Why did drive-in theaters start going out of style anyway? Parents don’t have to worry about the kids crying or making noise, you can bring your own blankets and not have to sit in dirty theater chairs, and the great outdoors surround you while watching anticipated films. Luckily, for apparent reasons, drive-in theaters are seeing a resurgence. Theaters are getting makeovers, and some have always been there just waiting for you to come enjoy. From awesome concession stand snacks to stunning surroundings, these are the best drive-in theaters in the United States.
Basin Drive In - Mount Pleasant, Utah
Smell those famous burgers sizzling in the distance while getting cozy at the theater. Mountains are literally everywhere, making for the perfect backdrop. It’s worth making an entire vacation out of visiting this cool film-watching hot spot. Opt to stay at the Yardley Inn and Spa, just a few minutes away in Manti. Each quaint room is uniquely decorated. With all of the locally sourced ingredients and impressive culinary know-how of the host, this may be the best breakfast travelers ever experience.
Spud Drive-In Theatre - Driggs, Idaho
From the charming old truck toting a giant potato out front to the massive Idaho license plate sign, moviegoers will be spotting fine details here and there at The Spud in Driggs, Idaho. Of course, you have to try the french fries and tater tots in place of popcorn. Driggs is a lovely place not terribly far from big-time destinations such as Jackson Hole.
The Alamo Drafthouse Drive-In - Ashburn, Virginia
The Alamo Drafthouse Drive-In is actually a chain that is all around the United States. At some locations, guests can enjoy craft beer and other delicious libations. Moviegoers can enjoy the drive-in experience when going to the Ashburn, Virginia location. Seriously, just drive up in your car, and even food can be delivered right to your vehicle.
West Wind Glendale 9 Drive-In - Glendale, Arizona
Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theatre - New Braunfels, Texas
There are two Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theatres within Texas. We chose to list the one in New Braunfels. This place has really refined the drive-in experience and has an up-to-date snack and food establishment that serves classic eats like hamburgers, and the famous Icee. Being particularly family-friendly, there is one heck of an awesome playground with modern equipment for kids to enjoy and get out all of the wiggles before the movie starts.
Skyline Drive-In NYC - Brooklyn, New York
Yes, you can actually see the skyline at Skyline Drive-In NYC. How cool is it that the glittering city lights are off in the distance behind the massive movie screen? While it can be a bit more pricey than your average movie theater, most people will agree the view is worth every penny. Concession stand goodies are on-site, such as popcorn and drinks. If you don’t have a car, there is outdoor seating available. Everyone can enjoy this cool location, which is also sometimes featured in films and on TV.
Comanche Drive In - Buena Vista, Colorado
Movies at the Comanche Drive In theater play right at dusk, when a little bit of light still illuminates the mountains which surround the entire property. Pretty breathtaking stuff. The Colorado location has been in operation since the 1960s, but today the technology brings guests 4K clarity and high definition sound. Claiming to have the best popcorn ever, it goes without saying that you should definitely order some with a fizzy drink. What makes Comanche Drive In stand out amongst other theaters, is that it is the highest elevation drive in in all of the United States.
99W Drive-In Theater - Newberg, Oregon
At 99W Drive-In Theater, guests can transport back in time. Although, many drive-ins have a nostalgic element. But it just seems more evident here. Experience movies both old and new, let the kids play at the arcade, and munch on popcorn and nachos from the concession stand. Operating since 1953, a lot of memories have been made here. And more memories await to be made with your family too.
Birdsong Drive-In Theater & Entertainment - Camden, Tennessee
Birdsong Drive-In is located in Tennessee, surrounded by native trees and that endearing outdoor southern beauty. The setup is relatively simplistic but checks absolutely all of the boxes when it comes to a phenomenal drive-in experience. Folks really love the concession stand food which features all of the classic favorites, like hotdogs, pizza, and popcorn.
Northfield Drive-In - Hinsdale, New Hampshire
Northfield Drive-In in New Hampshire undoubtedly has breathtaking surroundings. The playground is also available to the kids before the movie. Customers love the diversity of the concession stand, where you can get a juicy garden burger, hot crispy fries, or even spicy jalapeño poppers. But yes, there is definitely popcorn too.
Swap Shop & Thunderbird Drive-In Theater - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
First and foremost, the Swap Shop features a diverse and vast flea market that hosts vendors with various products like artesian soap, and delicious food. Then, there are 14 screens to enjoy movies on at night. In addition to the location’s offerings is a super cool arcade and Ferrari museum. So plan to spend the entire day here.
