, but it’s getting harder and harder to go to the movies,” she said.
In March, the Space Needle purchased the northeast corner of the Pacific Science Center, which includes the IMAX theater, for more than $17 million. The venue is currently closed for renovations as the Space Needle begins developing the space.
“We are still in the early stages of our partnership and developing IMAX at the center,” Space Needle officials said in a statement. “The fitout and experience will continue to grow and evolve throughout the remainder of the year.”
Officials said programming in the short term will focus on IMAX documentaries, including “Deep Space” and “Roll of the Dice,” both produced in partnership with IMAX and Chihuly Studios.
“We hope to continue building our film programming and will have it in rotation throughout the remainder of the year,” the statement said.
While the Space Needle retains the option to screen feature films, there are no immediate plans to resume feature film screenings in 2026. Visitors looking for feature films will be directed to the PACCAR IMAX theater.
For movie lovers, the pause means fewer opportunities to experience movies in the true IMAX format, which is known for its larger screen and wider aspect ratio compared to standard theaters.
“Storytelling is so important and to put it on this scale shows that it deserves scrutiny,” said Seattle resident Gardenia Theroux. “So it’s just a shame.”
Some in the film industry say they’re relieved the space will still be used even if the feature film doesn’t open as planned.
“If it was completely empty, I think that would be very frustrating,” Angelus said. “So it’s a good thing they’re still making documentaries and keeping the door ajar.”
Still, fans remain hopeful that feature films will eventually return.
“If you can, show the movie again,” Angelus said.
The Space Needle said it remains committed to working with the Pacific Science Center to ensure the theater’s long-term success.
The Pacific Science Center has not yet responded to a request for comment. Officials also did not provide an updated reopening timeline after previously saying theaters could reopen in May.
