During the latter part of the 1950’s, there were more than one hundred and twenty drive-in movie theaters throughout the state of Illinois. Just like every other state in the country, the number of drive-in theaters in operation began to decrease. There are now only a handful of drive-in movie theaters around in Illinois. Drive-ins offer an opportunity for some affordable family fun, mostly during the summer. Many of these drive-ins offer double features of current movies at the same price as one film at indoor movie theaters, if not cheaper.
We recommend that you call the attractions and restaurants ahead of your visit to confirm current opening times.
1.Skyview Drive-in
The Skyview Drive-in movie theater first opened to the Belleville community and the surrounding area back in the year 1949. The outdoor theater is also the last of its kind anywhere within the region of St. Louis. Since movies now come on memory sticks for theaters to use, the drive-in now uses digital projection to show films. The Skyview is open seasonally, starting in April and going through October, showing double features of first-run movies. Audio for films is broadcast through FM radio. Alcohol is allowed on property to be consumed responsibly, as well as other outside drinks and food.
5700 N Belt W, Belleville, IL 62226, Phone: 618-233-4400
2.Route 34 Drive-in
The Route 34 Drive-in theater is another one of the last remaining outdoor movie theaters in the state of Illinois. First opening in 1954, the drive-in theater features a single large outdoor screen that is used to show double features of first-run films. The Route 34 is open seasonally from the month of April until October, and is a cash-only movie theater. The drive-in offers made-to-order food at its large snack bar, as well as freshly popped popcorn with real butter. There are also a variety of games for customers to play while they wait for movies to begin.
4468 E 12th Rd, Earlville, IL 60518, Phone: 815-246-9700
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3.Harvest Moon Drive-in
The Harvest Moon Drive-in theater that originally opened back in the year 1954 as a single screen outdoor movie theater. The drive-in, open from spring to fall, expanded into a two screen movie theater when it purchased an outdoor movie screen from a drive-in that closed down across town during the middle of the 1980’s. Outside beverages and food are allowed as long as customers purchase a food permit upon entering the drive-in. Pets are allowed at the Harvest Moon as well, provided that they are well behaved and leased. Only cash is accepted for tickets, but the snack bar accepts cards.
1175 S Sangamon Ave, Gibson City, IL 60936, Phone: 217-784-8770
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4.Skyview Drive-in
The Skyview Drive-in theater, situated in the town of Litchfield, has been continuously showing movie to the community and surrounding area for more than sixty-eight years, and is still thriving. The outdoor movie theater is open from around the month of March until the month of October, weather dependent. It is that last remaining drive-in theater located along Route 66, possibly the most famous road in the country. The Skyview shows double features for around half the price of the typical indoor movie theater. As long as pets are leashed, customer can bring their furry friends with them to the movies. Browse weekend getaways from Chicago
1500 Old Rte. 66 N, Litchfield, IL 62056, Phone: 217-324-4451
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5.McHenry Indoor/Outdoor Theater
The McHenry is outdoor drive-in movie theater located in McHenry, Illinois that offers affordable, clean, family fun by showing family-friendly films beneath the stars. The movie theater is a single screen drive-in that screens double features during the warmer months of the year. The drive-in theater has a parking policy that helps prevent customers from having obstructed views of the movie screen. Larger vehicles must park next to red poles, while smaller vehicles park next to the silver ones. The veteran outdoor movie theater shows currently released movies, and consists of a concession stand, picnic area, and a playground.
1510 North Chapel Hill Rd, McHenry, IL 60051, Phone: 815-385-0144
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6.Fairview Drive-in
The Fairview Drive-in is the most rural theater of all the outdoor movie theaters still in operation in the state of Illinois. The outdoor theater is features just a single screen, and is open on a seasonal basis from the month April until the month of September. The drive-in theater originally opened back in the year 1953, and later changed ownership in the year 1993. The Fairview offers very affordable fun for couples, groups of friends, and families, appealing to moviegoers of all ages. Customers can bring outside beverages and food into the drive-in, but they will have to pay an additional fee. Next read: Romantic Weekend Getaways in Illinois
16045 IL-33, Newton, IL 62448, Phone: 618-455-3100
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The Route 66 Drive-in theater originally opened as the Green Meadows Drive-in back in 1978. The old twin screen drive-in theater of central Illinois, however, didn’t last very long. The Green Meadows closed just four year later in 1982. The outdoor theater remained closed for about twenty year until it was acquired and restored by the Knight family, much to the delight of the community. The drive-in was reopened in the year 2002 under the name Route 66 Drive-in. The Route 66 is open seasonally during the warmer part of the year, and uses FM radio broadcast to provide audio.
