Looking for a fun and unique way to go to the movies? It’s time to head to the drive-in!
In Georgia, five classic drive-ins inspire families and friends to head for their respective rural fields of dreams to escape reality on giant outdoor screens.
Looking for the best drive in movie theater Atlanta has to offer? We’ve got it, along with some others across the state of Georgia you don’t want to miss!
IN ATLANTA: STARLIGHT DRIVE IN THEATRE & FLEA MARKET
Atlanta’s Starlight Drive-In has kept moviegoers entertained since erecting one giant screen in 1949. For more than 70 years, the landmark venue has welcomed loyal patrons to their must-see attraction conveniently located near I-20 and I-285 on Moreland Avenue. The authentic art deco style and lush natural setting creates a nostalgic environment where movies play seven days a week year-round in East Atlanta.
Arrive early and embrace the nostalgic experience. Early birds can secure a prime viewing spot and avoid ticket lines close to showtime. Bring lawn chairs and a blanket to settle in for some prime stargazing before Hollywood celebrities light up the screen. All parking spaces are first come first serve and the box office closes when the last feature begins.
I encourage you to visit the concession stand for classic movie snacks. Outside food is also allowed, providing a great option for hungry kids or those with dietary restrictions.
The Starlight presents new releases and classic films on four screens with an all new digital projection system that delivers the brightest picture and clearest sound ever experienced at the local drive-In.
The audio for the movies is broadcast through an FM transmitter, and you must have a working, FM radio to hear the movies. We don’t know of an Apple or Android app that works. They pick up internet radio not local. Also, Starlight does not have wifi.
All movies are at night when it’s dark outside. Showtimes vary with the seasons. Approximate Gate Opening Times are:
- Monday through Thursday 45 min before showtime
- Friday and Saturday 1.5 hours before showtime
- Sunday 1 hour before showtime
After adding new screens in 1983, the Starlight also began hosting a swap meet each Saturday and Sunday from 6 AM – 3 PM.
Read More: 53+ Things To Do in Atlanta You Should Not Miss (From Locals in the Know)
DRIVE IN THEATERS AROUND GEORGIA
TIGER DRIVE IN
About 100 miles north of Atlanta and three miles south of Clayton in the Northeast Georgia Mountains, the Tiger Drive-In (TDI) presents new movies, a flea market and classic car shows.
Open seasonally, the picture perfect venue premieres new releases every weekend and is available for custom private events. You’ll find all grass terraces, FM broadcasts, outdoor speakers, Pandora pre-show music, Wi-Fi, and the delicious TDI Grill (more below). Even better, they accept credit cards, are pet friendly, have a playground for the kids, and so much more!
The TDI Grill, a super-sized snack bar, features an extended casual menu. Get guilty pleasures like hot dogs, burgers, fries, and chicken tenders in addition to regular film favorites.
I am planning to pitch a tent for a scenic sleepover after the show. For an extra $20, outdoor film fanatics can extend their stay by setting up tents to camp for the night. Recreational vehicles pay just $40 per night to park in the back of the lot. The overnight fees include access to hot showers, restrooms, and a barbecue grill. No open flames or campfires are allowed. Families can enjoy the onsite playground too.
Read More: North Georgia Mountains: 120+ Amazing Ways to Have Fun
SWAN DRIVE IN
The Swan Drive-In Theatre in Blue Ridge, GA, is one of the most well-known drive-ins in the country. Since 1955, this outdoor theater has been entertaining audiences in the North Georgia Mountains.
The Swan Drive-In is the perfect place to catch the latest films. Movies are shown here rain or shine! Double features are shown here, so you make a whole night of it! Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children age 3-11, and Free for children 2 and under.
The Diner onsite is like a fair food fantasy. Funnel cakes, deep fried Oreos, nachos, soft pretzels, and hot dogs are on the menu, along with popcorn and candy. You’ll also find steakburgers, chicken salad sandwiches, wings, chicken tenders and more. They’ve got pretty much everything you need, which is great because outside food is not allowed.
