Discover the best drive-in movie theaters in MN! Learn about the advantages, top theaters, tips for enjoying the experience, and more in this guide.
If you’re looking for a unique and nostalgic movie experience, you might want to check out a drive-in movie theater. While drive-ins have been around since the 1930s, they are making a comeback in today’s world. In Minnesota, there are several drive-in theaters to choose from, each with its own unique features. In this article, we’ll explore the history of drive-in theaters, why they are making a comeback, and what makes them such a unique experience.
Brief History of Drive-In Movie Theaters
The first drive-in movie theater was opened in 1933 by Richard Hollingshead in Camden, New Jersey. The idea behind the drive-in was to create a family-friendly atmosphere that would allow people to watch movies from the comfort of their own cars. Drive-ins quickly became popular in the United States, with over 4,000 theaters in operation by the 1950s. However, the rise of multiplex theaters and the decline of the automobile culture led to the decline of the drive-in theater.
Why Drive-In Movie Theaters are Making a Comeback
In recent years, drive-in movie theaters have seen a resurgence in popularity. The COVID-19 pandemic has played a significant role in this, as people are looking for safe and socially distanced entertainment options. Drive-ins provide a perfect opportunity for families to enjoy a night out while maintaining a safe distance from others.
The Unique Experience of Watching Movies Under the Stars
One of the most unique aspects of drive-in theaters is the experience of watching movies under the stars. Unlike traditional movie theaters, drive-ins allow you to enjoy a movie in the great outdoors. You can bring your own snacks, blankets, and pillows to make the experience even more comfortable. Plus, you can watch the movie from the comfort of your own car, making it a perfect option for families with young children or pets.
In the next section, we’ll explore the advantages of drive-in movie theaters in Minnesota.
Advantages of Drive-In Movie Theaters in Minnesota
Drive-in movie theaters in Minnesota offer several advantages that make them a great option for moviegoers. Here are some of the main benefits:
Social Distancing Made Easy
In the era of social distancing, drive-in theaters provide an excellent option for enjoying a night out without worrying about being too close to others. You can watch the movie from the comfort of your own car, and many drive-ins have implemented measures to ensure that cars are parked at least six feet apart.
Cost-Effective Entertainment
Going to a traditional movie theater can be expensive, especially if you’re bringing the whole family. Drive-in theaters, on the other hand, offer a more cost-effective entertainment option. Most drive-ins charge per carload rather than per person, meaning that you can save money by bringing as many people as you can fit in your car.
Perfect for Families with Young Children or Pets
One of the main advantages of drive-in movie theaters is that they are perfect for families with young children or pets. You don’t have to worry about your child talking during the movie or your pet getting restless in a crowded theater. Instead, you can enjoy the movie together from the comfort of your own car.
Flexibility in Movie Selection
Drive-in theaters often show a mix of new releases and classic films, giving you a wide range of options to choose from. Plus, many drive-ins offer double features, allowing you to get more bang for your buck. Some theaters even have themed nights, such as horror movie nights or family movie nights, so you can choose the perfect movie for your mood.
In the next section, we’ll explore the top drive-in movie theaters in Minnesota.
Top Drive-In Movie Theaters in Minnesota
Are you ready to experience a drive-in movie theater in Minnesota? Here are five of the top drive-ins in the state:
Vali-Hi Drive-In in Lake Elmo
Vali-Hi Drive-In is one of the oldest operating drive-ins in Minnesota. It has been in business since 1966 and features two screens that show double features. The theater has a capacity of 800 cars and offers a variety of concessions, including pizza, hot dogs, and popcorn.
Starlite Drive-In in Litchfield
Starlite Drive-In is a family-owned and operated theater that has been in business since 1955. It features a single screen that shows double features. The theater has a capacity of 350 cars and offers a variety of concessions, including burgers, hot dogs, and ice cream.
Long Drive-In in Long Prairie
Long Drive-In is one of the few remaining drive-ins with a single screen. The theater has been in business since 1956 and features a capacity of 300 cars. They offer a variety of concessions, including pizza, popcorn, and candy.
