I usually get a table if I can't get a spot at the bar when traveling. I like having TV's and the random chance at good conversation at the bars. One of the best conversations I've ever had was with a 50ish year old guy from Denver that grew up in Topeka and lived in KC around my age. We were both hanging out at the really nice hotel bar/restaurant in Ontario, CA.
It was a small world thing, but we pounded booze, talked Topeka, and watched the NBA playoffs. It was a great night.
I also went and saw Iron Man 3 alone a few weeks ago. It was fantastic. Sat exactly where I wanted, ordered a huge ICEE, and I shut my brain off for a few hours. I plan on doing the same thing with Star Trek soon.