About Auto Drive Cinema Miramontes
Auto Drive Cinema Miramontes is an open‐air drive-in movie theater in the Girasoles II neighborhood of Coapa, Coyoacán in Mexico City. It transforms a large parking area (around Calzada del Hueso and Canal de Miramontes) into an outdoor cinema where guests watch films from the comfort of their cars. This modern outdoor cinema debuted during the COVID-19 era, tapping into a revived interest in drive-ins as a safe entertainment option . The concept hearkens back to the 1950s when Mexico built its first drive-in (Autocinema Lomas) and other sites around the city . Today Auto Drive Cinema’s Miramontes branch is notable for using current high‐definition projection and FM radio audio technology, as well as for providing a nostalgic, under-the-stars movie experience. Its large screen (tens of meters wide) allows parking by dozens of vehicles. Because it’s one of a handful of drive-in venues in CDMX, it’s become a unique cultural attraction – celebrated as a retro‐modern outing and a family‐friendly date night alike, blending classic Americana with local film culture .
Events and Programming
This venue primarily hosts feature film screenings. Typical programming consists of recent Hollywood blockbusters, family movies and genre films. Past lineups have included titles like Godzilla vs. Kong (shown with English audio and Spanish subtitles) and Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning , as well as popular Mexican and Spanish-language titles . Showtimes are usually in the evening, often once or twice per night on weekends and several nights per week. Some special events or festivals (for example, horror movie marathons on Halloween) may also be offered seasonally. Tickets are sold per vehicle, not per person, so any number of people in one car pay one fee. By analogy, venues like Autocinema Coyote charge around 290 MXN per car , suggesting Auto Drive’s prices are in a similar range. Exact prices depend on the movie and time (some earlier or weekday shows may be cheaper, while late-night or holiday shows can be higher). Programs and ticket sales are announced online, and big releases often sell out quickly – advance booking is strongly recommended for popular nights.
Tickets and Booking
All tickets for Auto Drive Cinema must be bought in advance online. The venue operates a strictly cashless, e-ticket system, and entradas cannot be purchased on site . When you buy a ticket, you’ll receive a QR code or barcoded e-ticket. On the night of the show you simply drive up and present the digital ticket at the entrance. Accepted payments are credit/debit cards (e.g. Visa and Mastercard) only . Ticket prices vary by event – typically on par with other Mexico City drive-ins. For example, as of 2021 the long-running Autocinema Coyote charged ~290 MXN per car , and Miramontes fares are similar (though exact pricing is set per film). There are no separate child or student rates, since entry is per vehicle. Box-office sales are not offered; special early-bird or group discounts (if any) will be noted on official channels. It’s best to buy as soon as tickets are announced – social media and official listings fill up fast for big shows.
Seating and Layout
The “seating” at this drive-in is your parked car. The venue is a flat asphalt lot configured into parking rows facing a giant outdoor screen. In practice, cars are guided into position by staff upon arrival – larger vehicles may be asked to park further back so smaller cars stay closer to the screen for unobstructed views. For reference, historic drive-in design manuals suggest a screen roughly 15 by 11.3 meters to serve about 650 cars . While Miramontes’s exact screen size isn’t published, it’s similarly large (tens of meters across) to ensure visibility from all spots. Guests typically prefer mid-to-front rows for better views, as in most cinemas, but even the back rows see the screen fine. Each vehicle’s windows should face the screen and windshield wipers off. No formal “best seat” exists beyond parking near the center; roof-rack or hood-mounted antennas should be removed. Note: sound is sent to you by radio, not outdoor speakers. So be sure your car stereo is working as audio is broadcast on an FM frequency, eliminating echoes and ensuring even sound quality . (Briefly, drive-in sound works via an FM-transmitter. When parked, tune your car radio to the announced channel to hear dialogue and effects – this is the only way to get the audio .)