1700 Recreation Dr, Springfield, IL 62711, Phone: 217-546-8881
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8.Midway Drive-In & Diner
The Midway Drive-in and Diner is a single screen, old-fashioned outdoor movie theater that has been in operation since the year 1949. The drive-in theater now uses digital projection to show its screenings of current release films. Customers are not allowed to bring in any outside drinks or food to the drive-in. This is because the Midway, like most other drive-in theater, makes nearly all of its profit from its concession stand. The concession stand features its original decor of a 1950’s diner, this includes a retro “spaceship” looking ticket booth, and there is also a playground for children.
91 Palmyra Rd, Sterling, IL 61081, Phone: 815-625-4099
8 Best Drive-in Theaters in Illinois
- Skyview Drive-in, Photo: Skyview Drive-in
- Route 34 Drive-in, Photo: Route 34 Drive-in
- Harvest Moon Drive-in, Photo: Harvest Moon Drive-in
- Skyview Drive-in, Photo: Skyview Drive-in
- McHenry Indoor/Outdoor Theater, Photo: McHenry Indoor/Outdoor Theater
- Fairview Drive-in, Photo: Fairview Drive-in
- Route 66 Drive-in, Photo: Route 66 Drive-in
- Midway Drive-In & Diner, Photo: Midway Drive-In & Diner
- Cover Photo: Courtesy of Cathleen - Fotolia.com
More Ideas: The Champagne Lodge and Luxury Suites
The Champagne Lodge and Luxury Suites offer upscale amenities to guests seeking privacy. The premises are located near the city of Chicago, Illinois in Willowbrook, and has large suites and a full-service spa. It is close to many local dining and shopping opportunities.
Suites
All of the lodging to be found at The Champagne Lodge is located in one of their suites. There are four different options for guests to choose from.
The CL Standard Suite has features like a queen size bed, a whirlpool tub, fireplace, and 42-inch flat screen television with a DVD and CD player. They are just over 300 square feet in size. The bathroom has a walk-in shower, and the main sitting area has a miniature refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker. Guests can also upgrade to the CL Standard II Suite, which also provides luxury bathrobes and a separate living room area.
The CL Premium Suite upgrades guests to a king size bed. These suites also feature a whirlpool tub, fireplace, and 42-inch flat screen television with a DVD and CD player, They are an additional 85 square feet in size and have premium amenities. The bathroom also has a walk-in shower, and the sitting area has a miniature refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker.
For an even more premium experience, guests can stay in the CL Executive Suite. This suite also has a king size bed and has an even larger whirlpool tub (about 180 gallons in size, where the regular suites have 110-gallon tubs). They also have a fireplace and 42-inch flat screen television with DVD and CD player. CL Executive suites are even larger in size, at about 395 square feet, and have a walk-in, steam room shower featuring premium bathroom amenities like shampoos, soaps, and lotions. They all have a miniature refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker.
The last option for overnight lodging is the CL Swimming Pool Suite. This suite type has a private swimming pool that is 17 feet by 8 feet in size with a water massage seat and chaise loungers (at poolside). The bathroom features an oversized steam room shower and bathrobes. Each suite comes with LED “mood” lighting that surrounds the pool, a 42-inch flat screen television, but these suites have upgraded Blu Ray DVD players in both the bedroom and living room areas. The bedroom has a custom designed king size bed with a soft-lit canopy and leather headboard. Instead of the miniature refrigerator, the pool suites have a fully stocked wet bar with a variety of different beer, champagne, wine and liquor options (as well as non-alcoholic beverages). Each suite also has a double-sided gas fireplace, facing both the living room and the bedroom.
All suites are non-smoking and do not allow either children or pets.
Beverages
Guests can purchase a variety of different wines, beers, and spirits from the lodge (either by reserving beforehand or by calling the lobby during an overnight stay). Options include tequilas, domestic and imported beer, and red, white, and sparkling wines. Souvenir glasses can also be added to any reservation.
Spa
The Champagne Lodge also features a full-service spa, which is offered in the secluded couples spa. Spa services are provided in the evenings after check-in. Massages are offered for either singles or couples and can be purchased for 30, 45, 60, or 90 minutes (couples massages can only be purchased for 30 or 60 minutes).
There is also a sweetheart rejuvenation special, which lasts for two hours. The special includes an hour couples massage and an optional sugar scrub or mud wrap. Additional packages can also be purchased.
Guests can also purchase add-ons to their massages. Miniature facials, hot stones, and hand and foot treatments are available.
Local Dining
Lodge guests who are interested in quick, grab and go options can choose from a variety of local options. Some of these include Noodles and Company, and P.F. Chang’s.
