Best Drive-In Theater
Drive-ins are as American as apple pie, so get yourself a cinematic slice with our list of the top drive-in theaters in the nation. Popular in the 1950s, these outdoor movie theaters have made a comeback as new generations discover their perks: double features, budget-friendly snacks and free community events that give families an affordable way to get out of the house. So get a carload of friends and head to one of the big screens below for an unforgettable movie night.
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Bengies Drive-In Theatre |
Middle River, MD
The biggest movies deserve the biggest screen, and you can't get bigger than Bengies Drive-In Theatre. The largest of its kind in the country, Bengies plays a mix of new releases and classics every weekend. Watch a double feature with a burger, a soda float or even an entire pizza from the huge snack bar. There's even a playground to work out your kids' pre-movie wiggles.
Comanche Drive In | Buena Vista, CO
Each summer at Comanche Drive In, the soaring Sawatch Mountain Range sets a dramatic scene for any movie. It has the highest elevation of any drive-in in the U.S., so you can enjoy the latest blockbusters and family-friendly favorites like The Goonies while taking in the snow-capped peaks in the distance. Grab a stuffed pretzel before setting up your lawn chair or cozying up with your sweetheart inside your car.
Frontier Drive-Inn | Center, CO
Frontier Drive-Inn can turn a night out into a weekend away. This unique attraction has transformed its original parking area into luxe guest rooms; you can watch a movie on the big screen from the comfort of your bed! If you want to catch a flick under the stars, just grab a blanket and head to the communal lawn. And with chef-prepared dining, it's a whole new way to glamp.
Harvest Moon Twin Drive-in Theatre |
Gibson City, IL
Featured on TV shows and in national magazines, Harvest Moon Twin Drive-in Theatre is red-carpet ready every weekend from April to November. For over 70 years, the screen has been lit with new and old movies alike. As if the theater's vintage carousel, great food and fun photo ops aren't entertaining enough, it also hosts events throughout the season, from Easter egg hunts and retro luaus to fall carnivals.
Hull's Drive-In | Lexington, VA
Hull's Drive-In is so beloved that when the Hulls could no longer operate it, Lexington's Rockbridge community banded together to keep the theater alive. You'll see that passion around every corner of this award-winning place as you take in first-run movies, weekend double features and family favorites. The summer concert series brings a rockin' good time to theatergoers, and in mild December weather, you can catch holiday classics.
Quasar Drive-In | Valley, NE
You never know what kind of nostalgic ride you're in for at Quasar Drive-In: the original Star Wars trilogy, a trip down the yellow brick road with The Wizard of Oz, the childhood magic of E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. You can watch today's blockbusters too as you munch on cinnamon doughnuts from the stellar snack bar. Come early on Saturdays to browse the Quasar Bazaar market before the show.
Shankweiler's Drive-In Theatre |
Orefield, PA
The oldest in the world still operating, Shankweiler's Drive-In Theatre has been dazzling moviegoers since 1934. You'll find indie films, new releases and a unique option for watching them—party spaces with picnic tables, perfect for socializing with burgers from the snack bar during the show. You can bring kids 3 years old and under for free and surprise them with a greeting on the big screen!
Silver Moon Drive-In Theatre |
Lakeland, FL
Grab a bucket of popcorn, set your radio dial to the right frequency, and let the screen at Silver Moon Drive-In take you back to the good ole days of affordable cinema. The theater is open daily with double features and the latest movies, and it's pet friendly so you can give your pooch a night out. Before weekend showings, vendors come together for the Swap Shop, a vibrant market.
Skyview Drive-In | Belleville, IL
Surviving multiple storms and a dubious pink paint job, the highly acclaimed Skyview Drive-In has been entertaining the St. Louis metro area for over 75 years. See first-run movies, franchise favorites like Mission: Impossible and crowd pleasers like Karate Kid. The annual Icon-a-Thon film festival screens cult-classic B movies (anyone up for Killer Klowns from Outer Space?), and Movie Nights with Santa is quickly becoming the area's new holiday tradition.
Starlite Drive-In | Wichita, KS
Treat your family to vintage vibes and today's movies with weekend tickets to Starlite Drive-In just south of downtown Wichita. Love watching flicks outdoors with a soda and hot dog? The theater offers a season pass that lets you roll up anytime the projector's on and gives you a discount on concessions. It's an economical way to support this Kansas landmark.
Starlite Drive-In Movie Theater |
Cadet, MO
From cinema gold like Gremlins and Twister to new releases you've been waiting to see, Starlite Drive-In Movie Theater makes for a fun date night with a retro twist. You'll also find events throughout the season, including a trunk-or-treat that families love. If there's a particular old movie you'd like to see, just ask; if the theater can drum up enough interest, your movie will get a showing!
Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theatre |
New Braunfels, TX
Catered parties, a 1950s-themed café, a fun playground for the kids—Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theatre is the go-to destination for family fun in Texas Hill Country. With its three screens open year-round, you can catch every new release alongside old favorites whenever you want. Pets are welcome if you want to snuggle with your dog during the movie.
The Brazos Drive-In | Granbury, TX
Once the sun sets behind the big screen, it's showtime at the Brazos Drive-In. Indulge in some locally made Blue Bell ice cream (attendants will deliver concessions straight to your car!) while you take in the movie magic from cutting-edge projectors and speakers. The theater, which has been around for over 70 years, has such an enchanting atmosphere that it's becoming popular for birthday parties, reunions and even weddings.
Valle Drive-In | Newton, IA
Opened in 1949 and the oldest in Iowa, Valle Drive-In is a cinematic blast from the past. This summer theater still uses its original neon sign and popcorn maker, conjuring up a nostalgia Iowans flock to. Between your double feature, head to the snack shack for nachos and cotton candy. And on off-season weeknights, you can host private parties to soak up even more of Valle's history.
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