Located in the heart of downtown Bar Harbor, Maine, the Criterion Theater first opened its doors on June 6th, 1932. The Criterion was used for vaudeville performances for many years during the heyday of the vaudeville cricuit, as well as motion picture exhibition. The acoustics are excellent, and every aspect of the theater was designed specifically for the location, from the light fixtures to the carpets and wall fabrics.

One very special feature of the building is its "floating" balcony, one of a few of its kind. Not only is this free-hanging structure an architectural feat, it also offers some of the best seating in the house. The balcony is divided into nine sections (loges) separated from each other with half walls and from the back corridor with velvet curtains. Originally rented out by the box to the town's wealthy summer residents, these seats are now available to all, and offer excellent access to a newly added bar offering full drink service and a choice food menu.

Recently under new management, the Criterion Theater is undergoing a dramatic revitalization. In addition to a thorough top-to-bottom cleaning and painting of the theater's exquisite original art deco interior, the stage has also been redone to accommodate a great line-up of live music and theater productions to be held throughout the summer. A full schedule of first run movies will also be shown, as well as rainy day matinees.

An excellent selection of beer, wine, cocktails, and hot food will be served at all shows, along with traditional movie theater fare.