The movie-going experience has evolved. Today, going to a movie theater is all about comfort combined with the latest technology. Modern movie theaters have reclining leather seats, on-site dining services, and High Definition screens with surround sound. Some theaters offer 3D as well as 4DX, where the the movie-goer can actually feel the chair vibrate that manipulates your senses to make you feel as if you’re in the movie.

There is certainly more to the movie-going experience than the fluffy, leather reclining chairs and giant HD screens. There are also historic theaters, with a particular look and feel, that transport you into a different era. For instance, art house theaters feature artistic and niche films that cater to art and film buffs, while outdoor theaters, including drive-ins, are more family-friendly. There are theaters that don’t cost $20 bucks a ticket, and they can be just as good for a date night as they are for a family night with the kids. If you’re looking for a different way to see a film or wish to alter your overall movie-going experience, there are no shortage of options in San Diego.

Check out these theaters in San Diego County for a one-of-a-kind movie experience.

Mission Hills - Cinema Under the Stars

Mission Hills neighborhood sign

Located in Mission Hills is Cinema Under the Stars, where they boast to have “perfected the outdoor movie experience.” Their selection of films are not only current, but include cult and classic favorites like “The Princess Bride” and “Psycho.” Seating includes love seat cabanas, deck chairs with ottomans, and single or double recliners in front of a 20-foot HD screen with surround sound. While outside, patrons won’t have to worry about rain thanks to its retractable coverings, making the movie-going experience practically rainproof. Some of the amenities include space heaters as well as blankets, making it truly comfortable for guests without sacrificing the outdoor movie experience. As an added bonus, all concessions, including popcorn, candy, bottled water, and soft drinks, are only two bucks.

Coronado - Village Theater

Village Theater opened in 1974 and hosts a small space with only three auditoriums. This vintage movie theater, located in Coronado, offers Dolby Digital sound as well as 3D showings for select films. The theater underwent a renovation that spanned from 2000 to 2011 and cost around $3 million. One of the unique aspects of this theater is not only its history, but its 3D murals in its auditoriums, showcasing landmarks in both Coronado as well as Balboa Park.

Hillcrest - Landmark Theatre

Hillcrest neighborhood sign

Looking for documentaries or films that are offbeat, foreign, or of the indie variety? Do you want to partake in a Sundance-like experience? Then head to Landmark Theatre in Hillcrest. This theatre is truly for film aficionados, with no blockbuster films anywhere in sight. Seating is comfortable and features recliners, love seats, and bean bags. It’s a great location for a bit of quiet culture, as well as to see independent films. Although the Landmark Theatre is not a huge chain, it does have other locations in Los Angeles, New York City, Washington D.C., and Denver.

Coronado - South Bay Drive-In Theatre

Also located in Coronado is the South Bay Drive-In. What began in 1958 with just a 100-foot screen has now evolved into an upgraded drive-in movie theater setting with a total of three screens. The drive-in went through a remodeling period in 1974 and added two additional screens, and in 2008 added upgrades like FM stereo transmitters and Technalight Projectors, offering quality in picture and sound. Open seven days a week and only $9 for adult tickets and $1 for children ages 5 to 9, this theater makes for a fun movie outing that won’t break the bank.

North Park - Digital Gym

North Park neighborhood 

Located in North Park, the Digital Gym is part of the Media Arts Center, a multi-purpose community space that’s committed to “providing filmmaking tools and media education to under-resourced communities in an effort to create social change.” In addition to its lab that hosts workshops, the lounge where patrons chat before a film, and a film-friendly store, its cinema offers showings of independent movies and foreign films in an art house setting. It features seating for just 46 people, and its specialty is first- and second-run independent films that are hard to find anywhere else.

Carlsbad - Carlsbad Village Theatre

Carlsbad Village Theatre is a historic theater that underwent many changes since it opened in 1927 with the film “It,” although this film starring Clara Bow didn’t have clowns. After going through several different name changes as well as owners, the theater has since been renovated into a multi-purpose venue for entertainment featuring a new movie screen and raised stage. In addition to film festivals and movie showings, the theater also hosts live stage performances and seminars.