San Luis Obispo's Sunset Drive-In Speaks to a Bygone Era in the History of Cinemas (Photo Essay)
BY JUDY SCOTT San Luis Obispo’s Sunset Drive-in opened in June 1950 and today it maintains most of its original charm. The bright neon signs are just as eye catching as they were 75 years ago. Showing a double-feature every night of the week, moviegoers recently came out for “Dog Man,” an animated action/comedy for kids at 7 p.m., and “Wolf Man,” a woodsy horror movie at 8:50 p.m. for an older audience. Customers can enjoy a night at the drive-in complete with classic snacks, thrilling entertainment, and a unique moviegoing experience. Since the 1980s the number of drive-in theaters has dwindled, from over 4,600 to around 300 today. The Sunset Drive-In still draws a sizable crowd – with 12 cars in the lot filled with families and friends on a Saturday night in February. Open seven days a week, SLO’s Sunset Drive-in always has a double feature and a swap meet on Sunday mornings. Ticket prices have increased since this sign was printed to $12 per person. Vintage decorations are dis...