Table of Contents
Pass the popcorn, please. Nothing screams “summer” like hitting the town for a bit of nighttime cinema under the stars, stretched out on the grass or kicking back in the bed of a truck.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night activity — like a scene out of your favorite rom-com — or just want to hang out with friends, we’ve got you covered with five outdoor movie theaters that will have you feeling like the star in your own motion picture.
The Rooftop Cinema Club is located on the fourth floor of the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego. | Photo by Eric Scire
Rooftop Cinema Club
- Location: Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego
- Open: Summer season runs through Labor Day; expect fresh screenings in the fall — and those downtown skyline views year-round.
- Upcoming showings: Check the schedule — tickets for the 2024 season are now on sale.
- Ticket prices: $19.50-$25.50
- Fun features: All seats include wireless headphones. The box office sells concessions like popcorn and candy (with vegan options), and features a full bar and food menu whipped up by the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego.
Summer Movies in the Park
- Location: Varies
- Open: May-October
- Upcoming showings: We’ve got our eyes peeled for the 2024 schedule.
- Ticket prices: Free
- Fun features: Some events begin as early as 6 p.m. but the movie start time will typically take place ~15 minutes after sunset.
South Bay Drive-In Theatres
- Location: 2170 Coronado Ave. (south of Chula Vista)
- Open: Year-round, Friday-Tuesday
- Upcoming showings: Peep the “Coming Soon” schedule.
- Ticket prices: $10 adults, $1 for kids ages 5-9
- Additional features: Each ticket gets you admission to two movies. There’s a snack bar, too, and sometimes you can snag a coupon.
Cinema Under the Stars
- Location: 4040 Goldfinch St.
- Open: Year-round, days vary by season
- Upcoming showings: The schedule changes weekly, so keep watch on the website.
- Ticket prices: $17 members, $18 box office, $20 online reservation
- Additional features: Becoming a member of Cinema Under the Stars has its perks. For a $125 annual fee, members get first pick on seats, no reservation fees, and discounted tickets for guests.
Santee Drive-In
- Location: 10990 Woodside Ave. N., Santee
- Open: Year-round, daily — although it’s last day in operation is Dec. 31, 2023.
- Ticket prices: $12 adults ages 13+, $6 kids ages 4-12, kids 3 and under are free
- Fun features: Santee Drive-In has 1,000+ spots for cars and two screens — and two movies are included in your ticket price. Don’t miss the snack bar.
