The weekend is almost here and that means date night is fast approaching. Instead of going to the same ho-hum theater, check out these memorable movie houses in Southern California that will make your night cinematic. Here are 11 of our favorite spots to catch a flick in SoCal.
1. ArcLight Cinemas/Santa Monica and Hollywood and other Locations in SoCal
ArcLight is one of the originals when it comes to the luxury cinema experience. ArcLight is also known for creating a community where film lovers can gather for film industry events and viewing parties.
2. West Wind Drive-In/Goleta
The West Wind is the largest drive-in theater chain in the world so they must know what they're doing. This location in Santa Barbara is one of the most recent additions to their family of theaters. Just like their other locations, it captures the old-time feel of what you expect a drive-in to be. With the addition of the latest digital technology, the viewing experience is anything but old fashioned.
3. iPic Theaters/Pasadena
The ultimate luxury movie experience that's perfect for date night! Upscale lounge, gourmet food, and not a bad seat in the house makes this spot 5-stars all around.
4. The Lot/La Jolla
Start the night off at the swanky open air restaurant at The Lot. After your meal you can saunter into the theatre with your drinks and kick back and relax in the reclining chairs. Feeling like another snack during the movie? No problem! Waiters are on hand throughout the show to take food and drink orders so no need to run to the concession stand.
5. American Cinemathique at the Aero Theatre/Santa Monica
Yes, this is an old theater from the 1940s, but that's part of its charm. For cinema purists who love independent films, this is where you should spend your movie-going dollars as it doesn't get much more Indie than this.
6. AMC La Jolla 12
Lean back and relax for a night of movie watching in a theater that has reclining chairs and foot rests.
7. Cinepolis Del Mar
Take dinner and a movie to new heights and have your meal right at the theater. You can choose from the upscale lounge with a full menu, or you can wait to place your order inside the theater where you will be treated to waiter service during the show.
8. Vineland Drive-In Theatre/City of Industry
For a drive-in movie theatre experience just like the good old days, you should see a flick at Vineland Drive-In. What a fun experience!
9. Vista Theatre/Los Feliz in Los Angeles
For a vintage night at the movies, Vista Theater can't be beat. It's been around since the 1920s and the architectural details from that period are still intact. Although the building still reflects the history of its time, the technology is all modern. With Sony Digital 4K Cinema and Dolby Digital Sound, you will have a fabulous viewing experience.
10. Laemmle Playhouse 7/Pasadena
If mainstream movies have lost their appeal for you, this is a great spot to see an Art House, Indie or foreign film in Pasadena. There are 7 screens to choose from, so there's always a nice variety of movies on the list.
11. Avalon Theater/Catalina Island
Tucked inside the Catalina Island Casino you will find this gem of a theater that will transport you back to the day of glitz and glam when people actually dressed up to go to the movies. The architecture is stunning and the murals along the walls and ceiling will take your breath away. Who cares what movie is showing, just check it out to experience the theater!
There’s nothing like a night at the movies. I’m craving some popcorn right about now, how about you?! With all these great spots to choose from, there’s a little something for everyone on this list. We want to hear from you SoCal — where is your favorite spot to see a movie?
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