Getting There and Parking
Location: The drive-in is at Calzada del Hueso 480, Colonia Girasoles II, Coapa, Coyoacán, CDMX . This is on the south side of Mexico City (near the Canal de Miramontes road). Landmarks include the shopping center “Galerías Coapa” just a few blocks north. (Official listing confirms this address and company name .)
By Car/Rideshare: Since it’s a drive-in, attending by private vehicle is expected. Simply enter via Calzada del Hueso, and staff will wave you into the parking area. Parking is not separate – the entire venue is self-parking. (There’s no extra “lot” to leave a second car – you park where you watch.) Road traffic can build up on warm weekend evenings, so plan extra travel time. Rideshare drop-offs are allowed at the entrance gate; once you arrive, you’ll drive in and park. Expect to turn off your headlights as you enter the stadium after parking slot assignment.
Public Transit: If you don’t drive, several transit options get you nearby. The closest Metro (subway) line is Line 12 (the gold line). You can take Metro 12 to the station near Periférico Sur / Calzada del Hueso, then catch a short taxi or ride-share from there. Alternatively, the light-rail (Tren Ligero) Line A has a stop at *Mixcoac*, but more relevantly the *Textitlán* station (Line A/Tasqueña branch) is about a 12-minute walk from Calzada del Hueso . Multiple city buses also run along Calzada del Hueso and nearby: notable routes include #5, #95, Ruta 13, and others . These buses stop on Calzada del Hueso within a few blocks of the site. Check local transit maps for “Coapa” or “Universidad (Coapa)” stops. The venue’s remote location means transit will involve a bit of a walk or transfer, but it is accessible.
Parking: There is no separate paid parking; the lot itself is open for show attendees. You simply park in the designated drive-in area once admitted. If you arrive early and the lot is not full, you’ll have plenty of space beside other cars. Staff will help space vehicles 1.5m apart for distancing (as required by policy) . Remember engines off once set; lights off at the start. After the movie, line out under supervision; no overnight parking is allowed.
Inside the Venue
Arrival and entry: Plan to arrive well before showtime. The drive-in opens approximately 30–40 minutes before the film (you can enter half an hour in advance) . Staff direct you into a parking spot when you pull up. Your e-ticket is scanned or shown to an attendant at the gate. Security is light – mostly ticket checks. Because this is still a venue venue with rules, guards will ensure no unauthorized items enter.
Atmosphere: Once inside, the experience is casual and relaxed. The lot is darkened except for the big screen, and everyone stays in or near their own vehicle. It typically feels festive: people hang car stereo speakers from windows, share food among family in the car, and watch under the stars. The main “theater” is the giant LED or projection screen up front. Very often the staff will play fun bumper video content (like cartoons or ads) in the lead-up. Depending on local noise rules and weather, you might hear music or announcements before the film starts.
Food & Drink: Importantly, outside food and drinks are not allowed on site . This rule is strictly enforced: no outside snacks, coolers, or unapproved beverages. Instead, the venue typically provides concession sales. (Many drive-in theaters have food trailers or vendors on-site; if Auto Drive Cinema follows this model, expect popcorn, candy, soda, etc., available at a stand or via contactless ordering delivered to your car.) Check in advance if they offer contactless delivery or combo meal packages. In any case, you will not be permitted to bring Uber Eats, cooler, or meals from outside restaurants into the drive-in .
Facilities: As an open parking lot venue, restrooms may be portable units or block cabins on-site. Follow signs or staff directions to the toilet area. Most drive-ins have restroom trailers, often wheelchair-accessible. Small kids and families need to use them between features or before arrival (gates often open late in the evening). There is usually a small gift or refreshment stand by the entry gate. Do note that any personal belongings remain in your vehicle; nothing beyond light merchandise sold at a concession stand. A coat check or cloakroom is generally not offered – carry what you need in your car. Check if the venue has Wi-Fi (usually not necessary since the film audio is on FM radio).
