10 great places to see a movie in splendor

— -- In this era of cookie-cutter multiplexes, it's hard to believe that going to the movies was once a grand night out. But a handful of old-fashioned movie palaces help keep the glamour alive, says Karen Palmer, a senior editor with DailyCandy.com, a free newsletter with style, food and fashion tips. "These theaters have their own quirky elements and personalities that make them magical places to go sit for a few hours," she says. And now that fall weather makes it a perfect time to escape to a theater, she shares some favorites with Larry Bleiberg for USA TODAY.

Byrd Theatre

Richmond, Va.

This 1,300-seat theater, designated both a state and national historic landmark, opened in 1922 and is now run by a foundation. The building has changed little over the years except for upgrades in technology. Patrons love the grand setting, and the bargain prices: $1.99 for second-run films. "It's a treat to see a movie for less than $2," Palmer says. 804-353-9911; byrdtheatre.com

Music Box Theatre

Chicago

Moviegoers will feel as if they're sitting outside at this lavish theater, which opened in 1929. It's built to resemble an open-air palazzo, and the ceiling is painted with stars and clouds, Palmer says. The theater also hosts an annual 24-hour horror movie marathon called the "Music Box Massacre." 773-871-6604; musicboxtheatre.com

The Egyptian

Los Angeles

It's hard to find a more perfect setting than this Egyptian-deco-themed cinema on Hollywood Boulevard. The Hollywood Walk of Fame is right outside the front door, and the entrance is lined with palm trees. The theater was home to the first Hollywood premier, for Robin Hood, starring Douglas Fairbanks. "Going to this theater, you just feel like you're in the middle of Hollywood history," Palmer says. 323-466-3456; americancinemathequecalendar.com

Inwood Theatre

Dallas

Guests come to this 1947 theater for independent and foreign films — and a martini lounge. (Drinks are welcome in the theater). The theater also has a special screening lounge equipped with couches, loveseats and bean-bag chairs. "It's kind of like being in your living room, but having the benefit of a giant movie screen," Palmer says. 214-764-9106; landmarktheatres.com

Cinerama

Seattle

It's always the swinging '60s at this mod-themed theater. Built in 1963, it still has a functioning Cinerama projector, which uses three projectors to produce a wide-screen image. It also displays famous movie costumes in the lobby, including some from the original Planet of the Apes. The theater, which was saved from demolition by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, sponsors special events like the Big Screen Festival starting today. It's showing famous widescreen films, starting with How the West was Won. 206-448-6680; cinerama.com

State Theatre

Traverse City, Mich.

This theater was destroyed twice by fire before being rebuilt in 1949 with an astronomically correct starry ceiling that replicates an August night in Michigan. The theater is now operated by the Traverse City Film Festival and volunteers. On Monday and Wednesday nights, admission is 25 cents, and Tuesday includes free popcorn with any movie. 231-947-4800; statetheatretc.org

The Castro Theatre

San Francisco