Drive-In theaters in Southern California – Making a comeback

One of my favorite memories from my childhood is going to the drive in with my family. My sisters and I would be stuffed in my dad’s truck sharing popcorn and licorice. We would go a couple of times a month and it was always a guaranteed good time. We would stop at our favorite hamburger or taco joint and pick up drive in food. My Drive-In memories are so special and I really want my little ones to be able to make some memories of their own. Unfortunately most of the drive-in theaters across the country and especially in Southern California are gone. They are almost a thing of the past.

After doing a little research I discovered that there are a handful of drive-in theaters in operation in So Cal. In fact the local theaters that are still around are making quite a resurgence I think many of us that grew up with the Drive-In’s are heading to them in droves to make memories with their own families. I can’t wait to take my kiddos to their first drive in and perhaps go on a date with the hubby. I can almost taste it- In-n-Out, homemade treats and a family movie. Sounds good to me!!!

Here’s a list of local drive-in movie theaters in operation and admission. Enjoy!!!

Oh almost forgot if you would like to read more about the Drive-In’s that are left and the ones that are now long gone- check out these sites-
http://www.socaldriveins.com/
http://www.roadsidepeek.com/roadusa/southwest/california/socal/socaldrivein/index.htm

1.Van Buren Drive-in
3035 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside
951-688-2360
Screens: Three
Capacity: 1,500 cars
Opened: 1964
Admission: $7, 5-9 $1.00, under 5 free- Cash only
http://www.vanburendriveintheatre.com/#/movies/

2.Rubidoux Drive-in
3770 Opal St., Riverside
951-683-4455
http://www.rubidoux.icyspicy.com/
Screens: Three
Capacity: 600 cars
Opened: 1948
Admission: $7, kids 5-9 $1.00- under 5 Free- Cash only

3. Mission Tiki Drive-in
4407 State St., Montclair
909-628-0511
http://www.missiontiki.com/
Screens: Four
Capacity: 1,885
Opened: 1956
Admission: $7, kids 5-9 $1.00, under 5 free- Cash only

4. Vineland Drive-in
443 N. Vineland Ave, City of Industry
626-961-9262
http://vinelanddriveintheater.com/
Screens: Four
Admission: $8.00, kids 5-9 $1.00, under 5 free- Cash only

Almost forgot- not only is a visit to the local drive in a fun experience – it’s also easy on the wallet with kids either being free or a buck.

p.s. Don’t forget to enter the Australia Giveaway – you have until Sunday night to enter. Good luck!!

Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum


The Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum is one place that your kiddos will enjoy. It’s located in Griffith Park and is a must if you have little railroad enthusiasts. There are train exhibits that everyone will enjoy and every Sunday the museum operates 7½” gauge model trains for the general public free of charge from 11 am – 3 pm (weather permitting). except for the Sunday before Memorial Day and the first Sunday in October. The gate is open from 10:45 am to 3 pm. Train rides begin at 11 am.

The museum is home to Walt Disney’s Barn. It’s the actual barn that was in Mr. Disney’s backyard in Holmby Hills, California. The barn is where Walt , who was a member of the Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum had his workshop and ran the switches for his home railroad. The barn is open on the third Sunday of each month and features displays of Disney, LALS and railroad related memorabilia. Guided tours are provided by members of the Carolwood Pacific Historical Society.

The museum and railroad are open every Sunday weather permitting from 11am to 3pm and admission and train rides are FREE of charge.

For additional information click here
Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum

5202 Zoo Drive
Los Angeles, California 90027