The dog days of summer are still upon us in Orlando. However, the summer blockbuster season is beginning to fade to black. What are we, seekers of escaping the heat, to do? There are two unique movie theaters in the Central Florida area that offer an alternative movie experience.

The Enzian in Maitland, Florida is a true treasure. Originally opened in 1985, there still is no place like it in Central Florida. Showing first-run independent films as well as cult classics, patrons sit at dining tables and chairs. The dining menu offers healthy, organic choices alongside indulgences as well. On the outside, the Eden Bar beckons visitors for a pre or post movie drink as well as locals a unique bar to visit even if they are not coming to see a movie. The atmosphere is true, natural Florida. A full dining menu and happy hour specials are offered .
Throughout the year the Enzian also hosts fun, outdoor events like the “Wednesday Night Pitcher Show”. Patrons bring their own blanket or chair, enjoy a fun, classic movie like “Spaceballs” or “Footloose” and savor drink specials and trivia. There are also kid’s events during the summer and seasonal movies during Halloween and Christmas.
The Enzian is a must-visit for Florida residents and visitors alike. Check www.enzian.org for showtimes and event dates. Be sure to get there well in advanced, they can and do sell out.

Enzian Address and Phone Number
1300 South Orlando Avenue
Maitland, FL 32751
Info Line: (407) 629-0054
Clear across the other side of the spectrum is the Altamonte Picture Show. Every city has their own bargain movie theater. The place you go to see movies on the cheap. The great thing about the Picture Show at Altamonte is of course that it is cheap ($1.75 per person, $1 on Tuesdays), but that given the price tag it is clean and the staff members are nice.
As with all discount theaters, you will find second and third run films. If you are anything like me, you did not catch every single one of this summer’s big hits. Now as these movies make their way into the discount world, it is a great time to play catch up. Concessions are priced similar to that of a regular theater, slightly less, and the theater is no spring chicken. Visit their website for address and showtimes.
Altamonte Picture Show Address and Phone Number
130 E Altamonte Dr Suite 1200
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
Movie Line: 407-644-7469
Related articles
- Eden Bar at The Enzian (pulseofcentralflorida.com)
- Tales of a Farmers’ Market Virgin (thisfloridalife.com)
Ive been to the Enzian once and it was Awesome! I saw a Brazilian movie…something about the sun and a son.
“something about the sun and a son” – LOL! Must’ve been a memorable film!
Lol, it was…I remembered at least part of the title, lol. Actually it was part Portuguese and part english so I kinda zoned out a bit, but i enjoyed the atmosphere.
Reblogged this on belindainspiration49.
Thank you for the re-blog! 🙂 Have a sunny day!
I’d love to go to the enzian, a little far from Homosassa though.
Definitely a gem for us folks in the Central Florida area.