Over 5,500 drive-in movie theaters once existed throughout the world at the height of the drive-in theater craze, most of which were located in the United States. Today, however, there are now less than 350 drive-ins still in operation worldwide. It’s a shame since these drive-in theaters offered so much affordable fun for families and guests of all ages. Fortunately, the state of Georgia still has five drive-in movie theaters still open to people who want to experience movies like “old times.” One of these even features the largest outdoor movie screen in the world.
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1.Starlight 6 Drive-in
The Starlight 6 Drive-in is situated right outside of Atlanta in a picturesque setting, and has consistently maintained the area’s lush greenery and its ode to a classic style of art-deco. Today, the drive-in theater features four large outdoor screens that show movies through digital projection, offering a bright picture and clear sound. Audio for films is accessible through FM radio. Since audio is heard through the stereo of customers’ cars, the drive-in offers jump starts for customers after the ticket lines have been cleared following the movie. The Starlight 6 also has a concession stand that serves popcorn, candy, soda, and other items.
2000 Moreland Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316, Phone: 404-627-5786
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2.Swan Drive-in
One of the state’s last drive-in, the Swan Drive-in, located in Blue Ridge, Georgia, has been open to the public since the year 1955. The outdoor movie theater shows blockbusters hits and offers popcorn, burgers, a variety of beverages, and many other movie theater treats at the snack bar. There are also snacks not typically found at movie theaters, such as deep fried Oreos and funnel cakes. The Swan is open throughout the entire year, and is one of only a few drive-in theaters that allow pets. The drive-in theater does not accept any credit cards or debit cards, only cash.
651 Summit St, Blue Ridge, GA 30513, Phone: 706-632-5235
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3.Jesup Drive-in
One of the oldest drive-in theaters still in operation in the state of Georgia, the Jesup Drive-in first opened back in 1948. The outdoor movie theater opened with only one large screen in the beginning, but added an additional screen around the year 1970. The Jesup is still going on strong today and offers guests with a fun movie going experience throughout the whole year. Aiming to give the place a 1950’s feel, a unique feature of the drive-in is that customers can order food from their phone, which is then delivered to their car by staff in old-fashioned car hop uniforms.
3686 Savannah Highway, Jesup, GA 31545, Phone: 912-427-7254
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4.Tiger Drive-in
The Tiger Drive-in is a revived, vintage drive-in theater that shows first-run movies from the month of March through the month of November. The outdoor movie theater offers the increasingly now rare opportunity to enjoy a movie under the stars, just like they people did in the “old days.” Customers can today do this with the added benefits of modern amenities, such as digital projection. The drive-in has outdoor speakers, all grass theaters, wireless internet, pre-show music via Pandora, FM broadcasts, and the TDI Grill, which offers a variety of food and drinks. The Tiger is also pet-friendly and accepts credit cards.
2956 Old 441 S, Tiger, GA 30576, Phone: 706-782-1611
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5.Wilderness Outdoor Movie Theater
The Wilderness Outdoor Movie Theater is located on the border of Georgia and Tennessee in the town of Trenton, Georgia. The drive-in theater boasts the largest outdoor movie screen at any drive-in throughout the world. Double features are shown during the weekends throughout spring, summer, and fall. The drive-in is closed during the winter months. Customers are only able to use cash to purchase movie tickets, as well as food and drinks at the concession stand. Pets are welcome at the Wilderness Theater, however outside beverages and food are not allowed. Many people bring chairs or blankets from which to watch the film.
217 Old Hales Rd, Trenton, GA 30752, Phone: 706-657-8411
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5 Best Drive-in Theaters in Georgia
- Starlight 6 Drive-in, Photo: Starlight 6 Drive-in
- Swan Drive-in, Photo: Swan Drive-in
- Jesup Drive-in, Photo: Jesup Drive-in
- Tiger Drive-in, Photo: Tiger Drive-in
- Wilderness Outdoor Movie Theater, Photo: Wilderness Outdoor Movie Theater
- Cover Photo: Courtesy of waynerd - Fotolia.com
