You can stream movies at home, but nothing compares to watching a great film on the silver screen in one of the best movie theaters in Houston. Whether it's a date night combined with a delicious meal and drinks or an afternoon matinee, a trip to the theater is a great escape from reality for a couple of hours. During the summer months, heading to the movie theater can also serve as a refreshing reprieve from the Houston heat. 

If you're hoping to catch a flick on the big screen, the following Houston movie theaters all offer a unique cinematic experience.

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema LaCenterra

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema LaCenterra's name gives away the fact that here you'll find over 30 beers on tap, in addition to bottled beers, handcrafted cocktails, soft drinks, milkshakes and boozy milkshakes. Made-from-scratch menu items like vegan buffalo cauliflower or rib-eye tacos are served to you at your comfortable reclining seat, so "dinner and a movie" are perfectly paired in one location.

In addition to new releases, you can also catch classic films, belt out tunes at sing-along screenings or enjoy a Brunch Screening that features a special menu. Remember to order the bottomless popcorn, and add truffle parmesan seasoning if you're feeling fancy.

Find it: Alamo Drafthouse Cinema LaCenterra, 2707 Commercial Center Blvd., Suite K-100, Katy, TX 77494; 281-492-6900

Aurora Picture Show

For a cinematic experience you won't find anywhere else, consider the Aurora Picture Show. The nonprofit media arts center presents documentaries, short films, historical works, kids movies and films from Texas filmmakers throughout the year. 

Four types of annual memberships are available that include free admission to regular screenings and events, invitations to members-only receptions, and discounts to select special events.

By the end of 2023, the theater will be moving to the East End Cultural District, thereby marking its fourth relocation since its launch in 1998. The arts organization will reside in a 2,500-square-foot space in The Plant, a community development that's being dubbed "Houston's first walkable urban corridor." Aurora's new space will be a community artistic hub for films, along with screenings, film festivals, performances and artist talks.

Find it: Aurora Picture Show, 2442 Bartlett St., Houston, TX 77098; 713-868-2101

IPIC Houston

When you want to go upscale for date night, cruise directly to IPIC Houston. IPIC positions itself more as a social destination than simply as a place to watch a movie. The prices are higher than your typical movie ticket here, but the cost of admission is reflected in this luxe cinematic experience.  

There are two options for reserved seats. Standard seating includes an oversized leather seat for a dine-in-the-dark experience, and premium plus seating includes cozy blankets, reclining seats and waiter service at your seat, featuring gourmet food and cocktails.

You can also order food and signature drinks at the Tuck Room Houston, the theater's restaurant and lounge that has a contemporary, casual atmosphere.

Find it: IPIC Houston, 4444 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77027; 832-709-2146

Rooftop Cinema Club

The Rooftop Cinema Club in Uptown offers an experience to enjoy the H-Town skyline and stargazing while catching a cult film, classic movie or new release. Food and drinks are available for purchase, although they allow you to bring your own food (but no outside drinks are permitted). The club also provides everyone with wireless headphones to watch the movie. 

You can purchase your movie tickets online, but seats can't be reserved ahead of time. Instead, it's first-come, first-served, so it's ideal to arrive when the doors open 45 minutes prior to showtime. Leverage that time to enjoy the club's lawn games, cornhole and giant Jenga, table games, Cards Against Humanity and Connect Four.

Also, consider the weather. Since this venue is outdoors, that means no air conditioning for hot summer evenings. For the rest of the year when it cools down at night, you may want to bring a jacket and a blanket.

Find it: Rooftop Cinema Club, 1700 Post Oak Blvd., Houston, TX 77056

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston's Brown Auditorium Theater

When you think about going to the movies for a typical theatric experience, a museum isn't exactly top of mind. But, if you're not in the mood for mainstream new releases and blockbusters, definitely consider the The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. 

The Brown Auditorium Theater is located inside The MFAH and shows screenings of artistic films along with indie domestic productions and foreign films. The theater seats 350 people and underwent state-of-the art renovations in 2000.

There's also Film Buffs, the museum's membership group that offers perks like passes to sneak previews, programs with filmmakers, invitations to social events and more. 

Find it: The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, 1001 Bissonnet St., Houston, TX 77005; 713-639-7515

14 Pews

This indie movie theater is a hidden gem among Houston theaters. The nonprofit, run by artists, offers a cozy, intimate space, including cushions on its 14 church pews, which serve as seating. 

Over the years, 14 Pews has shown hundreds of independent films, documentaries, experimental and short films. The venue is also popular for community events, including art shows, book readings, live mic nights and other special events.

The theater offers eight types of annual memberships that include admission to regular screenings and events along with invitations to members-only events.

Find it: 14 Pews, 800 Aurora St., Houston, TX 77009

This story was edited by Hearst Newspapers Managing Editor Kristina Moy; you can contact her at kristina.moy@hearst.com.