Read More: 50+ Top Things To Do in Blue Ridge Ga
WILDERNESS OUTDOOR MOVIE THEATER
The Wilderness Outdoor Movie Theater is the largest outdoor movie theater in the world! And lucky for us, it’s located right here in Trenton, GA — just 15 miles south of Chattanooga, TN.
There is always a double feature at this seasonal theater, and the food they have onsite is top-notch. Bring your chairs and blankets and get ready to enjoy some of the best new movies from the comfort of your car.
Play fetch or frisbee on the lawn in front of the big screen before the show. The friendly pay booth attendants might even surprise your dog with a special treat and a designated dog walk is also available. Remember, pets must be kept on a leash at all times. The Wilderness Outdoor Movie Theater is basically a lovely park that transforms into a screening room beneath the stars.
This popular family hangout offers a great value with $7 adult admission for a double feature. Kids three and under get in free. Bring cash, but do not bring outside food and drink. Concession stand sales help the theater make money, so they can continue to offer this awesome experience. Debit and credit cards are not accepted.
The high quality films are projected onto the giant screen and the audio is transmitted through your vehicle’s FM radio. If your car battery dies during the double feature, a staff member will be happy to offer a jump start after the show. You can also bring a portable battery-operated radio to tune in to the soundtrack.
Read More: 21+ Best Things To Do in Chattanooga for the Entire Family
JESUP DRIVE IN
Note: The Jesup Drive-In is currently closed due to storm damage as of December 2024. Check for updates HERE.
In 1948, Georgia’s oldest drive-in screened its first film at the perfectly charming Jesup Drive-in Theater.
The retro venue is open year-round and is currently enhancing the nostalgic ambiance by adding décor from the 1950s during a renovation. Be sure to check the movie schedule online and hit the ATM before you venture out. This is a cash only establishment. Adults pay $7 admission for a double feature and kids under three get in free.
Is Fonzie flirting with the Pink Ladies? Step back into a simpler time when carhops in 50s attire take your food orders from the comfort of your vehicle. You can also call in or text your orders, but why would you miss out on this signature service? You may also pay a $5 fee (per carload) for a food permit. This allows you to bring your own food and drinks.
Pack a picnic and a portable radio to enjoy the double feature from the comfort of your lawn chairs while kids play (or sleep) on a blanket. The audio is broadcast through an FM radio transmission, so you need a portable option to enjoy the movie outside of your vehicle.
Get cozy and dress comfortably. Most kids wear pajamas which makes it pretty convenient for putting them to bed when you arrive back home. Enjoy the show!
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DRIVE IN MOVIE THEATER ATLANTA FAQ
Is the Starlight Drive-In Still Open in Atlanta?
Yes! The Starlight Drive-In is still open in Atlanta. You’ll find new releases, double features, a great snack bar, and plenty of nostalgic fun.
Should you leave your car running during a drive-in movie?
As most drive-ins will tell you — you don’t want to leave your car running the whole time you’re there. You can leave your car in “accessory mode” so your engine is off but you can still have your radio on. You can also bring your own portable radio to use for tuning in so you don’t have to worry about draining your car’s battery. Most drive-ins have jumper cables just in case you run into trouble, though.
How many drive-ins are in Georgia?
There are five drive-in theaters in Georgia.
MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO GEORGIA
- YOUR GEORGIA VACATION
- WATERFALLS: 33+ Best Waterfalls In Georgia You’ve Just Got To See
- TRAIN RIDES: 28 Memorable Train Rides In Georgia That Kids & Adults Will Love
- AMUSEMENT PARKS: The Lowdown On The Best Amusement Parks In Georgia
- PETTING ZOO NEAR ME: 17 Most Adorable Petting Zoos In Georgia
WHERE TO STAY IN ATLANTA
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