world affairs | May 12, 2026

How many drive in movie theaters are left in the US?

The United Drive-In Theatre Owner's Association reports that there are still 305 drive-in theaters currently operating in the United States. With the exception of Louisiana and North Dakota, you can still catch a movie under the stars from the comfort of your own car almost anywhere in the country.

Considering this, what states still have drive in theaters?

New York (49), Pennsylvania (45), Ohio (44) and California (44) offer the most drive-ins, according to the association. Alaska, Delaware, Hawaii, Louisiana and North Dakota didn't have any drive-in theaters as of 2019.

Similarly, are drive in theaters still a thing? Despite some claims to the contrary, drive-in movie theaters in the United States are not making a comeback. As of March, there were only 348 drive-in movie theaters in the US, down from 443 theaters in 2000.

Besides, why are there no more drive in movies?

Two basic reasons: changing audience preferences, and rising property taxes. The audiences for the drive-ins was started by the WWII generation and ended with the Baby Boomers. It was cheaper than the movie theater (one price - two, maybe three movies.

What is the biggest movie theater in the US?

AMC Grand 24

Related Question Answers

How much land is needed for a drive in theater?

The typical drive-in theater requires between 10-14 acres of land. This should allow up to 500 cars to park at your theater. You will also need to consider the space required to funnel cars off the road and through the box office.

What states have opened movie theaters?

United States
  • Alabama. AMC, Cinemark, and Regal theaters have already begun to reopen, with all theaters open by September 3.
  • Arkansas. AMC, Marcus, Regal, and Cinemark theaters will be open.
  • Colorado.
  • Connecticut.
  • Delaware.
  • Florida.
  • Georgia.
  • Hawaii.

How much does it cost to open a drive in movie theater?

According to the United Drive-In Theatre Owners Association, you should look for a closed drive-in theater to remodel. This is one way to keep costs down. Otherwise, setting up a single-screen drive-in theater may cost between $300,000 and $500,000 – and that doesn't include the land.

What state had the first drive in theater?

New Jersey

Why were drive in movie theaters so popular?

After 1945 rising car ownership and suburban and rural population led to a boom in drive-in theaters, with hundreds being opened each year. The drive-in's peak popularity came in the late 1950s and early 1960s, particularly in rural areas, with over 4,000 drive-ins spread across the United States in 1958.

How many outdoor theaters are left?

There are currently only about 330 drive-in theaters that remain in operation in the United States compared to a peak of about 4,000 in the late 1950's.

Do drive in theaters make money?

Despite their successes and generating thousands in revenue every night of operation, the drive-in owners said they aren't turning much of a profit. Overhead on the business is pricey after paying for permits, movie licensing and staffing.

What is the oldest drive in theater?

Shankweiler's Drive-In Theatre

How many drive in theaters are left in Florida?

Unlike most states, the severe attrition of drive-ins did not hit Florida until the 1980's. But hit it did as there are currently only 7 operating drive-in movie theaters in Florida. However, Florida is still host to the largest drive-in in the United States.

Why did drive ins close down?

"More variety, the convenience of timing and shopping all in one and more focus on the movie itself rather than the experience was what the movie-goer demanded, and the mall society provided just that. Those social patterns caused drive-ins to close and give way, selling to the plazas we've grown to know today."

Are drive in movies bad for your car?

Without the alternator engaged to constantly recharge your battery and power the electrical system the entire load is being placed on your car battery. So, will a drive-in movie kill your car battery? Absolutely, running your radio and speakers for several hours on end will drain your car battery at a drive-in movie.

Does rain affect drive in movies?

You can always leave whenever you want. Do drive-ins close if there is going to be rain or bad weather? No. Almost all drive-ins remain open (if they are normally scheduled to be open) during rain, storms and other bad weather.

Why did drive release on Netflix?

After multiple release-day shifts, Karan Johar, producer of Drive, skipped the idea of showcasing his film on the big screen and opted to release it on Netflix instead.

What are drive in movie screens made of?

aluminium panels

Can you see a drive in movie from the back seat?

Visibility isn't as good as a normal theater, but unless you're sitting in the back seat of a sedan and you're parked at a funny angle, you should be able to see just fine. Pros: Way cheaper than a normal theater. Double feature for that way cheaper price!

How do you get sound at a drive in movie?

A lot of drive-ins use FM radio to deliver the movie sound, but you don't want to drain your car's battery using the stereo. So bring a battery-powered portable radio or boombox instead. You'll be able to hear the movie no matter how you situate yourself.