The Short List: Best local movie theaters

Welcome to The Short List, where each week we pick a topic and share our favorite - or, in some cases, maybe our least favorite - things about the Tampa Bay area.

High-tech home theater systems and high-def Blu-ray discs make us drool, but sometimes you just need to get out of the house and catch a movie the old-fashioned way: sitting in the dark, popcorn in hand, with complete strangers in front of a big screen.

This week, we list our favorite local spots to do just that. Whether you're in the mood for brand-new blockbusters, unforgettable classics, cult favorites, enlightening documentaries or a romantic date night, these theaters elevate the moviegoing experience well above the ordinary:

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1. Tampa Theatre: Where else can you watch a movie with a Mighty Wurlitzer organ introduction under a sky of twinkling stars? This landmark movie house (pictured, right) built in 1926 shows mostly independent films that can't get screen time at local first-run theaters. Check out the popular Summer Classic Movie Series beginning Sunday with "Topper," starring Cary Grant.

2. Imax Dome at MOSI: Prepare for sensory overload. This giant, dome-shaped screen is the place to watch Imax films that practically put viewers in the movie. At a recent screening of "Hubble," we felt as if we were floating through space with the telescope.

3. CineBistro (Hyde Park and Wesley Chapel): Great for a date night or a girls' night out. Sure, it's pricier than your average theater but you can kick back in comfy leather recliners and have dinner and drinks served at your seat. Moviegoers rave about the desserts, especially the Deconstructed Peanut Butter Pie. (Note: The theater is for those 21 and older and you should arrive 30 minutes before the movie starts to ensure a good seat and to order dinner.)

4. Fun-Lan Drive-In: Give in to nostalgia at this old-school theater that's been a staple in Tampa for 50 years. This four-screen drive-in shows first-run movies at bargain rates ($6 adults, $2 children age 4 to 9). Load up on treats at the concession stand or bring your own snacks.

5. Beach Theatre: Grab a seafood dinner at the beach and then head to this historic landmark, tucked among the shops and restaurants along Corey Avenue. Built in 1939, the theater showcases independent films and theme nights. Bring your props for "Rocky Horror Picture Show" Saturdays at 11:50 p.m. and revisit The Dude in "The Big Lebowski" on June 4 and July 9.