Whether it’s a solo sojourn, a classic date idea, or just a family-friendly activity, going to the movies can be a fun experience for many.
But sometimes, you want to get the full movie theatre experience from the comfort of your car. And that’s where drive-in theatres come in.
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Drive-ins aren’t nearly as populous as they once were, though there are still a few places available in the Sunshine State, according to Visit Florida.
“Those who have managed to survive the industry’s ebbs and flows say the drive-in appeals to patrons today for the same reasons it did at its inception,” Visit Florida says. “They’re fun, a bargain, and appeal to families.”
Below are four of the remaining drive-in theatres left in the state and where to find them:
Ocala Drive-In Theatre
4850 S. Pine Ave., Ocala
“The Ocala Drive-in Theatre is the Lazarus of Florida drive-in theaters. Twice in its 64-year history, its screens have gone dark, its window speakers silenced. But each time – once in 2003, and then again in 2011 – it has been resurrected by caring owners who have spruced it up, improved the technology and found a market for the beloved drive-in tradition. Ocala patrons tune in to a local FM radio station for clear movie sound.”
Visit Florida, "Drive-In Movie Theaters in Florida, Retro and Affordable"
Silver Moon Drive-In Theatre
4100 New Tampa Highway, Lakeland
“The Silver Moon Drive-in Theatre has kept up with the times by converting to digital technology, a step toward ensuring that this drive-in just might survive the movie industry’s departure from 35-millimeter film. The Silver Moon offers films on its two screens seven days a week, 365 days a year – even on Christmas – and usually shows first-run movies on their opening dates. It is located about an hour west of Orlando, making it the closest drive-in to the family amusement attractions of Central Florida.”
Visit Florida, "Drive-In Movie Theaters in Florida, Retro and Affordable"
Ruskin Family Drive-In Theatre
5011 N. US Hwy. 41, Ruskin
“Ruskin Family Drive-in Theatre promotes its family-friendly atmosphere and clean restrooms – and isn’t afraid to remind patrons that it doesn’t allow alcohol or rowdy behavior. The drive-in, which opened in 1952 with “Singin’ in the Rain,” sticks to tradition even at the snack bar – affordable burgers, hot dogs, popcorn and other movie treats. The theater brags that it has used the same Wisconsin cheese supplier for its pizzas for 50 years.”
Visit Florida, "Drive-In Movie Theaters in Florida, Retro and Affordable"
Joy-Lan Drive-In Theatre
16414 U.S. Hwy. 301, Dade City
“The Joy-Lan Drive-In Theatre has been an icon in Dade City for over 70 years. Closed Monday and Tuesday, it often features one screen showing first-run movies, and offer doubles features five nights a week. You can listen to the movie via your FM car radio at 93.1.”
Visit Florida, "Drive-In Movie Theaters in Florida, Retro and Affordable"