You know that feeling when you just need to get out of the house, but you don't want to deal with the chaos of Manhattan? That's basically the vibe at the Cross County Center in Yonkers. It's the oldest open-air shopping center in the country, which is a cool bit of trivia, but most people are really there for one thing: the cinema. Specifically, the Cross County Mall movies experience at the Showcase Cinema de Lux.
It's weirdly nostalgic. There's something about walking through an outdoor mall, especially when that crisp Westchester air hits you, and then ducking into a high-tech theater. It’s a local staple. If you grew up in the area, you've probably spent half your teenage years or your Friday nights right there.
What's the Deal with the Cinema de Lux?
Honestly, the theater at Cross County isn't just your run-of-the-mill multiplex. It's a Showcase Cinema de Lux, which in theater-speak means it’s their premium brand. They’ve got the XPlus Laser premium large format screens. If you haven't tried XPlus, it's basically a massive wall-to-wall screen with Dolby Atmos sound. It's loud. It’s bright. It makes you feel like that explosion in the latest Marvel flick is happening in your lap.
✨ Don't miss: Funny phone call pranks scripts: Why the Classics Still Land and How to Not Be a Jerk
The seating is a big draw too. We're talking fully motorized recliners. You can literally kick your feet up, which, let’s be real, is the only way to watch a three-hour epic without your back screaming at you.
Food and Drinks (The Real Reason We Go)
Let’s talk about the concessions. You’ve got your standard popcorn and overpriced soda, sure. But because it’s a "de Lux" location, there’s usually a bit more on the menu. There’s a bar. Yes, a full bar. It’s called Studio 3. You can grab a cocktail or a local craft beer and actually take it into the movie with you.
It changes the whole dynamic of Cross County Mall movies. It turns a "quick flick" into an actual night out. Plus, they have these Nat's Mix popcorn buckets sometimes that are addictive. It's salty, sweet, and probably contains a week's worth of calories, but who’s counting?
Why the Location Actually Matters
Cross County is situated right where the Thruway meets the Cross County Parkway. It’s accessible. You’ve got people coming in from Mount Vernon, the Bronx, New Rochelle, and obviously Yonkers. This makes the crowd incredibly diverse. On a Saturday night, the energy is high. It’s a "see and be seen" kind of place.
Parking used to be a nightmare. Honestly, it still can be during the holidays. But they built that massive parking garage right near the theater, which helped a lot. Pro tip: don't even bother looking for a spot on the surface lot near Macy's if you're catching a 7:00 PM show. Just go straight to the garage. Your sanity will thank you.
Looking at the Competition
You might think, "Why wouldn't I just go to Ridge Hill?" And yeah, the Legoland and the iFLY over there are cool. The movie theater at Ridge Hill is a Showcase too. But Cross County has a different soul. It feels more "New York." It's more grounded.
- Cross County: Established, reliable, feels like home.
- Ridge Hill: Newer, a bit more upscale, but can feel a little sterile.
- New Roc City: If you want IMAX, you go here, but the parking is a chore.
The Evolution of Watching Movies in Yonkers
The theater industry has been through the ringer lately. We all know that. Streaming almost killed the vibe. But people in Yonkers keep showing up for Cross County Mall movies. Why? Because you can't recreate the communal experience of a packed house laughing at a comedy or jumping during a jump-scare in your living room.
Showcase has leaned into this by offering the "Starpass" loyalty program. It’s actually one of the better ones out there. You get 10% back on everything you spend. If you go to the movies once a month, it pays for your popcorn pretty quickly.
Tech Specs for the Nerds
If you’re the type of person who cares about lumens and hertz, the XPlus at Cross County uses dual laser projectors. This matters because it stays bright even during dark scenes. No more squinting at a muddy screen because the bulb is five years old. The sound system uses dozens of speakers placed around the room, including overhead, to create a "sound object" environment.
Practical Tips for Your Next Visit
Don't just wing it. If you're heading out to see a blockbuster on opening weekend, buy your tickets on the app. The "Bargain Tuesdays" are still a thing, and they get crowded. Like, really crowded.
- Arrive early: Especially if you want to hit the bar first.
- Validate your parking: Sometimes there are deals, though usually, the garage is free for a certain window. Check the signs.
- Check the rating: This theater is strict with IDs for R-rated movies. Don't bring your 15-year-old cousin to a slasher flick and expect them to get in without a parent.
The mall itself has been getting a facelift. New stores like Target and the massive Zara have changed the foot traffic. It means the theater is more integrated into a full day of hanging out than it used to be. You shop, you eat some Shake Shack or stop by the Olive Garden (no judgment, those breadsticks are elite), and then you finish with a movie.
Staying Safe and Comfortable
Security at Cross County is visible. You'll see the yellow security cars driving around constantly. Inside the theater, it's generally well-maintained. The staff is mostly local kids and long-timers who know how to handle a crowd.
One thing people get wrong is thinking the theater is only for blockbusters. They actually run a "Showcase Selects" program. This is where they bring in smaller, indie films or international movies that wouldn't normally play in a big mall multiplex. It’s worth checking the "Coming Soon" section of their website because sometimes a random gems pop up that you'd otherwise have to go to the IFC Center in the city to see.
The Seasonal Factor
In the winter, the walk from the car to the theater at Cross County is brutal. It’s an outdoor mall. Wind tunnels are real. Wear a coat. In the summer, though? It’s perfect. Walking out of a late-night movie into the warm night air of the courtyard is one of those specific Yonkers memories that sticks with you.
Actionable Steps for the Best Experience
To make the most of your next trip for Cross County Mall movies, follow this specific plan:
- Join Starpass Before You Go: It’s free. Don't leave money on the table.
- Target the XPlus Screen: If the movie you want to see is playing in multiple auditoriums, pay the extra couple of dollars for XPlus. The standard screens are fine, but the difference in audio quality is massive.
- Eat Before or After: The food at the theater is okay, but you're literally surrounded by dozens of restaurants. Use the theater for the snacks and the local spots for your actual meal.
- Use the Mobile App for Concessions: You can actually pre-order your popcorn. Skip the line. It's a game-changer when the lobby is packed.
There's a reason this place has survived decades of retail shifts and a global pandemic. It's a community hub. It's where first dates happen and where families take their kids for their first cinematic experience. It isn't just about the film; it's about the routine of it all.