Van Buren Drive-In Theatre And Swap Meet

Van Buren Drive-In Theatre And Swap Meet: A Riverside Icon

Situated in the historic Arlington district of Riverside, California, Van Buren Drive-In Theatre and Swap Meet is a beloved attraction that combines the nostalgia of drive-in movies with the excitement of a vibrant swap meet. This family-friendly destination has served residents and tourists for decades, offering a unique experience that captures the essence of American culture. Whether you seek a double feature under the stars or an exploration of diverse offerings at the swap meet, Van Buren Drive-In Theatre and Swap Meet cater to all.

The Drive-In Theatre:

With its opening in 1964, the Van Buren Drive-In Theatre boasts a rich history. Initially featuring one screen, it expanded to three screens in 1975. Despite challenges faced by many drive-ins in the late 20th century, Van Buren remained popular due to continuous operation and a dedicated fan base. 2006 a significant remodeling project transformed the theater with state-of-the-art drive-in technology while embracing an “Old California, Orange Ranch” theme. Today, Van Buren Drive-In Theatre stands as a testament to outdoor cinematic experiences’ enduring appeal.

Tips For Enjoying The Drive-In:

To optimize your visit to Van Buren Drive-In Theatre, here are some useful tips:

• Admission: Adults pay $10 while children aged 5-9 pay only $1 for entry allowing access to two movies on one screen (unless single-billed).
• Showtimes: Weekly showtime updates occur every Wednesday, displaying five days’ worth at once. Gates open 30 minutes before showtime Sunday through Thursday and one hour before Friday-Saturday screenings.
• Audio: Transmit the movies’ audio through an FM transmitter, ensuring your vehicle has a functional sound system. Alternatively, bring a battery-powered stereo with speakers.
• Snack Bar: Indulge in the theater’s snack bar filled with delectable treats like popcorn, candy, and carne asada nachos. You can also bring your snacks to savor during the film.

The Swap Meet:

In addition to the drive-in theater, Van Buren hosts a lively swap meet every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday from 6:00 am to 2:00 pm. Sellers can rent spaces daily or reserve them monthly. A Sales and Tax Permit issued by the State Board of Equalization is necessary to secure a selling space. The Van Buren Swap Meet offers an array of goods and merchandise, presenting an excellent opportunity for shoppers to discover unique treasures.

Visitor Tips:

If you plan on visiting the swap meet, here are some helpful suggestions:

1. Rental Spaces: Daily rental spaces are available for one day only and go on sale at 6:00 am at the ticket booth. Prices can change depending on the day and range from $10 to $45.
2. Reservation: For those desiring a reserved selling space, visit the reservation office in the Snack Bar. The reservation office is open exclusively during swap meet days.
3. Rules and Policies: It is imperative to adhere to management’s established rules and policies, such as restrictions on certain item sales and guidelines for parking and behavior.

Van Buren Drive-In Theatre and Swap Meet in Riverside, California, is a cherished landmark capturing American entertainment essence alongside shopping culture. With its storied past melded seamlessly with modern amenities plus diverse offerings, it consistently delivers unforgettable experiences both locals & tourists will treasure dearly – be it relishing double features under starry skies or uncovering hidden gems amidst vibrant open-air markets.

Check It Out On A Map