The Arcada, St Charles IL- Brew & View plus Live Concerts

The Arcada used to be a staple of everyone's childhood who grew up in the area. At one point in time they were a big name theater with the movie releases to prove their worth (I'm pretty sure the last movie I saw on an opening night was Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure. If that doesn't show my own worth, I don't know what does.).

Currently The Arcada is used for more eclectic tastes. The live concerts are geared toward the older generations, the baby boomers. I'll dive further in to the concerts momentarily.

The Crowd
As said prior, it really depends on the movie or concert. Seeing something such as Jurassic Park may result in a mixed crowd of adults and children. If this movie happens to be on a Friday, and it's a Brew & View night, it will more than likely be a larger crowd of adults than children. Either way, the crowd is always civil and respectful to the rest of the audience members.

The Drinks
The drinks are pretty standard; gin, vodka, whiskey, rum, beer, wine (red & white- not sure the quality of cab or pinot or whatever it is on tap unfortunately). While the drinks are a little bit more pricey than my typical posts, I look at it from a different angle to justify the cost. How often is it you can watch a movie on the big screen and enjoy a beer while doing so? Not often unless a friend has a personal theater in their house, and in that case, where is our invite?

The Grub
Aside from the standard issue popcorn and candy, the Arcada doesn't offer too much more unless you'd like to join the Onesti Dinner Club and pay a small fortune for the 6 hour slow roasted prime rib. As for now, I'm OK with just the drinks.

The Shows/Listings
July 30- Prince Dance Party, Featuring Erotic City Band
Aug 20- Tribute to the Eagles
Aug 24- Bret Michaels
Aug 27- Paul Revere and the Raiders
Sept 24- KC & The Sunshine Band
Oct 8- Kansas
Oct 14- AMERICA
Nov 21- An Evening with Martin Short
(Listed Major Events, check here for listings including smaller acts and movies)


The Venue
The interior of the Arcada can play ball with the best of theaters. The architecture is absolutely immaculate, reminding me greatly of the Chicago Theater. Before making your way in to the theater itself you wind through a marble hallway maze that is actually quite breathtaking. The detail in the marble work is incredible. To satisfy your visual needs so we can both agree:

Image courtesy of FoxValley Magazine

Location

105 E. Main Street

St. Charles IL 60174

My Opinion

While the drinks may be on the pricier side, the attractions you find at the Arcada simply can't be beat. Whether it's the Rocky Horror Picture Show, Indiana Jones, Chicago Cover Band, Jurassic Park, Davy Jones, Bret Michaels, etc the ticket prices usually are modestly priced, which makes the trip all worth while. Plus, how often can you see some of these movies or artists again in such an intimate venue?

The more concerts that come to the Arcada, the happier I'll be in the long run. I'll see all of you there.