Why They Should Bring Back Drive-in Theaters

If you enjoy going to the movies, try a drive-in theater.  I have fond memories of going to the drive-in when I was teen. Drive-in theaters were popular in the 60’s and 70’s, but lost their popularity when colored TVs emerged. They are slowly making a come back across the country, and I’m jumping up and down.

I have one near by, so I decided to take my grandchildren to see The Grinch.  I’m always striving to do something different so they will have a great memory, and a drive-in is something they’ve never experienced.

I thought seeing The Grinch was a great way to begin the holiday season.  It was a perfect chilly Sunday evening with no school the next day.  So, we gathered our warm coats, hats, gloves and headed out to the Family Drive-in Theater.  Being out after dark and watching a movie in the car excited the kids.  It made me joyful too.  Making my grandchildren happy and creating memories is what it’s about as a grandparent.

The Family Drive-in Theater is the only one in the Washington, D.C./Northern Virginia metropolitan area.  It’s a family owned business that has been open since 1956.   The concession stand is how they make most of their money.  The theater itself is quite nostalgic.

When we reached the theater, a line had already formed.  We waited patiently.  Fortunately, the price for entry was reasonable.  It was $8.00 for adults and $4.00 for children 4 -11.  My grandchildren fell into the $4.00 category.  Normally, there is a double feature playing.  Except for Sundays, only 1 movie is shown.   So, it was $20 for 4 of us.  We entered the theater area and found a great spot directly in front of the movie screen.  Arriving early has its advantages.  If you arrive early enough, the kids can play on the playground until the movies start.

                                                                     Movie screen at Family Drive-in Theater

We needed to use the rest room and than head to the snack bar area before the movie started.  The menu was surprising.  There was the usual popcorn and soda fountain drinks.  But, they offered chicken salad, angus burgers, tacos, and shrimp.  It was quite the menu.  Actually, better than any regular movie theater that I’ve been to.  My grandson ordered corn dogs and hot chocolate.  The corn dog was so good, he had to have another.  I ordered the shrimp basket, which included fries.  My granddaughter ordered popcorn.  It was quite the feast.

Speakers at Family Drive-in Theater

We headed back to the car to get settled before the movie started.  We had the option of tuning in on the car radio for the sound or using their speakers.  Or, you could also use a portable radio. We used their speakers. They hook on to your car window or sit on your dashboard.  The kids thought the speakers were cool.  They also thought it was cool to be able to sit under the stars, and watch the movie.  When they visit, they want to go to the outside movie theater again.  They also enjoyed The Grinch.  It was short, about 1 hour and 15 minutes, but entertaining.

If you have a drive-in theater in your area, load up the kids and head out.  It will be a memory they always treasure.  I can’t wait to take them back next summer.