This 1956 drive-in was slated for redevelopment, but the drive-in renaissance in 2020 gave it some new life. The Mission Tiki started as a single-screen drive-in and then expanded to four screens, with some audiovisual improvements in 2006. Playing off its name, ticket booths were remodeled to look like tiki huts, a Maui statue garden was added and the concession stands were also remodeled with a tiki theme. You can watch some of the latest releases at this drive-in, which is open seven days a week, while enjoying snacks from the concession stand, including pizza, burgers, Mexican food and more.
Looking for a fun date idea? Travel back to a time when going to a movie was a major Friday night activity and enough to land you a second date. We’re not talking about the local multiplex or even some of the newer dine-in theaters that have popped up—we’re talking about drive-in theaters.
Yes, they still exist—as many of us were reminded these past couple of years. In fact, there are a number of drive-in theater options in Southern California that have never gone away and stayed true to those mid-century ways.
Skip a romantic restaurant and instead pack a picnic or stock up at the snack bar while you enjoy a (mostly first-run) flick at one of these classic drive-in theater locations. Enjoy your movie!
Looking for even more cinema options? Try one of the best movie theaters in L.A., or consider an alfresco evening at an outdoor screening (including some pop-up drive-ins).