For more upscale options, guests can dine at Mike Ditka’s, Harry Carey’s, Benihana, and Maggiano’s Italian Restaurant.
Contact the staff at the front desk for reservations, directions, or suggestions. Guests can also order delivery from many of the local restaurants directly to their suite.
Local Shopping and Activities
Close to The Champagne Lodge are two different shopping opportunities - the Oakbrook Mall and the Bolingbrook Promenade. The Oakbrook Mall is an indoor shopping mall with over 100 stores, while the Bolingbrook Promenade is an outdoor, outlet mall that also has a movie theater.
The Brookfield Zoo is also close to the lodge and is one of the largest zoos in the state.
Guests who enjoy golf can check out the Cog Hill golf course, which has four different 18 hole courses for golfers of all skill levels. The golf course also has a private clubhouse, restaurant, shop, and driving range.
16W621 S. Frontage Road, Willowbrook, IL 60527, Phone: 630-455-0555
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More Ideas: Oak Terrace Resort & Spa
Located in beautiful Pana, Illinois the Oak Terrace Resort & Spa offers their guests a totally unique experience. This rolling golf course provides not only the recreation you are in search of but also premiere home sites, elegant townhomes, and Lakeside villas for their guests to choose from. The Inn at Oak Terrace is another addition to this one of a kind resort experience where guests will find themselves able to relax and enjoy all the comforts and amenities the Oak Terrace Resort & Spa has to offer.
Oak Terrace Resort & Spa Lodging
During a stay at the Oak Terrace Resort & Spa, guests will find they have several lodging options available to them. Fairway Town Homes are Oak Terrace Resort & Spa’s beautifully decorated townhomes that overlook the champion-style golf course. These two-bedroom townhouses come completely furnished and offer guests a fully equipped kitchen to prepare meals for the family, a family that provides a sitting area to play games and chat, two fully equipped and pristinely kept bathrooms, and electric fireplace.
When choosing the Lakeside Villas, guests will find themselves with the option of choosing between four different villa options. These options can also be joined together to make larger villas for families.
One-bedroom villas feature 1,000 square feet of space for guests to enjoy. These lodging options also include a private, screened porch where guests can relax in the four-person hot tub that is available. In the living room, a 42-inch flat screen television is available as well as a fireplace. These villas also offer a dining room and full-size kitchen. These one-bedroom villas feature a master bedroom with king sized bed and a spacious bathroom with a jacuzzi tub and two-person shower. These units also provide guests with an in-room washer and dryer for their personal use.
The Villa Studios offer 500 square feet of space for guests to enjoy. This lodging option also provides a private, screened porch where guests can sit and relax in a four-person hot tub. Also available in these lodging areas are a 42-inch television and fireplace. The master bedroom offers guests a comfortable queen bed, while the bathroom offers a two-person shower and separate soaking tub. Guests can choose between a full-size kitchen or kitchenette. These units also provide guests with an in-room washer and dryer for their personal use.
Villa Suites provide guests with 350 square feet of space for their enjoyment. These villas do not offer hot tubs but still provide screened porches for taking in the outdoor views. These small but cozy villas provide guests with a queen bed, kitchenette, 26-inch flat screen, and desk for their use.
Another lodging option at Oak Terrace Resort & Spa is the Inn at Oak Terrace. Connected to all the convenient extras of the resort such as the banquet rooms, restaurant, an indoor pool, The Inn offers guests a great place to stay while enjoying a relaxing time and amazing nature views.
Oak Terrace Resort & Spa Dining
Mulligan’s Bar & Grille offers diners a unique experience the moment they walk through the doors. Whether a guest is looking for fine dining or a fun time, Mulligan’s offers them exactly what they expect. With the ability to host events such as business dining, wedding receptions, and social gatherings Mulligan’s Bar & Grille provides great food and atmosphere.
Lakeview Spa
While visiting Oak Terrace Resort & Spa guests have the option of experiencing the relaxation offered at the beautiful Lakeview Spa. Overlooking Beyers lake, the Lakeview Spa features only the best Kohler fixtures and designs to make this 9,000 square foot space one of a kind.
The Lakeview Spa offers guests a wide variety of relaxing treatments to choose from while staying at Oak Terrace Resort & Spa. Whether guests seek out getting a massage to help them relax or a manicure and pedicure for the ultimate in pampering, to facials, hair care, or other body treatments, they’ll find themselves finding what they seek while also relaxing by a fire. The option to add a spa lunch is also available for guests who plan to make a day of their spa visit.