Sky-Vu Drive-In in Warren
Sky-Vu Drive-In is a single-screen theater that has been in business since 1954. It has a capacity of 200 cars and offers a variety of concessions, including burgers, hot dogs, and nachos. This drive-in is known for its retro feel and is a popular destination for families.
Verne Drive-In in Luverne
Verne Drive-In is a family-owned and operated theater that has been in business since 1954. It features a single screen that shows double features and has a capacity of 300 cars. They offer a variety of concessions, including homemade pizza, hot dogs, and popcorn.
Each of these drive-in theaters provides a unique experience that is sure to be memorable. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing or a romantic date night, a drive-in movie theater in Minnesota is the perfect choice.
Tips for Enjoying a Drive-In Movie Theater Experience
If you’re planning to visit a drive-in movie theater in Minnesota, here are some tips to make the most of your experience:
Arrive Early to Secure a Good Spot
To get the best view of the movie, it’s essential to arrive early and secure a good spot. Popular drive-ins can fill up quickly, so it’s best to arrive at least an hour before the movie starts. Consider bringing some games or activities to keep you entertained while you wait.
Bring Comfortable Seating, Blankets, and Pillows
While you can watch the movie from the comfort of your car, it’s always a good idea to bring some comfortable seating, blankets, and pillows. This will make the experience more enjoyable, especially if you plan to sit outside your car on a warm summer night.
Bring Bug Spray and Snacks
Since drive-ins are outdoor venues, bugs can be a problem. Be sure to bring some bug spray to keep the bugs away. Additionally, you’ll want to bring some snacks and drinks to enjoy during the movie. Most drive-ins allow you to bring your own food and drinks.
Turn Off Car Headlights and Use the Car Radio for Audio
To avoid disturbing other moviegoers, it’s important to turn off your car headlights during the movie. Additionally, most drive-ins broadcast the movie’s audio through FM radio. Be sure to tune your car radio to the correct frequency to enjoy the movie’s audio.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a memorable drive-in movie theater experience in Minnesota. In the next section, we’ll explore the challenges of drive-in movie theaters in Minnesota.
Challenges of Drive-In Movie Theaters in Minnesota
While drive-in theaters offer a unique and enjoyable movie experience, there are also some challenges that come with operating them in Minnesota. Here are some of the challenges that drive-in theaters face in Minnesota:
Weather Conditions in Minnesota Can Be Unpredictable
One of the biggest challenges that drive-in theaters face in Minnesota is the unpredictable weather. Minnesota is known for its extreme weather conditions, which can include rain, snow, hail, and thunderstorms. These weather conditions can make it difficult to operate a drive-in theater, as they can damage the equipment and make it difficult for customers to enjoy the movie.
Limited Operating Season Due to Winter Weather
Another challenge that drive-in theaters face in Minnesota is the limited operating season due to winter weather. The cold temperatures and snowfall can make it impossible to operate a drive-in theater during the winter months. This means that drive-in theaters in Minnesota typically have a shorter operating season than those in other parts of the country.
Maintenance and Upkeep of Equipment Can Be Expensive
Maintaining and repairing the equipment used in drive-in theaters can be expensive. The projectors, screens, and sound systems used in drive-in theaters require regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure that they are functioning properly. In addition, if any of the equipment needs to be replaced, it can be costly.
Despite these challenges, drive-in theaters in Minnesota continue to provide a unique and enjoyable movie experience. In the next section, we’ll provide some tips for enjoying a drive-in movie theater experience.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a unique and fun movie experience, consider checking out a drive-in movie theater in Minnesota. Not only do they provide a safe and socially distanced entertainment option, but they also offer a chance to enjoy a movie under the stars. With a variety of drive-in theaters to choose from, each with its own unique features, there’s something for everyone.
In this article, we’ve explored the history of drive-in theaters, why they are making a comeback, and what makes them such a unique experience. We’ve also highlighted some of the top drive-in theaters in Minnesota and provided tips for enjoying your experience.
At Luv68, we strive to provide our readers with new and useful information in many fields, including entertainment. We hope this article has been informative and helpful in your search for a fun and unique movie experience. So, grab your snacks, blankets, and pillows, and head out to a drive-in theater near you!
