South Bay Drive-In

First opened in 1958 with a single 100-foot screen, the South Bay Drive-in has become a San Diego institution. It was renovated in 1974, when two additional screens were installed, so that today three films can be screened at once. Since 2008, projection has been accomplished with Technalight equipment, producing what are reportedly the brightest and sharpest images in the industry.

First-run Hollywood blockbusters are the standard fare here, with two showings on each screen nightly starting at 7:30pm. The snack bar features Mexican food items, including churros, nachos, and burritos. Also available are hot dogs, hamburgers, popcorn, candies, and non-alcoholic beverages. Discount coupons can be printed out at the theater's web site.

The South Bay Drive-in is the site of three weekly swap meets, too. Some 300 vendors gather here to sell their wares. The cost of admission is $1 per person on Wednesdays from 6am to 11am and $0.50 on Saturdays and Sundays from 6am to 1pm. Parking is free.

The South Bay Drive-In is located between Hollister Street and Thermal Avenue at 2170 Coronado Avenue, San Diego, California 92154. Admission for movies is $7 per adult and $1 for ach child aged 5 through 9 years old. Only cash is accepted; no credit cards or checks. The drive-in is open seven days a week, 362 days a year.