How many drive-in theaters are left in the United States
Roughly 330 to 350 drive-in theaters operate across the United States today, down from nearly 4,000 at their peak in the 1950s. The exact count shifts each year as some close and others reopen or convert to seasonal operation. Most remaining drive-ins are concentrated in the Midwest, South, and Mid-Atlantic regions, though every state except Hawaii has at least one.
The survival of any particular drive-in depends on local real estate value, operating costs, and whether the owner can draw enough cars during the season. Many that remain are family-owned businesses that have operated for 40 to 70 years. Others are newer ventures opened in the last 10 to 15 years by entrepreneurs betting on nostalgia and outdoor entertainment demand.
Key Takeaways
- Drive-in theaters still operating are listed on the Cinema Treasures website and the Drive-In Movie Theater Association directory, both searchable by state.
- Most drive-ins run seasonally from spring through fall, though some in warmer climates operate year-round.
- Admission prices typically range from $8 to $15 per car, and many allow you to bring your own snacks rather than buying concessions.
- The oldest continuously operating drive-in in the United States is the Shady Oak Drive-In in Turlock, California, which opened in 1947.
- Many drive-ins now offer double or triple features and have added amenities like playground equipment, food trucks, and WiFi to compete with streaming services.
Finding a drive-in near you
The most complete listing is on Cinema Treasures, a volunteer-maintained database that includes operating drive-ins, closed ones, and those under restoration. You can search by state and see which ones are currently active, their addresses, phone numbers, and whether they operate year-round or seasonally. The site also shows when each theater opened and often includes historical photos.
The Drive-In Movie Theater Association maintains a directory of member theaters, though not all operating drive-ins belong to it. Their list is shorter but includes contact information and links to individual theater websites. Local tourism boards and chambers of commerce for your region can also point you to nearby drive-ins, especially if you are planning a road trip.
Google Maps and Apple Maps both show drive-in locations when you search "drive-in movie theater near me," though the results may include closed locations. Calling ahead is important because hours and operating dates change, and some close temporarily for repairs or weather.
Operating seasons and scheduling
Most drive-ins in the northern United States operate from April or May through September or October, closing during winter months when darkness comes early and cold weather keeps cars away. Drive-ins in the South and Southwest often extend their season into November or December. A handful in Florida, Southern California, and Arizona operate year-round, though even these may have reduced schedules in summer.
Showtimes typically begin at dusk, which means arrival time varies by season—anywhere from 7:30 p.m. in early spring to 9:00 p.m. or later in midsummer. Most drive-ins show two or three movies per night, with the first feature starting when it is fully dark. The second movie begins after the first ends, usually around 10:00 p.m. or 11:00 p.m.
You can find current schedules on individual theater websites or by calling the box office directly. Many now post schedules on Facebook or Instagram, which is often faster than checking a website that may not update regularly.
Admission costs and what is included
Admission is charged per vehicle, not per person, which makes drive-ins economical for groups or families. Prices range from $8 to $15 per car at most locations, though some premium drive-ins in high-cost areas charge up to $20. Many offer discounts for children or seniors, and some have free admission nights on certain weekdays during the off-season.
The admission price typically covers both movies if it is a double feature. Some drive-ins charge a flat rate; others charge per movie. A few still allow you to bring your own food and drinks, though this is becoming less common as theaters rely more heavily on concession sales. Always check the specific theater's policy before you go.
Concession prices are generally higher than indoor multiplexes—popcorn, candy, and drinks cost 30 to 50 percent more. However, portion sizes are often larger. Some drive-ins now allow outside food or have partnered with food trucks to offer alternatives to the snack bar.
Notable drive-ins with long histories
The Shady Oak Drive-In in Turlock, California, opened in 1947 and holds the title of oldest continuously operating drive-in in the country. It still uses its original screen tower and operates seasonally from March through November.
The Starlite Drive-In in Shelbyville, Indiana, opened in 1950 and remains family-owned. It operates from April through October and is known for maintaining its original aesthetic while adding modern projection technology.
The Bengies Drive-In in Baltimore, Maryland, opened in 1956 and is one of the largest drive-ins still operating, with space for 400 cars. It runs year-round and has become a regional destination for families and classic car enthusiasts.
The Sunset Drive-In in Litchfield, Illinois, opened in 1955 and operates seasonally. It is notable for allowing outside food and for its strong community presence in a small town.
What has changed at drive-ins since the 1950s
Modern drive-ins have added features to compete with home streaming. Many now offer WiFi, playground equipment for children, and food trucks in addition to traditional snack bars. Some have upgraded to digital projection while keeping their original screen towers as landmarks. A few have added mini golf, cornhole, or other games to extend the experience beyond just watching a movie.
Sound delivery has shifted from individual car speakers to FM radio transmission, which provides better audio quality and eliminates the need for the tinny speaker poles of earlier decades. Most drive-ins now accept credit cards and online ticket purchases, though some still operate cash-only box offices.
Programming has diversified beyond first-run Hollywood films. Many drive-ins now show classic movies, horror marathons, family-friendly double features, and special events like outdoor concerts or car shows. This variety helps them draw crowds beyond the core movie-going audience.
Challenges facing drive-in theaters today
Drive-ins face pressure from rising land values, especially near urban areas where real estate is expensive. A closed drive-in site is often worth more to a developer as a shopping center or housing development than it is as an operating theater. This has pushed remaining drive-ins toward rural and small-town locations.
Weather is a constant operational challenge. Rain, fog, and extreme heat can force closures or reduce attendance. A bad summer season can threaten a drive-in's ability to stay open the following year, since most operate on thin profit margins.
Competition from streaming services and home entertainment systems has reduced the novelty factor that once drew crowds. Drive-ins have responded by emphasizing the social and outdoor aspects of the experience rather than competing on movie selection or picture quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my own food and drinks to a drive-in?
This varies by location. Some drive-ins allow outside food and drinks to increase attendance, while others prohibit them to protect concession revenue. A few allow outside food but not drinks. Call ahead or check the theater's website to confirm their policy before you arrive.
What should I bring to make the experience more comfortable?
Bring blankets or lawn chairs if you want to sit outside your car, bug spray for evening showings, and a phone charger since you may be there for three to four hours. Many drive-ins have restrooms, but conditions vary. Some people bring pillows for the car seats or a small cooler with water.
Do drive-ins still use the old speaker poles you hang on your window?
Most drive-ins switched to FM radio transmission in the 1980s and 1990s. You tune your car radio to the frequency posted at the entrance, which provides better sound quality. A few historic drive-ins have kept the old speaker poles as decoration, but they are not functional.
Are drive-ins open during winter?
Most close from November through March, though some in warm climates stay open year-round with reduced schedules. A few northern drive-ins have experimented with winter operation using heated cars or outdoor heaters, but this remains rare. Check your local theater's website for seasonal dates.
How early should I arrive to get a good spot?
Arriving 30 to 60 minutes before showtime is typical for popular movies or weekend nights. Weekday showings are usually less crowded. The best spots are in the middle of the lot, not too close or too far from the screen. Arrive earlier during peak summer months or for special events.