The Castro Theatre

Opened in 1922, the Castro Theatre is one of the last vestiges of that bygone era still in operation. Its Mexican cathedral-inspired facade continues to captivate tourists and moviegoers.

With the decadence of its lobby and auditorium and the attention to detail in the wet plaster motifs on either side of the screen, the Castro presents simply what new technologies are attempting to mimic -- the pleasure of the movie-watching experience. Sing-alongs to classic musicals are organized and encouraged. This is one of the most awesome movie theater experiences in the world and also the last remaining movie palace in the nation that was built in the 1920s that is still in operation.

In Castro Theatre, both outside and it is breathtakingly gorgeous with the inside being just a touch more luxurious. Expect to see foamy balconies, wall-mounted busts of heroic figures, and an auditorium that seat over 1,400 guests in a fantasy setting that is both lavish and intimate. On either side of the screen are large organ grills, a large art deco chandelier hangs from the room and two dramatic staircases lead to the mezzanine and balcony. Showing here are foreign films, classic revivals, festivals, and some of the most intense audiences in town. In recent years the sound quality has been improved, new stage lighting was installed and larger and more comfortable seats were put on the main floor.

• Location: San Francisco, United States