The 7 Coolest Drive-In Movie Theaters in the US
Watching a movie in a traditional theater is great, but have you ever gone to a drive-in theater before? Since the early-1930s, drive-in cinemas have allowed people to enjoy a film in a more unique, novel way. Even though there are far fewer drive-ins in America today than there once were, people still love them for their nostalgic feel and laid-back vibe.
From one drive-in that has a mini-golf course that you can play at while waiting for movies to start, to another that boasts a restaurant and hotel, here are eight of the coolest drive-in movie theaters in the country that you can still visit.
Family Drive-In Theatre (Stephens City, VA)
Family Drive-In has been a community staple since 1956. It’s open seven days a week during the summer and screens movies on the weekends during the spring and fall.
Wellfleet Drive-In Theatre (Wellfleet, MA)
Cape Cod’s Wellfleet Drive-In is so much more than a drive-in theater—it also has a mini golf course, a dairy bar, and the biggest flea market in the city.
Cinespia Drive-In (Los Angeles, CA)
Los Angeles-based film organization Cinespia brings some of the most beloved films to the big screen in unique settings, including the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, the Greek Theatre, and more Some of the movies they’ve shown in the past include My Best Friend’s Wedding and The Warriors.
Benjies Drive-In Theater (Middle River, MD)
Bengies is famous for its larger-than-life movie screen that clocks in at a whopping 52 feet high by 120 feet wide—it’s considered the biggest movie theater screen in America.
Skyline Drive-In (New York, NY)
Enjoy stunning views of the Manhattan skyline as you take in a movie. Located in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, right along the East River, Skyline Drive-In has been open since 2020. Besides operating as an outdoor cinema, the spot also doubles as a popular filming location (maybe you recognize it from a commercial or an episode of your favorite show).
Four Brothers Drive-In (Amenia, New York)
If you want a drive-in experience you’ll never forget, be sure to stop by Four Brothers Drive-In in Amenia, New York. Known for its impressive amenities, including an on-site restaurant, food truck, themed events, and more, this outdoor theater goes above and beyond to ensure you have a great time. It even has an airstream hotel on its grounds—aptly named Hotel Caravana—that you can stay at if you’re visiting from out of town.
West Wind Drive-In (Las Vegas, NV)
Family-owned and operated since the 1950s, West Wind is one of the largest outdoor theater chains in the world. Beyond Las Vegas, it also has locations in California and Arizona.
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