Paramount Drive-In Theatres
Paramount Drive-In Theatres is one of the best drive-in theater options in Southern California. It was originally known as the Roadium when it opened in 1947 — but was rechristened in 1948 after the City of Paramount. Built upon an old cornfield, the drive-in was surrounded by dairy farms and chicken coops until the 1970s, when it expanded into a two-screener. At least since its grand reopening six years ago, one screen has been devoted to family-friendly programming (with each main attraction showing twice for an early and late screening). Although movie screenings ceased from 1992 to 2014 (though the swap meet operated continuously since 1955), the entire site remained amazingly intact enough for the drive-in to reopen in 2014.
This new venture is the brainchild of Glenn Bianchi of Bianchi Theatres — son of Joseph Bianchi, a WWII-era penicillin peddler who came out west to become the original proprietor of Roadium. Born in Compton, the younger Bianchi used to work in the snack bar as a teenager and eventually got promoted to manager. The concessions stand still and serve popcorn and hot dogs — but instead of malted milkshakes and Cherry Cokes, there are aguas frescas, churros, and other Mexican staples (like nachos and burritos). While the twin theater's 45 acres should accommodate 800 cars.
- Address: Paramount Drive-In Theatres 7770 Rosecrans Ave, Paramount, Los Angeles County, California 90723
- Yelp Rating: 4/5
- Contact: (562) 630-7469
- Website: https://www.paramountdrivein.com/
- Price: $0.00-11.00