Connectivity: You will need a functioning FM radio in your car (or a portable radio/phone with FM) to hear the movie. The drive-in will announce an FM station frequency on arrival (often on a board or flyer). Tune in before the film starts. Since audio is wireless, almost no external speakers are used.\u00A0CELL SERVICE: Phone signal quality can vary, but as a city location you can often get 4G for ticket checks or maps. No special app is required inside.
Nearby Amenities
Food and Drink: Right next to Auto Drive Cinema Miramontes is the Galerías Coapa shopping area. Within a 5–10 minute drive you’ll find many casual dining options: fast food and coffee like McDonald’s, Starbucks and Krispy Kreme, mid-range restaurants such as Boston’s Pizza and local taquerías, and a grocery store if needed. Park in Galerías Coapa for pre-show dinner or snacks (with *ample time* to walk or drive to the show before gates close). There are also small neighborhood mercados (markets) and street vendors around the Coapa area selling snacks and aguas frescas on weekends. Bars and late-night spots are sparse in immediate vicinity, so plan to drink at home or at restaurants beforehand. For a drink after the show, note that Mexico City does not have 24/7 venues; transportation home should be arranged in advance.Hotels: While this area is mostly residential/commercial, a few hotels lie within a short ride. The more convenient ones are along Periférico Sur or in nearby Tlalpan/Zap! For example, mid-range hotels by Periférico or bigger tourist-centric hotels near Coyoacán center may offer lodging within 10–15 minutes of Miramontes. However, many attendees simply drive from home rather than staying overnight. If needed, major hotel chains and booking sites can locate places in the Coapa/Coyoacán area.Arrival Time: In practice, arriving 30–40 minutes before showtime is recommended to find a good spot. Evening traffic on Calzada del Hueso can build up, so plan accordingly (for example, aim to be on-site at dusk). Late-night transit: After the show, Mexico City’s buses may be infrequent. Plan for a taxi or rideshare (Uber/Didi) for late departures. The Calzada del Hueso route is busy, but dozens of rideshare drivers do circulate around residential areas past midnight. For safety, remain in your car during and immediately after the movie until conditions feel settled (lights go back on gradually when the show ends, allowing an orderly car parade out).
What Makes This Venue Special
Auto Drive Cinema Miramontes stands out for combining a classic experience with modern upgrades. Architecturally it’s a simple, purpose-built outdoor auditorium – but culturally it carries Mexico City’s cinema heritage forward. In the 1950s–70s, Mexico City pioneered drive-ins (first one in Lomas, “the first in Latin America” ); after decades of decline, today’s filmmakers and audiences cherish the retro-family charm of seeing blockbusters in your own car. The venue’s nightly screenings under the stars create a communal vibe quite different from indoor cinemas. Fans love the novelty of car-top speakers, tailgate-sized movie screen, and nostalgia of “old-school” moviegoing. In effect, it’s a modern-day revival of a local tradition – once a rare treat, now a trendy safe-outdoor date. With state-of-the-art laser projection and FM audio, guests enjoy top-notch image and sound quality despite the open-air setting . Many have noted the gentle atmosphere: it’s a sanctioned place where kids can watch cartoons and couples can cuddle to a romantic film in privacy. The mixture of a high-tech big-screen experience with the casual freedom of being in your car (windows down, kit of popcorn etc.) makes it unique. Drive-ins like this gained new cultural momentum during the pandemic because of the space and social-distancing benefits . In sum, Miramontes Auto Drive Cinema is special both as entertainment and as a nostalgic cultural landmark – a slice of mid-century Americana rebooted into 21st-century CDMX .
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The drive-in format is naturally accessible for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues – essentially every visitor stays in or next to their car. There should be level parking zones for accessible vehicles and ramps into the restroom trailers. Still, confirm whether the specific stall allocations have any reserved spaces (some drive-ins do) and that restroom facilities meet your needs. Keep your ticket handy in electronic form. It’s advisable to arrive at least 20–30 minutes early to navigate the entrance and park before dark. Gardens/Balconies: Unlike indoor theaters, you remain in an open lot. Be prepared that weather (wind, slight rain, humidity) can affect you more. Wear layers or bring blankets – evenings can cool off after sunset. Sun can be an issue if arriving before dusk, so a sunshade can make seating more pleasant until full dark.
