Now that temperatures here in AZ are reaching 110 degrees, summer movies are a popular way to beat the heat.  I recently learned about several ways to save when going to the movies, and thought I would share this:

Seek Out Discount Showings & Special Promotions

Many theaters offer discounted showings of family movies during the summer.  Harkins Theatres offers 10 movies in 10 weeks for $7.  AMC Theatres offers $5 tickets for any showings before noon.

Companies like AAA, if you are a member, offer discounted movie tickets, and certain companies like Intel often have discounted tickets that employees can purchase.  Marriott also has a promotion that offers four free movie passes when you spend a weekend at a participating hotel or resort before Sept. 7.

Check out the Entertainment Book for special reduced price movie ticket offers as well. 

Buy in Bulk

AMC and Harkins Theatres offer discounts when buying tickets in bulk, typically in increments of 50.  The tickets don't expire, but they usually cannot be used for special engagements.  You can also purchase bulk tickets at places like Costco.

Local Independent Theaters

If you can wait a while to see the new releases, local independently-owned theaters like the Pollack Tempe Cinemas, can save you on ticket prices, as well as concessions.  Movies are regularly $3.00, and only $2.00 on Tuesdays.

Be Loyal

Both AMC and Harkins Theaters' offer loyalty clubs which offer special rewards for being members.  Some offer you points that can add up to freebies, and other discounts are things like loyalty cups where you can get refills all year long for $1.

Do not Purchase Online from Reservation Sites

If you purchase tickets online, they will typically make you pay a surcharge, which can be an extra $1.00 per ticket.

Trade Up on Snacks

If you're going to buy popcorn or soda, it makes sense to trade up for the larger sizes.  You will end up paying a lot less per ounce, and many theaters will offer free refills on the largest sizes.

Head to the Drive-In

The Scottsdale 6 Drive-In offers $6.25 tickets, and shows new releases.  On Tuesdays, they offer $4.00 movies, which is quite a bargain from the regular theatres.  Concessions at drive-ins' are often cheaper than regular movie theatres as well.

Hopefully these will help keep families and kids entertained for less in this economy, while keeping them cool from the summer heat.