Seattle's Pacific Science Center to Sell Boeing IMAX Theater

The iconic movie theater will be acquired by the nearby Space Needle attraction.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Pacific Science Center in Seattle has announced that it will be selling its Boeing IMAX Theater to the nearby Space Needle attraction. The IMAX theater has long been considered one of the best places in the city to see major film releases on the big screen, but the science center says it will not be resuming operations in that theater.

Why it matters

The sale of the Boeing IMAX Theater marks the end of an era for Seattle movie lovers, as the iconic venue has been a fixture of the city's cultural landscape for decades. The move raises questions about the future of the IMAX experience in the city and whether the Space Needle will be able to maintain the theater's reputation.

The details

The Pacific Science Center has not provided details on why it is selling the IMAX theater, but staff who spoke to The Stranger indicated that the science center will not be resuming operations in that space. The theater's new owner, the Space Needle, has not yet announced its plans for the facility.

  • The sale of the Boeing IMAX Theater was announced on February 11, 2026.

The players

Pacific Science Center

A science museum and educational institution located in Seattle, Washington.

Space Needle

A landmark observation tower and tourist attraction located in Seattle, Washington.

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What’s next

The Space Needle has not yet announced its plans for the IMAX theater, leaving the future of the iconic movie-going experience in Seattle uncertain.

The takeaway

The sale of the Boeing IMAX Theater at the Pacific Science Center marks the end of an era for Seattle's cinephiles, raising questions about the future of large-format movie-going in the city and the ability of the Space Needle to maintain the theater's reputation.