Events
The Oak Terrace Resort & Spa brings together unique lodging, a relaxing spa, and a beautiful, rolling, golf course for guests to enjoy. Whether guests are seeking a few rounds during their stay or hope to find a place to host a golfing event, everything they need can be located at Oak Terrace Resort & Spa. Night golf is also available to those who wish to play.
Weddings at Oak Terrace Resort & Spa has more than enough space and backdrop to make weddings a memorable event. With room to host up to 400 people, the event staff at the resort will make any wedding amazing. Add in the fantastic backdrop of the beauty of the surrounding area and the lucky couple will see why this resort offers one of the best destination wedding spots in the area.
100 Beyers Lake Rd., Pana, IL 62557, Phone: 800-577-7598
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More Ideas: The Herrington Inn & Spa
The Herrington Inn & Spa is located in the Chicago area and offers a European style experience for those seeking a romantic retreat, a corporate meeting or fine dining and a relaxing spa day. Located on the banks of Fox River in Geneva, Illinois, The Herrington Inn & Spa is a favorite for weddings and other events. They offer a fine dining restaurant and a full-service spa and are conveniently located to over 150 shops, restaurants, and galleries for exploring.
Herrington History
The location of Herrington on the bank of the river was actually once the town’s first dairy creamery, producing butter and cheese. The story begins with James and Charity Herrington who left Philadelphia to head west, settling and building a cabin on the bank of what is now known as Fox River. They raised their children here, becoming known as Geneva’s first settlers.
A few years later, a small dairy creamery was built here, using the cool river waters to keep the barrels of milk cold and producing butter and cheese for locals. It would later be known as the Geneva Rocks Spring Creamery.
After the creamery ceased to exist, the building had various other uses until 1982 when Geneva made efforts to revive the waterfront district, and in 1993, Herrington opened its doors for the first time. In 1999, the Pump House was introduced after extensive renovations. In 2001, Herrington invested in a 21 guest room addition to the property. In 2003, Herrington unveiled The Spa at Herrington. Ongoing efforts have been made to improve the property and boutique hotel offerings continuously.
The Rooms & Amenities
The Herrington Inn & Spa offers a variety of rooms and suites all with king sized beds, and all of which are unique to one another. Not two rooms are alike. Each room and suites are elegantly decorated in a classic European style and offer guests a balcony or patio, a whirlpool bath, a comfortable fireplace, and luxury bathrobes and slippers. The Herrington Inn & Spa provides a delicious European style complimentary continental breakfast to its guests each morning in the lobby. Maid service is twice a day, and guests can enjoy fresh baked cookies and milk delivered each evening at turndown service. There is complimentary WiFi available, a hair dryer, mini bar, a Keurig coffee maker, and iron with ironing board available in each room.
The Dining
Atwater’s is a fine dining restaurant featuring American cuisine using locally sourced fresh ingredients with rich flavors brought to life by their Executive Chef and his team. Atwater’s is an upscale dining experience offering panoramic views of The Herrington Inn & Spa Courtyard and Fox River. The gazebo is available for a private dining experience for up to eight guests. They offer full breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus plus an extensive cocktail and wine list for guests.
The Spa
The Spa at Herrington is a full-service spa offering many different relaxing and rejuvenating treatments for guests. The Spa menu includes The Herrington Massage which includes both a foot soak, a body scrub, and milk-soaked towel wraps for sore muscles. The Herrington Signature Facial offers a consultation with a professional, a deep cleanse, exfoliation, a neck massage, a treatment mask, and a customized moisturizer. The Herrington Delight is a two hour total body experience with a chamomile and cornmeal body polish, a full body wrap with lavender oils, and a deep tissue massage. The spa offers aroma-infused massage, prenatal, hot stone, and therapeutic massages as well.
Skin care includes a class custom facial, express facial, and rejuvenation gel facial. Waxing services for legs, bikini, eyebrow, lip, and chin are offered. Guests can opt for a Buttermilk and Honey Body Polish or a Forever Young Body Cocktail for a head-to-toe experience. Various packages for couples, groups, or targeted personal goals are available with an extensive list of combination offerings.
Meetings & Events Spaces
The Herrington Inn & Spa offers The Pump House, a corporate and event meeting space with unique and elegant elements. The Pump House offers four different areas accommodating two to ten people, or guests can reserve the entire facility for a grand total of 3,095 square feet of event space.
Weddings
The Herrington Inn & Spa features its own wedding planner who can customize your Herrington wedding experience from start to finish. The Herrington offers its Courtyard for outdoor weddings overlooking the Fox River and the Plaza as a unique reception area which also has Fox River views. Wedding events can utilize The Pump House for elegant European dressings and style with exposed brick for indoor ceremonies and receptions.
15 S. River Lane, Geneva, Illinois, 60134, Phone: 630-208-7433
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