The New Breed of Drive-ins
For many of us who were born long past the drive-in movie theater’s heyday in the 1950s and ’60s, our only experiences with this movie-going format comes from old movies. In the wake of a pandemic, traditional movie theaters are struggling, but a sudden resurgence in drive-ins just might save the film industry.
Picture this: It’s a warm summer’s night in New England. The fireflies and stars light up the sky and you’re sitting in your automobile with your arm around your sweetheart, enjoying a hot dog from the snack bar and watching that new summer flick on the big screen. It’s that classic summer drive-in movie scene… But what year is it? 1956? 1998?
Nope! It’s right now!
Despite the ability to stream movies on the internet and other setbacks, several New England drive-in theaters have managed to stick around and are still going strong this summer. Please keep in mind that the drive-in movie business can be tough, and due to weather/seasons are subject to close with little notice. Always call or email before planning a visit.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of New England drive-in theaters that are among those surviving locations. Enjoy a piece of American history and visit one this summer!
Connecticut Drive-In Theaters
Open weekends from spring to fall, Pleasant Valley Drive-In Theater’s single screen and concession stand offer a classic experience.
In addition to showing the summer’s best blockbusters on its three outdoor screens, the Mansfield Drive-In also hosts a huge flea market on the weekends.
The Southington Drive-In is one of only three remaining outdoor venues in the state. Originally, the facility opened in 1955 as a for-profit business and featured movies for nearly half a century before closing in 2002. In 2004, Southington residents voted to purchase the property to expand nearby Recreation Park and enjoy continued outdoor activities at the nostalgic site.
Maine Drive-In Theaters
The Bridgton Twin Drive-In’s two screens show both classics and new hits all summer long at a very reasonable price.
Reopened in 2015 after a 30-year hiatus, the Bangor Drive-In offers the latest summer movies and a comprehensive snack bar.
One of the most well-known New England drive-in theaters, the Saco Drive-In, with its single screen and accompanying snack bar, is a classic summer drive-in experience at a great price.
Built in 1973, the Skylite Drive-In is Maine’s only operating drive-in theater north of Bangor. Shows start at dusk and there’s a concession stand to keep you satisfied during the show.
This central Maine drive-in theater and concession booth are open weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Massachusetts Drive-In Theaters
The Leicester Tripple Drive-In opened in the late 1960s and has done its best to maintain that old-fashioned atmosphere. The theater shows movies on its screens from May to August.
The Mendon Twin Drive-In shows beloved classics and the summer’s latest hits on its two screens. It also offers a comprehensive snack bar.
As the only drive-in theater on Cape Cod, the Wellfleet Drive-In draws great summer crowds. Take advantage of its snack bar and playground before the movie begins.
New Hampshire Drive-In Theaters
Situated on the NH-MA border, the Northfield Drive-In is a great place to catch the latest blockbuster and enjoy a warm summer’s night.
The Weirs Drive-In Theater boasts an impressive four screens and a snack bar.
The Milford Drive-In’s two screens show double features all summer long and their snack bar offers all the classic drive-in fare.
Rhode Island Drive-In Theaters
Entertaining Rhode Island under the stars since 1951. Three giant outdoor screens playing two first run feature films or special event. They're open for the summer months from late April through late October.
Vermont Drive-In Theaters
Sunset Drive-In allows you to enjoy the latest movies in the comfort of your own vehicle. With 4 colossal screens playing double features of the latest movies, Sunset Drive-In offers all night entertainment.
As one of the only motel and movie drive-ins in the US, Fairlee Motel & Drive-In Theater is located directly behind the motel, guests watch movies from the comfort of their own motel room. Guests not staying at the motel are also welcome to drive in with their vehicles.
There's much history here. Bethel Drive-In was established 1954 and operates during weekends from early June to Labor Day. They're a CASH ONLY facility and through rain, moonshine, or snow there will be a show. They have Digital projection, FM broadcast radio sound, and a great Concession Bus.