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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Florida

Movie spots and historical sites

A day spent wandering through historical sites deserves to end in the dark of a movie theater.

Based on 727 Opinions
+724
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Updated May 2026
01
Showmen's Museum image 1
Showmen's Museum image 2
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Two-story museum filled with vintage carnival rides like a working Ferris wheel and carousel creates a strong sense of stepping back in time. Colorful displays and miniature fair exhibits set a nostalgic, educational atmosphere. Visitors often find it a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience showcasing rich American carnival history.

A movie theater on the second floor shows films about early circuses and P. T. Barnum. The museum screens a great movie about circus and carnival history that offers detailed accounts and visuals.

American carnival history comes alive through unique objects and stories. The museum preserves the amusement business past with personal histories and oddities on display.

People are saying

"This museum's exhibits explore the history of carnivals and sideshows."

"I found the historical sites here amazing, full of carnival and circus history."

"I loved the movie about circus and carnival history."

Good to know

1

Admission is $15 for adults, but some visitors reported being charged $20.

2

Parking is available inside the gate and around to the right of the building.

3

The museum accommodates visitors with electric wheelchairs and provides regular ones for use.

02
Tampa Theatre image 1
Movie theater

Historic movie theater built in the 1920s features ornate architecture and an original Wurlitzer organ that plays live before shows, creating a magical atmosphere. The space feels intimate and charming, transporting audiences back in time with its beautiful, atmospheric design.

Silent movies with live organ performance create a unique viewing experience. Classic and new films screen in a historic, haunted theatre that makes watching a movie feel like an event.

A historic venue with magnificent architecture and rich character, blending modern technology with classic design. It offers a unique cultural experience and showcases its history through tours and events.

People are saying

"Watching a movie here feels like stepping back in time."

"This historic theater's interior architecture and design are amazing."

"It's like stepping into a historical fiction novel here."

Good to know

1

Tickets for events can be purchased online or at the box office.

2

Parking is limited; consider arriving early or using public transport.

3

The Tampa Theatre hosts live performances and special movie screenings throughout the year.

03
Tower Theater (Tower Theater Cultural Center) image 1

Historic theater offers an intimate and cozy setting with beautiful preservation and art-filled interiors. Atmosphere feels warm and lively, blending old-world charm with modern energy. Events feature high-quality performances and attract a culturally engaged crowd.

Shows include live performances and international films. Screenings feature unusual independent movies and Mexican cinema like "Latido."

Beautifully preserved with rich history, the theater stands as a historic landmark. It hosts unique, intimate events that differ from large theaters.

People are saying

"I found the theater beautiful, cozy, and full of charm."

"I found the historical theater beautiful and preserved."

"This place has a lot of history, perfect for movies."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available for $20 from 7 pm to 2 am.

2

Expect limited parking options nearby; consider using public transport.

3

The theater hosts various events, including concerts and exhibitions throughout the year.

04
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens image 1

Art museum with meticulously maintained gardens offers peaceful walking paths, lush greenery, and curated sculptures. Atmosphere stays serene and calming, inviting meditation and reflection. Visitors often engage with live tea ceremony demonstrations and enjoy cafes serving Japanese fare.

Short films and historical exhibits add depth and context. The film on Japanese immigrant settlement offers informative insights. The presentation of the anime movie Akira stands out.

Visitors find a strong history lesson through traditional Japanese buildings and informative videos. Volunteers offer deeper insight into the garden's history and Japanese culture.

People are saying

"The gardens here are beautiful, peaceful, and meticulously maintained."

"I found the gardens to be beautiful and peaceful."

"The gardens are beautiful and peaceful, like being in Japan."

Good to know

1

Adult entry is $16 per person, children under 5 are free.

2

Traditional tea ceremonies need to be scheduled in advance.

3

The gardens host events and exhibitions throughout the year.

05
Olympia Theater image 1
Performing arts theater

Building showcases art deco architecture with original plaster walls and historic Moorish design. Atmosphere shifts from relaxing and retro to electric and lively during performances. Venue holds rich cultural history and draws engaged, enthusiastic crowds.

Film premieres and Q&A sessions with stars like Diego Calva happen here during the Miami Film Festival. The venue hosts red carpet events and offers a classic movie-going experience.

Elegant vintage design and rich history define this theater. Its historic architecture and charming character stand out clearly.

People are saying

"The performing arts venue is absolutely gorgeous and a true architectural gem."

"The Lego art galleries here are amazing and immersive."

"It's a gorgeous, historic place with beautiful vintage architecture."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult due to street closures during events.

2

The air conditioning may not be functioning, so prepare for heat.

3

Seating can be uncomfortable compared to modern theaters.

06
The Sponge Factory image 1

Gift shop combines natural sea sponges with a small theater showing educational films about sponge harvesting. Atmosphere feels fun and authentic, with a mix of Greek-origin products and creative souvenirs. Space offers a unique glimpse into sponge heritage alongside a lively, somewhat cluttered setup.

A small theater shows educational films about sponge collection and history. Watching a 15-minute movie in a dedicated room offers a 10% discount on purchases.

A small theater shows videos about the history of sponge harvesting. The building itself was once a sponge-processing factory, offering a real connection to the area's sponge heritage.

People are saying

"I always had a fun time here."

"You should watch the movie about how sponges are collected and cleaned."

"I watched an interesting video about the history of sponge harvesting."

Good to know

1

Paid parking is available on site.

2

The bathroom at The Sponge Factory is clean.

3

A 10% discount is offered at checkout.

07
Block 40 Food Hall Downtown Hollywood Florida image 1

Food hall occupies a repurposed historic hotel with Mediterranean Revival design and a large central bar surrounded by 10 dining stalls. Atmosphere is fun and vibrant with a massive screen for sports and loud music, creating an energetic vibe. Games like darts and pinball add to the lively setting, attracting groups and families.

A giant screen with movie theater seats offers a spot to watch films or sports. A free mini movie theater runs shows, adding to the fun and lively atmosphere.

A historic building with Mediterranean Revival design now houses a food hall on its first floor. The Great Southern Hotel, Hollywood's first hotel, features a new facade with striped canopies over arched windows, preserving its iconic status.

People are saying

"The bar staff, especially Laurel, makes every visit unforgettable."

"This historic hotel is now a food hall with delicious options."

"I was surprised by the variety of food options available."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 7pm on weekdays.

2

Karaoke is available on Fridays and Wednesdays.

3

Open mic nights happen every Wednesday evening.

08
Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science image 1

Multiple levels offer amazing views of Miami's skyline and a dome-shaped planetarium creates an immersive space experience. Interactive exhibits include aquariums with coral reef tanks and hands-on activities like building paper airplanes and live science shows. The atmosphere blends modern architecture with engaging educational features suitable for families.

IMAX movies showcase stunning visuals like ocean currents, while the Planetarium screens vivid, colorful films by local filmmakers. Science shows combine education with captivating sound and animation.

Exhibits include a collection of historical artifacts and cover traditional history alongside modern science. Visitors get historical and cultural instruction through diverse displays.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with tons of hands-on fun."

"I watched the SPACE film, which was fantastic and educational."

"You'll love the planetarium shows; it's hard to pick just one!"

Good to know

1

Parking is unavailable for event attendees; plan accordingly.

2

Reservations are required for the planetarium shows, which fill up quickly.

3

The planetarium may close for private events, affecting access.

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