Trips to the movies can be so expensive, and many families are reluctant to go anymore because of the price. Here are some tips to lower the cost.

Eat a meal before hand.
Whether it is dinner or lunch, make sure you eat right before you go, so your kids will be less tempted to ask for junk food or popcorn at the theatre.

Select a fun treat... and leave it at home
Choose a small favorite treat for each child. Then make a deal if they don't whine or ask for any junk food or sodas while at the theatre that they will be allowed to have it when they get home after the movie.

Check for discount showings
Some movie theatres offer a discount day, or charge less for movies in the early afternoon than they do in the evening. So find out what your local theatres offer, and take advantage of it.

Memberships
Memberships in certain groups, such as AAA, offer discounts for moviegoers at certain chains.

Second Run Theatres
Second run theatres don't get the latest releases immediately, but as demand slows down at the large theatres, they will usually hit the second run theatres for a week or two. Keep your eye on the schedules for that movie you or your family really wants to see, and your admission will be much less.