Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. About 300 drive-in theaters are currently operating across the United States, spread across 46 states. While the number is far lower than the roughly 4,000 that existed in the late 1950s, drive-ins have stabilized and several new ones have opened in recent years. Most operate seasonally from April or May through September or October, though some in warmer states like Texas, Florida, and California are open year-round.

You drive to the theater, pay admission at the box office (or online in advance), and park in a designated spot facing the screen. Movies start at dusk. Audio comes through your car's FM radio — the theater broadcasts on a specific frequency that's posted at the entrance. You can listen through your car speakers, a portable radio, or a Bluetooth speaker. Most drive-ins show double features (two movies for one ticket), with a short intermission between films.

Most drive-ins charge between $8 and $12 per adult, with kids (usually under 5 or under 12) free or heavily discounted. Many offer carload pricing, typically $20-$30 per vehicle regardless of how many people are inside. Since most drive-ins show double features, you're getting two movies for the price of one — significantly cheaper than indoor theaters. Some theaters are cash only at the box office, so bring cash just in case.

Movies start at dusk, which means the time varies by season. In summer that's typically around 8:30-9:15 PM, and in spring and fall it can be as early as 7:30 PM. Gates usually open 30-60 minutes before showtime. It's a good idea to arrive early to get a good spot, especially on weekends.

The essentials are a portable FM radio (so you can sit outside your car and still hear the movie), blankets, lawn chairs, and bug spray. A cooler with drinks is nice if the theater allows outside food. Beyond that, pillows for the car, a flashlight for navigating in the dark, and extra layers for when the temperature drops after sunset.

Yes. Nearly all drive-in theaters broadcast movie audio on an FM frequency. You tune your car radio to the posted station and listen through your car speakers. If you want to sit outside, bring a portable FM radio or connect a Bluetooth speaker to a radio app on your phone. A few drive-ins still have the classic pole-mounted car speakers, but most have switched to FM.

It's unlikely if you run your radio in accessory mode rather than leaving the engine on. To be safe, start your car briefly between movies to recharge the battery. If it does die, tell the concession staff — most drive-ins keep jumper cables or a portable jump starter on hand. Some theaters also sell portable battery packs.

No. Most drive-ins don't allow cars to idle during the show because the exhaust bothers people sitting outside. Put your car in accessory mode to run the radio. If you have an older battery, start your car briefly during the intermission to recharge.

Policies vary. Some drive-ins allow outside food freely, some charge a food permit fee ($5-$10), and some don't allow it at all. Even if outside food is allowed, consider buying from the concession stand — drive-ins make very little from ticket sales (most goes to the film studios) and depend on concession revenue to stay open.

Many drive-ins allow dogs as long as they stay on a leash and you clean up after them. However, some theaters have banned pets due to liability insurance requirements. Check the theater's website or call ahead before bringing a pet.

Drive-ins are a classic date spot. You get privacy in your own car, a unique atmosphere under the stars, and two movies for the price of one. Arrive early, bring blankets and snacks, and enjoy the sunset before the show starts.

At most drive-ins, yes. Many people set up lawn chairs and blankets next to their vehicles. Just be mindful of the cars behind you — don't block anyone's view of the screen.

Usually not. Most drive-ins stay open in light to moderate rain — you're in your car, after all. They may cancel for severe weather like thunderstorms, high winds, or lightning. Check the theater's social media the day of the show if the forecast looks questionable.

New York leads with 28 operating drive-in theaters. Pennsylvania is close behind with 26, followed by Ohio with 23 and Indiana with 17. These northeastern and midwestern states have held onto more of their drive-ins than most.

Approximately 300 drive-in theaters are currently operating in the United States across 46 states. The number fluctuates slightly each year as a few close and occasionally new ones open.

The Ford Wyoming Drive-In in Dearborn, Michigan, near Detroit, is the largest operating drive-in in the United States. It has nine screens and a capacity of about 3,000 cars. It also operates year-round, including through Michigan winters, with in-car heaters available.

Almost always. Most drive-ins charge $8-$12 per person and show a double feature — two movies for one admission. At an indoor theater you'd pay $12-$18 for a single movie. Many drive-ins also offer carload pricing ($20-$30 per car), which makes it even cheaper for families and groups.

Arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime to get a good spot and settle in. On busy summer weekends, some popular drive-ins fill up, so arriving 45-60 minutes early is smart. Gates typically open an hour before the first show.

Typically no. Most drive-ins don't allow screen-hopping because movies on different screens end at different times, and moving cars while movies are playing is a distraction and safety issue.

It varies. Many drive-ins now accept cards at the concession stand but some are still cash-only at the box office. A growing number accept cards everywhere or offer online ticket purchases. Bring cash to be safe, especially if it's your first visit.

Most drive-in theaters operate from April or May through September or October. In warmer states like Texas, Florida, and southern California, some run year-round. A few northern drive-ins extend into November for special Halloween or holiday screenings.

Check your vehicle's owner's manual — every car is different. For daytime running lights, some cars let you disable them by engaging the parking brake one click, turning off auto headlights, or using a specific button. For dome lights, there's usually a switch on the light itself or a dimmer knob on the dashboard.

Most drive-ins prohibit alcohol. A small number sell beer or wine at a designated area on-site, but bringing your own alcohol is generally not allowed. Check the theater's rules before you go.

Some drive-ins charge a $5-$10 fee for bringing in outside food. This helps the theater offset lost concession revenue. Not all drive-ins have food permits — some simply allow or prohibit outside food outright.

Almost all drive-ins prohibit grilling or any open flames. This was more common decades ago but is no longer allowed for safety and liability reasons. A few drive-ins with camping areas may still permit it, but assume no grilling unless you've confirmed otherwise.

Most drive-ins have a first-come, first-served parking setup. Many ask larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs to park in the back rows so they don't block the view. Open hatches are usually not allowed. Follow any posted signs or instructions from the attendant.