Catching a movie on an outdoor screen is a whole different experience from a typical theater, not to mention a beloved summertime tradition. Whether you’re watching from your car, kicking back in a chair or stretching out on a picnic blanket, there’s something special about an al fresco flick. In fact, #driveinmovie has 115.3 million views on TikTok and monthly searches for drive-in movie theaters on Google have increased by 129 percent.
If you’re looking to hit up a drive-in movie theater this summer, Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, a U.K. car and van leasing agency, has released a list of the best drive-in theaters in the U.S. based on several important metrics. Taking into account Google reviews, ticket prices, food selection, BYO options and dog-friendliness, the rankings reveal the drive-in theaters that offer the best all-around experience.
The ten best drive-in theaters in the U.S. can be found in all parts of the country. Coming in at number one—with high ratings, low prices, BYO and on-site food options and dog-friendly accommodations—is the Solano 2 Drive-in Theater in Concord, CA. Tickets are just $8.50 ($2 for kids) at this circa 1968 theater, and you can bring your own picnic to keep costs low. The Joy-Lan Drive-in in Dade City, FL is one of the last in the state and plays double features five nights a week. The snack bar offers hot dogs, popcorn, soft drinks and more, or you can BYO. Number three on the list is the Star Drive-in in Monte Vista, CO. This family-run theater has been around for 74 years.
Wrapping up the list of the 10 best drive-in theaters is Portville Drive-in Theater in Portville, NY, Wes-Mer Drive-in in Mercedes, TX, South Drive-in in Dodge City, KS, Showboat Drive-in in Hockley, TX, Stone Drive-in in Mountain View, AR, Misquamicut Drive-in in Westerly, RI, Silver Moon Drive-in in Lakeland, FL and Skowhegan Drive-in in Skowhegan, ME.