When movie theaters were first invented they weren’t your standard Friday night destination. People used to get dressed up to go to movies, were entertained before and after the show, and really spent an evening out on the town. The movie theaters of old had plush seating, lots of leg room, and were immaculately decorated. Now, those vintage theaters are few and far between but if you’re lucky you may be able to catch a glimpse of one during your travels. The folks at Travel and Leisure put together an awesome list of the Best Vintage Movie Theaters around the world. Find out which ones you should be looking out for as you jetset around the world.

10. Tuschinski Theater – Amsterdam, The Netherlands

The Tuschinski Theater in Amsterdam was originally opened by Abraham Tuschinski in 1921. Abraham had originally intended to emigrate from Poland to the United States but was sidetracked in Amsterdam where he fell in love with cinema. His love affair never ended and despite being killed by the Nazis later in life, his 933 theater has been upgraded, remains in immaculate condition, and is still in operation today.

9. Centre Cinema Imperial – Montreal, Quebec

The Centre Cinema Imperial originally opened as part of the vaudeville scene in 1913 and wasn’t transformed into a movie theater until 1934. The inter design was designed to depict some of the most famous Greek tragedies and included stunning frescoe paintings and white marble columns. The theater has been the site of the Montreal World Film Festival for almost 20 years. Make sure you book your Montreal hotel room as far in advance as possible if you want to visit during festival season.

8. The Astor Theater – St. Kilda, Australia

Opened in 1936, this astounding movie house almost didn’t open thanks to the complaints of neighboring residents. When it did open, though, the house was packed and regularly entertains huge crowds to this day. Tickets to a double feature are less than passes to a single show at your average chain-style multiplex theater.

7. Metro BIG Cinema – Mumbai, India

The Metro BIG Cinema in Mumbai was built by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (picture the roaring lion before your movie) in 1938. It was one of the first theaters in the area and was built to mirror those found in the United States. It’s now owned by BIG Cinemas, the largest chain in the country.

6. Grand Cinema – Shanghai, China

Famous architect L. E. Hudec was the mastermind behind the Grand Cinema in Shanghai, opened in 1932. Sadly, there was no air conditioning so despite having some of the hottest new releases the theater wasn’t very popular until it was finally upgraded in 1941. The theater was recently closed, completely renovated, and reopened in early 2009. It now features a rooftop garden where patrons can kick back and discuss their favorite scenes.

5. Coliseum Theater – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The Coliseum Theater in Malaysia was built by Chua Cheng Bok in 1921 after he broke away from years of hard labor in the tin mines. The theater is popular for showing Bollywood films. So much so, in fact, that when the Malaysian government considered using the theater as a cultural center they had to cancel their plans due to public disapproval.

4. Le Grand Rex – Paris, France

The astounding Le Grand Rex in Paris opened in 1931 with the capability to seat more than 3,300 people. The lavish decorations, including palm trees, star like lights, and fake Venetian monuments seemed a bit gaudy at first but patrons loved the atmosphere. The theater still shows regular feature films and also hosts a number of annual festivals and concerts.

3. The Phoenix Cinema – London, UK

This tiny 255-seat theater was originally known as the East Finchley Picturedome and has continuously shown films since its original opening. They even showed films during World War II despite housing evacuees from surrounding villages. The projectionist, Peter Bayley, has worked at the theater since 1960 and was recently recognized by the British Empire for his dedication to film.

2. Bagdad Theater – Portland, Oregon

The Bagdad Theater was built in 1927 and was originally financed by Universal Studios. The architectural design gives a huge nod to the creative styles of the Ottoman Empire and originally included bubbling fountains and female ushers dressed in Arabian garb. When it was repurchased in 1991, brothers Mike and Brian McMenamin overhauled the look by keeping most of the original architectural style but by adding a pub-like atmosphere in the lobby outside the viewing area.

1. Grauman’s Chinese Theater – Los Angeles, California

In the late 1920’s, Americans were fascinated by life in Asia. As such, Sid Grauman decided to model his theater with a Chinese theme. He included 90 foot high gateway, pagodas, and even a few authentic temple bells. More than 4 million patrons visit the theater every year to catch a glimpse of the flamboyant décor and the famous Walk of Fame as well.

You should make a special effort to catch a glimpse of these theaters, even if you can’t stay for the show. Their old-school charm will douse you in nostalgia and will have you thinking twice about spending $20 on a ticket at the multiplex.