Top-Rated Drive-In Theaters Across the USA

High-tech movie theaters are all the rage; however, it’s hard to beat an old school drive-in experience. Luxury movie theaters are the new trend across the country, offering padded and reclining seats, gourmet food and drinks, and even interactive elements like shaking seats and spraying water. Nevertheless, there is still an old-school way to enjoy a movie: the drive-in theater.

In grassy fields and paved lots across the country, you can pull up your car in front of a screen and take in a film or two (or three). Some drive-ins stick to the classic model: park your car and listen to the movie audio over your car radio. Others offer lawn chairs and patios for viewers to enjoy a film outdoors. Some even provide tables at the concession stand, allowing you to savor dinner and a show. One very special showing includes inner tubes for a unique experience unto itself.

From the classic to the more unusual, here are some of the best drive-in movie theaters across the United States.

1. Coyote Drive-In, Fort Worth, Texas

Open seven days a week, the Coyote Drive-In in Fort Worth features four screens and a concession stand that sells beer and wine. While outside food and drink are not allowed, you are welcome to bring your pets.

2. Wellfleet Drive-In Theatre, Wellfleet, Massachusetts

This classic theater on Cape Cod also features miniature golf, a dairy bar with soft serve and hard ice cream, and a flea market during the day. As the last of its kind on the Cape, this theater has been a beloved destination since 1957.

3. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, Austin, Texas

Alamo Drafthouse offers a unique screening of the classic thriller “Jaws,” where you can watch from an inner tube on Lake Travis. This annual event is a fun-filled way to rewatch this iconic film while enjoying refreshments served to calm your nerves.

4. Delsea Drive-In Theatre, Vineland, New Jersey

This South Jersey theater offers an expansive food menu with gluten-free and Atkins options, including delectable chicken cheesesteaks paired with pierogies or edamame.

5. South Bay Drive In Theatre, Imperial Beach, California

Experience the ocean breeze at this spot, located close to Border Field State Park, just six miles north of the border between San Diego and Tijuana. With three screens, you’ll have a variety of double features to choose from.

6. Field of Dreams Drive-In Theater, Liberty Center, Ohio

Built in the owners’ backyard, this theater embodies the slogan “if you build it, they will come.” Free on-site yard games like putt-putt, cornhole, and volleyball add to the fun.

7. Fairlee Motel and Drive-In Theater, Fairlee, Vermont

One of the few motel-drive-in combinations left in the United States, you can enjoy a stay and catch a show at this theater. As many guests travel specifically for the drive-in experience, it is advisable to plan your visit in advance.

8. Harvest Moon Drive-In, Gibson City, Illinois

The Harvest Moon Drive-In is the first and likely the only drive-in theater powered by wind turbines. It also takes other environmentally-friendly measures, such as using LED lights and recycled materials.

9. Mesa Drive-In, Pueblo, Colorado

Enjoy a film or two against a stunning Colorado backdrop at this theater. With two screens and a call-ahead menu, you can conveniently order food in advance.

10. Malco Theatres, Memphis, Tennessee

Part of a drive-in movie theater chain that has been family-owned for over a century, this classic theater maintains its retro feel, with locations spanning five other states including Arkansas, Mississippi, Kentucky, Missouri, and Louisiana.

11. Bengies Drive-In Theatre, Middle River, Maryland

This theater boasts the largest drive-in screen in the country, measuring 52 by 120 feet, ensuring that films are displayed in full, without cropping or cutting.

12. 66 Drive-In Theatre, Carthage, Missouri

Located along historic Route 66, this theater prohibits moviegoers from bringing in their own food or drink, but promises that the show will go on—rain or shine. Children under 5 can enter for free.

13. Hull’s Drive-In, Lexington, Virginia

One of the few nonprofit theaters in the U.S., this classic drive-in is operated by Hull’s Angels, a group dedicated to preserving the historic theater, and volunteers are always welcome to apply.