What to bring: Bring your own food and snacks in a small quantity (if allowed, check policy on concessions). Blankets or pillows can make the ride-space cozier. A flashlight (or use phone flashlight) is handy for walking around in the dark when needed. Don’t forget car chargers or binoculars if desired. Critically, make sure your car radio works (FM transmitter only).Restricted items: No outside alcohol, no flags or big banners that block others’ view, and no fireworks or sparklers. Smoking is typically discouraged except inside your own car with windows up, because smoke can drift into other patrons’ space. Pets may or may not be allowed; if you plan to bring a dog, keep it inside the vehicle and quiet (check official policy if posted). Always follow staff directions at entry (e.g. turn off headlights, park only where directed).
Entertainment: The event’s atmosphere is family-friendly but with some common-sense rules. Children are welcome, but remember everyone is in cars – so avoid running around or shouting outside. It’s a good idea for parents to keep kids buckled in or close by. There’s no dressing code – casual attire is fine. Think like a casual outdoor event rather than a formal theater. Because the sound is in your car, you can control volume and use speakers or headphones as suits you.
Bad weather: Drive-ins often have a rain policy. If it drizzles, light rain may be tolerated (rain covers on seats, windshield wiper on low). For heavy rain or storms, shows will likely be postponed or canceled (and tickets refunded). Check social media or email updates if the forecast predicts rain. During alerts (thunderstorms, high winds), safety may require pausing the film. In any case, tickets usually either roll over to a later show or can be transferred to another date (confirm with their terms).Age restrictions: There are no strict age limits – it’s private to each car. Very young children are often welcome if the movie is kid-appropriate. Keep in mind film ratings: a violent or late-night thriller might not suit little kids. Use discretion; sometimes drive-ins run family-friendly matinees earlier in the evening. Also, seating is “first come, best seats,” so if you have infants, plan so you can find a spot where you won’t need to move during the show. If the venue states an age limit (e.g. 18+ for certain events), they will note it when selling tickets.
Quick tips: Arrive early to avoid a rush. Turn off engine and lights when parked. Tune your radio before lights go out (some delays between parking and film start). Buckle seatbelts as needed because the viewing can be a bit zoomy – just sitting still with the windows up is fine. If you need anything (concessions, restrooms), plan breaks before the main feature. Keep masks handy; they may still be required indoors or in lines, depending on current local health guidelines. Finally, enjoy the novelty – this isn’t a silent internal theater, it’s a communal outdoor event. Relax and embrace the car-cinema experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is Auto Drive Cinema Miramontes located?
It’s on Calzada del Hueso in Coyoacán, CDMX. The street address is Calzada del Hueso 480, Colonia Girasoles II, Coyoacán (zipcode 04920) . This is near the Canal de Miramontes/Periférico Sur area. Galerías Coapa mall is a short drive north (Calzada del Hueso 519). Use GPS or city map apps to find “Auto Drive Cinema Miramontes” or the address above.
What kind of movies and events does this drive-in show?
Mainly first-run films for all ages: recent Hollywood blockbusters and popular family movies, plus a few Spanish/Latin titles. The listing often includes big new releases (for example, they’ve shown Godzilla vs. Kong and Mission: Impossible with subbed or dubbed Spanish) . Shows are in Spanish or original language with subtitles. Occasionally there may be special themed nights (like horror on Halloween). Check the drive-in’s official schedule online for exact titles and dates.
How and when can I buy tickets?
