Drive-in movie theaters are a great option for both a romantic date or just hanging out with friends and family, and even to bring your pet. All you need to do is grab your car and head to one of the many locations L.A. has to offer, being a car-centric city. If you’re a movie buff who also enjoys driving around the city, you can’t miss these spots to catch your favorite films outdoors right after sunset! Let’s explore the best drive-in theaters in Los Angeles.
1. Paramount Drive-In Theatre
Paramount Drive-In first opened in 1947 and operated as a drive-in theater until 1992, when it transformed into a swap meet. Recently, the area has returned to its original roots, now featuring two new 75-foot screens and digital projection.
There’s a full snack bar on site, but you’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks (just no alcoholic beverages!). If you’re seeking a classic drive-in movie experience in Los Angeles, this is the place to go.
📍Location: 7775 Paramount Blvd, Paramount, CA 90723
🎫 Price: $14, general admission
2. Van Buren Drive-In Theatre
This place is a true gem and a staple among iconic drive-in theaters in L.A. Originally built in 1964 with just one screen, it underwent a major renovation in the early 2000s and now boasts four screens where you can catch a nice selection of new releases.
The drive-in features a charming old California orange ranch theme, evident in the marquee, box offices, snack bar, landscaping, and a mural of 1930s Riverside. Like many drive-ins, admission covers a double feature, but you’re free to leave if you prefer not to stay for both screenings.
📍Location: 3035 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, CA 92503
🎫 Price: $10, general admission
3. Electric Dusk Drive-In
Blending elements of both outdoor screenings and drive-in movies, this seasonal series, a great example of car cinema near Los Angeles, originally took place in Downtown but has since relocated to Glendale.
The lineup features a mix of cult classics and recent hits from the past decade. Expect a steady stream of screenings throughout the summer, with additional, less frequent showings during the rest of the year, often around holidays.
📍Location: 236 N Central Ave, Glendale, CA 91203
🎫 Price: $13, general admission
4. Rubidoux Drive-In
Today, this drive-in in Riverside features multiple screens showcasing the latest Hollywood blockbusters. It began in 1948 as a single-screen theater, and the original Art Deco-inspired screen still remains at the heart of the venue.
Although the petting zoo, miniature railroad, and other early attractions are no longer there, a complete renovation in 2000 modernized the theater while adding a touch of vintage Route 66 charm.
📍Location: 3770 Opal St, Riverside, CA 92509
🎫 Price: $9, general admission
5. Skyline Drive-in Theater
Skyline Drive-In Theater in San Bernardino offers a classic drive-in experience with a modern twist. Featuring two screens showing the latest releases, it delivers a great night out with audio broadcasted through an FM radio station.
The snack bar serves delicious food, and the staff is exceptionally friendly. The theater’s location provides a stunning view of the city lights, and the projection quality is top-notch. If you’re looking for a memorable movie night, this drive-in is a standout example of drive-thru cinema in Los Angeles.
📍Location: 31175 Old Hwy 58, Barstow, CA 92311
🎫 Price: $10, general admission
6. Sunset Drive-In
The truly legendary 74 years old Sunset Drive-In in the lovely small town of San Luis Obispo is a fantastic family-friendly destination that offers a classic drive-in movie experience. This large-screen venue showcases two new releases nightly, providing a perfect outing for movie lovers of all ages.
The snack bar offers a variety of tasty treats, while the sound quality is superb, broadcasted clearly through your car’s FM radio. Sunset Drive-In is a great example of car cinema in Los Angeles and delivers an enjoyable experience. By the way, the theater operates on a cash-only basis, so be sure to come prepared.
📍Location: 255 Elks Ln, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
🎫 Price: $11, general admission. Cash only.
7. Smith’s Ranch Drive-In Theater
Smith’s Ranch Drive-In Theater in Twentynine Palms offers a nostalgic car cinema experience, rooted in its 1956 origins. Inspired by a drive-in in Bakersfield, Art Clemons and his wife, DelDee, brought this unique entertainment to their high desert town.
The cash only theater features new releases, allowing you to catch the latest films from your vehicle. The snack bar serves classic popcorn and hot dogs. For a classic movie night with a vintage touch, Smith’s Ranch is a local-hidden gem worth visiting.
📍Location: 4584 Adobe Rd. Twenty-nine Palms, CA 92277
🎫 Price: $5, general admission. Cash only.