Coon Rapids' Luxury Movie Theatre Worth The Trip

COON RAPIDS, Minn. (WCCO) -- With HD TVs and in-home theaters, fewer people are heading out to the movies.

But AMC's new luxury theatre in Coon Rapids could change that.

After four months of renovations, the 16 screens are enhanced and ready for customers, said Ryan Noonan with AMC Theatres.

It starts with open-style concession stands.

"As you're waiting in line and you see something -- bottled water, candy or chocolate -- you can grab it," he said. "So when you get to the register, you're ready to go."

The traditional favorites such as popcorn and candy are available, but there's also specialty chocolate, apple chips and more to pick up.

"We've added things like chicken tenders, pizza, French fries, jalapeno poppers and mozzarella sticks, which are phenomenal," he said.

There are also Coca-Cola Freestyle machines, which can create more than 120 soda and flavored-water options. The theatre itself offers larger plush seats with more space and comfort.

"If you want to be a little more relaxed, hit the button on the side and you can go as far back as you want," Noonan said. "You can lean all the way back."

Bigger seats mean fewer chairs.

AMC took out 50 to 70 percent of the theatre's seating capacity, saying it adds to living room-like comfort.

"You're not going to be able to match the movie screen or sound system," Noonan said as the audio and video are now digital. "We wanted to come to Coon Rapids and give you a reason to come to the movies."