Tickets go on sale online through the drive-in’s website when each event is announced. You cannot buy them at the gate – sales are online-only . It’s best to purchase as soon as the movie is listed, since popular shows sell out fast. Ticket confirmations are sent digitally (QR/barcode on your phone). Use a credit or debit card (Visa/Mastercard) for payment . Some events may have tiered pricing (e.g. regular vs. VIP spots) – details will be on the site. If you miss online sales, watch the site for possible last-minute releases or cancelation spots.
What is the capacity – how many cars can fit?
The lot can hold dozens of cars spread over multiple rows. Exact numbers aren’t published, but historically drive-ins were designed for hundreds of vehicles. For example, a 15×11.3 m screen could serve ~650 cars . Under current health rules, they limit attendance (often to ~30% of full capacity) . In practice, a few dozen to over a hundred cars is a good estimate. Space is first-come, so arriving early helps secure a central viewing spot. Staff manage spacing between cars as needed for distancing .
Are there best places to park for a good view?
Views are good from most positions. Ideally, park facing squarely toward the screen and avoid extreme side angles. Middle or front rows can offer a slightly better sightline. The lot is flat (not tiered), so front-to-back distance mainly affects how large the image looks. If you arrive early, staff will position cars, but you can mention if you need a left- or right-hand space (some drive-ins block one side or tilt cars slightly). Remember the sound comes from your radio, so audio is uniform everywhere. Ultimately, any seat is good – it’s like picking a seat in a single-auditorium theater.
Can I bring snacks or a picnic to the drive-in?
No – outside food and drinks are forbidden . This rule is strictly enforced, so do not bring coolers, fast-food bags or homemade meals into the venue. Instead, plan to buy concessions at the drive-in. They usually sell a standard movie-visit menu (popcorn, soda, snacks). Check in advance if you can pre-order a “combo” online. You can bring personal water bottles (sometimes allowed, but confirm onsite policy), but alcoholic beverages or large picnic setups are not permitted .
Is there a dress code or anything special I need to wear?
No special attire is required – it’s a casual outdoor evening event. Most people come in jeans, t-shirts or light jackets if it’s cool outside. Just dress for comfort and the weather. It can get chilly after dark, so a sweater or blanket is a good idea. Wearing a mask may be encouraged or required when outside your car (depending on current rules), so keep one handy. Sturdy shoes are wise if you plan to walk to the restrooms. Costumes might be fun on themed nights, but otherwise regular casual wear is fine. Bright clothes won’t affect your enjoyment inside the car, but keep lights dim to avoid disturbing neighbors.
What should I bring or avoid bringing?
Bring: your mobile e-ticket/QR code, working FM radio (or a phone that can tune FM), warm blankets/pillows, flashlight, and anything you’d normally take to watch a movie at home. A fully charged phone (for maps/calls) is useful but keep it on low brightness during the film. If you plan to purchase food, bring cash/card or phone payment method. Avoid: any outside food/drink (per rules) , large flags or banners that could block others’ view, pets roaming free, and anything illegal. Also, avoid using noisy speakers or open trunk after show starts – keep engines off once parked. Since audio comes via FM, you don’t need portable speakers. If you have wireless headphones and prefer them, that’s optional too.
Are children or infants allowed?
Yes, children of all ages are allowed, provided they have a responsible adult. Because seating is your own car, parents can keep kids in a car seat or seatbelt for safety. There’s no separate kids’ area; young children usually stay in the vehicle with adults. The venue often shows family-friendly movies, though some late-night or mature-rated screenings may not be suitable for little ones. Check the film rating before booking. There is no specific age restriction per se (e.g. for very young babies), but consider comfort: a 2-hour movie means a long sit. Bring snacks (bought on-site), a favorite toy or blanket to keep them settled. Also, as an outdoor event, managing bathroom breaks with kids requires keeping track of the car keys and flashlight.
