Cinerama Dome, Sunset Blvd (Closed)
Hollywood, CA Photo by RoadsidePeek.com
The rounded shell of Cinerama Dome has survived more than one debate over its future. Built in 1963, the theatre’s unusual shape made it a Sunset Boulevard landmark, but changes proposed during the late 1990s raised concerns about how much of the original moviegoing experience would remain.
Plans for redevelopment around the Dome and alterations inside brought preservationists into the discussion. The eventual ArcLight complex introduced neighboring screens while keeping the Dome as its distinctive centerpiece. For movie fans, the attraction wasn’t simply an old building—it was the chance to see a big picture in a setting unlike the usual multiplex auditorium.
The Cinerama Dome was built in 1963 taking only 16 weeks to complete.
Cinerama Dome
Hollywood, CA Photo by RoadsidePeek.com
UPDATE: Pacific Theatres, owner of just about all the drive-ins that are being
knocked down, recently unveiled a controversial plan to gut the inside
of the Dome and build a huge shopping complex around the outside. After
much debate with conservation groups, Pacific "compromised"
and decided to scale-back significantly the plans for the outside complex.
However, plans are still on the board to redo the inside of the theatre,
perhaps installing "stadium-style" seating, and bring the inside
up to modern standards.
UPDATE: The Dome remains closed following its pandemic shutdown. Sony Pictures announced in July 2026 that it would be restored and operated by Alamo Drafthouse, with reopening planned for early 2028. The project retains the landmark exterior and curved screen. The earlier claim of a 2025 reopening was incorrect; this old favorite is still preparing for its next act. 10-26
Egyptian Theatre
Los Angeles, CA Photo by RoadsidePeek.com
The courtyard entrance to Egyptian Theatre offers a little escape from busy Hollywood Boulevard. Egyptian-inspired columns, figures, and decoration turn the approach into part of the attraction, recalling the days when Sid Grauman wanted an evening at the movies to begin before customers reached their seats. Give yourself a little time to look around—there’s more here than a marquee and a ticket window.
Many thanks to the American Cinematheque for permission to use photos
and content of text.
Egyptian Theatre in 1922
Los Angeles, CA Photo courtesy American Cinematheque
Opened on October 18, 1922, with Douglas Fairbanks in Robin Hood, the theatre helped establish Hollywood’s movie-premiere tradition. Its exotic design arrived before the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb that November, rather than being inspired by that event. Grauman already understood how an unusual setting could draw attention, and the Egyptian gave his audience something far removed from an ordinary night downtown.
After decades of movies and later alterations, the theatre needed another chance. The American Cinematheque brought it back in 1998 following a major restoration, returning film audiences to the historic property at 6712 Hollywood Boulevard. Classic screenings and special programs gave the old showplace a new following.
1962 Vintage Photo
Los Angeles, CA Photo courtesy American Cinematheque
UPDATE: Netflix acquired the Egyptian in 2020 and undertook another restoration, with the theatre reopening on November 9, 2023. American Cinematheque programming continues alongside Netflix events, keeping movies at the heart of the building’s use. More than a century after its first premiere, the courtyard still leads toward a night at the pictures. The attractions have changed, but arriving at the Egyptian remains part of the show. 10-26
Pantages Theatre
Hollywood, CA Photo by RoadsidePeek.com
The bright marquee of Pantages Theatre announces a grand night out near Hollywood and Vine. Inside, the Art Deco decoration gives arriving audiences plenty to admire before the curtain rises.
Opened on June 4, 1930, the theatre was designed by B. Marcus Priteca. It hosted the Academy Awards during the 1950s and later provided the stage for Talking Heads’ concert film Stop Making Sense.
UPDATE: The Pantages remains an active home for touring Broadway productions. Shows including The Lion King, Wicked, and Hamilton have carried its entertainment tradition forward. Nearly a century after opening, the old palace still makes an evening on Hollywood Boulevard feel like an occasion. 10-26
Henry Fonda Theatre
Hollywood, CA Photo by RoadsidePeek.com
The sign for Henry Fonda Theatre marks a Hollywood Boulevard venue with more than one entertainment career behind it. Known earlier as the Hollywood Music Box, the theatre has welcomed stage audiences, moviegoers, and concert crowds. The names changed, but the building kept finding another reason to raise the curtain.
Opened in 1926 as Carter De Haven’s Music Box, the venue at 6126 Hollywood Boulevard later operated as a movie theatre under names including the Pix. It eventually returned to live performance and took the Henry Fonda name in the 1980s, honoring the actor while beginning another chapter on the boulevard.
UPDATE: Now known simply as The Fonda Theatre, the building continues as a live music venue. Its 2026 centennial celebrates a hundred years of changing attractions, from early stage entertainment to touring bands. The program is different from opening night, but a crowd outside still means there’s something happening behind the familiar frontage. 10-26
Cinerama Dome, Sunset Blvd (Closed)
Egyptian Theatre
Egyptian Theatre in 1922
1962 Vintage Photo
Pantages Theatre
Henry Fonda Theatre