Is the venue accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
Yes. Because the drive-in is essentially an open parking lot, wheelchair users and guests with strollers face few barriers. Vehicles themselves are the main “seats,” so someone in a wheelchair can watch the movie in their own accessible vehicle or park next to family. The paths are paved and level, and restroom trailers should have accessible units and ramps. If you have special needs, mention it when staff is directing parking to get an easier-access spot. Note though there can be uneven pavement or entrances/exits, so take care if using a manual wheelchair. Overall, drive-ins tend to be more wheelchair-friendly than typical theaters since there are no steps or rows.
Can I buy tickets at the door?
No. This venue does not sell tickets at the door. All admissions are online only . You must buy in advance and have the digital ticket ready. The rationale is that each show has limited space and everyone parks in assigned order, so walk-ins are not handled. If you arrive without a ticket, you will likely be turned away, as there’s no cash box office.
When should I arrive before the show?
Plan to arrive at least 30–45 minutes early. The drive-in gates open about 30 minutes before the scheduled show start . That means if the movie is billed at 9:00 pm, doors will open around 8:30 pm. Arriving early ensures you’ll be parked and settled before it’s fully dark and crowded. Late arrivals (closer to showtime) may still get in if not sold out, but you risk missing the beginning or not getting a prime spot. Traffic near the venue can also slow down as evening falls, so give yourself extra commute time. Remember to turn off headlights when parked, and have your ticket ready for scanning to speed entry.
How do I listen to the movie soundtrack in my car?
Sound is transmitted by an FM radio signal. Once you’re parked, the staff will post or announce the FM frequency (e.g. 98.3 MHz or similar) to tune into. Turn on your car’s stereo (or a portable FM radio) and select that station. The movie’s audio (dialogue, music, effects) will play on that frequency, coming through your car speakers. This is the standard drive-in approach . Make sure your car radio is working and that someone in the car can adjust the volume as needed. (Tip: Set your car radio to mono if sound seems distorted in stereo.) If you have a hands-free setup, Bluetooth it, or use good old FM – either works. Portable FM transmitters/receivers are not needed; it’s broadcast like a radio station.
Is there a policy on smoking or drinking?
Smoking is generally discouraged in open areas where others might be. If you smoke, do so inside your car with the windows up (if it’s permitted). Don’t get out and light up once the movie has started, as it can draw ash or smoke onto others’ cars. There is no on-site alcohol sales (and you can’t bring your own drinks) , so no public drinking. For safety, if you or a passenger are impaired, do not drive; consider a sober driver or rideshare instead.
What happens if it rains?
If light rain or drizzle occurs, the show may proceed (some attendees stay in their cars through light rain). Heavy rainstorms or lightning would likely cause a postponement. Typical policy: the event may be canceled and tickets rolled over to another date or refunded if the weather is severe. Check for official announcements (website or social media) on rainy days. In general, meteorologists and staff monitor conditions closely. If in doubt, prepare plastic covers or ponchos for brief drizzle, but expect that maximum downpours means no drive-in.
What if I arrive late or need to leave early?
Late arrivals: Staff will allow you to park even after showtime begins, but try to sit quietly and carefully. It's best not to interrupt the movie. If you must arrive after the start, use your car’s parking lights or hazard flashers (if it’s very late) to not blind others, and ease in along the aisle. Leaving early: You can depart mid-movie if necessary, but know that others will hear the movie through your opening door or movement. If a passenger has an urgent need, quietly turn off the radio, flash a courtesy signal (like hazard lights), and pull out carefully toward the exit. Some drive-ins ask late leavers to park wide for easy exit, but check staff instructions.
Is outside seating (camp chairs by cars) allowed?
Generally no. Most drive-ins require all viewers to remain in or very close to their cars. The idea is to keep aisles clear and maintain distance. Bringing lawn chairs and sitting outside your car could block others’ view and is typically not allowed, especially if it impedes walkways. You’ll get a more authentic experience staying in-car. If you prefer extra legroom, simply recline your seat (if it permits). If any open-air seating is permitted (some venues allow it on special grounds), it would be stated clearly, but for Miramontes expect to remain inside your vehicle.
